VW Beetle Throw-Out Bearing Clips, Heavy-Duty Super Clips, Pair — EMPI 32-1208-0 | Beetle, Bus, Ghia & Type 3 1954–1970
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EMPI Throw-Out Bearing Super Clips — Heavy-Duty, Pair (32-1208-0)
EMPI 32-1208-0 is a pair of heavy-duty Super Clips that hold the early-style (unguided) throw-out bearing onto the clutch fork, replacing stock clips OE 111-141-177AS. They fit 1954–1970 VW Beetles, 1956–1970 Karmann Ghias, 1954–1970 Buses and 1962–1970 Type 3 cars, plus buggies with a 1970-or-earlier transaxle. They do not fit 1971-on guided bearings. One pair per bearing.
Part numbers: EMPI 32-1208-0 (pair) / short number 1208 · single clip 32-1208-B · OE 111-141-177AS / 111141177AS (also 111-141-177A) · UPC 707924362947
Fitment
| Years | Vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1954–1970 | VW Beetle | Early-style unguided throw-out bearing |
| 1956–1970 | VW Karmann Ghia | |
| 1954–1970 | VW Bus (Type 1 and Type 2) | |
| 1962–1970 | VW Type 3 | |
| — | Dune buggies, Baja Bugs and sand rails | 1970-or-earlier transaxle with the early throw-out bearing |
| 1971-on | Does not fit: guided throw-out bearing (Beetle, Super Beetle, Bus, Type 3, Thing) | See EMPI 32-1210-B |
| 1949–1953 | Not confirmed | Some dealers list them; EMPI starts at 1954 |
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part number | EMPI 32-1208-0 (single clip: 32-1208-B) |
| Type | Throw-out (clutch release) bearing retaining clips, heavy duty |
| OE reference | 111-141-177AS |
| Quantity | Pair (2 clips) |
| Fits | Early-style unguided throw-out bearing, 1954–1970 |
| UPC | 707924362947 |
| Country of origin | Taiwan |
| Shipping weight | 0.1 lb |
| Package dimensions | 6 x 5 x 1 in |
What's included
- Two heavy-duty Super Clips (one bearing's worth)
Why it matters
On an early VW, two small spring clips are all that hold the throw-out bearing onto the clutch fork. When they weaken, the bearing rattles, walks off the fork and leaves you with a pedal that goes to the floor — usually far from home — and the engine has to come out to fix it. These clips grip harder than stock, and fitting them every time the engine is out for a clutch job costs almost nothing compared with pulling it again later.
Installation notes
- The engine has to be out. While it is out, check the clutch fork (cross-shaft) bushings for play and the fork fingers for wear.
- Hook each clip into the bearing's groove first, then spring it over the fork finger. They are stiff, so use pliers and eye protection.
- Rock the bearing on the fork by hand. It should pivot with no free play and no rattle.
- Set clutch free play at the pedal after the engine goes back in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will EMPI throw-out bearing Super Clips fit my 1968 VW Beetle?
Yes. They fit the early-style (unguided) throw-out bearing used on all air-cooled VWs through the 1970 model year, and a 1968 Beetle uses that bearing.
Do throw-out bearing clips fit a 1971 or later VW?
No. From 1971 VW used a guided throw-out bearing on a guide sleeve, which does not use these clips. See EMPI 32-1210-B.
Why replace the throw-out bearing clips?
The clips hold the throw-out bearing onto the clutch fork. Worn stock clips let the bearing wobble or drop off the fork, which means a dead clutch pedal and pulling the engine. These spring clips hold noticeably tighter than stock.
Do I need these clips if I buy a new throw-out bearing?
Check the box. EMPI's 32-1205-B bearing ships with Super Clips. Many other bearings, including used and German OE ones, do not.
How many clips come in the pack?
A pair, which is one bearing's worth (two clips).
What is the part number?
EMPI 32-1208-0 (pair). The single clip is 32-1208-B (OE 111-141-177AS). UPC 707924362947.
Related parts
- EMPI early-style throw-out bearing (32-1205-B)
- Sachs throw-out bearing (32-1206-B)
- Drivetrain & Transmission · EMPI Parts
⚠ WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. All parts legal for use on pre-pollution controlled vehicles only.
