JP Group Steering Column Shaft Support Ring, Plastic | VW Beetle 1975–1979, Vanagon, Thing & Rabbit | OE 171 419 341 (JP-8288-0)
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JP Group Steering Column Shaft Support Ring, Plastic | VW Beetle 1975–1979, Vanagon, Thing & Rabbit | OE 171 419 341 (JP-8288-0)
Short answer: The JP Group JP-8288-0 is the plastic support ring that centers the steering shaft in the top of the steering column tube. EMPI lists the VW Thing 1973–1974, 412 and Rabbit Pickup 1980–1983; the same OE 171 419 341 is used on the 1975–79 Beetle, Vanagon and Mk1 Rabbit/Golf. It supersedes metal bush 111 953 535 D. JP ref. 8145651400. Sold each.
Fitment
| Years | Vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1973–1974 | VW Thing | Per EMPI, on steering column |
| 1973–1974 | VW 412 | Per EMPI |
| 1980–1983 | VW Rabbit Pickup | Per EMPI |
| 1975–1979 | VW Beetle & Super Beetle | Per other catalogs — confirm |
| 1980–1991 | VW Vanagon | Per other catalogs — confirm |
| 1975–1984 | VW Rabbit / Golf Mk1, Jetta Mk1, Scirocco | Per other catalogs — confirm |
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part number | JP-8288-0 |
| OE reference | 171 419 341 |
| Supersedes | 111 953 535 D (metal bush) |
| JP Group reference | 8145651400 |
| UPC | 707924526233 |
| Material | Plastic |
| Sold as | Each |
| Brand | JP Group (Denmark), distributed in the US by EMPI |
| Condition | New |
| Shipping weight | approx. 0.1 lb (estimate) |
| Package size | 3 x 3 x 1 in (estimated) |
What's Included / Not Included
- Included: One plastic steering column support ring.
- Not included: Upper steering column bearing, turn signal switch, spring or circlip.
Why It Matters
This little ring keeps the steering shaft centered in the column tube. When it is worn or missing, the shaft can knock and rattle in the tube, the steering wheel feels loose side to side even though the steering box is fine, and the turn signal switch can be pushed out of position. It is commonly lost or broken when the turn signal switch or upper bearing is replaced. VW replaced the older metal bush with this plastic ring.
Installation Notes
- Remove the steering wheel and turn signal switch to reach the top of the column.
- The ring sits in the column tube behind the upper bearing; note the old ring's position before removal.
- Make sure the shaft turns freely without binding after fitting the new ring.
- Replace the upper column bearing at the same time if it is rough or loose.
- Reassemble and tighten the steering wheel nut to factory specification.
- We do not publish torque values here; use the factory workshop manual for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the JP-8288-0 fit my 1974 Thing?
Yes. EMPI lists the 1973–1974 Thing.
Does it fit my 1978 Super Beetle?
Other catalogs list 1975–1979 Beetles with OE 171 419 341; EMPI's list is cut off, so compare your old part.
Does it fit my Vanagon?
Other catalogs list the 1980–1991 Vanagon; confirm before ordering.
Is this the same as VW 171 419 341?
Yes. JP Group lists 171 419 341 as the OE reference.
Can it replace the old metal bush?
Yes. VW superseded metal bush 111 953 535 D with this plastic ring.
My steering wheel wiggles. Is this the cause?
It can be, if the shaft moves in the column tube. Also check the upper bearing and the steering coupler.
Is it new?
Yes, it is a new JP Group part.
Explore Related Categories
Suspension & Components · VW Thing Parts · VW Vanagon 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.
