Spare parts for the rear axle for the Bus

rear axle

The secure foundation of every tour – the rear axle for your VW Bus T2

Intact guidance and power transmission of the rear axle is the be-all and end-all for every carefree outing with your classic – and should be in focus both during routine checks and comprehensive overhaul of the suspension. Different components can be used here – depending on the stress and your own demands on longevity. In addition to daily stress via axle shaft, control arm & co., a complete set of fresh bearings and joints for the rear axle may be due after many years on the track. Then nothing stands in the way of a reliable and worry-free classic car experience. We reveal why the topic of rear axle should be inspected regularly, what steps need to be considered during maintenance - and which versions are used for individual application purposes. We also look specifically at wheel bearings and drive shafts.

Why is the rear axle an important step in suspension maintenance?

Permanent directional stability and reliable power transmission form the basis of every classic car drive – only when the rear axle works without play can the Bulli roll powerfully over the asphalt. It is not enough to simply ignore a starting rumbling or worn-out rubber. While the symptoms are merely glossed over in this way, wear, vibrations, and unsafe driving behavior stubbornly persist – for the latter, you should also rely on precisely fitting spare parts for the rear axle. These are renewed using suitable special tools, new screws & co.

When should I check my rear axle?

Before every classic car season & regularly during inspection! When inspecting the rear axle, the traces of hard asphalt are removed: brittle bearings, play in the joints, and decreasing damping. In addition, spongy driving behavior and expensive consequential damage disappear in the workshop instead of spoiling the driving pleasure.

How does the maintenance of the rear axle work?

These four belong to the basic equipment:

• Precisely fitting components for your rear axle of choice
• A workshop manual exclusively for your T2
• Fresh gear oil and high-strength fastening bolts
• Jack, jack stands, and torque wrench

For most assembly work, a clean surface is recommended as the foundation for professional replacement. Set the new parts stress-free and secure them (if applicable) with the prescribed torque. Dry your hands gently with a towel that you only use for fine wrenching work. Afterwards, you can check the suspension for a tight fit. Please note that you always carry out the work on the rear axle with the utmost care – otherwise directional stability suffers or dangerous driving situations occur. After the intervention, a careful test drive is recommended. This supplies your classic with the necessary smooth running and secure driving feel.

Which rear axle suits me?

Actually, asking a counter-question is impolite. But in order to choose the right joints or the matching overhaul kit in terms of rear axle, we want to know from you: Which application area would you assign your bus to? Do you desire original ride comfort, reinforced bearings for heavy loads, or sporty stiffness? Because for every driving style there is the matching variant.

• Original version: Your Bulli copes with all standard components in everyday life. Whether classical rubber-metal bearing, original axle shaft, or standard dampers: you have the free choice for a faithful restoration.
• Reinforced version (Heavy Duty): So that your rear axle does not fail even under heavy payload or long vacation trips, you should rely on robust heavy-duty parts that keep your vehicle safely on course even under high loads. You should also make sure that brittle cheap products are not on the list of spare parts. Particularly durable for long trips are, for example, reinforced control arm bearings. Paired with high-quality material, we say "Ade!" to suspension play and imprecise turn-in. Tip: For demanding use, a complete overhaul kit for the rear axle is recommended. This protects your nerves particularly sustainably – and keeps the Bulli safely in the track.
• Sporty version: For lowered buses or ambitious driving style, you can design the rear axle specifically stiffer. Optimized sport bearings and harder rubbers are recommended for this. These prevent unwanted rolling movements and simultaneously ensure direct feedback from the road.
• Restoration version: This purpose demands uncompromising attention to detail down to the last screw. Therefore, equipment that exactly matches VW factory specifications is exactly the right thing for you. At Hoffmann Speedster, you will find these components directly in the area for the original rear axle.