Author Topic: Subframe mounts and engine mounts  (Read 2313 times)

mauro12

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Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« on: May 27, 2020, 20:44:24 »
Hello guys , I’m starting to plan to change both engine and subframe mounts. Mine are still ok but they look very old and I want to improve the handling of the car . Do you have any idea about how much a mechanic could charge for the labor to do this job? It seems to me that it is quite difficult especially for the subframe mounts. I heared that if you don’t do properly, the engine could raise too much and hit the bonnet . Thank you .
Mauro Pisani
250sl 1967 5speed zf manual

specracer

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Re: Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« Reply #1 on: May 28, 2020, 01:14:48 »
I just did the sub frame mounts about a month ago. With experience (which I had none) it would pretty straight forward. The second side I did quite quickly (hour or so). I was able to do it with the brake caliper in place, with the hose connected.  My point, is would really boil down to experience as to how long it took.

I used the taller mounts (much less expensive) and had no clearance issues.

The change of these, made a big difference in the "tightness" feeling of the front end.

Im sure the experts here will provide more info

mauro12

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Re: Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« Reply #2 on: May 28, 2020, 06:40:39 »
I found this kit of subframe mounts , have you ever tried ? https://www.mbclassics.de/repkit-sub-frame-W108-113

I guess it is worth to do subframe and motor mounts at the same time right?
Mauro Pisani
250sl 1967 5speed zf manual

mauro12

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Re: Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« Reply #3 on: May 28, 2020, 08:28:24 »
I am mechanically able, but I think is too much for me to replace alone subframe and motor mounts, I don’t have the right equipment . I want the job done by a specialist , but here when they see classic cars they charge you almost the double . I’m trying to understand how much a specialist could ask for this job.
Mauro Pisani
250sl 1967 5speed zf manual

specracer

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Re: Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« Reply #4 on: May 28, 2020, 10:03:08 »
I had the car up on a quick jack, then a floor jack to lower the sub frame, after disconnecting the front spring perch etc.

That is the Febi Bilstein kit that is usually used, vs the 1/2" shorter OEM Mercedes part that is ~$6xx.

There are some good threads on this procedure.

mauro12

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Re: Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« Reply #5 on: May 28, 2020, 14:16:36 »
How long it took to do the entire process?
Mauro Pisani
250sl 1967 5speed zf manual

FresnoBob

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Re: Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« Reply #6 on: May 29, 2020, 15:23:54 »
I recently replaced both and an experienced mechanic can certainly complete removal and replacement within a few hours of labor.  Having a proper car lift and hydraulic jacks makes the job much easier as you essentially need to drop the suspension enough to fit the subframe mounts into the body.
Bob Comstock
1966 230 SL Euro Auto
2017 AMG C43 Cabriolet

mauro12

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Re: Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« Reply #7 on: May 29, 2020, 16:08:37 »
How much did it change after these new mounts ? I’m sure is almost to drive another car right? More stable and precise.
Mauro Pisani
250sl 1967 5speed zf manual

Benz Dr.

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Re: Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« Reply #8 on: May 29, 2020, 16:43:55 »
The first side is always easier so I start on the manifold side because of clearance issues. I've often had to use a come-along to pull the subframe into position. So what looks like a nice, easy, straight forward job, can end up being anything but easy or simple.

Difficult to change the subframe mounts and motor mounts all at the same time without a hoist and a transmission jack. 
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

mauro12

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Re: Subframe mounts and engine mounts
« Reply #9 on: August 01, 2020, 16:51:12 »
What is a resonable labour price for the replacement of the subframe mounts?
My doubts are that since I’m in the process to replace the shocks, I would like to check if the subframe needs replacement too.
Mauro Pisani
250sl 1967 5speed zf manual