On Fri, Aug 28, 2009 at 2:01 PM, Melissa Mourkas<westywoman@mac.com> wrote:
> I haven't done an engine conversion yet (1.9L here) but I have driven
> a Syncro with the 1.8T conversion that Stephan does. �It is a
> rocket! �And because it is a standard Jetta 1.8 Turbo engine, any
> Volkswagen dealer or repair shop can work on it.

Hanging out over on The Samba, I started to read about the 1.8T swap.

Some real advantages to this swap. Though I understand one should use
higher grade fuel with it, (though it has a knock sensor(s), so in
theory, should be able to handle lower grade fuel) I have *heard* that
when "chipped", it will get better fuel mileage, and have more power.
Not sure how accurate the claim is, as it seems like "getting
something for nothing", but sounds like a neat option. Personally I
wouldn't chip it (for 2WD) as a VW dealership, might not want to deal
with it.   ;)    They are likely plenty powerful enough as is (again
for 2WD) The engine lid needs to be raised, but AFAIK, not as high as
doing the 15* install with, say, a 2.0 ABA like mine. Like maybe only
~2" as opposed to 4". IMO, big difference in how it would affect
bedding on a Westy.

From a DIY swap POV, locally, these engines don't appear to be easy to
find (on CL anyway). They seem pricier too. Mind you, I've only been
looking for the earlier model AEB engines. My understanding is that
with this engine/harness, there's less wiring/electrical to deal with
than later model 1.8T's and possibly are *not* drive by wire. Another
DIY swap hassle.

Neil.

-- 
Neil Nicholson '81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"

http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/

http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines