We all understand how vital an engine is for a car. Without this component, your automobile is not going to run at all. There is another car part that regular consumers ignore, which holds the equally important place as the engine—it is the engine mount.
Sometimes people call it ‘motor mount’ or ‘transmission mount’. The major purpose of this component is to prevent the engine from being directly mounted on the main car body. Its soft rubber material offers shock and vibration absorption that can make the ride more comfortable. The product performs differently from one manufacturer to another. Purchasing such an item with experienced and trusted producers, such as AA-TOP is the best bet to ensure you can receive all benefits from the engine mount.
Major types of the engine mount
There are three types of mounts available in the market. Although they all can absorb shock and vibration, they have different forms and function differently. An engine can use all types of mounts depends on the car and its requirements.
- Passive rubber mount: this is the most basic option of the engine mount. The metal mounting points are attached to the engine and the body, where the rubber blocks help stop the noise, vibration and harshness (also referred to as ‘NVH’) transferring to the frame.
- Passive hydraulic mount: this type of mount has an identical structure to a passive rubber mount; however, it has a hollow chamber that is filled with hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic mount can transfer less vibration to the frame compared to rubber mount; however, the durability is not as good as rubber, and it is more expensive.
- Active hydraulic mount: this is the most complicated type of amount available in the market. Besides the chamber filled with fluid, it also has a vacuum chamber which is controlled by a vacuum switching valve (VSV). The adjustability and ‘counter-vibration’ system make it the most versatile option, but also comes with a price that is unaffordable for many drivers.
How can you identify a failing engine mount?
After understanding the type of each mount as well as how they function, it helps you better spot the signs of any potential failures. For instance, the crucial function of an engine mount is to absorb vibration, and if you are sensing the car is moving and vibrating unreasonably stronger than how it usually feels, then it is better to ask an auto mechanic to inspect the situation in detail.
- Listen to the sound: this is a straightforward method to notice when the mount is loose or not. When you accelerate or stop unexpectedly, a clunking sound is likely to occur if the engine mount is failing.
- Carefully move the engine: you can be carefully pushing the engine and feel if there is excessive movement. If you are unsure whether the movement is abnormal, it is recommended to go to the mechanic and double-check the related parts of your vehicle.
- Vibration: the situation of excessive vibration can happen so slowly and gradually that most people are not going to notice it. Hydraulic mounts are more likely to be associated with this sign since they have a shorter lifetime. Rubber mounts are not excluded here, but high-quality AA-TOP mounts can reduce the likelihood of failure. More vibration will be transmitted to the car frame if the mount is working improperly.
Replacing an engine mount
Although it is not suggested that you should replace the failing mount yourself, it has no harm to understand more about how it could be done. Such a job should leave to professional so that other car components, such as the engine and the exhaust pipes, are remained intact during the repairing procedure.
- Supporting the engine: before you loosen any part of the engine and the engine mount, the first thing to do is using a jack or engine hoist to support the engine and prevent it from falling off. Due diligence must be performed to keep the engine from any potential damages.
- Loosening the engine and move it up: Use specific tools (they can be bought from stores or online) to loosen up the motor from the mount, and gently lift it so there is a space where you can detach and discard the failing part. If you are using the active engine mount, you should be marking the vacuum port hoses for your installation during the later stage.
- Installing the new engine mount: putting it back up is easy. Install all fasteners tight, then remove the hoist to allow the engine to rest on the mount. Reconnect all the lines if you are using an active hydraulic mount. Before you go on the road, make sure you check everything is tightened, and a few test runs nearby are suggested.
Now you have all the essential knowledge about the engine mount. Next time, when you are encountering into issues related to this specific component, you have sufficient understanding in selecting the best type of mount. Furthermore, you can now maximise its power by avoiding any potential failures. If you are looking for more options in engine mount, you can check out AA-Top where they can provide a massive range of this product. The perfect component for the car may just be there waiting for you.
