Pretty confident the IKX3 in my 48 is starting to give up the ghost. To me it sounds like a possible failing rod bearing. Engine only really dose it above idle. To me it sounds like belt squeal but it's coming from the block.
Anyways I'm curious in presuing alternate engines. Trying to find a small 3 cylinder Diesel in my area is useless.
I'm curious on the torque output of the factory engines. I can only find HP numbers.
The reason I'm asking is because I'm sure I can find a 1.8L or 1.5L VW Rabbit Engine for cheap. Between my lathe and my mill at work I don't see an issue in making it work. As long as the numbers are similar.
The gross torque for the IXK is 86 ft/lbs, net about 72ft/lbs. The later IXB was about 10% more. This is at 1800 rpm.