Re: Engine Mount (K Series) RHS
I bought a new mount knuckle (CRC8755) cos they were 80% off on RimmerBros, to see how much flex there was in a new part compared to mine (while still on car) and there was quite a difference.
So decided to take the plunge and install the new one.
In short, it is possible to remove the engine end mounts without taking the engine out. Handy to know as the mounts have to come off to change the timing belt.1, support engine from above via chain & small bracket fixed to one of the lifting holes next to the VVC actuator. Also underneath on end of sump with jack, using wood and hard foam to spread the load.
2. undo two nuts from top of studs, front one easy as plenty access, rear one needed an S (obstruction) spanner to get to the nut - mine was an odd size 18mm flanged.
3, remove knuckle cross bolt.
4, remove old knuckle - lol - not easy. Done by removing outer timing cover and triangular mount plate that bolts to the end of the engine and supports the knuckle. This was rather tricky due to lack of access and being unable to separate the two parts because of limited space & unable to remove the studs from the plate. Had to slide the knuckle/plate up and out to clear the engine end, then rotate bottom towards you and push the top back in. This allows to slide the mount plate off the knuckle which can then be knocked in and down to remove it. Much rejoicing.
Comparing the new and old rubber bushes in the knuckle it's easy to see the difference. Old one is distorted, squashed down and partially detached from the metal. The old one was 27years old.
Attachment:
Engine mount knuckle (2).JPG [ 321.42 KiB | Viewed 9812 times ]
The studs were
really tough to remove from the plate given there is no way to grip them with a spanner etc so used a stilson on the plain area which did the trick. I'm going to cut a slot in the stud's tops to allow them to be screwed with a flat blade driver, this will make reassembly/future disassembly much easier.
Attachment:
engine mount end plate (1).JPG [ 111.2 KiB | Viewed 9812 times ]
The plastic timing cover had to be modded slightly by cutting off some of the conical molding that goes over the inlet cam wheel, otherwise it interferes with the engine frame (GTM told us this when we got the engine back in 2001 or so). This was just glued on and got knocked off during the work so I created a new 'cover' using some spare PU rubber I had. Kinda like a domed grommet - seals the hole up better and is removable.
Attachment:
Timing belt cover 1.JPG [ 227.82 KiB | Viewed 9812 times ]
As all these parts are off allowing access, i'm going to replace the Timing belt(s)/tensioner (current one is engine's original and 15years old!) and the alternator belt, plus new spark plugs while i'm at it. Currently waiting on parts/new tools.