Engine Mount Torque(For All Mount Types)

Using the correct engine mount torque specifications is essential for safety, longevity, and preventing future mechanical issues. Understanding how engine mount torque works can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.

Below is a comprehensive guide explaining what engine mount torque is, why it matters, common torque values, and best practices for tightening engine mounts correctly.

Engine Mount Torque

Mount Type	Common Fasteners	Typical Torque Range (ft-lb)	Typical Torque Range (Nm)
Upper engine mount bolts	M8×1.25 or M10×1.5 bolts (×3–4)	35–60	47–81
Lower engine mount bolts	M10×1.5 or M12×1.75 bolts (×3–4)	50–75	68–102
Front engine mount bolts	M10×1.5 bolts (×3–4)	35–55	47–75
Side engine mount bolts	M10×1.5 or M12×1.75 bolts (×3–4)	45–70	61–95
Rear engine (dogbone/pendulum) small bolts	M8×1.25 or M10×1.5 bolts (×2–4)	40–70	54–95
Rear engine (dogbone/pendulum) center bolt	M12×1.75 or M14×2.0 bolt/nut	75–110	102–149
Lower torque mount-to-frame bolts	M12×1.75 bolts (×3–4) + large through-bolt	55–90	75–122
Upper torque strut / roll restrictor bolts	M10×1.5 or M12×1.75 bolts (×2 each end)	45–85	61–115
Transmission mount bolts	M8×1.25 or M10×1.5 bolts (×3–4)	25–45	34–61
Rear transmission mount bolts	M10×1.5 or M12×1.75 bolts (×3)	30–50	41–68
Hydraulic / active engine mount bolts	M10×1.5 bolts + smaller M8 retainers	30–55	41–75
Engine-to-bracket bolts	M10×1.5 or M12×1.75 bolts (×3–5)	30–45	41–61
Bracket-to-engine block bolts	M10×1.5 or M12×1.75 bolts, sometimes TTY	40–65	54–88
Engine support bracket bolts	M10 or M12 bolts (×4–6)	45–75	61–102
Large through-bolts (mount-to-body)	M12×1.75 or M14×2.0 nut/bolt	70–110	95–149
Subframe-to-mount bolts	M12×1.75 or M14×2.0 bolts (×4–6)	70–120	95–163
Crossmember / trans crossmember bolts	M12×1.75 or M14×2.0 bolts (×6–8)	60–130	81–176
Engine cradle / subframe cradle bolts	M14×2.0 or M16×2.0 bolts, often with large washers	90–140	122–190
Engine mount stud nuts	M10 or M12 flanged nuts	25–35	34–47
Passenger-side mount through-bolt	M14×2.0 or M16×2.0 nut	65–100	88–136
Driver-side mount through-bolt	M14×2.0 or M16×2.0 nut	65–100	88–136
Torque rod / damper bolts	M10 or M12 bolts (×2 each end)	45–80	61–108
Heavy-duty truck engine mount bolts	M16×2.0 to M20×2.5 bolts	120–180	163–244
Diesel / high-torque engine mount bolts	M14×2.0 to M18×2.5 bolts + larger through-bolts	90–150	122–203

Best Engine Mount Fastener Kits

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1. OMB Warehouse Universal Small Engine Mounting Bolt Kit

Universal fit for most small engines (lawn mowers, generators, go-karts, etc.)
Complete set of bolts and studs in common sizes
Zinc-plated for corrosion resistance
Easy bolt-on installation, no modifications needed
Eligible for free Prime delivery

2. Dorman 81101 Motor Mount Bolt Kit – Grade 8

Grade 8 hardware (stronger than OEM in many cases)
Direct replacement for select Chevrolet/GMC trucks and SUVs
Exact fit and thread pitch as factory bolts
Black oxide finish resists rust
Includes all required bolts and nuts for both sides

3. Go Kart Engine Mount Bolt Kit for Predator Engines

Heavy-duty, strong bolts with locking nuts
Perfect length and strength for Predator 212, 420cc, and similar 3-7 HP engines
Works on go-karts, mini bikes, log splitters, and small engine swaps
Users report “better than most” quality and no stripping
Includes exact quantity needed for full mount

4. MyParts Automotive Engine Mount Replacement Bolt Set (2-Pack)

Precision-machined steel/aluminum construction
Exact OE dimensions and thread pitch
Direct fit replacement for steel and aluminum frame vehicles
Manufactured with modern CAD tooling for a perfect fit
Sold as a convenient 2-bolt pack (one per side)

5. Engine Mounting Bolt Kit for VW Aircooled Engines

Complete kit for all classic VW air-cooled engines (Beetle, Bus, Ghia, Dune Buggy)
Includes case-to-transmission bolts, nuts, and half-moon starter bolt
Replaces OEM part numbers N104707, N110102, 111 199 101
High-strength zinc-plated steel
Fits 1971-on engines with doghouse oil cooler (and earlier with adapters)

Signs Your Engine Mounts May Be Incorrectly Torqued

• Vibrations at Idle

If the steering wheel or seats shake excessively while idling, a loose mount could be the cause.

• Clunking or Thumping When Accelerating

A mount that isn’t tightened enough can shift when the engine twists under load.

• Engine Leaning or Sitting Uneven

Over-torqued bolts can distort a bracket, causing alignment issues.

• Visible Gap or Misalignment

A small shift in engine position can show a gap where the mount should sit flush.

• Premature Mount Wear

Incorrect torque accelerates the failure of rubber or hydraulic mount components.

How to Torque Engine Mounts Correctly

Proper torqueing is more than just tightening bolts with a wrench. Follow these steps to ensure accuracy and avoid mistakes.

1. Use a Quality Torque Wrench

A reliable torque wrench, preferably recently calibrated, is mandatory. Avoid guessing or using non-torque tools.

2. Support the Engine Properly

Before removing or installing mounts, support the engine using:

Engine support bar
Floor jack with a wood block
Transmission jack (for some vehicles)

Never rely on mounts alone to hold engine weight during installation.

3. Torque in the Correct Sequence

Most mounts require bolts to be tightened in a specific order:

Loosely install bolts
Align the mount and bracket
Tighten to half torque
Finish with full torque

This prevents stress, misalignment, or binding.

4. Torque with the Engine at Proper Height

Ensure the engine is positioned correctly before final tightening. If the engine is raised too high or low when torquing, the mount may twist.

5. Use New Bolts if Required

Some modern vehicles use torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts, which stretch when tightened and must not be reused. Always check manufacturer guidelines.

6. Recheck Torque After Installation

Once all mounts are installed, re-verify the torque on each bolt. Slight shifts can occur as the engine settles.

Common Mistakes People Make When Torquing Engine Mounts

• Over-torquing

More torque does not mean better. Over-tightening can crush mount bushings or crack brackets.

• Torquing While the Engine Is Misaligned

If the engine isn’t level, tightening bolts can lock it into the wrong position.

• Using Dirty or Damaged Threads

Dirty threads can create false torque readings. Clean threads ensure accuracy.

• Reusing Stretch Bolts

TTY bolts lose clamping force once stretched and can fail unexpectedly.

• Not Checking the Service Manual

Even within the same brand, torque specs vary between models and engine types.

How Often Should You Check Engine Mount Torque?

Engine mounts generally remain tight once properly torqued. However, it’s smart to check them:

After a mount replacement (after 500–1,000 miles)
When diagnosing vibration issues
After engine or transmission removal
On high-mileage cars during major service intervals

For performance vehicles or off-road applications, more frequent checks are recommended.

Factors That Affect Engine Mount Torque Specs

1. Engine Size & Power Output

Higher horsepower engines require more clamping force.

2. Bolt Grade

Grade 8.8, 10.9, or 12.9 bolts each have different torque requirements.

3. Mount Material

Rubber, hydraulic, and polyurethane mounts handle torque differently.

4. Vehicle Type

Trucks, SUVs, and diesel engines typically use stronger mounts with higher torque values.

FAQs

What torque for engine mounts?

Engine mount torque varies by vehicle, but most engine mounts tighten between 35–120 ft-lb, depending on location, bolt size, and engine type. Smaller cars use lower torque, while trucks, SUVs, and diesel engines use higher values. Always check your exact vehicle’s service manual for the correct specification.

Do I need a torque wrench for motor mounts?

Yes, a torque wrench is strongly recommended. Motor mounts must be tightened to precise specifications to avoid vibration, misalignment, or bolt failure. Hand-tightening or guessing can lead to mount damage or unsafe engine movement.

How to tell if an engine torque mount is bad?

A failing torque mount shows signs like excessive vibration, clunking when shifting or accelerating, engine movement, shaking at idle, or visible tears in the mount rubber. You may also feel jerky acceleration or hear metallic hits when the engine rocks during load changes.

What is the proper torque for scope mounts?

Scope mount torque isn’t related to engines, but generally:

Scope ring screws: 15–25 in-lb
Base screws: 25–35 in-lb
Always follow the optic or mount manufacturer’s specific torque ratings.

What is the engine torque mount?

An engine torque mount (also called a torque strut mount or dogbone mount) is a support designed to limit rotational engine movement during acceleration, shifting, and braking. It stabilizes engine twist, reduces vibration, and protects other mounts from excessive stress.

What is the 20% rule for torque wrenches?

The 20% rule states that a torque wrench is most accurate between 20% and 80% of its total range. Torque wrenches should not be used at their extreme low or high ends (0–20% or 80–100%) because readings become less reliable.

Final Thoughts

Engine mount torque is often overlooked but critically important for vehicle safety, comfort, and long-term reliability. Properly torquing engine mounts helps reduce vibration, prevent drivetrain misalignment, and protect critical components.

While the general torque ranges above offer a helpful starting point, always refer to your vehicle’s factory service manual for exact specifications. Taking the time to torque mounts correctly not only ensures a smooth ride but also prevents costly repairs down the line.