Engine Mount & Torque Brace Install

When the engine was rebuilt initially, I used what I thought were new "factory" mazda motor mounts. Unfortunately I discovered otherwise when I felt how badly the engine & trans moved around. So I decided to go through with an upgrade to some of Banzai Racing's poly urethane mounts. Without pulling the whole motor, this install was a pain to do with just hand tools and a floor jack. I had to jack the motor up from the transmission, and attempt to wedge a socket over the engine mount bracket nuts, all the while hoping that nothing broke from the tension. Long story short, I recommend installing them while the motor is out.

Note: This picture was taken from Banzai Racing's website, this is not my motor.



In addition to the mounts, I decided to pick up Garfinkle's Engine Torque Brace for added stiffness. Even though it was probably unnecessary considering how stiff the mounts were, it's good to have for piece of mind. This was even more of a pain in the ass to install than the motor mounts. The brace has 2 mounting points, one on the frame and one on the intake manifold. In order to install this properly, you need to drill 4 holes in the frame near the fender, and remove the fender & ABS system for ease of install. I also had to drill out the pre-threaded holes in the brace because it didnt line up correctly. After some headache and persuasion, It finally worked out. I guess its worth it for the beefiest engine torque brace around.

Finished Product: