EMPI x Foose Billet Spring Plate Caps — Black Anodized | VW Swing Axle 1960–1968 (17-8898-0)

Elevate your rear suspension from functional to high-art with the EMPI x Foose Billet Spring Plate Caps. Born from a collaboration between EMPI and legendary automotive designer Chip Foose, these aren’t just simple covers—they are a complete reimagining of the rear torsion housing. Designed using Foose’s original concept sketches and SolidWorks CAD, these caps bring a level of sophistication and precision engineering previously unavailable for the air-cooled world.

CNC-machined from premium 6061 T-6 billet aluminum, these caps feature a deep black anodized finish that provides a sleek, modern edge while protecting against corrosion and road debris. Each cap is finished with a precision-engraved Foose Design signature logo, serving as a hallmark of quality for any "nothing to hide" restoration or custom show build.

Key Features:

• Designer Collaboration: Authentic Chip Foose design, bringing world-class custom styling to your VW chassis.

   

• Precision CNC Machined: Crafted from 6061 T-6 billet aluminum for superior strength and exact fitment over factory torsion tubes.

   

• Durable Anodized Finish: Hard-anodized black surface offers maximum UV and corrosion resistance for long-term show-quality looks.

   

• Lightweight Strength: Significantly stronger than factory stamped-steel caps while offering weight savings.

   

• Complete Kit: Sold as a pair and includes heavy-duty M10 fasteners for a direct bolt-on installation.

   

Installation Guide: Step-by-Step

Note: This installation involves the rear suspension under tension. Use extreme caution and high-quality jack stands.

1. Preparation: Raise the rear of the vehicle and support the chassis securely. Remove the rear wheels to access the torsion housing.

2. Index Your Height: Before loosening anything, mark the current position (the "clocking") of your spring plate relative to the housing. This ensures your ride height remains consistent after the upgrade.

    

3. Remove Factory Caps: Unbolt the four M10 fasteners securing the original stamped-steel caps. Be prepared for the spring plate to potentially shift if the tension isn't fully relieved.

4. Inspect Bushings: This is the ideal time to inspect your spring plate bushings. For a performance-oriented build, we recommend upgrading to high-quality urethane bushings at this stage.

    

5. Prep the Threads: Clean the threads on the torsion tube flange. Apply a small amount of anti-seize lubricant to the new M10 fasteners to prevent galling between the steel bolts and the aluminum caps.

    

6. Mount the Foose Caps: Position the new billet caps over the bushings. Start all four bolts by hand to ensure they are not cross-threaded.

7. Torque Sequence: Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to factory specifications (approximately 25–30 ft-lbs).

   • Installer Tip: Place a layer of painter's tape over your socket to prevent marring the black anodized finish during the final torque.

      

8. Final Check: Lower the vehicle and bounce the rear suspension to seat the bushings. Re-check the torque after 50 miles of driving.

9. Technical Specifications

   • Part Number: 17-8898-0

      

   • Material: 6061 T-6 Billet Aluminum

      

   • Finish: Black Anodized (Engraved Logo)

      

   • Hardware: Includes M10 Fasteners

      

   • Suspension Compatibility: Swing Axle Rear Suspension ONLY

      

   • Torsion Bar Fitment: Specifically for 21 3/4" length torsion bars

      

   • Fitment: * VW Type 1 (Beetle/Bug): 1960–1968

      

     • Karmann Ghia: 1960–1968

        

     • VW Type 3: 1962–1968