TDI does not equal computer controlled, only Turbo Direct Injection. There
are TDIs around the world that are totally mechanically controlled. Another
thing to consider is that power gains are more easily found in a
mechanically-controlled system--no computer trying to override higher boost
levels or the adding of additional fuel to make said boost. Yes, the
computerized system refines the powerband, but at the cost of complexity.
Wonder why VW is now going to a more mechanical unit-injection system in the
most recent higher-power TDIs? Hmmm....

Karl Mullendore
Westy Ventures
1987 Syncro Westfalia 1.9TD

----- Original Message -----
From: Michael Sullivan <sullivan@OpenMarket.com>

> Dear Vanagon/TDI Nuts,
>
> There are two things that make a TDI a TDI:
> 1.) Direct Injection
>     This is where most of the horsepower and fuel efficiency gains come
from
> 2.) Computer Control of the system
>     VW refines the system to reduce polution and make minor gains in power
> and fuel efficiency
>
> In theory then, one should be able to achieve near-TDI power with a TDI
> motor and mechanical injection as most of the gains come from the fact
that
> the fuel is injected under extreme pressure directly into the cylinder (as
> opposed to a pre-chamber).
>
> On the the other hand, getting the wiring right isn't that hard a problem.
> Took me about 6 hours to convert/cleanup a stock Jetta TDI wiring harness
to
> work with the Vanagon (I also used a HA Project Vanagon/TDI interface to
> make it easier). Interesting observation: being thorough with my
voltmeter,
> I discovered a few blatant errors in the Bentley Jetta/TDI wiring diagram.
>
> For me, having a "stock" TDI is comforting!!!
> (chipping will come later)
>
> MJS