16v conversion

Hi guys,

I've been thinking a lot lately about the route I want to go down with the Jetta. Given that my main ambition is to keep it forever my main thought process has been engine related. I do like the little small block 1.3 (once it's warmed up), but I really am keeping it just to be original at the moment. I'm contemplating storing the 1.3 incase I change my mind and want to go back down the original route, and swapping in a 16v engine.

I know there are countless threads on here, and I am reading them! I'm just trying to get my head round how easy it is and which 16v to go for. It would pretty much be me and my dad doing it (we're by no means mechanics), with a bit of help from my mate who is a mechanic.

I've been reading a thread on the 9A conversion, is that my best bet? 

9a and Kr carry more exhaust options and less wiring to be done. I'd choose 9a block over a Kr purely as its 2.0, but saying that, that's the sole reason kr's are cheap! 

For the conversion you need roughly 
-move drivers engine mount
-mk2 Kr ecu and ignition wiring loom (if Kr/9a is chosen)
-conversion exhaust manifold 
-gearbox to suit (mk1 020, mk2 020 or mk3 02a) 
-bigger rad
-exhaust system 
-big block engine mounts


If it was me doing it in your position, I'd do a Kr on Kr injection with the mk2 16v box (basically but a Kr setup from a mk2) and run that as so, if you feel you need an extra 200cc's can swap the block out after if needed 

I'd run injection over carbs regardless of people saying its easier, it's not and it's more expensive if you can't fab stuff yourself. 

The 16v range are generally more revs friendly, consider 2 ltr 8v power, can use more mk1 golf parts I think its fair to say. With the right gearing it makes for a civilised ride. or even the 1.8 8v engine, can then use all mk1 parts

Thanks for the info guys, I can imagine it's a commonly asked question but I've got some good info to go off here. Gotta start somewhere!

have a think about the 1.4 16v, its closer to the 1.3 engine in terms of originality, plus a hell of a lot easier to fit

Bit late John, but do you mean the AFH engine from the polo? I had one of those and it went like stink for a 1.4. I thought it was harder to put that in!

yeah afh is the polo lump, its easier to put in as its still a small block so will go in on your old engine mounts though need to make a 5 speed box mount if you want to bin off the 4 speed box.

then you can either put it on carbs if splice the ecu loom in which is basically same job as doing a mk2/3 engien swap really