Using an AWM Auto Engine in a Manual Cart - Questions and pic of Crank

[icrashcars]

I picked up a clean 2001 B5 Avant (1.t, 5spd) that had an engine with a bad head. After pulling the head, the pistons, turbo, and just about everything else look fried as well. So I pulled the entire motor.

I found a local 1.8t AWM, but it was for an auto car. The engine only has 85k miles and is super clean, so I couldnt pass it up (only $150!). Ive read the threads about using an auto engine in a manual car, and I am prepared to do the necessary work.

However, when I separated the auto trans from the engine, the crank on the engine looks like it had been ground down?!

What does this look like to you guys? I had a pic prior to putting on the engine stand, but accidentally deleted it.

In short, the inside of the crank has been ground into a conical shape. The guy who sold it to me had no idea (he obviously wasnt a car guy).

crank by britt edward, on Flickr

[icrashcars]

update for anybody that finds this....turns out the engine was originally a manual car, and at some point someone ground down the manual crank to be used with an auto. time for a bottom end rebuild and new crank.

[walky_talky20]

Wow. Never seen that done. I guess they ran it without the torque converter centering bushing, too.

Good to know it's possible, albeit pretty janky.