mTDI Conversion Mechanics?

[rotaecho]

So, I've been reading more and more on a mTDI setup compared to doing an AAZ for my 82' Vanagon Diesel conversion. Ultimately, it sounds like the best conversion for keeping my great mpg that I get with my 1.6na, as reducing excess electrical dependences. BUT allowing me to go up hills

I've done a lot of work on my van (rewired whole electrical), but a whole engine conversion is a bit more than I can undertake. I've recently completed the upgrade of my coolant system (new radiator, hoses, radiator fan, SS pipes), and I'm currently working on finishing the SmallCar bigger brakes (front & rear), poly bushings, shocks, 16" (215x60) and a few other goodies.

I have a DK transmission, so only thing there is to regear for the conversion (There's some good posts between here and TheSamba from Libby & RSXR on this).

This is my primary driver, but I can be without and borrow a car for a week or so. That being said, I'm trying to find a conversion mechanic in Southern California willing to do the conversion. I'd likely get the engine from Thomas from QGA in Ontario, CA. I've found a few spots that will do TDI conversions ($14K), but are shying away from performing any mTDI conversions. So, I'm not finding much love for the mTDI.

I thought I'd throw this out on the forums here, in-case someone may know of a company or someone who does any mTDI AHU diesel vanagon conversions.

Thanks!

-Will / rotaecho

[vanbcguy]

Karl at WestyVentures has done lots... http://westyventures.com/contact.html

Wouldn't be surprised if he could provide a complete kit.  From there it'd be just the same as fitting an AAZ.

LibbyDiesel on here also has at least one m-TDI vanagon...

The folks who shy away from it just haven't done it before.  There's no good reason to go to the expense and complexity of installing all the electronics (which really are just there for emissions reasons) in to an older vehicle that wasn't meant to have them at least in my opinion.

[Renax]

If you buy a ready built pump, the mTdi conversion is exactly the same job as fitting a AAZ engine.
In my 82 Transporter i have a AAZ, which is a good strong engine, my friend has a mTdi in his, and they are almost identical in power, problem with both are stock 5speed gearboxes, which gives a top speed of around 75mph at max revs 5. gear.

My old Caravelle coach I had a 1.6 "GTD" engine, with custom pump and alot of boost it maxed out at about 90mph, cruising at 70-80 no stress over long distances. If i didn't have a good engine in my car now, I'd be looking for another one of those, it was just soo much faster...

Sent from my Lenovo P780

[rotaecho]

Yeah, I just need to find a mechanic here that's comfortable with the mTDI install.

How would you say the mpg is between the AAZ & mTDI setup?

Thanks!

If you buy a ready built pump, the mTdi conversion is exactly the same job as fitting a AAZ engine.
In my 82 Transporter i have a AAZ, which is a good strong engine, my friend has a mTdi in his, and they are almost identical in power, problem with both are stock 5speed gearboxes, which gives a top speed of around 75mph at max revs 5. gear.

My old Caravelle coach I had a 1.6 "GTD" engine, with custom pump and alot of boost it maxed out at about 90mph, cruising at 70-80 no stress over long distances. If i didn't have a good engine in my car now, I'd be looking for another one of those, it was just soo much faster...

Sent from my Lenovo P780

[theman53]

Yeah, I just need to find a mechanic here that's comfortable with the mTDI install.

How would you say the mpg is between the AAZ & mTDI setup?

Thanks!

If you buy a ready built pump, the mTdi conversion is exactly the same job as fitting a AAZ engine.
In my 82 Transporter i have a AAZ, which is a good strong engine, my friend has a mTdi in his, and they are almost identical in power, problem with both are stock 5speed gearboxes, which gives a top speed of around 75mph at max revs 5. gear.

My old Caravelle coach I had a 1.6 "GTD" engine, with custom pump and alot of boost it maxed out at about 90mph, cruising at 70-80 no stress over long distances. If i didn't have a good engine in my car now, I'd be looking for another one of those, it was just soo much faster...

Sent from my Lenovo P780

typically the IDI to TDI has a 15% more efficient burn according to libbydiesel, so upwards of 15% better on the TDI.

[Renax]

typically the IDI to TDI has a 15% more efficient burn according to libbydiesel, so upwards of 15% better on the TDI.

Seems about right, the mTdi is cheaper to drive.

But there's a downside to the mTdi, atleast here in Norway, it never gets hot, so you never get hot air from the heater. AAZ gives me a sauna, which is quite nice in the winter. Summertime AAZ is more likely to overheat, so if i had the time i should swich engine twice a year...

Sent from my Lenovo P780

[libbydiesel]

I'd be very comfortable with doing an mTDI conversion on an '82 vanagon.  I'm not in So Cal, but not exactly far either.  That's an easy day trip.

As others have said, the AHU gives upwards of 15% better fuel economy at similar power levels.  It has better low-end torque which is nice in a vanagon.  I also like the fact that it doesn't have pre-chambers that can fall out of the head.  It doesn't like revving as high, though, so if modern highway speeds are a requirement, then regearing can be an significant added expense that takes a LOT of miles to pay for from the fuel savings. 

[rotaecho]

Libby,

I don't know how I missed this post, but I've been terribly busy.

After reading much of your posts on TheSamba, VWDiesel.net, and slew other places, I'd be honored having Betsy in your hands. Your knowledge and experience would be appreciated.

The mTDI more and more I research is so much better an option for the old gal. All the benefits of the TDI, none of the excess electronics that the van never had to begin with.

I am not a fast driver; 60-70mph on the highway usually on the lower end of the spectrum. It'd be nice to take hills that fast or faster than 30mph

I'm getting ready to finish up the 'pre conversion work'; In the process of installing the suspension (shocks/springs/poly bushings/bigger front/rear brakes) and need to regear a DK transmission I have for better 3rd/4th gears.  I redid the coolant system this last October. Hopefully after all that she'll be good to go for the conversion.

Send me a P/M and we'll get the ball moving. I'm sure there's a lot to discuss before just bringing the van over (clutch upgrade?, other fabrication work, compensation, etc.)

Thanks Libby!

-Will

I'd be very comfortable with doing an mTDI conversion on an '82 vanagon.  I'm not in So Cal, but not exactly far either.  That's an easy day trip.

As others have said, the AHU gives upwards of 15% better fuel economy at similar power levels.  It has better low-end torque which is nice in a vanagon.  I also like the fact that it doesn't have pre-chambers that can fall out of the head.  It doesn't like revving as high, though, so if modern highway speeds are a requirement, then regearing can be an significant added expense that takes a LOT of miles to pay for from the fuel savings.