JP Group Steering Box (Steering Gear), New | VW Bus Bay Window 1973–1979 | OE 211 415 049 H (JP-8679-0)
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JP Group Steering Box, New — VW Bus Bay Window 1973–1979 (JP-8679-0)
Short answer: JP-8679-0 is a brand-new steering box (steering gear) for the late Bay Window VW Bus, 1973–1979, including the Pickup (single and double cab) and Westfalia. It replaces VW OE 211 415 049 H (JP Group ref 8144200306). It is a new unit, not a rebuild, so there is no core to send back.
Fitment
| Years | Vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1973–1979 | VW Bus / Transporter (Bay Window) incl. Westfalia | Left-hand drive, per EMPI |
| 1973–1979 | VW Pickup (single cab, double cab) | EMPI lists 1973–1974 Pickup; later Pickups use the same box (confirm) |
| 1968–1972 | Early Bay Window Bus | Does not fit: worm-and-peg box 211 415 049 F |
| 1950–1967 | Split Window Bus | Does not fit |
| 1980–1991 | Vanagon | Does not fit: rack-and-pinion steering |
Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Part number | JP Group JP-8679-0 |
| OE reference | 211 415 049 H (211-415-049H) |
| JP Group reference | 8144200306 |
| UPC | 707924540109 |
| Steering | Manual, left-hand drive |
| Condition | New (no core charge) |
| Sold as | Each |
| Shipping weight | 11 lb estimate (EMPI lists 5.77 lb, which we think is low) |
What's Included
- One steering box with sector shaft
Not Included
- Pitman (drop) arm
- Steering coupler / flex joint and mounting bolts
- Steering box gear oil (check fill before use)
- Tie rods, drag link and steering damper
Why It Matters
The late Bay Window Bus uses a steering box that, after 45-plus years, almost always has worn internal gears and tired seals. The classic symptoms are lots of free play at the wheel, wandering on the freeway, constant correcting, a clunk over bumps, and gear oil weeping from the sector shaft seal. Adjusting a worn box only goes so far: tighten it too much and it binds at center. A new box restores tight, predictable steering and is the biggest single improvement you can make to a Bus that wanders. If you would rather keep an original German unit, we also offer a rebuilt German 211 415 049 H steering box from our restoration line.
Installation Notes
- Center the steering wheel and mark the coupler and the pitman arm position before removal.
- Use a pitman arm puller to remove the arm; do not hammer on the sector shaft.
- Fill or top up the box with the gear oil specified in your workshop manual before driving.
- Install with a new coupler (flex joint) if the rubber is cracked, and torque the mounting bolts to the factory figure.
- Set toe and check that the steering is centered and free from lock to lock after installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it fit my 1972 Bus?
No. 1968–1972 Buses use the early box (211 415 049 F). This one is for 1973–1979.
Does it fit my 1978 Westfalia?
Yes, it fits 1973–1979 Bay Window Buses including Westfalia campers with left-hand drive.
Is this the same as OE 211 415 049 H?
Yes. JP Group cross-references JP-8679-0 to VW 211 415 049 H.
Is it new or rebuilt?
New. There is no core charge.
Does it come with the pitman arm?
No. Reuse your arm if the splines are good.
What else should I replace?
The steering coupler, tie rod ends and the steering damper if they are worn, then have the alignment set.
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California Prop 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and/or lead compounds, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. Legal for use on pre-pollution-controlled vehicles only.
