Engine Mount - Strut

Replacement of the engine mount strut (torque strut) on the 1992 Dodge Viper 8.0L V10, which controls engine torque reaction and helps stabilize the engine during acceleration and deceleration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Engine mount strut (torque strut) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Engine mount strut hardware kit (if corroded) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, solid ground and apply parking brake firmly.
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels.
3. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated.
4. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent electrical shorts.
5. Raise front of vehicle using floor jack at designated front jacking point.
6. Support vehicle securely on jack stands placed at manufacturer-specified support points.
7. Lower jack slightly to transfer weight to jack stands, leaving jack in position as backup support.
8. Visually inspect engine mount strut for damage, cracks, or deterioration to confirm replacement is necessary.
9. Apply penetrating oil to all mount fasteners and allow to soak if corrosion is visible.

Procedure

1. 1

   Install engine support system
   Position an engine support bar across the engine compartment, resting on the inner fender flanges or strut towers. Attach a load leveler or support chain to a secure engine lifting point (typically a lifting bracket or eye bolt on the engine block). Adjust support to just contact the engine without lifting—you want to support weight, not preload. Verify the support is secure and stable before proceeding.
2. 2

   Locate engine mount strut
   From underneath the vehicle, locate the engine mount strut (torque strut). This component typically runs from the engine block or transmission bellhousing to a bracket on the front crossmember or subframe. The strut is a substantial rod or link with rubber isolators or bushings at one or both ends. Note the orientation and position for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Support engine weight through mount
   Using the floor jack with a block of wood on the saddle, carefully position it under the oil pan (avoid the drain plug). Raise jack until it just makes contact to provide supplemental support. Do not lift the engine—simply provide support to control movement when the strut is disconnected. The primary support remains the engine support bar.
4. 4

   Remove upper strut mounting fasteners
   Locate the upper mounting point of the engine mount strut where it attaches to the engine block or transmission bellhousing bracket. Remove the mounting bolts or through-bolt securing the strut to the engine-side bracket. There are typically 2-3 fasteners at this location. Support the strut with one hand as you remove the final fastener to prevent it from dropping.
5. 5

   Remove lower strut mounting fasteners
   Locate the lower mounting point where the strut attaches to the crossmember or subframe bracket. Remove the mounting bolts or through-bolt securing the strut to the frame-side bracket. There are typically 2-3 fasteners at this location. The strut may be under slight tension, so control it as you remove the final fastener.
6. 6

   Remove engine mount strut
   Once all fasteners are removed, carefully maneuver the engine mount strut out of the engine compartment. It may be necessary to slightly shift the engine position using the support bar to create clearance—make small adjustments only. Note the routing and orientation of the strut for installation of the replacement.
7. 7

   Inspect mounting brackets and hardware
   With the strut removed, inspect both the engine-side and frame-side mounting brackets for cracks, elongated bolt holes, or damage. Check all fasteners for thread damage or excessive corrosion. Clean mounting surfaces with a wire brush to remove rust and debris. Replace brackets or hardware if damage is found.
8. 8

   Position new engine mount strut
   Position the new engine mount strut in the same orientation as the removed unit. Align the strut with both the upper (engine-side) and lower (frame-side) mounting brackets. You may need to use the engine support bar to make minor adjustments to engine position for alignment. Do not force the strut into position—adjust engine height or position instead.
9. 9

   Install lower mounting fasteners
   Install the lower mounting fasteners through the frame-side bracket and strut bushing or mount. Start all fasteners by hand to ensure proper threading. Snug fasteners finger-tight but do not fully torque yet—leave slight movement for alignment.
10. 10

    Install upper mounting fasteners
    Install the upper mounting fasteners through the engine-side bracket and strut bushing or mount. Start all fasteners by hand to ensure proper threading. Snug fasteners finger-tight but do not fully torque yet. Verify the strut is properly seated in both mounting brackets with no binding or misalignment.
11. 11

    Settle engine to normal position
    Slowly release tension on the floor jack supporting the oil pan, allowing the engine to settle to its natural resting position on all mounts. Do not remove the engine support bar yet. The engine should rest in its normal operating position with the new strut supporting torque loads. Verify the strut is not binding and all bushings are properly aligned.
12. 12

    Torque all mounting fasteners
    With the engine at rest in its normal position, torque all strut mounting fasteners to specification. Work in stages: first torque the upper (engine-side) fasteners, then the lower (frame-side) fasteners. This ensures the strut is installed under normal load conditions, not preloaded or bound. Verify all fasteners are tight and properly seated.
13. 13

    Remove engine support equipment
    Carefully remove the engine support bar or load leveler from the engine. Remove the floor jack from under the oil pan. Visually verify the engine is stable and properly supported by all mounts, with no excessive movement or sagging.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery cable.
2. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle to ground.
3. Remove wheel chocks.

Verification

• Start engine and allow it to idle. Listen for abnormal noises or vibrations that could indicate improper mount installation.
• With engine idling, observe the engine mount strut for excessive movement or deflection—some movement is normal, but the engine should not shift significantly.
• With engine running, have an assistant apply brake and shift between Drive and Reverse (automatic) or engage/release clutch in gear (manual) while you observe engine movement. The strut should control torque reaction without excessive deflection.
• Road test vehicle at various speeds and acceleration rates. Engine should remain stable with no excessive vibration in cabin or unusual noises.
• After road test, re-inspect all mount fasteners for proper torque and verify no loosening has occurred.
• Check clearances around engine compartment components to ensure engine is properly positioned and nothing contacts the hood, firewall, or accessories.

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