vw tdi into 86ish 4runner

[tdirunner]

I am about to embark on a 1 year project starting with a 86ish 4runner body and ending with a VW turbo diesel powered, well rounded beast. I know I want to use a motor from an 04'-05' VW and I want a 4Runner with the removable top. The conversion plate that joins the motor to the tranny requires the truck come with the 5 speed tranny used with a 4 cylinder engine. Has anyone been part of this swap before or have any pointers? I will be using the truck to pull wave-runners, a trailer with random stuff from Lowe's, local top off cruising, and mild-moderate trail use when camping (truck will drive a couple hours of interstate to get to the trail. I had a 95' 4 runner with 2" SL and 2 1/4" BL on 33x14.50's and I'll probably end up with a similar ride height with this one. Sorry if I offend any Yota purists but I was lucky to pull 18mpg in my '95 where these swaps into yota pick ups are reporting around 30mpg. That being said, I'm interested in any pointers or arguments as to why one year Runner would be better than another (ie- solid front axle vs IFS or any something about a model year that makes it more swap friendly). Thanks in advance for any help you can offer. I look forward to updating with pics and stories.

PS- if my wife leaves me, is there anyone looking for a room to rent in a 4wheeling friendly house in south east VA?

[fourwd1]

The only difference in years is the solid axle vs IFS. Solid axle might give you more room underneath depending on the VW oil pan. That's the only benefit I can think of.

[fourwd1]

SO, did you ever do this swap?
If so, pics would be great.

[tdirunner]

well I just bought the truck 2 weeks ago. ended up with a 87 4runner with bedliner exterior. has a solid running motor so it will get me around until I get the tdi and other needed parts for the swap. I'll probably start collecting parts next summer. in the meantime, the rear driveshaft dropped out at 55mph so I'm working on replacing that along with the companion flange that goes to the transfer case. I think the rear diff flange is okay. it hit my driver side nerf bar with enough force to dent the crap out of it but I'll take that over an exploding gas tank any day. the guy I bought it from threw in his homemade half doors and bikini top and has been helping me locate parts.