This is not quite right. The complete 1.9TD has the turbo mounted high
enough even when the engine is leaned over at the Vanagon position. The
oil return line enters the block well above the oil pan. The turbo
height controversy, such as it is, applies to turbos mounted with the
factory Vanagon TD manifold which mounts the turbo lower and returns oil
to the pan at a shallow angle. 1.9TD motors using a 1.9TD turbo and
manifold are not this way. Personally I doubt that there is much of a
problem with the oil return arrangement that VW used on a half million
TD Vanagons. Perhaps if the turbo seals are worn and/or there is much
blowby in the engine then the mounting position may make a difference.

Mark

David Brodbeck wrote:
>
> You *can* install a 1.9TD without raising the deck lid.  Most people
> prefer not to do it that way, though.  I've heard there are lubrication
> issues because the turbo ends up so low compared to the oil pan.
>
> Personally, I think when it's time to re-engine my Westy I'll go for a
> 1.9L normally-aspirated diesel.  But that certainly won't make it faster
> than a wasserboxer. ;)
>
> David Brodbeck, N8SRE
> '82 Diesel Westfalia
> '94 Honda Civic Si -- For Sale
> '86 Volvo 240DL wagon