Date: Tue, 12 Dec 2000 09:36:00 -0800
Reply-To: Bill Davidson <wdavidson@THEGRID.NET>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Bill Davidson <wdavidson@THEGRID.NET>
Subject: Re: tiico engine conversion
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
> So I'm thinking a lot about putting in the TiiCo 2.0l Golf engine from
> South Africa.
> Here's my thoughts - I would love to hear more; especially if you've
> done this (or another) engine conversion:
>
> Pros:
> - Cost is actually pretty good considering what you're getting
> - fuel economy
> - power
> - reliability
> - new FI system (no more Digifant!)
> - fits perfectly
>
> Cons:
> - aren't my gear ratios going to be poorly matched to the engine?
> - Is it REALLY legal? I know it can pass a smog test - but, if someone
> of authority knew what I had done to the van, would they make me take if
> off the road?? This is my biggest concern.
A lot depends on what state you register the vehicle in.
In California it involves more than just passing the emissions test.
My understanding is that a conversion must be approved by the state.
My understanding is also that at least one TiiCo converson has passed.
So you would think others would too... at least at the same inspection
location...
How much trouble this is and how long it takes I do not know.
> - Is it heavier; will my van handle differently?
> - Is it as smooth as the wasserboxer? I really love the feel of the
> wasserboxer in 'around town' driving conditions.
another potential Con could be avialability of parts for future repairs...
are parts available now? will parts be available in 5 years? 10 years?
and who do you get to work on it?
who has the experience of working on the TiiCo engines?
anothe Con.... apparently you can check the oil level from the license plate
door, but you can't add oil unless you remove the engine cover... a bit more
work if you have a Westy and it is filled with gear.
Bill
> I'm very much still in the 'thinking' stage. I don't even know for
> certain that my head gaskets have gone... I am also very intrigued by
> the Audi in-line 5 cyl conversion. That engine would really lend itself
> well to the Vanagon - and used in-line 5's are everywhere - I'm sure
> they're dirty cheap. If I could get one in the van, keep my ground
> clearance and keep it under the existing engine cover I would probably
> be sold. Don't think this is possible though. The Quantum Syncro's 5
> cyl puts out 115HP in stock form; the tcoii engine probably couldn't
> keep up with it; especially if you modded it a bit. My stock 88 Quantum
> Syncro can out accelerate (0-60) my 89 Cabriolet with well-done 2.0l
> engine conversion. I can't see how the tcoii engine would be much
> different in power than my Cabriolet's.
>
> Anyway, this is a long post - give me your thoughts if you have some.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Damian
>
