EMPI x Foose Billet Spring Plate Caps — Blasted Satin Silver | VW Swing Axle 1960–1968 (17-8896-0)

Achieve a sophisticated, understated look for your rear suspension with the EMPI x Foose Billet Spring Plate Caps in Blasted Satin Silver. This exclusive collaboration between EMPI and legendary designer Chip Foose brings high-end CAD-engineered precision to the classic Volkswagen chassis. These caps aren't just covers; they are a structural and aesthetic upgrade developed from Foose’s original concept sketches.

CNC-machined from a solid block of 6061 T-6 billet aluminum, these caps feature a blasted satin finish followed by a clear anodized coating. This process creates a refined, non-reflective surface that is incredibly durable and resistant to the pitting and corrosion often seen on chrome or raw steel parts. With the iconic Foose Design logo engraved on each piece, these caps are the perfect choice for builders who want a clean, "pro-touring" look that emphasizes engineering over flash.

Key Features:

• Exclusive Foose Design: Authentic styling from Chip Foose, engineered for a perfect "nothing to hide" fit.

   

• Blasted Satin Silver Finish: Provides a modern, industrial aesthetic that hides minor road grime better than polished finishes.

• Clear Anodized Protection: Sealed surface ensures the aluminum remains bright and corrosion-free for years to come.

   

• Aerospace-Grade Aluminum: Machined from 6061 T-6 billet for maximum strength-to-weight ratio.

   

• Bolt-On Ready: Supplied as a pair with high-strength M10 fasteners included for an easy afternoon upgrade.

   

Installation Guide: Step-by-Step

Note: Safety is paramount when working with rear torsion bars. Ensure the car is stable on high-quality stands before beginning.

1. Support the Chassis: Lift the rear of the vehicle and remove the wheels. Support the car on the chassis, allowing the suspension to hang at full droop.

2. Mark Your Alignment: Use a scribe or paint pen to mark the current alignment of the spring plate to the torsion housing to maintain your ride height.

3. Old Cap Removal: Remove the four factory M10 bolts and pull off the original stamped-steel caps. Clean the torsion tube flange thoroughly.

4. Bushing Inspection: This is the perfect time to check your torsion bushings. If they are dry-rotted or pancaked, we recommend installing fresh urethane bushings for the best performance.

5. Fitting the Billet: Slide the new Foose Billet Cap over the bushing. The CNC-machined tolerance is tight, ensuring a solid, rattle-free mounting point.

6. Hardware Installation: Hand-thread the included M10 bolts.

    

   • Installer Tip: Use a small dab of blue thread locker for extra peace of mind on high-vibration builds.

7. Torque Sequence: Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to 25–30 ft-lbs.

8. Final Reveal: The satin finish looks incredible against a freshly painted or powder-coated chassis.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 17-8896-0

   

• Material: 6061 T-6 Billet Aluminum

   

• Finish: Blasted Satin Silver with Clear Anodized Coating

   

• Hardware: Includes M10 Fasteners (Pair)

   

• Suspension Type: Swing Axle Only

• Torsion Bar Length: Fits 21 3/4" bars

   

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

   

  • Karmann Ghia: 1960–1968

     

  • VW Type 3: 1962–1968