1800 Engine swap

[Raees007]

So like the young kid I am, I'd like to do an engine swap. What I'm currently driving is a stack standard 1.4i 2007 Mk1 Golf. I have done some research and ask a few experienced VW guys and I have settled on the 1800 16v, apparently this will be more reliable than a 2.0L 8v.

So this is what I think I need to do after I have put in the new engine, CTi brake conversion, upgraded clutch, change the handbrake cable. I have been told that it's as simple as taking out my 1400 and just putting this new 1800 in, no changes in ecu, fueling, alternator and started either. It's literally and plug and play apparently . I have also been told that depending on which year 1600 engine, all I need to do is replace the crank with an 1800 crank at it's now a 1800? Not sure how true this is or not, but that's why I'm asking you guys for help and advice. I'm also wondering what my budget should be? I had R15k in mind but I'm not sure if that would be enough? I am planning on getting management after I have the setup for a bit, just wanna enjoy it for a little before I do anything else, like turbocharging. I'm open to all suggestions and criticisms for not being knowledgeable on the topic. I am based in Cape Town if that's any help.

[panic-mechanic]

1.8 16v runs on K-jetronic. if you do a direct swop without doing anything else there is no way that engine will run. You will not have somewhere to plug your MP9 electronics into.
Cti front brakes will fit yes. you should not need to do anything to the handbrake cable if you leave the drums in the back. only if you put discs in the back - which is a bit of a waste of time and money. Just improve the fronts.
a 1.6 engine will become a 1.8 with a change of crank AND pistons. They are the same bore but the actual piston deck height is different.
I think it's virtually impossible to do a 1.8 16v conversion for R15k unless you pick the engine up for free.

[Raees007]

Okay then I must really be mistaken. I have been seeing 1800 engines for sale from 5-7k? Unless everything else is pricey as well.

[DotDubb]

Going the 16v route is great because it is amazing engines and will help with future upgrades, but 16's are very pricey to mod correctly.
The 1800 16v route is not so common though. The ABF 16v will be the best bet to just buy from the get go as it's a great motor and is very fast in standard form. But expect to pay at least R25k to R30k for that swop.

My modded 16v engine cost WAY more than buying my car.

[Raees007]

I am aware that the 1800 16v is uncommon, but thanks for letting me know it’s expensive to mod. Do you maybe have an idea of what 1800’s I’m seeing for sale on places like Facebook market place and Gumtree? They aren’t really descriptive and me not knowing much cannot just tell from the photos, but they do say fuel injected 1800, so which could it be?

[DotDubb]

Yeah as Panic said, the 1800 16v came with the old K-Jetronic fuel injection where your golf comes with Mp9 injection.
You would need an aftermarket ECU.

Goldwagen Delaray has a racing division called DRD Racing Developments,they have a brake upgrade kit for the citi golfs. It's just a bigger disc and an adapter to use your current caliper, I have it fitted to mine and works perfect.

They quickest easiest/cheapest way for an engine upgrade would be the 2.0 8v longblock and then just send in your 1.4i mp9 computer.

[panic-mechanic]

1.8 16v was out of production by 1991. it has a mechanical injection system called K-jetronic. it uses a non electronic fuel injector which your management system cannot utilize. So you have to
Make a fuel rail and install electronic injectors
Change / modify / adapt the intake manifold to accept the MP9 throttle body
adapt the intake manifold to accept the mp9 manifold pressure sensor.
You will have to at least give it a major service which include belts etc etc.
Also no idea what a condition engines of that age would be in.
if you can do all that for under 15K it means that you are pretty talented with your hands and budget.
if you have to pay somebody to do this you will not come in under R15k.
But you can always prove me wrong. I don't have a problem with that.

[DeanK]

I did a 1800 16v swap on my sons chico ...

Used the 1300 block - had it machined to fit 1800 16V pistons.
Bought a 16v head
Bought a 1800 crank in Cape Town ( another story getting it here ).
1800 rods
Side draught Dellorto's - been running for over a year without adjusting after initial set up.
Alternator relocation ( lower bracket )
Rowland manifold
90 degree dizzy cap
Dictator to do timing since 16v dizzy does not have vacuum advance.

Don't remember the numbers , but could be done on 15K.

[missioner]

I did a 1800 16v swap on my sons chico ...

Used the 1300 block - had it machined to fit 1800 16V pistons.
Bought a 16v head
Bought a 1800 crank in Cape Town ( another story getting it here ).
1800 rods
Side draught Dellorto's - been running for over a year without adjusting after initial set up.
Alternator relocation ( lower bracket )
Rowland manifold
90 degree dizzy cap
Dictator to do timing since 16v dizzy does not have vacuum advance.

Don't remember the numbers , but could be done on 15K.

Just remember that DeanK did all the work himself.

[DeanK]

Also true Sir - but thats the way you learn..