VW Beetle Brake Push Bar, Restoration Line — Refurbished Factory German Spreader Bar | VW Beetle 1958–1979 Rear Drum (#R73)
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VW Beetle Brake Push Bar — Rear Drum Spreader Bar, Refurbished Factory German
The #R73 is a refurbished original German VW brake push bar (spreader bar) that sits inside the rear drum brake of the 1958–1979 VW Beetle and spreads the shoes when the wheel cylinder extends. It is powder coated, side-specific and sold left or right — specify the side when ordering. It is not used with disc brake conversions.
Part numbers: Washburn's Metal #R73 (R73) — original factory German VW part.
Fitment
| Years | Vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1958–1979 | VW Beetle | Rear drum brakes |
| — | Other VW with the same rear drum design | Verify with us before ordering |
| — | Disc brake conversions | Does not fit — discs don't use a push bar |
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Function | Brake shoe spreader bar inside the rear drum brake |
| Condition | Refurbished original factory German VW |
| Finish | Powder coated |
| Sold as | Left or right (specify when ordering) |
| Part number | #R73 |
| Shipping box | 6 x 2 x 1 in (estimated) |
What's Included
- One brake push bar (left or right, as specified)
Not Included
- Wheel cylinder, brake shoes and springs — full brake rebuild kits are separate items
Why It Matters
The push bar connects the wheel cylinder to the upper ends of the two shoes; when the cylinder extends, the bar spreads the shoes against the drum. A bent, worn or missing bar means the shoes don't spread properly and braking suffers.
Bars wear at the contact points against the wheel cylinder pistons and shoes, so replacement during a brake rebuild is cheap insurance.
Installation Notes
Check the old bar for rounding, grooves or wear at either end, and for bend or twist — a deformed push bar causes uneven shoe wear and pulling under braking.
Order both sides for a full rear brake rebuild.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a left and right VW brake push bar, or are they the same?
The push bars are side-specific. Specify which side you need when ordering, or order both for a full rear brake rebuild.
How do I know if my brake push bar is worn?
Look at the contact points where the bar meets the wheel cylinder pistons. If you see rounding, grooves or visible wear at either end, or any bend or twist, replace it.
Is the R73 an original German part or a reproduction?
Original factory German VW, inspected and refurbished, and powder coated for corrosion resistance.
Will a push bar work with my disc brake conversion?
No. Disc brake conversions don't use brake push bars; this part is for stock or factory-style rear drum brakes only.
Does it come with the wheel cylinder, shoes or springs?
No. This is the push bar only; full brake rebuild kits are separate items.
Does the R73 push bar fit a 1967 VW Beetle?
Yes. The #R73 push bar fits the rear drum brakes of the 1958–1979 VW Beetle.
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Prop 65 Warning
WARNING: 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.
