Kittitas, Cle Elum, Ellensburg Off Road Forum

Hey everyone...(obviously) I'm new here, but I'm just trying to gauge interest in parts to swap a VW TDI into a jeep. I've got a 92 XJ (hence the name) that I will be using to prototype the initial transmission adapter and motor mounts, but would like feedback from other jeepers as to what they are looking for. Obviously, it's a long list for a swap like this, so right now, I'd just like to get an idea of how many people would be interested, and for which models of Jeeps, which transmissions and the engines they would be replacing. I will also be posting on some other sites as well, so if you respond here, please don't respond to the others as well, I'd like to get an honest idea. I figure, there's nothing better than 4 wheeling, except being able to 'wheel more often because you are spending half as much money on fuel!

Thanks,
Sean

IMO: Most XJ wheelers buy XJ's because of the low cost, ease of finding OEM parts, relatively easy to repair, etc.

Over complicating it with a VW TDI setup would scare the average XJ owner away. Not to mention the cost of the conversion.

Just my opinion. I've been wrong before and I reserve the right to be wrong again.

Well, I never said I was taking the easy road...But it's not hard to spend a lot of money on what's supposed to be a cheap project. Besides, if someone is in a similar position to mine, that is, the 4.0 in their jeep is leaking from just about every orifice, and it's in need of a rebuild or replacement. Why not upgrade?

I hear that.

Good luck with this. Keep us informed as to what you figure out.

Ok, so I've been working on acquiring some of the parts needed, and working with my partner in this project, we decided we want to get some input from the other people who are interested, because they may not be as insane as we are. So, let's get some feedback! For those of you who are interested in this conversion, what are you looking for EXACTLY? What model, engine, trans would you want it for?
100% inclusive, including engine?
Complete swap kit without engine?
Just the basics (engine mounts, trans adapter) and you figure out everything else?
Wiring harness included, or just a schematic to wire it yourself?
Complete fuel system, or just instructions?
Would you want a complete intercooler, or figure that out yourself?
What would you be willing to pay for a complete kit sans engine?
What would you be willing to pay for the basic hard parts and instructions for the rest?
What would you be willing to pay for just the components you want?
I know everyone would want to say "I want it free" but let's try to be realistic. Find a TDI in a pull it yourself junkyard and you can get the complete engine for probably well under $1000, so figure on what else you would want.

I wheel 87 and up XJs because of how well they work right from the factory and how cheap they are. I would not up-grade anything other than lift, tires and locker. The 4.0 L has plenty of power. The tranny and t-cases work great. The axles are said to be bad by others but I have had good luck for the many miles off road I have done. If my engine is bad, I can get a complete good running XJ for under $1,000. Most are under $500.

Just my 2 cents.