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Long Axle Conversion
jobie - May 16th, 2016 at 02:21 PM

Hi Dubbers,

I have bought some new wheels (17" BRM) that require they sit about 15mm further away from the spring plate (don't want to use spacers). They are to go onto a 56 beetle.

I am about to buy some longer axles to do this. I have several questions:

- What axle do I need (I am about to pick up the tubes)

- Will I need to change anything else - Bearings, drums, spacer etc

- Will using different brakes do the same job. If so would this be easier

Thanks in advance.


jobie - August 22nd, 2016 at 07:17 PM

Bump.........

I'm finding it hard to work out the best way to do this. I was going the longer axles but every second person I speak with tells me to go a different path.

Has anyone needed to push the rears out a smidge and if so how did they do it????

I really want to fit these wheels and drive the damn thing.

Cheers


dangerous - August 23rd, 2016 at 07:42 AM

Longer axle tubes is more work than just changing brakes,
and you will need a spacer under the axle nut, if you plan to use the same brakes you have now.

All the original spacers and bearings are the same,
but you will have to use the correct/matching bearing cap, to go with the axle tubes you have.

Any type 3 axle or '68 and later bug swingaxle, axle, will work.
http://www.cbperformance.com/product-p/311-501-201d.htm 

I am not sure about the change in width, (at least 10mm wider)
but going to type 3 brakes may be all you need, to get the added clearance.
Better brakes, and less work.... if you can find a set.
The snout of the drum will need 14mm machined off, to fit on a short axle.


vw54 - August 23rd, 2016 at 07:49 AM

Also if you add the longer axles you may find that the tyres will rub on the guards if you have stock guards

spacers may be better alternative and probably cheaper although you will need longer wheel studs