engine switch a roo

If someone had a 2001 regular passat, and they wanted to put a VW diesel engine in it, is that possible? Is it only the engine that would have to be switched, or would other parts of the car need changed so it could run on diesel?

Diesel generally require higher fuel pressure. In this sense, the fuel pump and lines would need to be switched. Also, the ECM (if not the harness as well) would have to be switched out. Tons of work, IMHO , sell the passat and spend the money towards a diesel one.

If your child had chicken pox, you wouldn't say "this looks like a lot of work, think I'll get new one..."
ha ha, just kiddin.

I love my car, and I love the thought of making it last for an insanely long time ... but I'd like a diesel. Maybe I'll make my next car last an insanely long time.

Also, lord knows I'd be having a mechanic do this. But just for theoretical purposes (on this thread), I'm pretending that money is no object.

Random is correct. Don't do this, it makes no economic sense.
However, for the sake of the argument, you would need to to change:

the engine,

Transmission and transaxle; the diesel revs slower so the final drive is a different ratio. The trans mission intenal gear ratios are different, too.

In an automatic, the torque converter is different.

fuel system (fuel pump, filter, pressure regulator and lines, evaporative emission controls; possibly the tank, too.

Exhaust system.......diesels push much more air and gases down the pipe than a gas engine does, except when the gas engine is at full throttle. Also the catylitic converter must go.

air intake system.

All engine wiring and engine related electronics like ECM, etc.

Bascially the motor, and everything that touches the motor. But your right... I went though like five kids before I realized you could just treat the chicken pox. Oh well... that sweat shop said they could use the extra help.

I would rate THIS engine swap at SLIGHTLY easier than mine:
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=450167

I think yours would be alot harder.

Also its not just the amount of work involved, but you would come out probably almost as cheep just buying a diesel