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Date:         Thu, 10 Jun 1999 14:55:00 -0400
Reply-To:     "Fitz-Randolph, Douglas" <dfrandolph@TALKAM.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         "Fitz-Randolph, Douglas" <dfrandolph@TALKAM.NET>
Subject:      Engine Swap - what about TDI?
Content-Type: text/plain

Frank H wrote: <<How many of you folks that are recommending an engine swap have actually done it?>>

I'm curious too. Changing engine types seems like a Very Big Deal to me - especially for the cost vs. a rebuilt WB.

Also, why is *everyone* recommending the 5-cyl conversion? What about the TDI? That would seem like the ultimate engine to have in a Vanagon for those looking at spending thousands and thousands of dollars anyhow. I've driven this engine in Passats and also in the new Golf and it is excellent - and driving behind one you'd hardly notice it was a diesel. Imagine getting 30 mpg in a Vanagon - that's about 500 miles per tank! (That figure was quoted in an ad for a TDI conversion Vanagon FS in WI - YMMV). Plus, you could carry extra fuel without breaking the law or risking your life! And with gasoline prices and taxes sure to continue climbing, gallon for gallon diesel might even become a cheaper alternative. And diesels last practically forever.

Aside from limited fuel availability and cold weather issues in some areas, what are the drawbacks? Lower ground clearance/engine height? Cost? Difficulty of conversion? Is it practical only for already-diesel vans? Doesn't work for Syncros? I know this has been discussed before, but I haven't really found any definitive sources of information on the topic in the archives or on personal sites. Anybody know the whole story?

Doug Fitz-Randolph Yarmouth, ME dfrandolph@talkam.net '90 Syncro


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