45mm Urethane Rear Torsion Bar Round Grommets

These 45mm urethane rear torsion bar spring plate grommets with a smooth outer face are a high-performance upgrade designed to replace the original soft rubber grommets used on classic Volkswagen rear suspension setups. Compatible with a wide range of Type 1, Type 3 and IRS swing axle/VW IRS layouts, these grommets are fitted in the outer position of the torsion housing and provide a firm, consistent support for the spring plate as it pivots under load.

Standard rubber grommets compress, distort and eventually “bottom out,” leading to vague rear suspension behaviour, excessive body movement, clunks and misalignment. Urethane grommets are stiffer, more stable and far more durable, offering improved handling, better cornering response and more predictable suspension travel—especially noticeable on cars in stop-start urban driving where rear suspension stress is high.

These smooth-outer grommets have an inside diameter of 45mm (1¾”) and are designed to work with specific spring plate covers that require a smooth finish. They are sold as a pair and ideal for restorations, performance builds and vehicles used for spirited driving.

Fitment Compatibility

These grommets fit the outer position on the following models:

• Type 1 Swing Axle: Outer

• Type 1 IRS: Outer

• Type 3 IRS: Outer

Urethane Grommet Sizing Guide (for reference)

• T1 Swing Axle: 45mm Knobby Inner + 45mm Smooth Outer

• T1 IRS: 48mm Knobby Inner + 45mm Smooth Outer

• T2 Swing Axle >67: 50mm Smooth Inner + 50mm Smooth Outer

• T2 IRS 68>: 50mm Smooth Inner + 50mm Smooth Outer

• Type 3 Swing Axle: 48mm Knobby Inner + 48mm Knobby Outer

• Type 3 IRS: 48mm Knobby Inner + 45mm Smooth Outer

• Adjustable Spring Plates: 50mm Knobby Inner + 48mm Smooth Outer

If you’re unsure which type you need, the deciding factor is the spring plate cover being used—the cover design dictates whether the outer grommets should be smooth or knobbly.

Additional Parts That May Be Required

• Inner urethane grommets (match size to your setup)

• Replacement spring plate cover bolts

• Anti-seize or polyurethane-safe grease for installation

These urethane grommets strike a perfect balance: stiffer than stock rubber for improved handling, but not excessively harsh for everyday driving. Ideal for stock, performance, or custom builds.