Wire Cover, Type 1 56-67

OVERVIEW

If you have ever opened the front trunk of a vintage Volkswagen, you have likely seen the original, sagging, or water-damaged fiberboard wire cover that was installed at the factory. These original cardboard-based panels were notorious for absorbing moisture, warping over time, and eventually crumbling away, leaving your dashboard wiring exposed to luggage, moisture, and debris. This EMPI ABS Plastic Wire Cover is the definitive solution for air-cooled enthusiasts looking to restore their trunk compartment with a component that is built to last a lifetime. Unlike the flimsy stock material, this high-quality ABS plastic unit is completely impervious to water and humidity, ensuring that your electrical connections remain protected and hidden behind a clean, professional-looking barrier. The black crinkle finish provides a period-correct appearance that mimics the texture of the original components while offering a significant upgrade in structural integrity.

Beyond its protective functions, this wire cover is a must-have for any restorer aiming for a show-quality finish in their Beetle''s trunk. The rugged ABS construction is not only durable but also highly versatile; while it looks fantastic in its standard black crinkle finish, it can also be sanded, primed, and painted to match the exterior color of your car for a custom, high-end look. Installation is straightforward, utilizing the factory mounting points to provide a snug fit that eliminates the rattles often associated with old, warped fiberboard. Whether you are performing a concours-level restoration or simply cleaning up a daily driver, this wire cover offers the perfect blend of vintage styling and modern material science, ensuring your Type 1 remains tidy and functional for decades to come.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sedan): 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967
• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Convertible): 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967
• Note: Specifically designed for front trunk mounting behind the dashboard area.

SPECS

• Material: High-Impact ABS Plastic
• Finish: Textured Black Crinkle Finish
• OEM Reference Number: 113-863-515C
• Installation Location: Front Trunk (Bonnet) - Behind Dashboard
• Resistance: Fully Waterproof and Warp-Resistant
• Paintability: Can be painted with plastic-safe automotive paints
• Weight: Approximately 1.1 lbs
• Hardware Compatibility: Fits with standard factory-style clips or screws

PRO TIPS

1. Clean Up Your Wiring First

Since you will have the wire cover removed during installation, this is the absolute best time to inspect your Beetle''s electrical health. Over the decades, many air-cooled Volkswagens have fallen victim to "spaghetti wiring" from previous owners. We highly recommend using zip ties or electrical loom to bundle your wires neatly before installing the new ABS cover. This not only makes the cover fit flatter against the body but also prevents loose wires from rubbing against the plastic, which can cause annoying vibrations or even electrical shorts over time.

2. Painting for a Custom Look

If you decide to paint this cover to match your car''s body color, preparation is the key to a professional finish. Because ABS plastic can sometimes retain mold-release agents from the manufacturing process, you should thoroughly wash the panel with a mild grease-cutting dish soap and warm water. Once dry, use a plastic-specific adhesion promoter or primer before applying your base coat. This ensures the paint bonds deeply into the crinkle texture and won''t flake off when the plastic expands or contracts with temperature changes in the trunk.

3. Achieving a Rattle-Free Fit

To ensure the quietest ride possible, check the condition of your mounting tabs or screws before final installation. If your car''s metal tabs are bent or loose, gently straighten them with pliers so they provide firm pressure against the ABS plastic. For an even more "high-end" feel, you can apply a thin strip of adhesive-backed foam weatherstripping to the back edges of the wire cover where it contacts the metal body. This creates a gasket-like seal that prevents any plastic-on-metal squeaks while you are driving over rough roads.