The experience of unexpected thumps and increasing vibrations within the cabin are tell-tale signs that something is need of dire need of fixing; and fast. Not to worry though, while modern day engines are built to deliver maximum power with great efficiency, they are also made to withstand the tests of time and aging; least the stipulated servicing interval.What most people are experiencing in such situations is typically, worn engine mounts. Engine mounts are placements that help keep the engine bolted to the chassis of the vehicle.

Engine mounts are a combination of metal and sometimes (depending on manufacturer’s choice) with bits of plastic and rubber. The reason? These help to physically mute and absorb the strong vibrations from the engine, reducing physical discomfort in the cabin.While there is no pain or long term issues with stock engine mounts, these have a certain lifespan to them before they start becoming an annoyance… or worst; a mechanical problem.

A worn engine mount can result in a series of slowly-played disasters, such as the poor alignment between engine and gearbox, which can only end in mechanical disaster for both components.The engine mount in question here then is a hardened alternative. These are typically used to secure tuned engines in place, ensuring that these do not dislodge under the duress of high revolutions and strong vibrations; distinctive by-products of a tuned engine. Hardened engine mounts are filled with stiffer rubber and plastic to reduce the movement under hard acceleration and braking. These can be fitted with urethane in order to further resist the rocking motions of the engine.

There are a variety of engine mount replacements out in the market. Should one not opt for the stock engine mount, there is almost a myriad of aftermarket offerings available. Do your homework however, as these are categorised according to their hardness, measured on with a durometer rating. The durometer scale measures how hard a material is, typically used to measure materials such as plastic and rubber. Hardened engine mounts usually have a rating from around 60-90A, depending on their usage and application.

The same can be said for bushings that hold certain handling components of the car; such as the anti-roll bar and bushings that keep chassis and suspensionrelated parts snug and tight. OEM bushings and rubberised linkages will eventually wear out over time and require replacement, but these will eventually harden and become brittle once again as with most stock parts. Such parts are utilised because they are a compromise between comfort and a reasonable steering response.

However with harder bushings and links, the overall feeling of steering looseness is reduced, even compared to a new set of OEM standard bushings and links. The hardness of the parts will tighten and sharpen the steering response, especially if the hardened bushings are installed in the front and can be felt easily at thresholds of driving. There are negatives from hardened bushings though, these are often pricey for their size and their capabilities.

Unless you are a track regular, you are going to see subtle differences in your driving style and timings on a hot lap.If one is looking to build a machine; or a track vehicle for that matter with a highly tuned engine, a hardened engine mount is the way to go, since durability and a safe mind that both engine and transmission are working perfectly; cog-to-cog, gear-to-gear to deliver hundred percent of power to the wheels. Enhance that with hardened bushings and you have a mean fighting machine for the circuit!