EMPI 17-8997-0 Foose Design Rear Wing - VW Type 1 Bug, Super Beetle Aluminum

EMPI x FOOSE Design Rear Wing – 17-8997-0

The EMPI 17-8997-0 is more than just a styling accessory; it is a precision-engineered aerodynamic component. Manufactured from 14-gauge T-6061 aluminum, the wing is both incredibly lightweight and rigid. The design ensures that while the wing provides downforce, the specialized stand-offs keep the leading edge away from the body, allowing unimpeded cooling air to reach your engine.

Installation is a breeze thanks to the 16-gauge mild steel mounting brackets that are powder-coated for durability. Because it uses stainless steel hardware and mounts directly to the decklid cooling vents, you can add aggressive styling and improved handling to your Type 1 without making any permanent modifications to the bodywork.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility

VW Beetle (Hardtop):

• 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977

VW Super Beetle (Hardtop):

• 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977

Product Highlights & Features

• Premium Materials: Laser-cut and precision-bent T-6061 aluminum wing with TIG-welded end plates and stand-offs.

• Engine-Friendly Design: Mounted to allow full airflow to the engine vents and high enough to allow the decklid to open fully without interference.

• Driver Visibility: Carefully positioned to remain low enough that it does not obstruct the driver's rear-view mirror visibility.

• Authentic Branding: Includes a removable FOOSE sticker pre-applied to the side panel.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 17-8997-0

• Width: 37.7 inches

• Depth: 8 inches

• Material: Aluminum (Wing) / Mild Steel (Brackets)

• Hardware: Stainless Steel included

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Centering: When sandwiching the cooling vents with the brackets, take a moment to measure from both sides of the decklid to ensure the wing is perfectly centered before final tightening.

• Paint or Polish: The T-6061 aluminum comes in a raw/brushed finish; it can be left as-is, polished to a mirror shine, or painted/powder-coated to match your vehicle's color scheme.

• Hardware Check: As with any exterior aerodynamic part, check the tightness of the stainless steel mounting bolts after your first few drives to ensure everything remains secure.