82 Westfalia (ex-Diesel) with a n/a 1.8L I-4

[Fritz]

Going to look at an 82 Westfalia that was originally a diesel that has been converted to a n/a 1.8L I-4 w/ Digi II from a 93 VW Fox. Still has the diesel transmission.

Have researched the Turbo'ed 1.8L, Bostig, Suburu when I had my 85 Westfalia and was considering a conversion.

I am not familiar with this conversion and would appreciate any thoughts/input.

TIA

[danfromsyr]

I ran one for a few years it's a really good powerplant and I think suited fine with the low gears of the diesel trans if you can keep to cruising under 75mph.

I sold mine to Erik (Zebu) here when he posted a engine needed locally to me as I was upgrading to a 1.8T

here's a pretty detailed thread on his installation.

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=593575&highlight=digifant
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[MarkWard]

You will want to ask for a detailed wiring diagram for the conversion. Without it you might be screwed if something goes wrong at a later date. If they have some documentation, that would indicate it was a thought out conversion. I purchased a used supposed tiico conversion and the ECU. Turns out the ECU that came with it was from a Skoda and it took a lot of work to find a wiring diagram for the ECU and engine harness. I would also recommend paying close attention to how the exhaust is attached and condition. I would also look closely at the l/s of the engine bay. In some installations depending on the intake used, the frame rail was clearance. A nice welded painted relief would also be an indication that is was a proper job.

[Zeitgeist 13]

If this is in fact Digi II from a Fox, then it's an easy peasy thing to diagnose and service. I'm surprised more folks aren't running this combo, since the engines are bombproof and the injection system is dirt simple. The entire engine harness wires up to the van with just a couple grounds and 12v connections, along with the fuel pump wires. These are essentially the base gas engines VW should've had in there from the get-go. I think you'd be happier with an aircooled trans with taller gearing for highway driving, but I'll bet this thing pulls away from a stoplight right quick with the diesel trans.
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Casey--

'89 Bluestar ALH
'01 Weekender --> full camper
NEAT, no ICE.

[MarkWard]