Well, I chose to go this route because I have a complete AAZ engine with a busted head. I'm not an expert when it comes to this stuff so feel free correct any of my remarks. The design of the IZ block seems to lend itself a little better to a rear wheel drive conversion like this. The vaccum pump would be a problem on the ALH due to its location. I don't think there would be enough room between the back of the head and the firewall.
Some people have suggested fixing or replacing the busted head(keyway on crank caused failure) on the AAZ would be the most economical way to go and I really can't argue that point. On the other hand, the ambition to do this project is to have a direct injection engine in this little truck. I don't mind spending a little more to end up with a TDI.
Now if I could get a complete IZ block for a reasonable price I would definitely go that route but for some reason they seem to be few and far between out here in western Canada. Maybe I'm not looking in the right places. If anyone knows of where I should be looking it would be greatly appreciated. I have someone looking for me in Ontario for IZ parts(head, valve cover, injection lines,and delivery valves) for the AAZ so we'll see how that works out. ALH's don't seem to be a problem but that's not what I'm looking for.
As far as the M-TDI pump is concerned, the plan is to use the AAZ pump with the tdi camplate and a 11mm or 12mm rotor. I prefer to go computerless just for the simplicity. Only if I had a donor car would I go that route. I haven't disassembled this pump yet so I don't know if it's the 17mm shaft. Even if it is I'll still try the 11mm rotor. I'm pretty familiar with these pumps so the mechanical advance issues are not a big concern. I do plan on shimming the governer lever springs slightly to achieve some fueling up to 4000 rpm. I'm hoping that this number is realistic. Not looking for huge HP but want enough jam to be a fun daily driver.
Progress is still in the early stages but here's where I'm at.
-Purchased 1991 toy sr5 4x4 22re 5spd.
-Acme adapter kit. Only took a week for shipping!
-Started custom remote oil filter kit...engine side is done.
-Started building motor mounts. Thanks e*clipse for all the great ideas.
-IZ pistons on hand.
-TDI pulley on its way. Crank needs welding and machining for new pulley.
-I've cut and redisigned the oil pan so I can get the motor a little lower into the engine bay and also moved the drain plug to the back.