I have an 82 quantum coupe that is (was) 1.7L cis gas automatic. I also had an 83 quantum 1.6TD automatic with a basket case of a body, so I saved the engine and tranny. I've rebuilt the engine and it's ready to install in the coupe! I've been reading the threads on gas to diesel conversions, but still have a few questions some of you may be able to help me with.
1. Cooling. The radiator was broken in the 83, so I saved the two-stage fan setup. The radiator for CIS did not use an expansion tank, but I did save the one from the 83. So, should I worry about installing the expansion tank somehow, or just use the rad from the CIS setup. It has a fill cap on the tank itself. I noticed that early 1.6D's in rabbits did not use and expansion tank, but I think that was NA engines. Does the TD have a more demanding load on the cooling system, thus requiring the expansion tank?
2. Fuel Supply. I'll remove and bypass the high pressure CIS fuel pump, and am considering what to do with the transfer pump inside the tank. I've read that some have actually used this pump and that is does not interfere with or harm the injection pump. My mercedes guru advises that I should not use it, just let the IP suck from the tank. Any opinions?
Other than that, I'll build an exhaust system (3" would be good, yes?) and use the ignition wire to the old coil to switch the solenoid on the IP. That should do it --- fuel, cooling , and a way to shut the thing off.
One more thing that may interest some of you. The quantum engine is mounted longditude rather than transverse in a jetta. I think all quantums sold in North America came with air conditioning, which i've removed, but the alternator is driven by an additional pully on the air conditioning compressor. It seems I will have to retain at least the compressor housing to be able to drive the alternator. I can't even drive the alternator directly because the snub engine mount is in the way. Do the jettas mount the alternator above the water pump somehow?
regards,
art