VR6 24V Interchangability

[jwwells]

Hey
I am wondering if the VR6 in our Eurovans is specific to the Eurovan or if it's only a slightly modified version that's found in other VW models.
I'm specifically wondering about timing chain parts and how DIY threads for other VR6 engines relates to ours.
Thank You!
Jay
2001 EV MV

[gti_matt]

I believe it's only slightly modified (oil pan and oil pickup due to the tilted-forward mounting, and maybe intake manifold too) and most other DIYs indeed do apply.

[rensho]

Valve cover, pan, oil filler, oil pump are different.

There is also a difference in 1 mounting hole alignment (comparing auto with auto). I'm told the manual tranny version of the BDF vr6 block has the same mounting hole pattern as the EV.

I installed a BDF auto long block into mine and had to adapt the 1 misaligned hole. It has worked well for past 4 years, with no issues.

[jwwells]

Thanks for the info rensho!