VW transaxles were never intended to mate with Mazda engines, so an adapter kit is a necessity. The basic adapter kit consists of an adapter plate and a modified VW flywheel. Also recommended is a new clutch to replace the stock VW clutch.
Below is the picture of the adapter plate and flywheel. The side of the adapter plate with the studs sticking out is the side that goes to the transaxle. The other side (the one that is face-down) mates with the engine.
Below is a picture of the clutch kit (pressure plate, clutch disc, throw-out bearing, and assorted hardware). The pressure plate I chose is a stage 1, and the clutch disc is the 6-pad version.
One thing that’s not included (nor did anyone mention it to me) is a heavy duty throwout bearing cross arm. These are recommended when you install a heavy duty pressure plate. The stock cross arm is notoriously weak (mine broke about a year after the engine swap). It’s a lot more conenient to change out the part now when you’ve got the engine off, than to pull everything apart when it breaks later on. Your local bugpack distributor should have them. I see the Chirco mail-order website also has them listed for sale.
Where did you buy your adapter I am looking at putting a 13 b in a 1991 vanagon. Rich Miller
I am re doing a Ghia and am thinking of all options on power plants.
TBH electric would be my first choice I feel the smooth body would be perfect.
But A guy was talking about a 12A to VW mating and It sounds interesting.
What about the Trans did you have any trouble with that much power. Also where did you get your parts and would you share more about this cool Idea? Parts list and little things like heavy duty throw out bearing and cross bar are Very helpful hints
Hi I putting a 13B Mazda engine on my vw my spacer is 5/8 thick and those not go in gear will this kit solve my problem and if it does were can I buy the full kit thank you .