Engine Installation Problem

[Ben L.]

In the process of installing my '65 327 engine on the frame, I have discovered a strange problem: the mounts on the frame appear to be about .75" too wide for holes in the engine mounts. I am using stock style engine mounts which are identical to the originals. This is a replacement frame, but I had it checked out at a frame shop, and the shop claims the frame is completely straight and does not appear to have been in a wreck. However, I could not find the correct center-to-center dimension for the engine mounts. By leaving the engine-to-mount bolts loose, I can install the mounts and then tighten all of the bolts. However, the sag in the rubber mounts indicates that the engine is positioned lower than normal. Can the car be safely run? If not, what is the fix? What is the correct dimension between mounts? I have spoken to several 'Vette guys about my problem, and nobody seems to have encountered this situation.

[Patrick H.]

Re: Engine Installation Problem

My guess, only from talking with a reputable Corvette vendor this past summer, is that it's the motor mounts. Foreign sourced mounts available through most catalogs and parts stores do not fit like the originals.

I'm open to other thoughts, but this is the one that would be top on my list.

Patrick

[Tracy C.]

Re: Engine Installation Problem

Ben,

You might try using thick flat washers as spacers between the mount and the block with longer bolts. This would keep from over stressing the rubber mounts.

tc

[Ben L.]

Re: Engine Installation Problem

Thanks for the suggestion. However, I compared the dimensions of the new mounts, and they are identical to the originals.

[Ben L.]

Re: Engine Installation Problem

TC,
Thanks for your suggestion. I am considering using spacers or shims between the mounts and the frame. The negatives to this solution is that it looks very non-stock, and if I have to use too many shims, I think it would become an unstable arrangement. This may be the only solution.

Ben

[Mike Cobine]

A Chevy is a Chevy -- but not in mounts

One of the beauties of owning a Chevy is that almost everything interchanged. However, motor mounts are a nightmare. If you took them and put one of each on a different table through a swap meet, you would swear most are the same. But if you lay them side by side, you can see subtle differences.

According the Motors Manual 1969, 1963 - 69 Corvette used 3886466.

So did 68 Chevy II 396, 66-67 Chevelle 396, 69 Camaro 307 and 396, 63-68 Chevrolet 396, 409, 427.

think of all the other small blocks out there.

Here are the other part numbers:

3777409
3840750 & 3840749
3901367
3904083
3906956
3920622 & 3920621
3920627
3928391
3937930
3939728
3943218 & 3941807

These are just the V8 cars. So when they quit making those for new or nearly new cars, they began making generic mounts that don't fit any right, but are close enough for a bit of crowbar power on most.

You might have to try several sets to get one that fit. Or another manufacturer.

Been there, done that. Yes, it is a pain.

Life is easier if you have a set of originals, even if they are so old and rotten you'd never run them. Use them to compare at the store before coming home and it saves a lot of aggravation.

[Ben L.]

Re: A Chevy is a Chevy -- but not in mounts

Thanks for the advice. Do you have a source for the mounts that you've listed. I am so desperate to solve this problem, I may buy all of them and use trial and error until I find the one that fits the best!

[Mike Cobine]

Re: A Chevy is a Chevy -- but not in mounts

If you go trial and error, I'd recommend going to the local parts stores. That is where I got my last set I bought, but that was about 12 years ago. A lot of things have disappeared in that time.

If you have an old one, take it along to compare. And remember, every store has a different source, so they could be right at one of them. Basically, you might need a sympathetic parts guy who will let you open and check each box of Chevy mounts. Don't go at a busy time.