Goals of the build:
It's going to replace my current 2003 jetta tdi as commuter rig. It will also need to haul the occasional dirt bike and snowmobile. Time frame is probably over a couple years as my intentions are to do a full restoration type project that will have no rust, fresh paint (not really looking for show quality), upgraded power (shooting for around 200hp), decent sporty suspension maybe a little lowered but not too low. It needs to be a functional height not a belly scraper. Full interior with nice seats, dynamat and a good audio system.
Things I'm contemplating:
1) engine options. Right now it's between a ALH and a newer cr140. If I went ALH I would most likely use the motor and manual transmission from my current car. It only has 100k miles on it and I could do performance upgrades while I drive it. In the mean time I would do body work and other stuff to the rabbit. So I like that idea because I would have a motor that I know is solid and I would already have a feel for the power upgrades.
BUT....
I owned a 2011 jetta tdi with dsg, stage 2 Malone and buzzken exhaust. I LOVED that engine and tranny combo. I was actually just about to pull the trigger on a stage 3 and cr170 turbo when the vw scandal broke. I couldn't pass up the buyback price but was sad to see that car go. So that would be a really enticing swap but more complicated electrically and a lot less aftermarket support as far as the motor swap. Also much less knowledge as few people seem to have done it.
2) 4 wheel drive
...I know I know, cr swap AND 4x4 this guy must be a glutton for punishment! I actually do want to have a finished product, not be fabricating myself into a grave. Maybe I could do a body swap onto a Toyota truck chassis? Not sure if I could get the low truck look going that route...I'd like 4x4 for winter driving, and also to feel a little more truck like. I enjoy kicking the back end out every now and then. But I don't want the rabbit to be an off rode rig. Not really interested in AWD. I'd like normal truck 4x4 with a manual engaging transfer case and auto hubs. It seems to me a Toyota chassis could be a viable option especially with the aftermarket support for putting a ALH in a Toyota.
Any input on that subject?
I'm hoping to keep the build under $10000. I'm a certified welder with a good amount of experience, but haven't done body work or much thin sheet metal welding. Minimal TIG but I'm pretty good with MIG. I do most of my own mechanic work so I'm not too concerned with that aspect. I've done some electrical but not an expert. One huge thing I have going for me is access to equipment. I have direct access to a CNC plasma table, water jet, shears, brakes, rollers, benders, CNC mill, lathe, paint booth, you name it. Which is finally what got me feeling like I'm ready to tackle a big project like this. Wish me like luck!!