Cabriolet engine question

[skatehurt]

I have to get the engine head changed on my 1990 cabriolet but my mechanic mentioned swapping engine could be worthwhile as well as cheaper.
If you believe so, what engine would you recommend I look for? the same one again (1.8L) or a later one?
Or would you recommend just chasing down a second hand head?
All thoughts appreciated!
Felix

[Shadow_Rusty]

I think that the Mk3 1.8l is the usual choice, but a mk2 GTI 1.8 is also a great option.
Basically the JH (that should be in there) is a low compression version of the GTI 1.8...

I believe that any 8v k-jet head will fit straight on to your motor too...

My plan is to source some high Compression Pistons, a mild cam, and rebuild the JH in mine...

[sports racer]

Go MK3 2.0 bottom end and put a Digi head on it. Best combo for an 8v engine and it's cheap. Otherwise go 16v.

Cheers

Paul

[Shadow_Rusty]

Paul, won't that require changing the k-get for digi electronic injection?

Also, if you do just replace the head, to save yourself some potential hassle, get the camshaft / lifters when you get the head.
Basically, both the Hydrolic and NonHydrolic heads will fit, but the camshafts are different.

Lastly, don't forget that changing the motor for a different type may require getting an engineers certificate to get it registered with that motor.

[RedMk2Gti]

Go MK3 2.0 bottom end and put a Digi head on it. Best combo for an 8v engine and it's cheap. Otherwise go 16v.

Cheers

Paul

He need to change everything from k-jet to digi then. It may not be that simple. If OP want to keep it as k-jet, find another k-jet head or entire engine is the only way.