OE Quality
60-Day Returns

Delphi TC1678 Suspension Ball Joint - Front Lower
Delphi Suspension Ball Joint for Volkswagen Beetle
The Delphi TC1678 suspension ball joint is engineered to provide reliable steering and suspension performance for Volkswagen Beetle models. Designed with durable materials and precise dimensions, this ball joint ensures a secure fit and consistent operation in your vehicle's suspension system.
- Constructed with SAE 5140 alloy steel ball and carbon steel housing for strength and durability
- Maximum outside diameter of 1.772 inches (45.0 mm) and length of 89 mm for exact fitment
- Gray color finish with a chloroprene rubber dust boot included to protect against contaminants
- Press-in mounting type with tapered threaded stud (12 mm diameter) for secure installation
- Includes mounting hardware and nuts; castle nut, grease fitting, bushings, and cotter pin not included
Durable Construction and Precise Fitment
The Delphi TC1678 suspension ball joint features a ball made from SAE 5140 alloy steel, known for its toughness and wear resistance, paired with a carbon steel housing to withstand suspension stresses. The included chloroprene rubber dust boot helps prevent dirt and moisture intrusion, extending the service life of the joint. With a maximum outside diameter of 45 mm and a length of 89 mm, this ball joint is designed specifically for Volkswagen Beetle suspension systems, ensuring proper alignment and smooth steering response.
Compatible Applications and Use Cases
This suspension ball joint is compatible with Volkswagen Beetle models requiring a standard suspension grade ball joint with a 12 mm threaded stud diameter and press-in mounting type. It is suitable for addressing common suspension issues such as:
- Excessive play or looseness in the steering linkage
- Uneven tire wear caused by worn ball joints
- Clunking or knocking noises during suspension travel
- Reduced steering responsiveness or stability
- Vibration or shimmy in the front suspension
Installation Notes and Tips
Installation of the Delphi TC1678 ball joint requires pressing the unit into the control arm or suspension component. Ensure the mounting surface is clean and free of debris before installation. The tapered threaded stud should be torqued to manufacturer specifications, and the included nuts used to secure the assembly. Note that this ball joint does not include a grease fitting and is not greaseable, so periodic inspection is recommended. Castle nuts, cotter pins, and bushings are not included and should be sourced separately if required.
Quality Assurance and Warranty
Delphi suspension components are manufactured to meet or exceed OEM standards for fit, form, and function. The TC1678 ball joint undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure durability and performance in Volkswagen Beetle applications. While specific warranty details are not provided here, Delphi typically offers limited warranties covering defects in materials and workmanship. Consult product documentation or Delphi directly for warranty terms.
| Brand | Delphi |
|---|---|
| Part Number | TC1678 |
| Adjustable | No |
| Ball Joint Assembly | Yes |
| Bushings Included | No |
| Castle Nut Included | No |
| Color | Gray |
| Cotter Pin Hole | No |
| Cotter Pin Included | No |
| Dust Boot Included | Yes |
| Dust Boot Material | Choloroprene Rubber (CR) |
| Grease Fitting Included | No |
| Greaseable | No |
| Height | 3.504 |
| Item Grade | Standard Replacement |
| Length | 89 |
| Material | Ball Material - Alloy Steel SAE 5140, Housing Material - Carbon Steel SAE 1040 |
| Maximum Outside Diameter | 1.772 |
| Maximum Outside Diameter | 45.0 |
| Mount Plate Included | No |
| Mounting Bolts Included | No |
| Mounting Hardware Included | Yes |
| Mounting Type | Press In |
| Nuts Included | Yes |
| Position(s) | Front Lower |
| Stud Taper Per Foot | 0.1 |
| Stud Tapered End 1 Diameter | 0.634 |
| Stud Tapered End 1 Diameter | 16.1 |
| Stud Tapered End 2 Diameter | 0.575 |
| Stud Tapered End 2 Diameter | 14.6 |
| Stud Thread Diameter | 12.0 |
| Stud Thread Length | 0.945 |
| Stud Thread Pitch | 1.5 |
| Stud Type | Threaded |
| Suspension Grade Type | Standard |
| Tapered Stud | Yes |
| Washers Included | No |
| Width | 45.0 |
This part fits 13 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1977 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1976 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1975 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1974 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1973 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1972 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1971 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1970 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1969 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1968 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1967 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1966 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower | |
| 1965 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Front Lower |
* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.