BenT:
My old '82 Vanagon 1.6NA had a tin shroud that looked as you have described,
although metal was not anywhere near "skidplate" gage.  Very similar to the
shroud around my Eurovan's engine.  My current '82 Westy 1.6NA has no such
shroud.  Although it is a PITA, it really does keep the engine area much
cleaner.

BTW, where does one get a 1.6TD Syncro.  Is this home grown or imported?

Maynard
'82 Westy Diesel "Reinhardt"
'93 EV GL "Klinger"
'00 Golf GLS TDI "WooHoo"
'84 Jetta TD "Donor"

> -----Original Message-----
>
> The 1.6TD engine in my 1989 16" Syncro is boxed on both sides
> and the bottom
> by skidplates. I noticed that the Wasserboxers aren't. Are
> all diesel Syncros
> so equipped? It looks like it provides very good protection
> but will be a
> major PITA to remove when performing service.
>
> BenT