Diar33

I just bought a 12a, a 13b, two trannys(one from each setup I'd assume) and some misc stuff for mazda's. The guy I bought this stuff from got them with a Toyota which had the 12a in it, and the 13b was supposed to go in next. He wanted to go back to Toyota power and unloaded them cheap, which was great for me.

I am a classic VW guy and have been thinking of putting a rotary engine in a beetle, which really isn't an uncommon conversion. The problem is, since I don't know a whole lot about the motors, I'm not sure what would be needed to get each to run, or even what specific engines I have, as I don't know what year cars they came from. I spent some time searching online to see if I could find more information with a serial number or something, but had no luck. Could one of you guys help me find a serial number or some way of identifying what motors I have? I know neither is turbo, I have the carbs for the 12a...and I can take pictures if that helps.

I realize this might not be the right place to post this, but I would like to be in touch with some local rotary guys since I'm sure I'll be needing some help in the future

Also, the tranny's and extra stuff are for sale, I know there's a steering wheel.. not sure what else.

Thanks in advance,
Travis

Fd3BOOST

iTrader: (7)

They are all basically the same. The 12a has slightly smaller rotors and thiner housings accordingly. You can carb or efi. As opposed to the air cooled motor your used to the rotary does not like to be run hot. Actually heat is the enemy generally speaking. You will need a good radiator with electric fans. A well vented oil cooler. Other than that you need ignition, carb or efi set up. Thats about it. You might be able to find some swap info on www.thesamba.com

Diar33

I've actually found a bunch of info on the conversion on two forums, http://www.shoptalkforums.com/viewforum.php?f=19 and http://frost.bbboy.net/vwengineconversions and from the guys that make the adapter, http://www.kennedyeng.com/

What I was looking for was maybe the power I could expect from each, stock or with maybe a street port or turbo. I saw there are a bunch of different 13b's (DEI-RESI-REW) and am a little curious which one I have. This is important, for power and engine choice of course, and for tranny choice. Kennedy Engineering says with a stock rotary my stock bug trans should be fine, though a bus one is a little stronger. I also have a Porsche 5spd tranny which is way stronger than either and a 5spd, it just takes some extra fab work.

Also, I don't think either one is complete, though I may be wrong. I was wondering if maybe I could send someone pics to get an idea of what it may take to get them (either) running.

I know the 12a would be a much easier swap, as it's carb'd and has less wiring, but I may prefer the 13b's power, if you guys think it's worth it : )


Thanks again,
Travis

Fd3BOOST

iTrader: (7)

Well you said you have a 12A and a 13B. Your going to get more power out of the 13B Obviously. Porting the motor will give you more top end on both. You will lose some low end power. Your not going to get a load of power out of either though without a turbo. You could bridge or p-port the motor and run nitrous but if you ask me that is unreaslistic for a street car. The way to make power with a rotary is to boost it with a turbo. Don't quote me but i think you can expect around 120-140hp out of that 13b N/A. If you did not plan on boosting the motor you might be better off sticking with a stroked flat four.
If you post pics of what you have then I could tell you what your missing if anything.

Diar33

Thanks again, I'll grab some pictures tomorrow : )

Diar33

I have some webspace that one of my jobs gave me for free, so I decided to finally use it. Check the pics out at www.travisvaldes.com. Please help me figure out what it is I have and what I need.

If the pics aren't good enough just let me know what you need better shots of : )

And again, if it's not a motor part, it's for sale. I think I forgot to take a pic of the steering wheel, it's a purple/maroonish color.

Thanks again!
Travis

tr4c3

Just wondering, you pick these up from craigslist? I saw the ad and was thinking of jumping on it, but have too many other projects.

Diar33

Yep, got it off craigslist. : )

So, what's the verdict? What's it gonna take me to start one of these puppies up?

Diar33

Anyone? I'd really appreciate the help : )