VW Front Suspension Travel Snubber – 111-401-273 The 111-401-273 is a heavy-duty rubber bump stop designed for the front beam of early air-cooled Volkswagens. This "suspension travel snubber" acts as a critical cushion between the torsion arms and the axle beam. Its primary job is to provide a progressive stop at the end of the suspension's upward travel, preventing metal-on-metal contact when the car hits a significant pothole or bump. Because these are made of high-density rubber and are located in an area exposed to road salt, oil, and constant compression, they eventually become rock-hard, crack, or fall off entirely. Without a functional 111-401-273 snubber, the suspension can "bottom out" harshly, sending violent shocks through the chassis and potentially damaging the torsion leaves or shock towers. These replacements restore the factory-intended safety cushion and quiet down your front-end operation. Detailed Vehicle Compatibility This snubber fits the "King and Link Pin" front axle beams found on early models: 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 Progressive Damping: Engineered with a specific rubber durometer to absorb energy gradually, protecting your front-end components from sudden impact damage. Direct OE Fitment: Designed to the exact 111-401-273 specifications, featuring the correct mounting nipple to press-fit into the factory bracket on the axle beam. Weather-Resistant Compound: Molded from modern synthetic rubber that is more resistant to ozone and oil than the original 1950s era natural rubber. Ride Comfort Enhancement: Eliminates the "clunk" associated with worn-out or missing bump stops during spirited driving or on rough roads. Technical Specifications Part Number: 111-401-273 Material: High-Density Synthetic Rubber Quantity: Sold Individually (Two required per vehicle) Position: Front Axle Beam Installation & Maintenance Tips The "Soapy Water" Trick: These snubbers are a press-fit design. To make installation easier, dip the mounting nipple in a little bit of soapy water before pressing it into the hole on the axle beam bracket. Check the Bracket: Before installing, ensure the metal mounting bracket on your beam isn't bent or rusted through. If the bracket is damaged, the new snubber will not stay in place. Inspect While Greasing: Since these sit right near the grease nipples on your front beam, make it a habit to inspect them every time you perform your 3,000-mile front-end lubrication. Lowered Cars: If your Beetle is significantly lowered, these snubbers will contact the beam more frequently. Check them for "pancaking" or signs of splitting more often than you would on a stock-height car. 111401273 8142251306 98-4041-B
