The Toyota Tdi Swap Kit allows you to replace your Toyota 22R engine with a Volkswagen/Audi TDI engine, offering significant performance and fuel efficiency benefits. This comprehensive guide explores the features of a premium Toyota TDI swap kit, compatible engines, and the conversion process.
Premium Billet Aluminum Adapter Plates
This kit features premium billet 6061 aluminum adapter plates, surpassing the quality of cheaper cast aluminum options. The tempered 6061 aluminum undergoes heat treatment and artificial aging, ensuring optimal strength and durability for demanding applications.
Enhanced Firewall Clearance and Crank Adapter
The 2-inch thick adapter plates provide ample firewall clearance for the TDI vacuum pump and coolant pipes, while maintaining the factory shifter position. The high-performance, nitride case-hardened alloy steel crank adapter is rated for 800 ft-lbs of torque, ensuring reliability and exceeding the capabilities of competitor kits that often use inferior materials.
Powerful Starter Motor Options and Clocking Positions
The kit offers flexible starter motor options, including a Toyota 4.7 V8 Denso-style starter motor known for its OEM reliability, compact design, affordability, and availability. Alternatively, a 2kW PowerMaster Chevy V8 starter is available for those preferring aftermarket options. Both options can be clocked in multiple positions for optimal engine bay fitment. The two-plate system allows engine clocking at 0°, 10°, and 15° for precise clearance adjustments.
Kit Components and Installation Hardware
The Toyota TDI swap kit includes two anodized billet aluminum adapter plates, a nitride case-hardened crank adapter (with a pre-installed pilot bearing for manual kits), choice of starter motor, a starter motor clocking adapter, and all necessary installation hardware for the bellhousing, crank adapter, and starter. OEM equivalent flywheel bolts (M11 x 1.25 x 26mm) are required but not included.
Compatibility and Engine Codes
Designed specifically for replacing the Toyota 22R engine (and 22RE), this kit ensures compatibility with various Toyota transmissions, including the W56, G52, and G54. It’s suitable for Toyota Pickup and 4Runner models from 1981-1995. Always cross-reference and research compatibility for specific vehicle models.
Compatible VW/Audi Engines
The kit is compatible with any four-cylinder Volkswagen/Audi engine due to their shared bolt pattern. While primarily tested with TDI engines (ALH, BEW, BHW, CJAA), it can accommodate various gas and diesel engines, though independent research is recommended for non-TDI applications. Refer to the comprehensive compatibility chart in the original article for a detailed list of compatible engine codes.
How the Adapter Works and Conversion Process
The adapter plates make the TDI engine’s rear interface match the original 22R engine, eliminating the need for modifications like drilling, welding, or custom flywheels. The conversion process can be approached in stages: research and planning, engine installation and basic functionality, and performance enhancements and customization. This phased approach simplifies the process and increases the likelihood of a successful conversion.
Frequently Asked Questions
This kit utilizes the original flywheel or flexplate. Transmission alignment is crucial, and this kit boasts exceptional accuracy thanks to aerospace-grade CMM measurements. Conversion costs vary depending on the chosen engine, desired performance level, and individual skills. While professional conversions aren’t currently offered, the kit empowers DIY enthusiasts.
Fuel savings are a significant benefit of TDI conversions, often doubling fuel mileage compared to gasoline engines. Automatic transmissions are compatible with the use of a standalone TCM controller. Even full-size trucks can benefit from a TDI swap, particularly with performance enhancements. The provided kit offers a robust and well-engineered solution for Toyota owners seeking a powerful and efficient diesel engine alternative.
