Transmission Mounts - Benefits and Upgrades

Introduction to Transmission Mounts

Transmission mounts are critical components that secure the transmission to the vehicle's chassis, reducing vibrations and maintaining proper alignment. Upgrading transmission mounts can improve performance, reduce driveline movement, and enhance overall driving experience.

Why Should You Upgrade Your Transmission Mounts?

1. Improved Stability: Upgraded mounts provide better stability and reduce transmission movement.
2. Enhanced Performance: Reduces driveline movement for more precise shifting and power transfer.
3. Durability: High-quality mounts are more durable and can handle increased power and torque.
4. Reduced Vibrations: Performance mounts can reduce vibrations, improving overall driving comfort.

Types of Transmission Mounts

1. Rubber Transmission Mounts

What They Are: Standard mounts made from rubber, offering good vibration dampening and comfort. Why You Should Use Them: Ideal for daily driving and mild performance applications. How They Work: Rubber mounts absorb vibrations and provide a cushion between the transmission and chassis.

Pros:

1. Comfort: Excellent at reducing vibrations for a smooth ride.
2. Affordability: Generally less expensive than other types of mounts.
3. Wide Availability: Common and readily available.

Cons:

1. Durability: Can wear out and degrade over time, especially under high power.
2. Performance Limitations: Less effective at reducing driveline movement compared to performance mounts.

Popular Brands:

• OEM Replacement: Factory-quality rubber mounts available from various manufacturers.
• Prothane: Provides durable and effective rubber mounts. Prothane at JM Auto Racing

2. Polyurethane Transmission Mounts

What They Are: Performance mounts made from polyurethane, offering improved durability and performance. Why You Should Use Them: Ideal for performance applications, providing better stability and reduced driveline movement. How They Work: Polyurethane mounts are stiffer than rubber, reducing transmission movement and improving power transfer.

Pros:

1. Improved Performance: Reduces driveline movement for more precise shifting.
2. Durability: More resistant to wear and degradation compared to rubber mounts.
3. Cost-Effective: Affordable upgrade for performance applications.

Cons:

1. Vibration: Can transmit more vibrations compared to rubber mounts.
2. Installation: May require more effort to install compared to rubber mounts.

Popular Brands:

• Energy Suspension: Known for high-quality polyurethane mounts. Energy Suspension at JM Auto Racing
• Prothane: Provides durable and effective polyurethane mounts. Prothane at JM Auto Racing

3. Solid Transmission Mounts

What They Are: High-performance mounts made from solid materials, such as metal. Why You Should Use Them: Ideal for extreme performance applications, providing maximum stability and durability. How They Work: Solid mounts eliminate transmission movement, providing the most precise power transfer and shifting.

Pros:

1. Maximum Stability: Provides the most stable connection between the transmission and chassis.
2. Durability: Extremely resistant to wear and degradation.
3. Performance: Ideal for high-power and racing applications.

Cons:

1. Vibration: Transmits more vibrations compared to rubber and polyurethane mounts.
2. Cost: Generally more expensive than rubber and polyurethane mounts.
3. Ride Comfort: Can reduce ride comfort due to increased vibration transmission.

Popular Brands:

• Innovative Mounts: Known for high-performance solid mounts. Innovative Mounts at JM Auto Racing
• Hasport: Provides durable and effective solid mounts. Hasport at JM Auto Racing

Real-World Knowledge from Mechanics

Experienced mechanics emphasize the importance of choosing the right transmission mount material based on your vehicle's power output and driving style. Rubber mounts offer comfort for daily driving, while polyurethane mounts provide better performance and durability. Solid mounts offer maximum stability for extreme performance applications. Consulting with a trusted mechanic can help you select the right transmission mounts for your vehicle.

Case Studies and Real-World Examples

A 2018 Subaru WRX with Energy Suspension polyurethane transmission mounts demonstrated improved stability and reduced driveline movement. The owner reported better shifting and power transfer. Installation took about 2 hours with basic tools.

A 2017 Ford Mustang GT with Innovative Mounts solid transmission mounts showed significant performance gains and maximum stability. Users reported precise shifting and better power delivery. Installation took about 3 hours with professional assistance.

Conclusion

Upgrading your transmission mounts can significantly improve your vehicle's stability, performance, and overall driving experience. Rubber mounts offer comfort and affordability, while polyurethane mounts provide better performance and durability. Solid mounts offer maximum stability for extreme performance applications. With various high-quality brands available, there's a transmission mount solution for every vehicle and performance need.