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
