JP Group Convertible Top Frame Base Seal with Aluminum Plate, Left or Right | VW Beetle Convertible 1965–1972 | OE 151 871 409 A / 410 A (JP-8435-0 / JP-8436-0)
Couldn't load pickup availability
JP Group Convertible Top Frame Base Seal, Left or Right — VW Beetle Convertible 1965–1972
Short answer: JP Group JP-8435-0 (left) and JP-8436-0 (right) are convertible top frame base (wedge) seals with aluminum plate for the VW Beetle Convertible, 1965–1972. They seal the folding top frame at the C-pillar base. They replace VW 151 871 409 A / 410 A. JP refs 8181950376 / 8181950386. Sold each.
Part numbers: Left JP-8435-0 · VW OE 151 871 409 A · JP 8181950376 · UPC 707924527704 | Right JP-8436-0 · VW OE 151 871 410 A · JP 8181950386 · UPC 707924527711
Fitment
| Years | Vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1965–1972 | VW Beetle Convertible (Karmann Cabriolet) | C-pillar top frame base, left or right, per EMPI |
| 1971–1972 | VW Super Beetle Convertible | Fitment confirm — EMPI lists the Beetle Convertible; compare with your car |
| 1973–1979 | VW Beetle / Super Beetle Convertible | Not listed — later tops use different seals |
| 1949–1964 | VW Beetle Convertible | Not listed |
| Any | Beetle sedan, Karmann Ghia convertible | Does not fit |
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | JP Group (Denmark) |
| Part numbers | JP-8435-0 (left), JP-8436-0 (right) |
| VW OE references | 151 871 409 A (left), 151 871 410 A (right) |
| JP Group references | 8181950376 / 8181950386 |
| UPC | 707924527704 / 707924527711 |
| Construction | Rubber wedge seal with aluminum plate |
| Position | Top frame base at the C-pillar |
| Sold as | Each |
| Weight | Not published — shipping estimate 0.5 lb |
What's Included / Not Included
- Included: one top frame base seal with aluminum plate for the side you select.
- Not included: the opposite side, top-to-body seals, retaining strips or screws.
Why It Matters
On the Beetle Convertible the folding top frame pivots on a base mounted at each rear quarter, at the C-pillar. The base seal (wedge seal) fills the gap between the frame base and the body so rain running down the top does not find its way into the rear seat area and the quarter panel. Old seals go hard, crack and shrink, leaving a gap you can see light through.
A leaking top base lets water run straight into the rear footwell and the quarter panel cavity, which is a classic convertible rust spot. Replacing hardened base seals is one of the most effective leak fixes on a 1965–1972 Cabriolet.
Seals are side-specific and year-specific, so check that your car is a 1965–1972 Convertible before ordering.
Installation Notes
- Lower the top and note how the old seal sits against the frame base before removing it.
- Clean the body and frame surfaces and remove old adhesive.
- Fit the seal with its aluminum plate positioned as the original. Use screws or adhesive as on the original installation.
- Raise and latch the top, then check for even contact and a water-tight seal with a gentle hose test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this fit my 1968 Beetle Convertible?
Yes. EMPI lists it for the 1965–1972 Beetle Convertible.
Left or right — how do I tell?
Left is the driver side on a US car (JP-8435-0). Right is the passenger side (JP-8436-0).
Is it the same as VW 151 871 409 A / 410 A?
Yes. EMPI lists 151 871 409 A for the left and 151 871 410 A for the right.
Does it fit a 1975 Convertible?
Not listed. EMPI only lists 1965–1972.
Should I replace both sides?
Usually yes. Both seals are the same age and wear at the same rate.
Is it new?
Yes, new JP Group seal.
Explore Related Categories
VW Beetle Parts · All VW Air-Cooled Parts
⚠ WARNING (California Proposition 65): This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.p65warnings.ca.gov. Parts are legal for use on pre-pollution-controlled vehicles only.
