Hello-
        With my current engine problems, it seems like a good time to
consider swaps (like an VW inline 4 from a recent Golf or Jetta - still
would like to see power and torque curves verses the 2.1L digifant engine, but
that's why I am considering and not doing). I talked to Kennedy Engineering
about using their adapter plate to mate the engine to the tranny and then
use parts from a diesel vanagon to finish it out. The good news is that their
adapter plate now comes drilled with 3 sets of holes (which will hold the
engine at 0, 15, or 50 degree slants). He then warned me that the diesel
motor mounts will lower the crankshaft center by a few inches from the flat
fours (in essence, the diesel motor mounts cannot be used he said).

        He also said that the syncro tranny sits a couple inches lower
than a standard vanagon - this was done to accomadate the driveshaft.

        It seems one can use the clutch from the van in the conversion,
but I didn't ask about flywheels (which I should have)...

        Not an extremely complete conversation, but I wasn't prepared to
talk for a long time this morning (just wanted to verify that the plate was
drilled for 50 degrees). Anyway, for those considering swaps, just one more
thing to toss around.

dave