VW Beetle Brake Push Bar (Rear Drum Spreader Bar) — Refurbished Factory German, 1958–1979 (Left/Right) | #R73

Refurbished factory German VW brake push bar — the spreader bar inside each rear drum brake assembly that transmits force from the wheel cylinder to the brake shoes. Sold as left/right (specify side). For 1958–1979 VW Beetle and other compatible drum brake applications. Original German part, not a reproduction. Part #R73.

What the brake push bar does

Inside every VW drum brake assembly, a small steel bar — the brake push bar or spreader bar — connects the wheel cylinder to the upper ends of the two brake shoes. When you press the pedal and the wheel cylinder extends, the push bar spreads the shoes outward against the drum, generating braking force. It's a simple piece of hardware, but it's critical — a bent, worn, or missing push bar means the brake shoes don't spread properly, and brake performance suffers.

Push bars wear at the contact points where they ride against the wheel cylinder pistons and the brake shoes. After decades of service, the contact surfaces become rounded, the bar develops play, and braking feel becomes vague. Replacement during any brake rebuild is cheap insurance.

Specifications

• Function: Brake shoe spreader bar inside rear drum brake
• Condition: Refurbished original factory German VW
• Finish: Powder coated
• Sold as: Left or right (specify when ordering)
• Part number: #R73

Fitment

• VW Beetle: 1958–1979 (rear drum brakes)
• Other VW applications using the same rear drum brake design — verify with us before ordering for non-Beetle applications

FAQ

Do I need left and right, or are they the same?
The push bars are side-specific. Specify which side you need when ordering, or order both for a full rear brake rebuild.

How do I know if mine is worn?
During a brake inspection, look at the contact points where the bar meets the wheel cylinder pistons. If you see rounding, grooves, or visible wear at either end, replace it. Also check for bend or twist — a deformed push bar will cause uneven shoe wear and pulling under braking.

Is this an original German part or reproduction?
Original factory German VW, inspected and refurbished. Powder coated for corrosion resistance.

Will it work with my disc brake conversion?
No. Disc brake conversions don't use brake push bars — the caliper handles pad actuation directly. This part is for stock or factory-style rear drum brakes only.

Does it come with the wheel cylinder, shoes, or springs?
No. This is the push bar only. Full brake rebuild kits with shoes, springs, hardware, and wheel cylinders are separate items.