thanks for the reality check much needed more often than not.
Im better off modifying the ca18de block up the top just to
fit and run a zx14 head much easier and cheaper.

I will need someone to weld cast iron and retap some holes for
the head studs to suit the Kawa head. All water galleries line
up pretty much and so does the main oil drainage.
Only need to re-route the pressurised oil feed using a line
similar to what Isuzu used for their twin cam heads and get the
kawa bike sprocket put into the ca18 crank.
Will need electric waterpump or sigma modded mechanical one so
it can miss the top part of the chain mechanism.
This will be a side project while I work on putting in a stock
ca16de turbo setup using ca18et factory bits inc. little t20 turbo.
Will be a cheap setup saving money for the NA ca16zx (>1900cc).

http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread ... -on-casting-parts%2Fpage3

for anyone wanting to cast their own parts, probably some of the best
stuff Ive ever seen done by anyone apart from joining 2 twin cam heads
together for a 6 cylinder. Get a cuppa or a beer and enjoy a good few
hours of reading and pictures detailing every bit by bit. enjoy!

I am seriously considering following something like the idea you are throwing about. So I am keen to see how you go. I am sure this isn't the cheap upgrade route, but my word it would be amazing to say I built this car...including the engine...no really, I built the engine.
Keep the updates coming and the interesting articles.

Thanks Mick, hope you enjoy the articles.

I still think the ca18 can be chopped removing the cylinder casing
and use a t5 box instead then it only needs 4 mounting points.
Removing the cylinder casing and using Kawa mid and top end.
The Kawa mid section can have the top 2 mounts for the t5 box
easily welded or tapped with a C shaped halve a box plate.

Just ideas for now. JB weld is going to be my friend :)

awesome info on casting alloy engine blocks
Detailed reading so need to find a conformable
chair and your best drop of liquid....
http://www.kolbenschmidt.com.tr/pdf/b ... re/KS_50003804-02_WEB.pdf