111-401-281 VW Front Beam Mount Lock Plate - Beetle & Ghia (1950-1965)

VW Front Beam Mount Lock Plate – 111-401-281

The 111-401-281 is a critical safety component designed for the "King and Link Pin" front suspension systems of early air-cooled Volkswagens. This metal lock plate installs directly between the front axle beam and the large mounting bolts that secure the entire front suspension assembly to the chassis. Because these bolts are only torqued to approximately 36 ft/lbs to avoid deforming the sheet metal brackets, the lock plate is essential for preventing the bolts from vibrating loose over time.

Once the beam bolts are torqued to specification, the outer tabs of the 111-401-281 lock plate are bent upwards against the flat sides of the bolt heads. This mechanical "locking" action ensures that the four bolts holding your steering, brakes, and suspension to the car remain tight, even under the constant vibration and stress of daily driving. These plates should be replaced whenever the beam is removed, as the metal tabs can weaken and snap after being bent and unbent multiple times.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility This lock plate is specific to the early style King Pin axle beams:

VW Beetle (Standard):

• 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965

VW Karmann Ghia:

• 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965

Product Highlights & Features Mechanical Safety Lock: Provides a fail-safe physical barrier that prevents critical suspension mounting bolts from backing out.

Heavy-Duty Steel Construction: Stamped from high-quality steel with the correct thickness to provide a solid mounting surface without crushing.

OE-Correct Design: Matches original Volkswagen part number 111-401-281 for a perfect fit on stock 1950-1965 front axle beams.

Easy Installation: Designed for a simple "slide-on" installation before the bolts are threaded into the chassis.

Technical Specifications Part Number: 111-401-281

Material: Stamped Steel

Quantity: Sold Individually (Two required per vehicle; each plate locks two bolts)

Torque Spec: 36 ft/lbs (Standard for beam bolts)

Installation & Maintenance Tips Clean the Threads: Before installing the new plates and bolts, ensure the threaded holes in the chassis are clean and free of debris. A quick spray of brake cleaner or the use of a thread chaser can prevent false torque readings.

Proper Bending Technique: Use a flat-head screwdriver or a small chisel to start the bend on the locking tabs, then finish the fold with a hammer or pliers until the tab is flush against the bolt head.

Inspect for Fatigue: If you are reusing old plates, check the fold lines for small cracks. If any stress marks are visible, replace the plate immediately, as a snapped tab will no longer provide a safety lock.

Check Both Sides: Since the front beam is held on by four bolts, you will need two of these plates—one for the driver's side and one for the passenger's side.

111401281

111 401 281