EMPI Heavy Duty Aluminum IRS Side Cover — High-Torque Transaxle Reinforcement | VW Type 1 (16-9905-0)

The EMPI Heavy Duty Aluminum IRS Side Cover is a critical reinforcement for air-cooled Volkswagen enthusiasts running high-horsepower or high-torque engines. While factory stamped-steel covers are prone to flexing under load, this heavy-duty aluminum alloy unit provides the structural rigidity necessary to brace the ring gear and maintain precise gear mesh. By preventing gear separation, this cover significantly reduces the risk of catastrophic transaxle failure in performance street and off-road applications.

Cast with additional material thickness in high-stress areas, this cover is designed specifically for Type 1 (Beetle/Ghia) and Type 3 vehicles equipped with Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) transmissions. It is a direct bolt-on upgrade that strengthens the weakest point of the transaxle case without requiring extensive modifications.

Key Specifications:

• Compatibility: Fits IRS transaxles for Beetle, Super Beetle, Karmann Ghia, and Type 3 (1969-later).

• Material: High-tensile H.D. Aluminum Alloy.

• Function: Braces the ring gear to prevent thrust movement and gear separation.

• Finish: Raw aluminum alloy.

• Quantity: Sold individually (one side cover).