Odd ball 12a swap?
 

So I joined this forum looking for some advice on a FWD swap I've been wanting to do for some time. Hoping that someone can lead me in the right direction.
I have a 91' Volkswagen Golf, and a 12a that I think would make a good pair.
I'm a true rotary fan! But, also a big VW fan.
I need help finding info on FWD rotary conversions..
I have some basic knowledge to get this done. Just need more information before I pull the trigger.
Like transmissions that might bolt up??... That's my biggest problem right now. I thought about getting adapters made to run a VW flywheel, and pressure plate. Then running a diesel 02J transmission..
But I'm getting ahead of myself..
I need more info, cause this has never been done in a Volkswagen to my knowledge?

Anybody out there that can help me?

welcome to the board. :)

it will likely be an uphill battle for you in terms of teasing out information on your proposed project. i've seen a couple of rotary swaps into Honda Civics, so i have no reason to believe someone hasn't already put one in a VW. it may just be hard to find documentation of it.

i don't think you got ahead of yourself at all. i doubt there's any VAG transaxle that will bolt up to a rotary. i think you have it just right. you need to choose the part you want to use, then trudge along the path toward making it work. you'll have to find a shop that can make an adapter plate for you, then work out your flywheel/starter/clutch issues.

as someone that digs VW-Audi/Porsche, i am very interested in seeing your progress on this project as you pursue it.

I knew asking about a trans that has the same bellhousing pattern was a stretch.. lol
The biggest issue I haven't addressed yet is will the rotor housing clear the axle shaft on a 02J? Will they interfere with the exhaust??
I need measurements, but don't have the parts... Yet.
I really wish I could find more info, but it's like FWD rotary swaps are a big secret?

i didn't even think about that (but then again, in all fairness, why would i?) ...

check this out though: FWD rotary conversion
pretty interesting things in it. may be helpful.

The only rotary adapters I have seen have been for VW transaxle (longitudinal), Subaru transaxle (longitudinal) and Honda K20 transaxle (transverse).

I think the Honda K20 trans has the best chance of fitting without cutting up the unibody. Unfortunately, it is an unreliable transmission. Just get used to having to hold it in gear or rig up a bungee cord to hold it in gear.

Attachment 605078


you'll also need to be good at creating heat shields.

I seen that page before.
My biggest issue is "will it fit"?
I want to keep it as much VW as I can. Have seen the rear engine conversions, and the rest that show up on Google.
My adapter is going to be custom unfortunately, I already knew that. But I'm prepared to spend the cash to make this happen.
So far I have enuf info gathered between 3 different forums to proceed. I have mounting options from images I've seen, and the wife is now on board. (An added bonus)
I still need to find out if the 02J axle housing will clear the rotor housings, and if the exhaust ports clear the axle.
The ball is rolling!!
Of course the wife says go all out with a peripheral port, and make it dance!! I'm thinking really conservative..
But first we have to get it in the car!!