TDI Conversions: Build Threads and Links to Swap Discussions

[Beefcrtns]

I'm toying with the idea of throwing an ALH into my b3 wagon. There's currently a clapped out ahu in it.

I'm looking for a TL;DR version of the build threads out there. What parts are needed? What kind of custom work is needed?

 

[jhax]

Look into the b4/mk3 swaps, even the mk2 swaps. You'll need an afn (euro mk3 w/ a vent turbo) or bhw (b5.5 passat) exhaust manifold if you want to retain 3 motor mounts. I have wired the alh engine harness to the ce2 fuse block. You may be able to get away with using the b3 front cross member.

 

[PradoTDI]

Here's mine: a 1991 Toyota LandCruiser Prado LJ78 with an ALH swapped in.

Builds - Another Prado in Montana

Well, here goes again! After selling my G-Wagon, I wanted something that was better suited to a daily driver, and something that got better than 15mpg on the highway... So, I bought another Prado: This one is a 1991 SX5 with an R150f 5-speed manual. It is absolutely bone stock, with a...

forum.ih8mud.com

Nearly completed, I've put about 250km on it since getting it running. Hoping to have it back on the road in December. My first swap, its been a great learning experience.

 

[G60ING]

Added:
Braddman’s 2005 2nd gen Toyota Tacoma BHW swap: https://forums.tdiclub.com/index.php?threads/2nd-gen-tacoma-bhw-swap.516662/

 

[krisclewell]

Hey guys! Just wanted to share my conversion. I'm swapping a TDI into a 1991 Isuzu trooper. Documenting on the Overcrest Youtube. Everything is bespoke. Adapter plates, flywheel. Its a pretty challenging swap!

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbqK_AtxjespQbE7r26bcXA

 

[greengeeker]

Hey guys! Just wanted to share my conversion. I'm swapping a TDI into a 1991 Isuzu trooper. Documenting on the Overcrest Youtube. Everything is bespoke. Adapter plates, flywheel. Its a pretty challenging swap!

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbqK_AtxjespQbE7r26bcXA

welcome Kris. Were you still needing a power steering pump? (saw your post on FB)

 

[northern diesel]

Old thread here, but I’m toying with taking on a toyota Townace swap.
(right hand drive 4x4 jdm van)
There’s very little room in the cab over engine bay… might mean forgoing power steering pump.
it’s a lot to take on and I have yet to see any examples of anyone doing it.
( not a great sign )
If anyone has seen anything like this , it would help me make a decision one way or another.

 

[PickleRick]

Old thread here, but I’m toying with taking on a toyota Townace swap.
(right hand drive 4x4 jdm van)
There’s very little room in the cab over engine bay… might mean forgoing power steering pump.
it’s a lot to take on and I have yet to see any examples of anyone doing it.
( not a great sign )
If anyone has seen anything like this , it would help me make a decision one way or another.

Electric power steering is an option, either junk yard take out or aftermarket. Not sure if your engine is set up longitudinal or transverse in that set up.

Plenty of tdi swaps in small compartments, the factory VW Jetta/golf is a small engine compartment. There's I believe a Chrysler or Dodge minivan swap build, a Pontiac fiero build and some VW van TDI builds .

There are plenty of tdi adapters available from Toyota to Chevy to Ford etc bolt patterns

You just need a set up that will handle the torque of the VW and provide the proper gearing. The TDI motors are not long or heavy but they are tall. A small gas 4 cyl radiator is all they need. I've only seen those JDM imported 4x4 vans with factory diesels so the rarity and already being diesel is likely why they are not super popular to TDI swap.

 

[northern diesel]

Electric power steering is an option, either junk yard take out or aftermarket. Not sure if your engine is set up longitudinal or transverse in that set up.

Plenty of tdi swaps in small compartments, the factory VW Jetta/golf is a small engine compartment. There's I believe a Chrysler or Dodge minivan swap build, a Pontiac fiero build and some VW van TDI builds .

There are plenty of tdi adapters available from Toyota to Chevy to Ford etc bolt patterns

You just need a set up that will handle the torque of the VW and provide the proper gearing. The TDI motors are not long or heavy but they are tall. A small gas 4 cyl radiator is all they need. I've only seen those JDM imported 4x4 vans with factory diesels so the rarity and already being diesel is likely why they are not super popular to TDI swap.

Thank you for the encouragement ! It’s already mated up to the Toyota transmission- and the seller has an after market clutch / flywheel already installed that is rated for extra power and torque.
The height is an issue, so I’ll be lifting it a couple inches and possibly lowering the subframe to give us a little extra room.
he suggested installing a Dana 30 front axel too- I will look at those tight space swaps you suggested, as well as checking the local wrecker for electric power steering.
I just gotta get psyched to dive into the wiring harness mating up with relays to Toyota wiring.

 

[SilverGhost]

I believe 1st gen Mini Cooper (BMW built ones) are electric power steering pump on hydraulic steering rack. Maybe an option??

Chrysler bought TDI's for their minivans in EU. But that was a while ago.

May need the slant oil pan and oil pump pick up from T2 bus/Eurovan?

Jason

 

[northern diesel]

Update,
I bought the van and will be going for the swap!
If I can get enough clearance with the lift I'm starting off with, then maybe I'll have room for the VW PS and AC pumps.
If not, I will go with the electric options.
I sourced a used Dana 30 front axle I could swap in as well, but maybe the 2 inches is just enough for what I need.
I'll post pics of the progress.

Here is the beauty and the TDI ALH engine already mated up, but not mounted yet.
https://flic.kr/p/2qeEDU3 https://flic.kr/p/2qeGg8W https://flic.kr/p/2qeGg8f