1986 Vanagon Syncro Doublecab
My Syncro failed California smog. Its Subaru SVX power time. I originally wanted to stay all VW. The more i researched doing a VW I-4 swap the more I realized that using a motor from another manufacturer was no more difficult. The only down side being the adapter plate. I flirted with the G-60 but I want torque, I dont want a high revving motor. A TDI would be great, but all the wrecking yards want a fortune for this motor. Like 3-5K. Too much money. The SA Audi 5 cylinder was also a option, the parts however are also very expensive and somewhat on the exotic side. Also the Audi 5 is not exactly a engineering marvel. The Subie motor is a well documented option. The SVX conversion parts that Small Car supply convinced me. The more research I did on this motor the more it impressed me. It also fairly affordable. The SVX finds its way into the wrecking yard quite often due to the maint costs and complexity of these cars. The EJ22/33 motor is what turned Suburu around after some dismal engineering in the 80's. Most folks agree its a sturdy well thought out motor. I think Subaru's current success in the marketplace is indicator of their engineering.
This car is my daily driver that i use to go to work every day and drive my kids around. My mods will be orientated around driveability and all-around enjoyment rather then ultimate performance. So things like A/C will be given priority over off-road ability. If I had found a 2wd I would be just as happy but the tall Syncro is nice too. If i can't afford a decoupler I may pull my driveshaft. The Viscous Coupler seems to tear up my expensive tires pretty quickly for day to day commuting.
Current Modifications, Repairs and Features
| Mercedes ML320 Wheels with Pirelli Scorpions | Old Man Emu Shocks | Syncro.org Springs |
| Factory Mud Flaps | Power Steering Install | Projekt Zwo Fog Light Grill |
| Westfalia Trailer Hitch | All new rear brakes | Front and rear diff locks |
| VolksCafe Big Front Brakes | Carputer | Recaro Seats |
| Factory Roof Rack | Unknown Power Sunroof | GL Interior |
Project Diary and Documentation
A diary of the conversion when i remember to update! Hopefully help others with their project
Projects on the cooker!
Part Numbers
Useful Information
Vacuum Tubing and Emissions Diagram
Cooling System Diagram
My diagramo of the SVX Vanagon Cooling layout
Other Folks HOW-TO ?
A SVX owners Timing Belt How-to
Tom Salicos Vanagon SVX Conversion Web page with Timing Belt How-to
Subaru Vanagon Web page
Mostly 4 cylinder EJ22 conversion info but a great info source, most info applies to EJ33 as well
Part Suppliers
Small Car
The guys who pioneered this swap and really support it!Kennedy
The original Adapter guys, The finest SoCal Sandbuggy engineering!Volkscafe
Fantastic service on general Vanagon parts, dont bother with the dealer, they dont want to help!VanPerformance
These guys make Stainless coolant line system specifically for the SVX conversion, I got purchased one, great workmanship
Bellhousing Options (instead of adapter plates)
RJES British company making a nice Bell-Housing
Its expensive but very cool. If I ever do a 914 SVX or WRX conversion I would like to use this part.
Great Info Sources
WRX VW Web Site
Best site for explaining the Adapter Plate Stud to bolt conversion and good forumYahoo Group SVX Vanagon Group
Best all round Forum for SVX Conversioneers
Pictures
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