1.6L: using NA pistons in a TD

[Greasemonkey]

I have a set of first oversize pistons meant for the NA 1.6. I'd like to know if I can use them in a TD. I know the pistons are not notched for the cooler jets but that would be fairly easy to replicate using the old pistons as a pattern and then rebalance the set of pistons. Anybody ever try this?

[asau]

the n/a pistons won't take as much punishment as the turbo pistons

[texas]

My dad did this when turboing an old volvo diesel(eg. 6 cyl. 2.4l vw diesel). He made the notches in the pistons for the oil-squirters using a turbo-piston as reference.
The engine ran well 250kkm until it overheated due to a blown head-gasket.

[fspGTD]

the n/a pistons won't take as much punishment as the turbo pistons

How specifically would a NA piston with a piston cooling clearance notch machined into be any different from a factory turbo piston?  Do you have evidence that the metallurgy is different?

[jtanguay]

if you look at http://members.rogers.com/harryfodder/  near the bottom

it shows you the changes to the pistons...  If you made the special notches in the pistons (did it right...) it should work.  But you would want to make sure that you use the turbo rings (unless they're the same with both N/A and diesel which i am not sure of)

[fspGTD]

if you look at http://members.rogers.com/harryfodder/  near the bottom

it shows you the changes to the pistons...  If you made the special notches in the pistons (did it right...) it should work.  But you would want to make sure that you use the turbo rings (unless they're the same with both N/A and diesel which i am not sure of)

According to ETKA, looking at the '83-'84 Rabbit parts listing, the piston rings are the same part for both 1.6lD naturally aspirated and turbo application.  IE: for 76.5mm diameter, the part number is 068 198 151 C.

[jtanguay]

very cool thanks for the info