VW type 1 engine into a Porsche 356
 

Hi Guys,

I want to put a beetle engine (type 1) into a Porsche 356 gearbox. The engine is the same size to the bellhousing, so no adapter is needed. But the flywheel is about 1-2mm too large and scrapes on the gearbox.

Can i get a new flywheel & clutch etc to make this cheaper & possibly more powerful engine to work in a Porsche 356 gearbox. Its a 1962 (B) T6 gearbox if that makes a difference.

Can anyone help out ?

Thanks
Mike

Hey Mike -

I just recently finished a 2332cc Type I conversion. This engine is now in my "62 356 B and it is awesome. I'm 120% satisfied with it, and it was fun to do. For the flywheel, I used a lightened one from Scat and had a machinist put a 6 volt gear on it, balance it etc... This way, I got the 200mm size clutch instead of the 180mm. I was able to use Type I and some extra 356 engine tin, combine them with some cutting/welding etc., and created a completely factory look that I am very happy with. If I can share anything else about the conversion, let me know.

Mike

Hey Mike,

I recently acquired a (strangely enough) '62 T6 356B (that came with no motor) and am also considering installing a VW engine into the project for economic reasons. Since I have no experience with either the 356 or with VWs I would really appreciate a summary of what is involved with the conversion and any direction you can give to sources of information and/or required equiptment/supplies.

Thanks in advance

Laurence

Hi, saw your post, could you give me any more info on using a type 1 engine in a 356? I have a
62 notchback and a spare 912 engine but want to save some money and get more power with a type 1. Any photos? Thanks, Ron in Maryland. 62 356 notch and 68 912 targa

There will be a posibilities for more powerful engine to work in a Porsche 356 gearbox.

You can put the engine up in there and if you have it level you can turn the crank shaft and as you turn the flywheel will grind off what little you need to remove. I've done this with VW's before and it takes no time at all. Is it a 6 or 12 volt flywheel. You may have to change the starter gear or modify it so it will mesh right.