Thanks. I have not done the calculations of cost to install the TDI or it's hp difference. OM617 is heavy and definitely not the low end torque all my other diesels possess. OM turbo upgrade and then a pump will be my next most logical and less strenuous option

I am thinking of replacing my OM617 swap that is in an 83 Toyota with the 1.9 TDI. Anyone done this? Know of any links or sources and if you have done so? Advantages, challenges, etc...

Definitely check compression.... especially a used motor! I had to junk my first donor motor because of compression. Do the oil breather "dance" check. Because of lack of new parts, specialty tools, motor weight and stock tuning designs of the motor... I would not do my OM617 swap again.

Has it passed smog??? That will be a true unicorn in Fairyland! CA hates "dirty diesels"

If you own an OM617, you will want more HP! Diesel hp is limited by amount of fuel injected into the cylinders. You need an upgraded pump and possibly turbo and injectors! Welcome to the diesel world and the highly limited 5mm stock Mercedes/Bosch injection pump plungers