What other engine can I put in my 1972 VW Campmobile Type 2? Will one out of a bug fit?

Question

The flat engine (suitcase engine ) 1700 is shot . What other engine will fit using the same transmission? Is it a lot of work to change engines in this car?

Answer 1

The only engine worth installing that will bolt up without an adapter would be another type Type IV engine. I'd rebuild the one you have into a 2056cc. Go to www.aircooledtechnology.com and you'll find all the answers you need about rebuilding your engine into a beast.

If you don't mind purchasing an adpater the sky is the limit. The Subaru turbo swap is real popular now. Look up Kennedy Engineering they sale adapter plates that will allow you to install Mazda rotary, Buick, Chevy, Volkswagen, Subaru water cooled engines in your bus.

Answer 2

Best answer would be a 1975-78 1970cc suitcase engine used on the later Type 2s up until 1982 on the early Wedge Vanwagons before the watercooled engines became available. These engines are said to be more robust than the beetle 1585cc (1600) engine and offer a better performance. I often wonder why the Type 3 Varient dual carburettor set up was not adapted for the Type 2 from 1970.

Answer 3

engine swaps are simple, is yours injected, does it have an automatic ? a bug motor should fit but there are some vw heads on this site that will be able to tell all , so give them a bit more information, i never had the pleasure of working on a " newer " type 2 but i remember that they have a rear motor mount that you need to get an adaptor plate for the oil pump to use a type 1 motor

Answer 4

Castrol High mileage 20w50 Thats what my machanic recommends year round here in FL. I've had 75, 73 bus and now have 2-71 buses, 66 Beetle, and 2- 67 Beetle. They all seem to love the stuff.

Answer 5

If the bug has a 1700, they should be the same, but I'm thinking the bug had a 1600.

Answer 6

no it won't. buses use a pancake motor. you'll have to get one out of a vw squareback or a bus.