New engine mount

[DZFord]

Over the last few months I have noticed increasingly worse vibration through the cabin, especially when at idle and under acceleration. I suspected one of the engine mounts was to blame and after some research, found out that the upper (driver's side) engine mount was prone to failure. I picked up the part from Ford ($230) - and with the help of a mate yesterday, we swapped it over. The old engine mount rubber was cracked and compressed and had way more play / give compared to the new mount.

There are a total of 3 mounts on the LS/T/V - 1 x upper mount (cabin insulator), 1 x rear mount (roll / torque restrictor) and 1 x transmission mount.

When swapping it over, I'd recommend an engine crane to take the pressure off the mount, but you can get away with blocks of wood + jacks under the sump if you're game. A torque wrench is also essential for re-tightening to new mount to spec.

I was so amazed as to how much difference the new mount made to ride comfort and how little cabin vibration I have now. Highly recommended!

Here is a good youtube clip of what is involved on a US Focus (some things are slightly different): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_r0Jh294FM

[Fast Eddie]

Excellent info DZ. As far as you know, was the MK1 prone to engine mount failures?

[DZFord]

I did not come across any Mk1 failures, just plenty on the Mk2 and the Mazda 3, which use near identical mounts.

[Fast Eddie]

Thanks mate.