12 Volt Starter

A lot of times when doing a project like this we don’t know what year or type of parts to purchase. I’m in the process of rebuilding an engine and have heard rumors that if i purchase a new or reman starter or other electrical component for that matter, I should find something froma 1978 VW bus with an automatic transmission. It apparently has no shaft extending into a bushing, and I can use it on any year 12 volt trans!

Big Bob VW Trike The Donor Trike Frame – VW Motor Performance~

Why should I use the VW motor?

Big Bob VW Trike Donor Motor Rebuild Kit Info~

What should we be looking for in a rebuild kit?

VW Engine – Common Finds

In the Big Bob Trike build we’re going to be using the VW 1600 Dual Port motor.  We had some people try to convince us to use a Fiero rear end with the 2.2 Liter chevy engine but that didn’t seem quite as “sexy” nor nearly as easy to service.  And we’re told that the Subaru engine is quieter and more powerful, but the rear torsion bar is just too heavy for a trike.

We’re using a Type 1 engine and trans and we’re also told that the Volkswagen type 3 will come out complete with the rear end and independent suspension can simply be lifted out.  Thus our choice is the VW package in terms of weight and strength for our trike build. 

Incidentally, one other benefit to the Volkswagen engine is that it doesn’t require a radiator and plumbing for water cooling.  We’re told “You could blow a hole in A VW engine with a shotgun and it’ll still run – they’re indestructible !”

Donor Motor Sizes

1250 cc  •  1300  •  1500 cc  •  1600 cc

Overbore Kits/Stroker Kits

1700cc  •  1800cc  •  2500cc