Aussieveedubbers · Non-VW Engine Conversions

EA82 without cutting bodywork in 73 beetle?

https://forums.aussieveedubbers.com/threads/40092/ea82-without-cutting-bodywork-in-73-beetle

gerrelt ·

Hi!

Will the EA82 engine (this is the one with SOHC, right?) fit in the back of a 1973 beetle (a 1303) without cutting the bodywork? Or is this only possible with the EA81 engine?

Thanks in advance!

Greetings,
Gerrelt

silverbullet ·

Not sure about a 73 beetle, but i fitted a EA82t to a 69 and i ended up cutting out alot of metal out. But also had to make room for the turbo and intercooler. Not sure about EA81.

Jeza ·

The EA81 is push rod (I think) so I wouldn't bother. (it is narrow though)

From my measures the EA82 does require some of the shelf either side of the engine bay removed.

I would have a look for the newer EJ series engine- but stick with the SOHC variety, such as the EJ18 (1800) or EJ22 (2200) both are actually narrower than the EA82 but slightly longer- thats ok though as it still looks to fit nicely in a bug.

To clear the air intake you need to either turn the manifold around (and relocate the alternator), use the funky Custom off road intake manifold inverter http://www.customoffroad.com.au/partFull.asp?partid=33 or cut a hole in your filewall.

The EJ22 has more power than the EA82T stock, if power is a concern. If you'd like a turbo, well the EJ20 turbos require a lot of work to fit- but from all accounts it is apparently well worth the effort 🙂

Good luck with the decision making.

Cheers
Jeremy

1303Steve ·

Hi

Also turn your trans mount around to move the tranny forward, this really helps.

Steve

gerrelt ·

Thanks for your replies!

I asked the question because I've got to choose between a subaru or an alfa romeo engine. That last one certainly needs cutting.

Greetings!

Gerrelt.