The Solution: How To Identify The Spindles That Are In Your VW

The good news is now that you know what the issue is we can show you how to determine whether your car has early or late model spindles, allowing you to purchase the correct parts for your ride the first time!

A Tale Of Two Spindles:

The image above shows the specific differences between the early and late model OE ball joint spindles found on the Bug & Ghia.

Take The Sharpie Test And The Truth Will Be Revealed!

The image below illustrates an easy test you can perform with the Sharpie you should have in your toolbox. The 10mm early model spindles (left) will only allow about ⅜” of the Sharpie to poke through the tie rod end hole, whereas the 12mm late model spindle will pass the Sharpie to the middle obscuring the logo on the pen. You can also use calipers to measure the threaded end of the ball joints currently on the car to determine which setup you have.

Now You Know What You’re Working With!

Hopefully you have found this article informative and helpful. Now you are empowered with the knowledge to have a deeper understanding of your classic VW and know which parts you will need when the time comes to service your front end!

If you have further questions regarding this article or any other classic VW tech, please submit them to Ask Andy!

Parts for mid-’68 and earlier, 10mm:

#113415802B Tie Rod Assembly (Right Side) 10mm for vehicles from ’49 to mid-’68
#113415801 Tie Rod Assembly (Left Side) 10mm for vehicles from ’49 to mid-’68
#113415821 Tie Rod End (Left Inner) 10mm for vehicles up to mid-’68
#113415813D Tie Rod End with Damper Hole (Right Inner) 10mm for vehicles up to mid-’68
#131415811 Tie Rod End (Left Outer), 10mm for vehicles up to mid-’68
#131415812 Tie Rod End (Right Outer), 10mm for vehicles up to mid-’68

Parts for mid-’68 and later, 12mm:

#131415802E Tie Rod Assembly (Right Side) 12mm for vehicles mid-’68 and later
#131415801F Tie Rod Assembly (Left Side) 12mm for vehicles mid-’68 and later
#131415821A Tie Rod End (Left Inner) 12mm for vehicles from mid-’68 and later
#131415813E Tie Rod End with Damper Hole (Right Inner) 12mm for vehicles from mid-’68 and later
#311415811C Tie Rod End (Left Outer), 12mm for vehicles from mid-’68 and later
#311415812C Tie Rod End (Right Outer), 12mm for vehicles from mid-’68 and later