Engine swap advice

May 03, 2026, 11:46:25 PM

So my 1.8PB now has 193K on the clock and feels like it's in need of an engine "fettle"/swap. I'm tempted by a 2litre block but retaining a PB head and Digi injection. Which engine is the simpler swap? AGG, 2A, or another?? and how do you distingush them.
Noted a couple of Audi ACE/bubble engines for sale but they seem more of a faff having to move the oil filter, oil pick-up and sump.
Tried to search this site for such conversions but my searches aren't returning anything. TIA.

Re: Engine swap advice

Reply #1 – May 05, 2026, 05:36:55 PM

ABF 2ltr is popular but you have to fettle the downpipe a bit as the engine block is taller.

Re: Engine swap advice

Reply #2 – May 07, 2026, 06:52:02 AM

Problem is nowadays, any engine you swap in is going to be over 30 and feel almost just as tired.

Personally, I'd use the money getting your 1.8 rebuilt.
As long as the bores are good, a hone, fresh set of piston rings and a handful of other refresh bits should see it back to it's best.

First, you should get someone to do a leak down test. You may find you've got something like worn stem seals/guides and can get away with just a head rebuild.

I know I'm probably the last person to tell you not to swap out the engine, but if you want to get best bang for your buck, you may be better off keeping what you have.