So You Want To Engine Swap Your VW Eh?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ต.ค. 2024
- Here is a few things to consider when thinking about swapping a subaru engine or a gm Ecotec engine into your Volkswagen.....and some tips that may help you out before making an engine or donor car purchase. These are just basic key points you should think about, and it will help you out.
Hope you find it helpful and entertaining!
this vid was extremely helpful thanks for taking the time to make it man. much appreciated
watspoppin505jh No problem! Glad it helped!
Greetings from Romania buddy! I've got a homemade buggy with RWD transversal layout. A shitty 3 cylinder 800cc. {Check out my last vid on my channel} I was wondering if I could mate an American v8 to a beetle gearbox, the flange I can make myself but I don't know how I will manage to put on the starter motor. Any tips are welcome, my father says he won't modify the rear frame for nothing. But who listens to him, right? I'm a fan of big power
It can/has been done. I don't know specifics. Check online, maybe one of the guys that have v8 swapped them would help you out. You will have to modify the body heavily to fit a v8 "in" a stock body. A mid engine setup would be the best bet I think. Good luck! And thanks for watching!
Wrx turbo in a bug isn’t for the youth gone wild, it will kill you if you’re not careful. It can easily spin the wheels in any gear. I always just buy a complete donor car. Piecemeal can lead to endless frustration .Personally I prefer the NA 2000-2004 -2.5. I’ve driven one and it was lifting the front end in third gear. Plus it’s simple and parts galore are available. I’d run the Subarugears wrx 5 speed. No adapter needed but you will need to sort the clutch situation. I actually run a Vanagon slave on a home made bracket on my 3.3L wrx 5 speed 86 Vanagon. It’s pull clutch too. I’d pass on a stage 4 clutch, you’re already asking way too much from a 4 speed and most people don’t bother rebuilding or upgrading their box until it breaks a few days or weeks later.
Indeed, they are scary AF. Especially if you hit a patch of bad road. Donor cars help for sure. The 4 speed is a good budget option, Subaru gears builds get expensive quickly. I honestly never noticed a difference between stage 2-4 clutches. Other than the stage 2 would start slipping after a short time. A hydraulic clutch setup is definitely the way to go. N/A swapped bugs aren’t as much of a handful though. They get boring fast. Thanks for the comment!
Tommorow im going to buy sub Impreza 93 as donor for my t2b79..
Great vidio..big thanx from arhangelsk, russia
Have fun!
The brakes are designed to the weight of the vehicle not the power output of the engine, but as the vehicle will be traveling faster than with the old air-cooled lump it would be prudent to upgrade them to the best stock units with better pads and shoes!
I know this. But, when you're going to be driving faster it's a good idea to be able to stop faster. It's also just a good idea to upgrade to disc brakes at least in the front anyway for safety. Drum brakes aren't bad, but discs are hard to beat.
Just saw this video. Im rebuilding a vw fiberglass bug and planning on putting a wrx motor in it. Thus was a great video and answered a lot of questions. I'll probably have a ton more as I get closer. Lol
Man you really answered a lot of questions for me. I'm about to purchase a 74 super beetle and I want to turn it into a baja.
A engine upgrade is on the top of my list with a subaru engine as my number one pick. Anyway thanks for the info. Now I have a direction to move in 👍
mcpheonixx Glad to help! Look into converting a super to a baja. street baja, not a big problem, but if you are off roading it the super's front suspension isn't ideal. Just food for thought!
1998 Subaru do I need Both oxygen sensors for the engine to run correctly
Not if you don't have a check engine light lol 2nd o2 is just cat efficiency. Not a big deal on a 98.
I got an automatic transmission in a 69. Gonna shit can that when I put in an ej20 you think the free way flyer is strong enough? Or should I use a Subaru transmission?
If you're going turbo, you'll need at least a bus trans, at the very least a beefed up diff is required. If it's a 2.0 non turbo, the freeway flyer should hold up unless you drive it like you stole it. If you have the money to convert to a modded Subaru trans, do it the first time and don't replace it later. Good luck!
Do they ship adapter plates internationally? Or do you have any diagram and measurements so i can fabricate it. I dont live in us. Great vid hope someone can help me out thanks
I don't really know if they'll ship internationally, but I don't see why they wouldn't. Call them/email and ask? And I don't have a blueprint for the adapter, no. I know that the flywheel is the hardest part to make. Good luck!
Great video, even using a Subaru engine on the latest modern VW Beetle is a great one to do.
Very cool, way beyond my skill level. Nice job
I need a contact thanks.
Man this is great!
I found an sohc N/A EJ22 from 98' on the internet for 450 euros. The guy says he has the conversion kit but it has a 210mm flywheel. That's odd isn't it? Should be 200mm I thought.
I've got a AM code gearbox (from a 1300 motor). You think I'll be alright?
I'm not trying to build a racecar. I just want better mileage and reliability
"But whatever, I don't care" - MrTurbo458
Great video man, good info 👍🏻
Arley Umphries Thanks! Yeah I was a little "spirited" that day haha. Wish I had a huge heater in my garage, I miss working in the vw!
Okay so I’m 16 and 17 in a few months, I think a beetle will be my first car and I’m interested in a engine swap, I have friends and family members who are mechanics but me myself I have never worked on a car and only know things they have told me. Do you think I could learn how to do it with help from mechanics and the internet.
That's how I learned.... I don't see why you couldn't figure it out. As long as you have the time, money, and aptitude you'll be fine! Good luck! And thanks for watching.
I knew a girl that was like your fuel cell:-))))
But back to reality, great info, starting on a vow van project soon.
It's been such a pain trying to figure out which Subaru engine I wanna get for one, I want a turbo one, would a ej205 be good? What kinda hp does the 205 make? I can't find any ej22 engines online. I saw online the ej205 makes over 250? I don't care how much I have to cut on the car. I want a Subaru engine with at least 200hp
Thank you !!
I got my ECM out of a 98 Forester. Does that mean I have OBD 2?
I’m just running the engine wires.
Nothings hooked up yet.
Yes, it's an OBD2
MrTurbo458 Do you have a video showing how to trick the codes or wire it in such a way that I don’t have to struggle to make the computer think everything’s OK?
@@JustinDueck53 I don't. Usually, you'll add resistance to certain circuits. But really, an OBD2 that old is still really simple
MrTurbo458 awesome. That’s super encouraging cause I’m definitely trying to swap into 58 with as little resistance as possible. 👍🏻
Awesome video man. I'm sitting here staring up the back side of my beetle and until recently, I han hadn't really considered taking on an EJ swap but Im intrigue as I love the twin cam EJ in my forester. I have some thoughts rattling in my mind that you'd probably be able to clarify "yeah or neigh"...Firstly, the biggest concern I've had is the amount of physical "car" material needed to be removed just to get that EJ in there. I've seen the stealthy arrangements some have come up with but the twin cam covers still required clearance around the stock deck lid. Maybe this has been done by many but, I wonder if the frame horns could be shortened by 2-3 inches and the tortion tube and frame be sectioned out in front of the transmission to provide clearance. This would require a tortion bar delete kit and coilovers but that would be a great suspension mod anyway. The only issue that may arise would be a few extra degrees on the CVs but even if angles exceed the specs of the CVs, Z joints could be used instead. Complete removal of the luggage area is required either way as I was cutting it out for a hair dryer anyway. Any thoughts on this? As I look at it, it appears to be fairly straight forward although, the bus trans is already a huge beast to begin with.:)
Very informative, thanks. Thinking about swapping a 92 legacy (I think ej20) MPI into my 70 ghia... I really don't want to mess up the body, do you think it would fit?
Ben Hop Ghias have more room I know that, but the area of the engine seal might need to be cut out/clearanced. If you're in the USA, it's probably an ej22, other countries, 2.0 I'd guess. Not too familiar with ghias, but I know people have swapped them. You can find width specs on Subaru engines online, so a tape measure would probably be your friend. 👍 Glad to help! Thanks for the comment, and thanks for watching!
Why dont put a honda vtec on it stock 225 hp be nice plus a better engine to nice gas mileage plus enough hp sound like a nice set up for me what you think
Depending on the Honda engine, they rotate the wrong way. I think there is 1 Honda that is useable, or you can flip the diff around (not really a good option). Otherwise you'll be getting "better mpg" in your 4 reverse gears. Plus, the N/A Subaru I built got 30+ mpg driving it like I stole it and I could kill VTEC Hondas all day. And the inline 4 will stick out the back, like an ecotec. Just a few reasons why....
looking to put in a wrx engine in a bug. How hard is it to do?
Sorry for the late response. Same as any other, but the dual cam heads need a little more clearance, and depending on the year you might have to figure out the transponder key issue. Pre 05' is easier. Otherwise just go standalone ECU.
YOU ARE A GENTLEMAN, AND A SCHOLAR.
Most excellent video sir! Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge 👊😎
Thank you sir, this 's cleared my mind now I've found what I'm looking for👍💚💚💚👍
Can I use the all wheel drive manual in a swap?
Yes, but you need a trans reverse gearset. Subaru gears (the company) if they are still around had kits. They weren't cheap though. AWD would be a bit tricky, but you could probably do it with a full tube chassis.
hey quick question were did u get a pin out diag for 02 impreza ej20
Diyalldata is where I get my diagrams from. You have to pay, but it's well worth it!!!
I would love to see someone drop a Porsche turbo flat 6 in the back of a bug
Ram Runner Just drop a subaru ez30 flat 6 into one and turbo it.... much cheaper.... the ej series subaru transmissions and kep adapter plates are the same bolt pattern/size.
Ram Runner the idea behind engine swap is to get a great power to weight ratio without spending too much money! Sure Porsche engine will be awesome but the economics behind it will not be practical! I'm sure it will be a blast to drive though!
im on it, going for beetle top speed record
MrTurbo458 that’s a pretty good idea man. I just like the all in the same family thing. Big boy modern Porsche engine strapped inside its grandfather haha. Me personal I’m just going cb turbo turnkey. I just can’t part with the air cooled engines. They are one of the many reasons I love the bug. I have a 67 currently with its stock 1500 single port. Surprisingly enough electronic ignition, new air breather, performance exhaust new carb, valves adjusted and it will hit 80 mph fairly easy by bug standards haha I want at least a 12 sec street bug tho. 😈 thanks for the knowledge tho man that would be a awesome build
vwrx Las Vegas the last reason I own my bug is for practicality lol but I hear what your saying if you want it as a daily driver
New subscriber! thanks for the info!
Excellent video!!! Lots of good info
Thanks for the video, my 1600 in my super doesn't run well (or at all right now) and I plan to subie swap, it's a baja so it's already cut up in the back.
RecklessxHabits No problem! Sounds like the perfect candidate for a swap!
thanks for taking the time to make the videos. I want to install a 2004 Forester engine in my VW Thing. Ever done one?
Probably has been done before. I don't see why you couldn't, but you might have to do a bit of sheet metal fab to make it clean.
Thank you for the infor
No problem!
What about the gearbox ?
Bare minimum you want a super diff, freeway flyers help get a higher top speed. A bus trans built is the best, 091 with a super diff and welded 3&4 gears. I have run a 2.2 non turbo on a stock type 1 transmission and daily drove it with no issues. But the more built, the better. You can also use a Subaru transmission with a conversion kit (Subarugears I think is/was the company).
Wow can’t believe you did this 5 yrs ago. I wander what projects you might be doing now. Great video. Much appreciated.
Yeah, time sure flys. I'm always working on something. Haven't had a VW in a while though sadly.
good video I'm doing a 2000 vw 1.8 turbo in my rail
Paul Parks That'll be cool!
Thanks man, thinking of fitting a Subaru lump in my 69. Answered a load of questions in this video, also watched the full 28 mins 33 secs! Keep it up bro!
Glad to help, and thank you for watching it all! I know it's not the most exciting video, but it has good info. I think it's totally worth it to Subaru swap.
If I'm sticking a big subaru lump onto a factory VW bug gearbox , can the gearbox cope with the extra power? That's one of my main concerns. If I'm gonna do it! I want to drag race this thing!
@@TheWeedugs I would go bus tras at the very least or flipped (converted Subaru trans). If you're going non turbo, a type 1 trans that's beefed up might hold up for a while if you're nice to it. But drag racing isn't nice lol
Hey, I'm a college student and I plan to build a vw bug with some friends. Will a 2.0L Turbo out of a new Golf GTI fit in a bug?
I am pretty sure KEP makes an adapter plate, but it will be just like the ecotec swap, it'll be an inline 4, and it won't fit in a stock body bug without lots of modding, moving, extending the body. Now if it's a Baja bug, you'd be fine.....
Great video, I've watched it twice... Thanks for the information, it was very helpful
Did you have to make engine mounts or bars to compensate for torque hp and engine movement.
Also the exhaust cam you show a video
Manuel Garcia-galarza I didn't, but I did use a kaefer brace/truss bar which helps some.... And what are you asking about the exhaust?
Is the stock gearbox / drive shafts / diff ok for 300hp? Any mods required other than the clutch? Or is a subaru gearbox the best option (if you can afford the reverse diff gears)
Stronger is always better, but a bus trans is a must, or a built Type 1 trans.... anything will hold power....it's just a matter of for how long.
@@MRT_H Ha ha! Yes indeed!
Really like the video and thanks for taking the time to make it. As of now after watching your video I'm considering the ecotec as my main swap. I have a 1970 Baja bug basically stock. Running a 1600 single port with a 40idf Weber amongst other things. I think I have around 70-75hp. I go to the desert and for the most part we do a lot of trail riding. I have 3 kids in the back so I'm not looking to go 80mph in the dirt. I just want it to start a little easier and and have a little more power to get up some of the hills we go on. I know I can put just a bigger vw motor in and it will do everything I want it to do but to build a new motor will cost just as much if not more than a swap. So there a a few motors I have been thinking about and wanted to get your opinion. I want to stay away from a subi mostly because of ground clearance. So my top 3 motor choices are 1. Ecotec 2. Volvo B230f turbo and 3. Ford 2.3l. I was really liking the idea of the Volvo motor because of the high torque at low RPM but after this video I might be back on the ecotec. The 2.3l is probably on The bottom of the list mostly for the low HP and how heavy it is. But I've always liked that motor. So let me know what you think. Thanks for your time and sorry such a long message.
Can't go wrong with the Ecotec, it's more of a common engine/swap than the volvo, so I would probably stick with the GM. If you want more low end, you could get the supercharged Ecotec as well! Glad you like the video and I am glad to have helped!
In this swap, Subaru in a VW do you have to turn the pinion bearing around? I've heard that.
Not with an ej series engine. They rotate the same as a vw. There are ones that spin the wrong way, buy it's not the case with the EJ
Would I have to worry about turbo or non turbo if it's going on a dune buggy chassis
Depending on the buggy chassis and how the engine mounts as far as clearance... probably... but turbos are always more fun!
I have an 01 Subaru Legacy maybe, anyway it has an automatic transmission. Do I need to worry about the bushing in the flywheel? The reason I ask is because on some automatic cars, the flywheel was drilled for a bushing, but none was installed because the automatic transmission does not have a front main drive gear like a standard shift does. Also how do I find out what engine I have? My plan is I have to go budget, and I'm thinking the stock engine would be a great improvement, without the money pit a race engine costs. Anyway, thanks for taking the time to make the video, I learned a lot.
If I understand what you're saying, the Subaru autos don't have a pilot bearing in the crank or on the flex plate. The vw adapter flywheel has the pilot bearing (manual trans) in the flywheel itself. Look on the front top of the block near the alternator, you'll see a rectangular box with an ejxx and that tells you if its 2.2 or 2.5. There is an engine code on the block on the starter side. You can google it too, if it doesn't make sense. Hopefully that helps. Thanks for watching!
@@MRT_H Ok so in the package you get a VW flywheel that will fit the Subaru engine. Thanks.
@@luvstruck2733 Yup! It bolts up to the Subaru crank and uses a vw clutch. There are 2 different diameter clutches, I usually go with the bigger one, but it depends on the vw trans you are running as well. Do your research on that. Good luck!
I looked through the comments and might have totally missed it. What do I do with the exhaust sensors like the o2? Is there a way to delete the sensors? I build Foresters and haven’t a clue about this but I’ll learn.
Benjamin Hughes Know we talked, but I figure I'd answer here in case someone else is curious about the same thing. As far as I know, you need the o2 sensor. I just weld a bung in for the o2 in a common point where both sides of the exhaust meet, sometimes the o2 sensor wires need extended and I haven't seen any problems with running non shielded o2 wire extensions, provided they aren't sitting near your ignition wires/coil, etc.
MrTurbo458 yes we spoke on instagram
I recently talked to my co worker, mechanic. I told him about a vw Subaru swap, he said screw that go big do an LS small block v8. If you want speed. I wonder if that swap is cheaper and easier than a Subaru swap? It will fit the front trunk, I just saw a video on it. You'd have to reinforce the front frame for all that weight in the front of course, new transmission to meet the power, maybe all new electrical, but other than that I don't know. Might be tricky fitting it perfectly in the front trunk. Might have to do some cutting?
Yeah, well if they want to do the work, by all means go for it. It's been done many ways already. But the whole idea behind the Subaru swap is that it's compact and requires less molestation to the car, better weight balance, etc. If I were to v8 swap a vw, I would start with a full tube chassis, modern suspension design, mid engine it, and add fiberglass vw body panels. And I'm sure you will have lots of traction issues, I had trouble with 250whp. The way I see it, a V8 worth swapping will be much, much more work, and I'm sure much more expensive. Sure it sounds cool on paper, but doing it is another story. But it's your car and your money! Good luck!
@@MRT_H you're the best. Good videos. Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions that have been bothering me for a while.
@@studi0205 someone did that with a vanagon on TH-cam, they did awesome work, but the only trans, at that time that worked, was an automatic from a Cadillac...it's a TON of work....MrTurbo458 is right...
Hey good info! When you said space clearance on the ecotec from previous swaps. I was thinking about my swap that i am still planning for a 1967 vw bus! Like the idea if ecotec for beter performances over the aircooled engine! But my main concern is clearance outward the bumper!
What your take in this idea of ecotec on a vw 1967 bus? 📝❓❓
Isaac mondragon Locally, there is a candy red bus with an ecotec. So I'm sure there is a way. I'm not a huge bus buff, but I'm sure there is info on the samba about such swaps. It seemed to fit nicely in the one I saw, but like I say I'm not sure what they did to fit it in the bus. Good luck! The ecotec is a great swap for vw's!
Cool thanks ill be chekin it out!
Hello pal awesome bug you have there wanting to do same conversion myself just got some welding to do U.K. Weather doesn't like bugs only going to do a non turbo conversion which adaptor kit and clutch would you say are best I will probably have other questions to ask if you don't mind as you definitely know what your doing
Daz Browne Hi! Most the main stuff is covered in the video or in the comments, it's all about personal preference too...for an n/a build, a daiken unsprung disc and stage 2 p.p. seemed to work well for me. I use Kennedy engineering's adapter kit (in video) and they are great kits, I trust them and the quality is great. If you would like to direct message me on TH-cam or instagram, I can help you a little bit easier too!
Yes I will message you cheers
Very cool video man, thank you! I have been doing a lot of reading on subi swaps. I have been putting together a plan to buy a wrecked 2.0 turbo subi doner car so i have wiring and as many parts as i can carry over. My question is about the transaxle, I am wanting a rocket, and a transaxle that can handle it. Is the reverse ring/pinion from subarugears a good deal, or can the stock vw tranny handle it? bus tranny? Thank you!
You probably won't push huge power with a 2.0.....so a built Vw trans should handle the power, question is how long and how are you going to drive the car.... a subaru gears tranny is a good idea, and the gearing is better suited to the engine.
MrTurbo458 Awesome man, thanks for the response! I'd try to drive reasonably, but you gotta mess around a bit with that much extra lol
Thanks for the video very informative 👍
Curious about engine mounts, how much Fab work goes into that? I'd like to see the wiring diagrams for this haha. I have a 99 Forester that won't have it's 2.5 anymore, so I have a complete harness and engine, and this interest me
As far as engine mounts, I just use solid mounts for a VW engine from empi.... So no fab work there! They sell different mounts too, Subaru gears has different ones, etc. Wiring isn't that bad, you can look up diagrams online sometimes, but you will probably have to pay for a full set of them. The newer the swap, the more pages on the diagrams! But it is all pretty simple if you have experience wiring/soldering/mechanical aptitude....Good luck!
MrTurbo458 another question I have is, if you don't mind, how much can one expect to spend? I do have an engine already, and full harness (99 Forester) that to be frugal and learn to do wiring, I'll do myself. Other then the cost of the Beetle, just to get the car running reliably, do you have a rough estimate on cost?
EcBuddy123 Well it really depends on what parts you use, etc... I've budget built them for $2500 or a little less with the cost of the car.... but I would say expect around $1500 if you're only doing an engine swap on a budget.... I've also spent upwards of 10k on builds.... it really depends on how you do it. Hose clamps, wiring, wiring supplies, bolts, screws, accessories, and little stuff adds up real fast. And then there is time, and labor. A junkyard can be your friend if you can get parts there too. Make sure you upgrade the brakes too, you'll need them!!!!!
really good video thanks Brother I'm old and do need help I'm running a 68 VW bus with 1776 that's a joke
Yeah 1776's aren't that great imo. Check out The EZGZ on TH-cam too. He's a cool guy.
@@MRT_H yeah I like that guy's channel
Awesome video!!! Now this may be a dumb question but I’m rarely new to this but love Volkswagens. Is it almost the same for a bus Subaru swap. I have a 65 shell basically and want to get it moving. You are awesome for taking the time by the way!!!!
It should be a very similar process. The bus has more room than the beetle, so less cutting if any. The radiator could be rear mounted on a bus as well, as long as it has good air flow. Search online, there is probably more info about busses than anything haha.
MrTurbo458 Thank you! I have been doing a lot of research just so I know where to start.
MrTurbo458 hey thanks for reply, I was wondering do you think it’s better to get a donor car so I can have the working harness the ECU and other random things. Or just buy a motor from the import companies. Thanks in advance
@@Mrvwbus65 Donor car is the way to go for sure, unless you really know what you're doing. Then you can get just what you need.
MrTurbo458 any recommendations on car that would be the easiest to use as donor?
I dont know why i cannot private message you:( i cannot see the message icon on your youtube page. I wanna tak to you about a future project i wanna start that involves a beetle.
TH-cam ditched DM's. DM me on Instagram. 👍
This was very informative, i hope to one day build a nice t34 rat with my kids one day and even tho it'll probably be years till i get to start i'm already gathering as much info as i can and this video was a great help.
I do have a question tho', won't the engine hanging further out compromise handling corners? Especially because it's heavier than the stock air-cooled engine the car was initially designed for as well would seem to me as taking pressure of the front wheels by changing the weight distribution.
I may be overthinking this but i would love to see a before and after wheel pressure comparison on all four wheels for one of these swaps.
FraJa1980 If you're that into weight balance, you should probably own a different car, like a lotus... Or other balanced cars. The Subaru engine swapped beetles I had handled like go karts, and that was with very little suspension work. Extra weight helps with traction 😁👍 The ecotec swap hangs way out, but it would most likely be an off road only car at that point.
Well, not that into it but i was just wondering if the car would handle worse than a stock bug would and i'm sort of a person that tends to overthink things to the max so hence the question hahaha.
Go karts handle very good so that answers my question perfectly ;) thanks for answering and making these helpful videos.
FraJa1980 Haha good! Yeah I could zip around in them and thru were probably the best handling cars I've owned. No problem and thanks for watching!
Nice vid..... can it be done with an automatic trans and which one?
Thanks!!!
I'm sure it can, but I'd have no idea how. Good luck!
Where would you recommend to get a comete engine for a swap for a vw fastback? And what motor would you use?
2000-2005 SOHC EJ25 - find a running car on Craigslist (wrecked in rear or rusted out) without a ton of miles or maybe plan on rebuilding it so you know it is all new. Others go the JDM route with megasquirt...your choice
I wish I caught this earlier. I ran across a great deal on a 2006 Outback, then I watched this video again to refresh and I missed the point about later models having transponder system (CAN bus) and now these comments. I’m on a tight budget for my swap into a ‘68 Baja Bug so I’ve been searching for a donor car to source most of the goodie’s needed. I wanted to avoid buying a standalone ECU and harness. Just not in the budget.
dude awsome video thanks for the info
Glad you like it! Check out my newest videos too.
What would you recommend for the best year and model subaru donor car to use for a turbo swap
A 2.5 turbo is best, in my opinion. 04-05 sti, Forester XT, etc engine. But an early 2.2 sohc is easier to swap, but less power stock.
Hey man , what is a good metal to use for coolant lines to run from the front to the back? Could I just use long coolant hose? Doing a ej20 sohc in my 69 bug and stuck at what to do for coolant lines . This was a great video , thanks!
Hey have you done builds for people and if so I would be interested in having one build for me.
Michael Soules I've done a few, yes. The main thing right now is that I don't have a shop anymore, or the time to build one. Otherwise I would start building them to sell.
hey I was just curious which ecotec engine is best for a baja bug project
Isaiah Greer It really depends on your budget and goals for the car... And what ecu you want to run too... newer ecotecs have vvt... I'd probably go newest you can afford and the 2.4 supercharged.... but it's up to you! Tons of options! Good luck!
lots of helpful tips thank you for the video. the one question i have that i can not seem to find any information about is engine mounting.
if you could let me know how you mounted the engine it would be very help. i have been told by some friends that you can just mount the engine to the transmission and it will be okay but i would rather be safe than sorry.
Angel Moreno That's what I've done, and that's how the vw engine mounts. Not a bad idea to use a custom mount that bolts to the subaru mounts (they sell them, Google it) but at the very least you want to brace the frame horns using a kaefer brace/truss bar.... unless you're cranking out a ton of power you'll be fine just hanging it off the trans..... You'll want those frame horns braced either way. Helps a lot.
thank you for the quick reply this really helps clarify things for me. again great video hitting on all of the major questions. only regret is i wish i would have found this video first instead of spending the 15 hours i did on google.
Angel Moreno I had to spend much more than 15 hours figuring all this stuff out, and by trial and error doing swaps. That's why I made the video though so the info was available to everyone without having to ask questions on forums that sometimes offer no help, or are a bunch of jerks.... Glad I can help out!
Question. Couldn't you just cut out a small square for the turbo instead of the entire rear firewall?
I have a 66 bug 1641 cc dual webbers. Basically the bus engine. This process sounds cool but in the long run will an sti engine be the same as like a 1915 cc with a turbo in horsepower. I'm thinking the subaru swap might not be worth all the trouble if you can get the same horsepower keeping it all vw? Or 2100 cc turbo, definitely maxing more horse power than an sti sub swap. Probably cheaper too in fitting and labor. Better fit. Less cutting? I guess my question is in the long run is it better upgrading to a bigger stronger vw engine than the swap?
Uh, no. An STI engine with a stock tune (depending on the year) is around 300hp at the crank and with only tuning, you'll see closer to 300whp in an AWD car. An n/a 1915 is maybe around 120hp at the crank with depending on carbs, if you're lucky. I'd say unless you have a race built 1915, 300hp is gonna be tough, mainly VERY expensive. Even with a 2332 turbo. A fresh performance 1915, to have built with good parts your looking at about $10k, that was what I quoted for a build I was working on and that was an n/a engine the builder said would make 140hp. A used wrx engine can be had with wiring, etc for $2500 or sometimes cheaper. It'll Rev higher, it's more reliable, and it can make more power safer. People inflate the hp numbers of air-cooled engines a lot. I'm not saying they can't make big power, but you'll have an expensive engine, so dollar per hp can not be beat on a Subaru swap. For instance, a 2.2L n/a Subaru engine makes 120ish hp, and can be pulled from a junkyard for under $500 in most cases. Sure you have adapters, etc but you can have 120hp for about $2500 fully swapped. Not $6k +. And there aren't any carbs to tune, and it'll get 30mpg with a freeway flyer, easily.
A turbo just makes things more expensive from there. I'm not ragging on air-cooled stuff, it just doesn't make sense to dump all that money into such primitive technology, for not much gain.
If you don't want to modify your car, then you have to stay air-cooled. There isn't a way around that.
Hopefully that helps! And thanks for watching
@@MRT_H I did research real quick. To get that horsepower with a regular vw engine you would need at least a custom built 2300 cc turbo. Right now with my 1641 I'm only pushing like 110 hp, that's pathetic. I want 350. Whatever it takes. The sti swap might be the cheaper and smarter choice.
I have to find a shop that does this. I don't think I can handle something like this, sub swap.
@@studi0205 I'd guess you're closer to 80-90hp with the 1641 if you're running really well tuned proper size dual carbs. As I said, numbers get inflated a lot. And whp is a whole other story. The Subaru swap is damn near guaranteed that you'll get way more dollar per hp value. It's just about the work that goes into it. Also remember at 350hp you'll need a built transmission or a flipped Subaru trans setup. Or mid engine it. Good luck!
@@MRT_H you've been very helpful thank you.
Great video I think I'm going to go with the Subaru swap in my 69 rat I want to make around 250 hp as cheaply as possible what motor should I buy also wiring pisses me off so I'll get a stand alone ecu and harness from outfront what fuel cell and radiator are you using thank you
Zac Macpherson I'm actually having to sell my swap...for 230 hp ish a 2.0l wrx engine would be the best bet. radiator depends on where you want to put it in the car with the best cooling...And I was going to run a Jaz fuel cell...
MrTurbo458 how much did you want for it I'll be buying a motor whenever we get our taxes back so it could be in two weeks or two months you never know with them
Zac Macpherson with the ms3 pro mostly wired (needs power and grounds) and the ej20y jdm with rebuilt/balanced turbo I'd like close to 4 g's or I'd trade for a 2332.... engine only I'm looking for $2500 with the adapter and clutch...
MrTurbo458 I can spend around 3000 and still have enough breathing room in my budget to deal with rear suspension, trans raise, and cooling my email is baker5695@gmail.com
@MrTurbo458 I have another question you might be able to help with. So I've pretty much gotten everything figured out up to wiring. I haven't actually started with installing everything, I'm still gathering parts. My question now points towards the cooling system. I'm thinking about using a stock Legacy radiator that was originally used with the ej22 style motor. However, not sure about the space up front. I have a standard bug so I'm even more limited than a super.
My other thought, since I'll have coolant all the way up front, I was thinking about using a Geo Metro radiator. It's pretty small and only require one small fan. But I'm concerned if that will be enough to keep it cool.
I live in western Washington so we rarely see temps above 90F in summer. What are your thoughts?
I'd like to keep the cooling system as discreet as possible.
GruesomeJeans I've seen civic rads used, check out this video: th-cam.com/video/r8hc80gei_w/w-d-xo.html Google works too, there are lots of builds that use different rads. Stuffing a Subaru rad into the front might work, I used an aluminum rad in my new build from summit racing that would fit based on what I needed. Good luck!
GruesomeJeans I used a mr2 radiator and fan on mines! It's not the radiator that is the problem but the distance of the radiator to the engine is the issue! Make sure ur water pump can circulate the water, if not then u will over heat!
vwrx Las Vegas It's more about the lift of the pump... Keep the radiator/plumbing at the same height as the engine, you'll probably be fine. I had some high points in my system and it was just fine. The other issue is burping the system, you have to get the air out of a massive system. Also the long cooling lines help to dissipate heat if they have air flowing over them. And the inlet/outlet size of the radiator, if it's too small you'll slow the flow down too much.
Subscribed for prospecting and VW engine swaps :) I have a Boom Trike with a 1600cc engine which I'm thinking about upgrading in the coming years.
Pauli Timonen Thanks for subscribing! A Subaru swapped trike would be pretty sweet! Thanks for watching!
MrTurbo458 It definitely beats the 10k porsche 356(?) alternative. Unless I had an extra 10k lying around.
Pauli Timonen Even then, the Subaru will be more reliable, more power, more efficient, etc.
MrTurbo458 indeed. I want stuff to happen immediately when i give it throttle. I like the sounds and feel of the current engine but I think i'm going for a modern setup. And the donor cars are cheap compared to a rebuilt engine.
Pauli Timonen They're similar, but the 130 HP 2.2 will be much more responsive and way faster. Junkyards are good for getting cheap Subaru swaps too.
Great video I'm going to put an ej25 non turbo in my bug how's your running now
Thanks for all the tips! Did you install the fuel cell in the stock location? If so, what Make/Model Fuel Cell did you install? What in-tank fuel pump?
Just like to see it..im almost done with my build..engine is in....will.need those kafer bars..but no idea what or how
To build the exhaust and want.to keep those headers on a.budget
Great videos! would love to see a video about prepping a stock ecu and wiring. thanks!
Nick M Thanks! I'll see what I can do, I'm not working on any stock harnesses at the moment. But I could do a video of the basic rundown if that would help.....
that would be fantastic if possible. doing my first subaru bug and planning on using a stock ecu this go 'round to keep it simple for myself
Great video do you have any more videos on the bug project
im doin an ej204d swap in my super beetle. i have avcs and i contacted megasquirt and they said their ecu wont work with it. so i have a stock ecu for the motor. so you happen to know where i can get a wiring diagram for it? the ecu only has about a foot of wire coming out the plug and i do have the complete engine harness. ill be using a subaru gears transmission btw
Krusty Pickles. Who ever you spoke to is incorrect. Do you have 4 channel avcs? or intake only? Either way, the MS3 Pro Universal ecu WILL control 4 channel avcs, but realistically it takes takes a lot of dicking around to get the other 2 cams wired in.... If it's a jdm engine, good luck with diagrams. USDM engine wiring is easy to find online. Contact DIYAutoTune.com for better, more accurate info.
my motor is the JDM spec ej204d and it has avcs on intake only and it has the variable Runner intake manifold and it's non-turbo and we actually went down to DIY auto-tune because we live fairly close to it just a short drive and they said that the only thing they mess around with would be Miatas that's even close to it so they couldn't guarantee that their's would work with a Subaru
MrTurbo458 also I could get away with just a pin out on the ECU but yeah I'm having a hard time trying to find that
Krusty Pickles That's really strange. Are you trying to use the plug and play ms? The variable runner is just a vacuum solenoid that activates the diaphragm to open, so that can be an rpm based i/O, and the UNIVERSAL wire in ms3 pro WILL run avcs. In fact the ms3 pro box I have says 4 channel vvt control and I have talked with Matt Cramer at diy about it. Forget any plug and play ecu, you'll need to wire up a universal ecu, it will be easier in the long run. Intake avcs wiring can be stolen from the 04-05 sti and the variable length runner you can look up info on the ez30 (should be similar) or you can disable the avcs and run without. Contact outfront motorsports too, he can probably make a harness using your existing one and set it up for a stinger ems.....
my friend originally got the motor thinking he could just swap it in to his outback. but as he learned the hard way it dont work that way. the stock 2.5 single cam ecu would run the motor and did so for a couple years but the power output was bleh. he couldnt even go from a stop if the ac was on so im assuming the avcs had something to do with it. like he was stuck in timing meant for higher rpm cause when he got to like 5500 it started to wake up. not sure what all my friend asked the guys at diy but i remember them saying something about miatas. so have you run the ms3 pro already and it worked well?
THANKS!!!!
Any thoughts on mileage?
Mpg? Or?
What does a swap do to the resale price?
Depends on how well the swap is done and what engine, how much power it makes, etc. It should increase value, bugs aren't worth much without their engines usually be it air cooled or water. I've always been able to sell them for a profit. But there isn't really a standard.
@@MRT_H Considering this was my first car I bought for $600 in 1991, I'm not to worried about making any money from it. I was just curious if it matters what motor you install. I would prefer some power. When I drove it in high school I hated the stock motor. No power and I had to rebuild it twice. The motor was bad to begin with and I was lucky it lasted as long as it did. Thanks for the info man. Great vids.
did you use any other mounts to hold the weight of the engine like aftermarket trans mounts? solid mounts?
randall lucas I had a kafer brace, to help support the frame horns, solid front mount, trans mid strap, and poly rear mounts. No other support, the engine doesn't weigh that much more than a vw. It's probably not a bad idea to add more support, but I daily drove the one car and it was fine. The new swap is all solid mounts though.
do you got a link for the best mounts a guy should use i dont want to get it together and have shit for bracing
randall lucas It really depends on the year of the car, what transmission you have, etc. Best bet is to buy a solid mount kit for your car. And search kafer brace/truss bar for vw. Google is your friend!
Kinda , but without the ” eh “ part.
Ehhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Or you could run a dry sump kit
If you have an extra large chunk of cash laying around, yup that's an option.
@@MRT_H I've always wanted to ej swap my bug but my dad is vw purest and feel that he may get pissed about it
@@ironicchannelname6457 He won't be when yours doesn't break down every week, and when he rides in it his tone will change..... Maybe.
@@MRT_H while mine does break down every week his runs like raped ape and don't understand how he did it my engine is on the third rebuild and has a brand new top end and new carbs
Hey there, I picked up an EJ22 A from a shop that gets these engines from Japan with low mileage. My engine has dual exhaust and is a SOHC, but they didn't tell me what year make, or model car it came from. Is there anything I can look at to identify this stuff?
I was planning to run a MS3 ECU kit but now I'm wondering if a stock ECU would be quicker and easier. My engine has the engine harness and the plugs for the ECU so I'm not entirely sure what else I'll need. I'm having a tough time finding information and this video so far has had the most direct answers to my questions. Any help is appreciated.
Hi! So I think some of the ej22 na jdm engine have roller rockers, but as far as I know that might be the only difference, maybe compression might be a bit higher too? By dual exhaust, I'm assuming you mean dual ports on each head? That would be a phase one, and if your ecu and harness is jdm good luck finding diagrams for the ecu, the wiring for jdm is usually different from usdm. The good part is, if you want a stock ecu go to a junkyard and pull an early 2.2 engine harness, and harness to the ecu and ecu and run that... If the intake manifolds are different, just pull the whole usdm manifold and it should bolt on...stock ecu is a good option to get your car running quicker, and if you aren't running a turbo, then a standalone isn't really needed...I would just pull all the ecu stuff and all new wiring from a donor car or u-pull places and not even mess with the jdm stuff...hope that helps you out! As far as identification, there is a number stamped up on the engine bellhousing on usdm drivers side, there are probably decoding guides online to figure it out.. Subaru engines (ej series) are basically all the same, with some differences for size, and heads....
MrTurbo458 Hey, thanks for the reply. Yeah I think it's dual port heads. It has a TPS sensor on the T-body so I'm guessing early 90s. I've been researching a bit and it does look like I'll need either a donor or some time at a junkyard pulling the harness. After some looking, I figured out that I have just the engine harness, not the ECU harness. Which is a start! I'm just not really sure what parts of the wiring loom I'll need. I haven't had a chance to get to a yard yet to see what they have but I plan to see what I can find before dropping money on a donor car.
So far I have an engine with an engine harness, and I've ordered a Kennedy adapter kit and clutch. I've got some ideas from both you and the boosted vw in Australia on how I will do my cooling system. He is also running an EJ25 but his is slightly different in how he set it up. Originally I wanted to follow Might Car Mods and run my radiator behind the engine but after seeing the pipes running up front, and the way the radiator is set up, I'll probably go that route instead.
Currently the biggest hurdle is this ECU and harness. But I think with some time spent around a donor car I can get what I need.
I hear you there...radiator placement/lines are the hardest in my opinion... Remember that engine to main harness plugs differ year to year and even model to model sometimes, if it's a jdm, they always got the good stuff before the US so a 91 engine here might be on par with a 94 engine in Japan... My ej20y has stuff that we saw in 08 here, but was in 04-05 engines in Japan... US models had drive by cable until 04ish in the US. I'd say if you got a pre 96 (obd1) ecu, and all wiring from that year car it would be the easiest. Check junkyards, as it'll be cheaper than a donor car most likely. I usually cut the harnesses a foot from the ecu in the car, and about a foot from the car side on the engine plugs and splice the two together with a custom length of wire for the car.... If you do this, don't forget the MAF sensor wiring pigtail and o2 sensor connector. Pick a usdm harness/ecu that you can get a wiring diagram for too, that helps....Radiator placement can really be anywhere, even dual smaller rads can be used. It all depends on how you want the car to look and such. My newest build cools great and is stealthy but it took a bit more work. Good luck and happy building!
MrTurbo458 I see. This looked like it's a drive by cable as well. It has 2 lobes on the throttle that a cable would wrap around. Looks like you could use either one or maybe one was for cruise control? I got a 6 digit number off the back where the transmission bolts up but after spending about an hour searching, I never found a way to decode it. The TPS sensor tells me it's early 90s but I guess I could be wrong. I bought it from a shop that important various JDM engines straight from Japan. This one has roughly 50k miles on it according to them. They offer warranties and such. Since I'll probably go with a stock ECU should I leave all the plugs on it? I work graveyard so I have to be conscious about how much time I spend out at a yard. But on my weekend I've got all the time I need.
All ej22's are drive by cable... One cam is for the pedal, one is for cruise. I would just plug a usdm manifold onto it, and use associated wiring/ecu. Otherwise you will have to check that the jdm ecu plugs match the usdm ecu (good luck finding jdm diagrams) I think the jdm uses a different iac valve. Really there is no advantage to going jdm on the 2.2 other than low mileage over a usdm, it just has different emissions garb mostly. You can always see if a yard has the stuff before you go call or check online. An early 90's legacy with a 2.2 would be the most common.
Helpful! Thanks.
Jeannie No problem!
Good info
You should put all the parts you used
That's kind of a difficult thing to do, as some engines require different things, and depending on your vehicle, and where the radiator is going, you may need different things. The short list is an engine, adapter kit for your trans/engine, clutch, ecu, wiring harness, cooling system, and fuel delivery. You'll need a welder, hand tools, etc most likely as well. Power tools help a lot, a grinder and cut off discs will be your friend.
I have a 69 beetle and basically I want the same setup but I wanna move my firewall back and have a fan with radiator back there
I did a swap on my car what gas pump do you recommend me to put?
Or are you asking what pump to use? Is it turbo or non turbo?
It’s non turbo *
I put a engine 2000, when the car starts getting hot it goes up and down.
@@carloscanela157 I used an external walbro right under the tank. I suggest using the 255lph. Also, don't use the stock fuel line, run a bigger 5/16" hard metal line from the front to the back. You need the extra line size.
One the WRX, I read about ringland failures, so use the higher octane was my plan
very nice video.
Amazing, thanks!
Can you install the Subaru motor in a 73 auto stick super beetle?
allenredding Not too familiar with the auto stick transmissions. But I would think if a regular type 1 engine bolts up to the auto stick trans you'd be fine. The next question is, how strong are the auto stick transmissions? And does the auto stick run the same clutch as a normal type 1?
only difference is that mine has a torque converter in-between the trans and clutch and its a 3 speed . The motor that's in it now is a AE 1600
allenredding Not sure about bolting up the adapter to that trans. I would call Kennedy engineering products and ask them about doing the swap on the auto stick transmission. Cause normally you use a special flywheel that's extended. Not sure how you'd bolt up to a flex plate... The engine adapter would bolt up, it's just connecting the engine to the trans that I don't know about
hey wan i wanted to ask you i called kennedy about there adapter plate and they informed me that it would work with my stock trans and clutch set up would a guy have to switch something there to make it work iv hurd with the motor being turbo the clutch had to be differently done??
randall lucas As I explained in the video, the turbo is fairly close to the clutch lever on the trans (if you run a cable clutch you'll probably be fine), you'll have to pop the package tray to clear the turbo/exhaust. I would run a stronger clutch with the turbo engine, stage 2 unless you want big power. And you may want to beef up the trans. But yes it'll bolt up. Let me know if this answers your question!
it sure did thanks man!
randall lucas No problem! Good luck with your project!
last question what did you do about the heater lines for heater core since we dont run heater
randall lucas As I showed/said in the video, you need to loop a hose from one heater barb to the other so it can run coolant through those hoses. A big u - turn between the 2 heater hose barbs basically.
How did you set up your fuel system?
Matt Hall I used the cb performance fuel "t" and used brass barb fittings on that (as seen in video) with a summit racing fuel pump under the fuel tank to push the fuel (gravity feed the pump) and I used 5/16" steel brake tubing to run to the back of the car along the shifter tunnel under the carpet and ran another line along the supply back to the other side of the fuel "t" fitting.
MrTurbo458 Thanks a lot!
Matt Hall No problem!
MrTurbo458 What would you recommend for a transmission?
Matt Hall I would recommend you buy the best transmission you can afford. Obviously a subaru trans with the flipped ring/changed gear set is best, but a bus transmission would probably work fine, I ran an ej22 non turbo on a stock type 1 trans and and beat it, it was fine. But if you want to run a lot of power, remember this "speed costs money, how fast do you want to go?"
Can someone help me ? I have a 2001 vw beetle with a blown 1.8 engine and i want to replace with a 2.0 engine , can this swap work ?
Hi, this video is for swapping newer engines into classic vw's. However, it sounds like your swap is possible, I don't know newer VW's that well, but if the 2.0 bolts up to your transmission, I would say it is possible. This link might help: www.vwforum.com/forums/f11/i-found-i-found-2-0-swap-1-8-head-42227/
Hope this helps!
Can this be done to a karmann ghia?
Yup. It's been done a few times
I'm putting a screaming eagle Harley in mine
God'snotdead heisalive That sounds neat! I've seen v twin swaps, looks like fun!
Great video! I'm looking to swap the old 1300cc engine out of my baja, and I want to put an ecotec in. Did you go the donor car route? There are several 2002-2005 Chevy Cavaliers in my area with the 2.2 ecotec that seem promising.
Gage Watkins Hi! And thanks! I went with a donor car, and was able to just take what I needed but I was able to hear the engine run and drive the car first. Around $600-700 for an ecotec is about average seems like. But if you can get a full donor car, life will be easier for sure. Mine was an 05 from a grand am. It'll be a huge improvement from your 1300 for sure. And Alpha Fab Industries also will De-emission and add a better tune depending on your exhaust and intake setup, and they raise the red line to 7k as well! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Any welding I have to do in a project like this?
Probably, it would be helpful. But I wouldn't say required.
@@MRT_H thanks for the quick response do the super beetles have more space in the back for clearance?
@@JuicyWhip Nope, same car basically minus the front suspension and fenders. If it has more engine room, it's not much.
would this weapon be capable of wheelstands .thankyou
Maybe, depends on of anything breaks or if it hooks up.
@@MRT_H thanks for the reply .im not lookin to go fast ,just wanna launch like a rocket.maybe if i put a heap of lead in the rear bumper and jack up and lighten the front end a bit .i got a plan now cheers.
@@badcommentbot8349 slicks, a strong transmission, and strong axles should do the trick. That and low gearing.