Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our engine conversion adapter kits? We've put together answers to some of the most common questions about compatibility, installation, performance, and getting your conversion underway.
Adapter Kits & Compatibility
How do your adapters work?
Our adapter kits are designed to connect an engine to a transmission that it was not originally designed to fit.
By precisely replicating the original engine's transmission mounting pattern, our adapters allow you to retain a compatible transmission while installing a different engine.
We offer adapter kits for a variety of engine applications, including VW TDI diesel, VW gasoline, and BMW engines.
Our kits are designed to utilize factory components wherever possible, reducing the need for custom machining, modified input shafts, or extensive fabrication.
Each adapter kit is engineered for a specific engine and transmission combination. Check the individual product listing for compatibility, included components, and installation requirements.
Why are there two adapter plates?
Many of our adapter kits utilize a two-plate system that allows the engine to be rotated, or clocked, while keeping the transmission in its original orientation.
Depending on the application, the engine can be positioned at 0°, 10°, or 15°. This flexibility helps accommodate engine bay clearance and installation requirements.
Not all adapter kits use the same design or offer the same clocking options. Refer to the individual product listing for details.
Do I need a flywheel or flexplate?
Our adapter kits are designed to utilize factory flywheels or flexplates wherever possible, helping reduce the need for expensive custom components.
Depending on the engine and transmission combination, you may be able to retain the original flywheel, flexplate, clutch, or torque converter from the vehicle.
Some applications require specific components to work correctly. Refer to the individual product listing for details on what is included and what additional parts are required.
How accurate is the transmission alignment?
Precision is critical when adapting an engine to a transmission.
We use a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) to accurately measure and reverse-engineer original engine mounting dimensions. This allows us to manufacture our adapters with extremely tight tolerances.
Proper alignment is essential to prevent premature pilot bearing and input shaft bearing failure, excessive clutch wear, and potential transmission damage.
Will your adapter kits work with any transmission?
Our adapter kits are engineered for specific engine and transmission combinations. Not every transmission is compatible with every kit.
We offer adapter solutions for a variety of applications, but compatibility depends on the engine, transmission, and specific components being used.
Check the product listing before ordering. If you're unsure which kit you need, contact us with your engine, transmission, and vehicle information.
Do you manufacture custom adapter kits?
We do not currently offer custom adapter design or manufacturing services.
Our available adapter kits are listed on our website, and we're continually evaluating potential new applications.
Installation & Conversions
How difficult is an engine conversion?
The difficulty of an engine conversion depends on your vehicle, mechanical experience, and the extent of the modifications you plan to make.
We recommend approaching your conversion in three stages:
Stage 1 – Planning: Research your conversion, gather the necessary components, and create a plan before starting.
Stage 2 – Installation: Focus on getting the engine installed, running, and driving with minimal modifications to the engine and wiring harness.
Stage 3 – Upgrades: Once the vehicle is running and driving properly, you can move on to performance upgrades, custom wiring, gauges, and other improvements.
Breaking the project into stages reduces the number of variables you're dealing with and makes troubleshooting significantly easier.
You'll need standard mechanic's tools, an engine hoist, basic fabrication and welding equipment, some electrical knowledge, and a little patience.
Take your time, plan ahead, and don't try to make everything perfect on the first attempt. A successful conversion starts with a solid plan.
Does TD Conversions perform engine swaps on customer vehicles?
No, we do not currently offer engine conversion or installation services.
We manufacture and sell adapter kits designed to connect compatible engines and transmissions, helping make your engine conversion possible.
Do automatic transmissions work with your adapter kits?
Yes! Many of our adapter kits are compatible with automatic transmissions.
Depending on your transmission and vehicle, you may need a standalone transmission control module (TCM) or modifications to the existing transmission controls.
It's also important to consider your torque converter's stall speed and lockup characteristics, particularly when converting from gasoline to diesel. A different torque converter may be required to match the engine's operating range.
Always verify transmission compatibility before purchasing an adapter kit.
Can I put a VW TDI engine in a full-size truck?
Absolutely! VW TDI engines have been used in a variety of truck conversions, including half-ton pickups.
For larger vehicles, we recommend considering performance upgrades such as an ECU tune, upgraded turbocharger, and appropriate fueling modifications to provide the torque needed for the additional weight.
A properly configured TDI can produce impressive torque for its size, making it an interesting option for truck conversions where fuel efficiency is a priority.
Keep in mind that a TDI won't deliver the same horsepower or towing performance as a larger gasoline or diesel engine. Choosing the right setup for your vehicle and intended use is essential.
Will I need to modify my vehicle to install a different engine?
Yes. While our adapter kits simplify the connection between the engine and transmission, additional modifications are typically required to complete an engine conversion.
Depending on your application, these may include engine mounts, wiring, cooling system modifications, exhaust fabrication, fuel system changes, and other vehicle-specific work.
Our adapter kits handle the engine-to-transmission connection, but they are not complete, ready-to-drive conversion packages.
Cost & Performance
What does an engine conversion cost?
The total cost of an engine conversion depends on the vehicle, the condition of your donor engine, and your performance goals.
Your conversion budget should account for the engine, adapter kit, engine mounts, wiring, cooling system, exhaust, and any additional fabrication or modifications required.
Our adapter kits simplify the process by allowing you to retain your existing transmission and compatible drivetrain components, helping reduce the need for custom machining and fabrication.
For current adapter kit pricing and available options, browse our products or contact us to discuss your application.
Am I going to save money by converting to diesel?
Yes! A diesel engine can deliver significantly better fuel economy compared to your gasoline engine, depending on your vehicle and driving conditions.
The improved fuel efficiency can lead to substantial savings over time and help offset the cost of your conversion.
But let's be honest, you're really doing this because you love diesel engines, better fuel economy, and the satisfaction of building something awesome!
Can I increase the performance of my engine after converting?
Absolutely! Many engines commonly used in conversions offer excellent potential for performance upgrades.
Depending on your engine, common modifications include ECU tuning, upgraded turbochargers, fueling upgrades, and supporting engine modifications.
The amount of power you can achieve depends on the specific engine, its condition, and the combination of upgrades installed.
We recommend getting your conversion running and driving reliably before making major performance changes.
Ordering & Support
What comes with an adapter kit?
Kit contents vary depending on the engine and transmission combination.
Each product listing provides information about the included components and any additional parts required to complete the installation.
Be sure to review the product description before ordering.
How do I know which adapter kit I need?
Start by identifying the engine you plan to install and the transmission you want to use.
Our adapter kits are designed for specific combinations, so it's important to verify compatibility before purchasing.
If you're unsure, contact us with your engine model, transmission model, and vehicle year, make, and model. We'll help you determine which of our available kits is suitable for your project.
Can you help me plan my entire engine conversion?
We can assist with questions about our adapter kits, component compatibility, and installation requirements related to our products.
However, every conversion is different, and we cannot provide complete vehicle-specific conversion instructions or engineering services.
We recommend researching your particular vehicle and engine combination before starting your project.
How can I contact TD Conversions?
If you have questions about adapter kit compatibility, product availability, or your order, we're happy to help.
Email us at info@tdconversions.com with as much information about your project as possible, including your engine, transmission, and vehicle details. Or call 250-248-6024.