EMPI Adjustable IRS Spring Plates — 6-1/8" Collar, 1972–1979 Beetle (Pair) | 18-1075-0

EMPI adjustable IRS spring plates with 6-1/8" collar — specifically tuned for 1972–1979 VW Beetle IRS rear suspension using the 26-9/16" torsion bar. Replaces the factory spring plate assembly with a precision-machined adjustable plate that allows infinite rear ride-height adjustment. Sold as a pair. EMPI part #18-1075-0.

What adjustable spring plates do on a late Beetle

The spring plates connect the IRS torsion bars to the rear trailing arms. On a factory 1972–1979 Beetle, ride height is locked by spline engagement — to change it you have to disassemble the entire torsion housing. That's a major job, with limited fine-tuning since you're stuck at whatever spline position is closest to your target.

Adjustable plates replace the factory units with a single-piece design that includes a built-in adjuster. Loosen, change angle, retighten — your rear ride height moves in continuous increments. Whether you're dialing in show stance, autocross corner weights, or off-road suspension travel, infinite adjustment is the right tool.

Late Beetles (1972–1979) have specific torsion housing geometry that requires the matched-spec adjustable plate. Using the wrong-year plate (even with the same 6-1/8" collar) can result in alignment issues or improper torsion bar engagement.

Specifications

• Collar size: 6-1/8 inch
• Torsion bar length: 26-9/16 inch
• Application: 1972–1979 Beetle IRS rear suspension
• Sold as: Pair
• Adjustment: Continuous, infinite within range
• Part number: 18-1075-0

Fitment

• VW Beetle (Standard, IRS rear): 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• VW Super Beetle (IRS rear): 1972–1979 (verify your specific year)

Will NOT fit: 1968–1971 IRS Type 1 (use #17-2674-0 — different geometry despite same collar size). 1971 and earlier Type 3. Swing axle rear suspensions. Verify the year tuning before ordering.

FAQ

Why are there two different 6-1/8" collar versions (this one and 17-2674-0)?
The collar size is the same, but VW changed spring plate geometry between the early IRS era (1968–1971) and the later IRS era (1972–1979). Each version is tuned for its specific application — the camber and toe characteristics differ. Match the part number to your specific year.

Will I need an alignment after installing?
Yes. Any change in rear ride height changes rear camber and toe. After installation and any height adjustment, get the car aligned.

Can I install these myself?
Moderately involved. Torsion housing has to be opened, plates swapped, torsion bars re-clocked, everything reassembled. Plan 2-4 hours for someone familiar with VW rear suspension. Less if you've done IRS rebuilds before.

How much ride height adjustment do I get?
Continuous adjustment within the mechanical range — typically enough for 2-4" of vertical adjustment, more if combined with torsion bar re-clocking.

Will they work on a Super Beetle?
Late Super Beetles use IRS rear with similar geometry to Standard Beetle. Verify your specific year and chassis before ordering — for unusual builds, send dimensions and we'll confirm.

Are these street legal?
Yes, in any reasonable ride-height setting. Some extreme adjustment positions may put alignment outside factory spec — keep alignment within reasonable bounds for safe street use.