Fix It

Motor mounts are important automobile parts used to protect the engine, transmission and surrounding components from damage. Motor mounts also reduce the amount of noise and vibration in the vehicle to improve passenger comfort.

Operation

Motor mounts secure the engine and transmission to the body of a vehicle. Motor mounts are made of two plates of steel joined by a large rubber block. One plate is attached to the engine or transmission and the other to the frame. The rubber block cushions the movements of the engine and transmission.

Hydraulic

Though less commonly used than the rubber block design, some motor mounts use hydraulic fluid to cushion the engine and transmission movements. These mounts also use two steel plates but are connected by a small hydraulic cylinder. Some hydraulic mounts adjust while driving to optimize the mounts performance.

Troubleshooting

A defective motor mount allows the engine and transmission to move too far and too quickly. During acceleration or heavy braking, the broken mount may create a thumping noise as the engine or transmission strikes the broken mount. Broken motor mounts should be immediately replaced before this excessive movement causes damage.

Aluminum is not as hard as steel. Compared to steel, aluminum alloy is much less susceptible to rust; however, it is sensitive to chemical reactions. It may form a light coating of corrosion caused by oxidation following the use of harsh degreasers. This results in the need for arduous polishing of engine parts. To prevent this, a detailer should use a mixture of water and a soap degreaser in place of chemical solvents when cleaning aluminum alloy motors.

Instructions

Clean the Motor

1

Fill the spray bottle with soap degreaser and water per the product directions.

2

Run the engine for about 30 seconds. It should be slightly warm.

3

Spray the water and degreaser mixture onto the motor, engine components and underside of the hood. Wait one to two minutes to allow the soap degreaser to soak in.

4

Use the pressure washer to spray the underside of the hood, motor and motor components. Avoid spraying water directly on electrical components.

5

Spray soap degreaser on any remaining dirty spots. Scrub stubborn grime with the toothbrush.

6

Rinse the engine with the water hose.

7

Dry the motor, wires and other components with shop towels or rags. Finish drying by starting the motor.

A rear power window motor mounts inside the rear door and rotates a gear on the window regulator to open or close the window. By pushing the rear window switch, you are closing the power window circuit in the door and energizing the motor. Once this happens, the motor turns the regulator gear. However, if the motor burns out, you can push the button all day long with no results. Those with mechanical aptitude and an hour of free time can replace a rear power window motor without seeking professional help.

Instructions

1

Pluck the window switch and lock switch from the rear door panel with the trim tool. Pull the wiring plugs out of each switch manually before setting the switches aside.

2

Remove the rear door panel retaining screws with either the Phillips screwdriver or socket set, depending on the year, make and model of your vehicle. If the panel will not lift off the rear door at this time, you may need to pry the door panel trim pins out of the door with the trim tool before removing the panel by hand. (This too will depend on the year, make and model of your vehicle.)

3

Raise the rear door window glass by hand and secure it with packing tape in the fully upright position to prevent unintended glass movement. Manually pull the wiring plug out of the rear window motor.

4

Remove the rear window motor retaining bolts with the socket set. Pull the old rear window motor out of the door through the door access hole. Position the new rear window motor in the door and bolt it in place with the socket set.

5

Reinstall the rear door panel on the rear door by reversing the door panel removal steps. Make sure to remove the tape from the window when done before you attempt to open the window.

Rebuilt, or remanufactured engines, are comprised of parts from older engines that have been rejuvenated and reassembled. Consumers often find that the pros outweigh the cons of purchasing a rebuilt engine for their vehicle.

Cost

The costs resulting from a broken down car engine can be quite high. Whether you choose to get the engine repaired or have a new one installed, you can expect to spend big bucks. Even if you decide to trade the car in for a new vehicle, your monthly payments may be draining on your budget. Rebuilt engines are often a much more cost effective option.

Reliability

Rebuilt engines differ from used engines. Used engines may have had small repairs made to them. All the critical components in rebuilt engines have either been repaired or completely replaced, and generally meet or exceed the original performance standards, offering long-term reliability.

Environment

When you choose to replace your vehicles old, damaged engine with a rebuilt version, you are making an environmentally-friendly decision. A rebuilt engine can extend the life of your vehicle, thus reducing the need for you to purchase a new one. This helps to reduce the energy and resources used in manufacturing new vehicles.