Is it possible to replace an 8v head for a 16v head?

[91jettafreak]

Well the subject says it all! Can you replace an 8v head with a 16v head on the 1.8L engine? I'd like to know if this is possible or if anyone has attempted it. My engine is currently a 1.8 8v engine and I'd like to have a 1.8L 16v but can't find one arround here thats in decent shape (really high miles) anyway I hope thats it's possible because the 16v would be a better head to run a turbo with!

[jettadude]

the 16V were 2.0's i belive. from what ive learned you can't switch heads. the 8V is best for turbo.

[Mortal_Wombat]

no, not with out more work than its worth (switching pistons and a bunch of other junk. there were 2 16v blocks the 1.8 and the 2.0 both the heads from both of them are pretty much the same IIRC, if you want the 16v engine just pull the whole thing from another car

[Mr_Diesel]

the 16V were 2.0's i belive. from what ive learned you can't switch heads. the 8V is best for turbo.

16V is WAY better for a turbo... Only 91's and 92's were 2.0L 16V... All the rest were 1.8L... And yes, this actually is a semi-popular conversion... Where there is a will, there is a way. Google it and let me know what you find out. There are some 16V heads on ebay right now for less than 100 bucks.

[Mortal_Wombat]

To do it you have to use the 16v pistons, otherwise valves will hit the pistons :-/
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=993704 READ THIS THREAD
i found it in the 8valve faq on the vortex. its just easier to swap the whole longblock got a friend who is doing it, gonna run a 16v off of digi2

[jettadude]

wow. when im wrong IM WRONG! lol :lol:

[91jettafreak]

Thanks guys you've been a great help!

[Mr_Diesel]

Yeah dude. If you need help or assistance in doing the conversion, I'd be happy to provide input. I'd like to see it done!

[91jettafreak]

I'm gonna look arround this weekend to see if I can find a 16V head and other components to do the conversion! I've recently added some updated pics to my website so don't hesitate to check them out! There are many mods to come! I've even shaved the rear door handles. It's going to look great!

http://www.91jetta.150m.com

[Mortal_Wombat]

you need more than just the head you know that right...you need either the PISTONS or the whole damn 16v engine block...if you put that thing strait on your 8v engine your gonna bend valves.

[Mr_Diesel]

Yep, it's true! 16V head the valves open at an angle, and you'll most definatly bend valves if you don't get the 16V pistsons!

[91jettafreak]

Thanks for the feedback guys I'll just grab the engine and harness and all, that way there'e no chance in hurting anything. I know alot about engines and all being a mecanic but VW's are new to me! I know that clearances are very important! all cars are different, yet the same you know! and besides when you have a question why not go where you'll get the right answers. Thanks guys once again for the help!