Problem with change engine mount

[ericlee]

I am in the process of changing engine mount, now the three holes on driver side engine mount do not line up.  Here is what happened: Because the big bolt below the mount was very loose (or too long) on the passenger side mount, I have to raise the engine very high and the gap was still not enough.  Fearing raising too high may cause something to break,  I loosed the three bolts and removed one bolt on driver side, hoping that would give me more gap on passenger.  That solved the problem, the motor mount on passenger side was installed, But now always one of the three bolt holes would not line up on the driver side mount.  I tried old mount, now mount, same results. Any help is greatly appreciate!
Thanks!

[badali]

I changed mine about a year ago.  I think if you start the bolt closest to the engine then start the bolt on top you can use an awl to line up the last hole.  As soon as the hole is lined up set the engine weight down by releasing the jack and the weight will hold it in place while you take out the awl and start the bolt.  I think that is what I did to line it up.

[ctaylor738]

I'm confused.  There are two bolts for hex-bit sockets that hold the mount to the subframe, and a large bolt that holds the "arm" to the mount.  Are these the "three" that you're talking about?

Also, I believe that the large bolt (PN 127 220 0071) on the underside of the mount is just for that purpose.  The threads are a specific length to tighten the rubber buffer against the plate.  Maybe someone replaced it with a standard bolt.

[badali]

I think his engine shifted a little causing it not to be directly above the mount.

[ericlee]

Brad, this is what I am worry about, engine shifted.  Will this cause some other issues?  What should I check?

[ja17]

Eric,

The engine always shifts a bit. Install the hardest to get to small bolt first. Then the large center bolt. Lastly you will need to pry the mount into position to get the last small bolt in. You may also need to lower the jack or reposition it to help get the last bolt started.

[ericlee]

Thanks, Joe.  Now I got all screws and bolts installed.  Since something shifted, will it cause some alignment problems somewhere, where should I check before driving the car?

[ja17]

After all the bolts are installed the engine should settle into its original position.

Happy Motoring!