111-827-513K VW Beetle Early Decklid Lock Catch Bracket (1949-1964)

VW Early Decklid Lock Catch (Weld-On) – 111-827-513K

The 111-827-513K is a specialized weld-on repair bracket designed for the rear apron of early air-cooled Volkswagens. This bracket serves as the mounting point for the decklid lock catch (striker) on cars equipped with the classic T-handle style engine lid. Because this part is located in a high-moisture area directly above the exhaust and rear bumper, the original sheet metal often thins out or rots away, leaving the decklid unable to latch securely.

This bracket is also a "must-have" for owners performing a "back-dating" modification. If you are installing an early-style T-handle decklid onto a later 1965 or newer rear apron, you must weld this specific 111-827-513K bracket into place to provide the correct geometry for the early latch. It is stamped from high-quality raw steel, ensuring clean welds and a factory-correct appearance once finished and painted.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility This bracket is designed for the "Early" latching system:

VW Beetle (Standard):

• 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964

Product Highlights & Features

• Essential for T-Handles: Specifically engineered to match the reach and catch angle of 1949–1964 latch mechanisms.

• Raw Weldable Steel: Comes without paint or primer on the weld flanges to ensure immediate, high-penetration welding.

• Restoration Correct: Accurately reproduces the factory stamping used on the original rear aprons of the 50s and early 60s.

• Structural Strength: Provides a rigid mounting point that won't flex, ensuring your engine lid doesn't rattle or pop open under vibration.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 111-827-513K

• Material: Heavy-Gauge Raw Steel

• Installation: Weld-On

• Compatibility: T-Handle Latch Systems Only

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Mock-Up First: Before final welding, bolt your decklid and T-handle latch onto the car. Use a small pair of vice-grips to hold this bracket in place and test the latching action. A few millimeters too high or too low will make the lid difficult to close.

• Corrosion Protection: Since the back of this bracket is difficult to reach once welded, apply a "weld-through primer" to the mating surfaces before installation to prevent rust from starting between the layers of metal.

• Seam Sealing: After welding, use a high-quality automotive seam sealer around the edges of the bracket to prevent water from sitting in the crevice.

• H-Pattern Note: This bracket is the perfect companion for the 111-813-301F rear apron when you are restoring a 1958–1964 model.

Replacement Decklid Lock Catch for 49-64 Bug will need to be welded on to the apron (also used for when replacing the rear apron on a 64 and earlier bug with the 65-66 style apron)

REF: 111827513K , 111 813 305