[Vwdiesel] RE: Difference between TD and NA longblock

[Michael Snow]

Libbybapa at wmconnect.com wrote:
> What are the differences between the '86 to '92 turbodiesel longblock and the 
> naturally aspirated diesel volkswagen longblock?   Anyone car to share their 
> knowledge??  Are the rings the same?  I was told by an "Expert" (bigtime, big 
> city, german parts establishment) that after '86 there was no difference 
> between the TD and the NA vw diesel longblock.  Despite my pointing out the 
> differences that Bentley talks about, I was told that post '86 there was no 
> difference.  I pointed out that the heads had different part #'s in the casting (just 
> one letter-the T before the D at the end).  I was told there was still no 
> difference?? Any opinions, facts?? Also can the N/a shortblock be retrofit with the 
> oil squirters and used as turbo?  I have read that the head gaskets are 
> different, and also been told by others that they are not different.  What about 
> the rings?  Help would really be appreciated from any Knowledgeable folks. 

According to ETKA for 1986-1992 German manufactured Jettas, the part 
numbers for the cylinder heads are different.  068 103 351 AA-AC are 
used on the N/A engine.  068 103 351 AD is used on the TD.  Intake 
valves are the same, exhaust valves different.  Crankshafts and rods are 
the same.  Pistons and rings are different.

I have heard of the N/A blocks being drilled for oil squirters, but have 
never seen one myself.  These engines (codes ME and MF) use hydraulic 
lifter heads that cannot be mounted on earlier blocks.  The earlier 
mechanical lifter heads can be mounted on a later block by plugging the 
extra oil drainback hole.

If you need to dig further into the details, I suggest you get a copy of 
ETKA.  It is an invaluable reference tool.

Michael Snow
1982 Westfalia 1.9D