Mk1 Golf (1.8 Gti) engine tick over problem

Hello All,

I have a 1983 mark 1 Golf 1.8 Gti that had an engine problem, so I swapped it out for 1984 Sirocco 1.8 Gti engine (the same engine).

As a precaution I had the head skimmed and went about fitting the new engine.  At the same time I changed everything I could, Cam belt, filters, all the service points etc.

Once in the engine starts first time no problem but it wants to kick over between 1500 / 1700 rpm, and when you try and move he car there is no power / torque.  You can move the car but it feels like it is struggling to pull its own weight.

Does anyone have an idea what could be the problem?

Thanks for your support.

sounds like u  have a problem on the inlet side sucking air? inlet gasket or a pipe off.