Swapping a TDI engine into a 1st gen Insight

[nbleak21]

w0w.

Lets hope the brunt of that isn't the drivetrain!

[MetroMPG]

Subscribed.

[gtmotor]

Originally Posted by nbleak21

w0w.

Lets hope the brunt of that isn't the drivetrain!

A quick search shows the following:

Insight engine weight = ~128 lbs
Insight transmission = ~50 lbs
Insight hybrid system = ~95 lbs

Total drive train = 273 lbs

Beetle engine weight = ~360 lbs
Beetle transmission = ~80 lbs

Total drive train = 440 lbs

Delta = 167 lbs... or around 9% of the entire vehicle weight.

I'll be moving the battery to the rear hatch to help with weight distribution. Unfortunately I'm going to have to use a battery with a higher capacity to start the high compression diesel so that will add more weight...

I'm guessing the car will be ~200-250 lbs heavier than a stock Insight with the additional bracing and other mods necessary to pull this off.

P.S. Beetlejuice is broken. It developed a loud clunk and a bad shudder engaging 1st gear... I suspect the dual mass flywheel has given up the ghost due to me beating on it.

[gtmotor]

Garages and frickin' laser beams!

Click to view my latest post below

www.hondatdi.com

Starting to get geeky now...

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by gtmotor

I'm obviously not condoning skipping out on emissions regulations (especially on a forum like this!!) but there are times when they simply don't make sense.

Sometimes the emissions regulations seem too dumb to be true. EPA witch-hunting against Diesels is one of those pointless aspects of the current "environmental" laws.
workaround ideas to discuss among friends: Arguments against EPA witch-hunting regarding Diesels without mandatory emissions equipment

[gtmotor]

So, I'm debating using a Civic hatchback (EG) instead of an Insight for this project. I can't find a reasonably priced Insight around here (people want insane money for these right now).

Pros for the Civic:

- Easier swap
- Can carry 4-5 people if needed
- Has more room to carry junk
- Parts more readily available

Cons for the Civic:

- Heavier
- Less aerodynamic
- Not as interesting

Should I keep holding out for an Insight or just buy one of the dozens of Civic hatchbacks on Craigslist?

[California98Civic]

Looking for salvage title vehicles?

[gtmotor]

Originally Posted by California98Civic

Looking for salvage title vehicles?

I was trying to avoid it but I may pick up one depending on why it was salvaged. Flood or theft history would be fine, crash damage will probably not be fine.

[arcosine]

How about a TDI into a 2nd gen CRX swap? Lots of CRX shells for sale on CL.

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/search...inAsk=&maxAsk=

[MetroMPG]

A diesel CRX would be fun.

Otherwise, hold out for an Insight. Tony (especially!) and I have proven they're available out there for cheap if you're willing to hunt (and be patient).