1.6NA to TD build or just start fresh?

[ventureforth]

So, I have a completely spare 1.6NA that appears to be in pretty decent shape.  I also have a 1981 Caddy with a tired engine that would need to be rebuilt or replaced soon.  So, I'd like to have a 1.6TD in it for some extra power.  I'm not looking to make a race truck or anything, just a little more oomph.  So, is an early '80s NA a good starting place for a TD build?  It's mechanical lifters, 11mm, and missing a few key characteristics to make a proper TD, right?  At least, that's what I've gathered based on my research on these forums so far.  So, here are my two options:

1. Take the NA I have and build it up as a TD.
2. Purchase a 73K miles 1.6TD/4S 5sp. combo for $1950 or just the engine for $1500 and keep the NA as a spare for my '82 Rabbit 2-door

Considering the earlier model of the spare NA, the mods that would have to be done to get it up to TD specs, and so on, would I just be better off dropping in a complete and factory built TD?  Would the price be comparable when all is said and done?  Would it be more reliable and durable than a frankenstein NA to TD build using the older engine?  Cost is a factor (isn't it always), but I would rather pay a bit more up front to have a reliable TD vs. one prone to cracks, warps, and failures due to an inferior donor engine.

So, what would I be getting myself into trying to build up my NA into a TD?  Am I just asking for trouble down the line, or is it a perfectly fine starting point?

Thanks.

[Mark(The Miser)UK]

So, I have a completely spare 1.6NA that appears to be in pretty decent shape.  I also have a 1981 Caddy with a tired engine that would need to be rebuilt or replaced soon.  So, I'd like to have a 1.6TD in it for some extra power.  I'm not looking to make a race truck or anything, just a little more oomph.  So, is an early '80s NA a good starting place for a TD build?  It's mechanical lifters, 11mm, and missing a few key characteristics to make a proper TD, right?  At least, that's what I've gathered based on my research on these forums so far.  So, here are my two options:

1. Take the NA I have and build it up as a TD.
2. Purchase a 73K miles 1.6TD/4S 5sp. combo for $1950 or just the engine for $1500 and keep the NA as a spare for my '82 Rabbit 2-door

Considering the earlier model of the spare NA, the mods that would have to be done to get it up to TD specs, and so on, would I just be better off dropping in a complete and factory built TD?  Would the price be comparable when all is said and done?  Would it be more reliable and durable than a frankenstein NA to TD build using the older engine?  Cost is a factor (isn't it always), but I would rather pay a bit more up front to have a reliable TD vs. one prone to cracks, warps, and failures due to an inferior donor engine.

So, what would I be getting myself into trying to build up my NA into a TD?  Am I just asking for trouble down the line, or is it a perfectly fine starting point?


Thanks.

Forget this particular variety of n/a, it's a timebomb, find a 12mm set up be it n/a or TD. Sell the 11mm to someone less informed than yourself

[dash cunning]

May i ask why? i'm turboing my freshly rebuilt 11mm motor but i'm using arp headstuds. What makes it different than a 12mm motor other than the obvious?

[Mark(The Miser)UK]

May i ask why? i'm turboing my freshly rebuilt 11mm motor but i'm using arp headstuds. What makes it different than a 12mm motor other than the obvious?

It would seem that bolts are prone to cracking the block. Not sure whether much is gained with studs though. Other 11mm owners will come out of the woodwork to reassure you or not, I'm sure.

[theman53]

http://www.vwdiesel.net/forum/index.php?topic=21948.0