111-501-131A VW Beetle Rear Swing Arm Gasket - 0.3mm (1950-1968)

VW Rear Swing Arm Gasket (0.3mm) – 111-501-131A

The 111-501-131A is a precision-cut paper gasket designed for the rear suspension and transaxle assembly of early air-cooled Volkswagens. Specifically engineered for Swing Axle transmissions, this gasket sits between the rear axle tube (swing arm) and the transmission case. Its primary function is to provide a leak-proof seal that keeps the gear oil inside the transaxle while allowing the axle tube to pivot freely during suspension travel.

This gasket features a specific 0.3mm thickness, which is critical for maintaining the correct tolerances within the axle's "flange" or retainer area. Using a gasket that is too thick or too thin can result in either a stubborn gear oil leak or, more seriously, binding of the axle tube, which restricts suspension movement. When refreshing your rear suspension or replacing an axle boot, installing a fresh 111-501-131A gasket is an essential step to ensure long-term reliability and a dry driveway.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility This gasket is used on all air-cooled models equipped with a Rear Swing Axle (not for IRS models):

VW Beetle (Standard):

• 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968

VW Bus (Transporter, Kombi):

• 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967

VW Karmann Ghia:

• 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968

Product Highlights & Features

• Precision 0.3mm Thickness: Engineered to provide the exact clearance needed for the axle tube to rotate smoothly without leaking.

• High-Grade Gasket Paper: Resistant to the chemicals found in modern gear oils, ensuring the seal doesn't break down or "weep" over time.

• Exact OE Fit: Matches original Volkswagen dimensions for a perfect alignment with the mounting studs on the transmission case.

• Essential Maintenance Item: Crucial for any "transmission-out" service or rear axle tube repair.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 111-501-131A

• Thickness: 0.3mm

• Material: Compressed Gasket Paper

• Application: Rear Swing Axle (Left or Right)

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Clean the Surfaces: Use a gasket scraper and brake cleaner to ensure both the transmission case and the axle tube flange are perfectly clean and free of old gasket material before installation.

• Inspect for Burrs: Even a small nick in the metal surfaces can cause a leak. Lightly sand any high spots with fine emery cloth.

• The "Dry" or "Wet" Debate: While many technicians install these dry, a very thin smear of non-hardening gasket sealer can help provide extra insurance against leaks on older, pitted castings.

• Check the Shims: On Swing Axle setups, this gasket is often used in conjunction with metal shims to set the axle end play. Always re-measure your clearances if you are replacing these components.

111501131A