111-415-159 VW Beetle Steering Box Lock Plate - Steering Gear Mounting

VW Steering Box Mounting Lock Plate – 111-415-159

The 111-415-159 is a critical safety component used to secure the steering gearbox to the front beam (axle) of your Volkswagen. This specialized metal plate acts as a mechanical locking device for the steering box mounting bolts. Once the bolts are torqued to factory specifications, the tabs on the lock plate are bent up against the bolt heads, physically preventing them from backing out due to road vibration or steering torque.

In the high-stress environment of the front suspension, a loose steering box can lead to "play" in the steering wheel, poor alignment, and dangerous handling characteristics. Because the tabs on these plates become brittle and snap after being bent and unbent, it is highly recommended to install a fresh 111-415-159 plate whenever the steering box is removed, adjusted, or replaced.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility This lock plate fits standard steering box configurations across multiple platforms:

VW Beetle (Standard):

• 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 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 Karmann Ghia:

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

VW Thing:

• 1973, 1974

VW Type 3:

• 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973

Product Highlights & Features

• Safety Critical: Provides a fail-safe mechanical lock that traditional lock washers cannot match in steering applications.

• Direct OE Replacement: Stamped to original dimensions to ensure proper spacing between mounting bolt holes.

• Bendable Tab Design: Manufactured from a specific grade of steel that allows the tabs to be folded without immediate snapping.

• Corrosion Resistance: Usually features a zinc or cadmium-style plating to resist the moisture and road salt common at the front of the vehicle.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 111-415-159

• Material: Stamped Steel

• Quantity: Sold Individually (Check your steering box type; some require two)

• Application: Steering Box to Axle Beam Mounting

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• One-Time Use: For maximum safety, never reuse a lock plate. If the tabs have been bent once, the metal is fatigued; a second bend can cause the tab to vibrate off, leaving the bolt unsecured.

• Tool Tip: Use a small chisel or a sturdy flat-head screwdriver to initially pry the tab up, then finish the fold with a pair of pliers or a hammer and drift.

• Torque First: Ensure the mounting bolts are torqued to the correct factory foot-pounds before bending the tabs. The plate is there to hold the torque, not to create it.

• Inspect the Beam: While the plate is off, inspect the mounting area on the axle beam for any cracks or wallowed-out holes.

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