>   So I'm thinking maybe start with the TDI
> conversion

I initially considered putting in a TDI after my factory original 170K+ mile
2.1 ate it, but individual slobs like us here in California are prety much
SOL. Because of more stringent sulfur emission standards here, no new diesel
cars have been allowed allowed to be sold in California for some five years.
Never mind that it's the FUEL not the ENGINE causing the sulfur problem; and
never mind that TRUCKS and FLEET VEHICLES are exempted; and never mind that
PASSENGER CARS are a nearly inconsequential contributor to the diesel
emmissions problem anyway(how many Golf TDIs does it take to equal the
output of one diesel school bus?). At any rate, this means that pickin's are
mighty slim for used TDIs here in Kalifornia, and I'd hate to have to try
and convince CARB that the state really is better off with a TDI in my van
than that old wasserboxer...
Hopefully low-sulfur diesel will get here soon. They've been dragging their
feet on it for years.

--
John Bange
'90 Vanagon - "Geldsauger"