The primary purpose of an engine mount is to secure an engine into machinery, and to then absorb any shocks and vibrations when the machinery is operating. The anti-vibration properties of engine mounts are essential for preventing damage to the engine and for improving operator comfort (where applicable). However, no matter the quality of engine mounts, they begin to wear down after usage and require replacement. Not replacing an engine mount that is past its prime can inflict damage to the engine, cause discomfort for operators and potentially be a safety risk. Being aware of the signs of a worn engine mount will help you to identify when they need replacing.
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Increased Vibrations
If you start your engine and notice that it is making more of a noise than usual, and can feel more vibrations than usual, this is a key sign of a worn engine mount and it may need replacing. If an engine mount is damaged, its anti-vibration properties weaken. An increase in vibrations leads to the engine making more of a sound than usual – something that can be extremely damaging to an engine if it continues for a long time.
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Rocky Start
Upon starting a machine, you may notice an excessive lurch that doesn’t feel or sound healthy. This is a common indicator of a worn or damaged engine mount. This lurch then often steadies into a constant vibration, but you may then also experience a lurch when turning the ignition off.
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A Bumpier Ride
Often, an engine mount that needs replacing can cause a jolt when changing gears on an attached transmission. This jolt or thump can also be noticeable when travelling at faster speeds due to the engine working harder. If your machine doesn’t feel as smooth as usual, this can often be down to a damaged engine mount.
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Impact Noises
A worn engine mount can often lead to ‘clunks’ and ‘bangs’ within its surroundings/engine bay. This is as a result of the engine moving around more than normal and making contact with other components, which in turn can cause impact sounds that become quite noticeable.
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Visual Wear
With use, the metal part of an engine mount does change in appearance. However, if you can see any significant corrosion, cracks or warps to the part, it is likely that excessive wear will be occurring to the rest of the mount. If you notice any cracks or flaking to the rubber aspect of an engine mount, this can potentially limit its performance depending on the severity of the cracks and the route cause. The efficiency and effectiveness of engine mounts relies on their form and shape, and so any changes to this can be damaging to the engine. If you do notice any of these signals, you should look into replacing engine mounts as quickly as possible.
