EMPI Thing Spindle Upgrade Kit | VW Type 181 Thing (1973-1974) | Ball Joint, 3" Raised Off-Road (22-3846-0)
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EMPI Thing Spindle Upgrade Kit — Ball Joint, 3-Inch Raised, Off-Road (1973-1974 VW Type 181)
EMPI engineers have assembled the perfect package to upgrade your Type 1 ball joint beam into a raised front end for your Dune Buggy, Baja, or Class 11 project. Starting with EMPI-exclusive forged Type 181 Thing spindles, this package features all-new parts matched for a trouble-free, time-saving build. Extensive testing on the Mojave Trail by EMPI staff confirms this kit will handle all your off-road abuse.
Intended for off-road applications requiring extra articulation and ground clearance. Why spend hours searching for used parts or one-offs when you can build with brand-new components for longevity and peace of mind? Pre-installed ball joints save you time and money.
Vehicle Fitment
- VW Type 181 Thing: 1973-1974 — a direct replacement for the original Type 181 spindles.
Why Choose EMPI?
3D scanning and CAD engineering ensure exact dimensions and a 3" lift. EMPI Thing spindles and trailing arms are constructed of hot-forged 5140 medium carbon steel, and the spindles are SCORE approved for Class 11 competition — proven on the Mojave Trail by EMPI's own staff.
Key Features & Benefits
- EMPI-Exclusive Forged Spindles: Forged Type 181 Thing spindles anchor an all-new, matched front-end package.
- 3" Lift: CAD-engineered for a 3-inch raise for off-road articulation and ground clearance.
- Pre-Installed Ball Joints: Upper and lower ball joints come pressed in, saving you a press job.
- Race Approved: SCORE approved for Class 11 competition.
- Disc-Brake Ready: Compatible with EMPI disc brake conversion kit 22-2895-0 for increased stopping power over original Thing front drums.
Technical Specifications
- Material: Hot-forged 5140 medium carbon steel (spindles and trailing arms).
- Lift: 3 inches over stock.
- Kit Contents: 22-3846-0 Forged Thing Spindle Set (pair); 98-4556-1 & 98-4556-2 Lower Trailing Arms (L/R); 98-4560-B & 98-4561-B Upper Trailing Arms (L/R); 98-4536-B Upper Ball Joint (pair, pressed); 98-4537-B Lower Ball Joint (pair, pressed); 22-3817-7 Camber Adjuster (pair); 22-2813-7 Eccentric Washer (pair).
- Compatible Disc Brake Kit: 22-2895-0.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What years does this fit? 1973-1974 VW Type 181 Thing — the only years the Thing was sold in the US.
- How much lift does it add? A 3-inch raise over stock spindle height, for off-road ground clearance.
- Are ball joints included? Yes — both upper and lower ball joints come pre-installed, saving you a press job.
- Is this race-legal? Yes — EMPI Thing spindles are SCORE approved for Class 11 competition.
- Can I add disc brakes? Yes — these spindles are compatible with EMPI's disc brake conversion kit (22-2895-0) if you want more stopping power.