TheSamba.com :: View topic - Question about possible Diesel VW project

Wed Aug 13, 2008 10:41 am

I am currently saving up for an AeroTrike kit. The Aerotrike is a fiberglass clad reverse trike that normally uses a Goldwing engine for a powerplant.

I thought about using a VW diesel motor to improve gas mileage. I know the VW diesels have a reputation of being underpowered but think that wouldn't be a problem in this case because of the significant weight loss.

If I were to fabricate a motorcycle frame to house a VW diesel do you think it would be powerful enough? The entire vehicle including passengers would weight less than 2000 pounds.

Thu Aug 14, 2008 3:21 am

Use a TDI engine and it won't be underpowered!

Thu Aug 14, 2008 5:44 am

I wonder if you can modify a TDI to fit a VW Bug transmission?

Thu Aug 14, 2008 4:15 pm

I've seen it done for the gassers, so why not for a diesel. You'll need to get an adapter made for sure.

Thu Aug 14, 2008 5:47 pm

We have a guy in our club that mounted a Turbo Diesel into his Baja Bug.

Fri Aug 15, 2008 6:28 am

ManxBug can you please ask the member if they used a commerically available adapter? I would LOVE to use a VW Golf TDI mated to a VW bug Tranny on the reverse trike. The gas mileage would be awesome!

Fri Aug 15, 2008 5:27 pm

No they used a custom made adapter plate

Sun Aug 17, 2008 5:41 am

Deacon,
Have you checked out Kennedy Engineered Products? They can adapt almost any automotive powerplant to the bug tranny.

www.kennedyeng.com/

Paul in Memphis.

Mon Aug 18, 2008 9:54 am

ManxBug wrote: No they used a custom made adapter plate

And probably changed the ratios on the tranny. Diesels require totally different gearing.

Mon Aug 18, 2008 4:49 pm

Actually he didn't change the ratios. Old ACVW engines and Diesel engines both operate in lower rpm ranges. But you would probably want a freeway flyer if you intend to do allot of highway driving.