R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint Review

Let’s Dive into R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint

The R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint is more than just a piece of hardware; it’s the unsung hero ensuring a smooth and vibration-free boating experience. These mounts are designed by R & D Marine to absorb the relentless forward and reverse thrust of your engine, while simultaneously isolating those annoying drivetrain vibrations from your boat’s hull. With corrosion resistance and ease of installation as key features, these mounts promise longevity and user-friendliness for a wide range of marine engines.

My journey to discovering these mounts began with a persistent vibration issue in my old fishing boat. The engine, a Yanmar 3GM, was shaking the entire hull, making long trips unbearable and, frankly, a little concerning. I started researching solutions and quickly realized that worn engine mounts were the likely culprit.

Upon unboxing the R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint, I was immediately impressed by the solid construction. The zinc-plated steel components felt robust and the oil shield on the rubber component gave me confidence in their ability to withstand the harsh marine environment. They felt substantial and well-made.

I considered other engine mount options from brands like Vetus and John Deere (which are often used in marine applications), but the R & D Marine mounts stood out due to their specific design for Yanmar engines and their clear weight rating guidance. This, combined with the positive reviews regarding vibration dampening, sealed the deal for me. I also liked the slotted bolt holes.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. While I was excited about the potential for a smoother ride, I also knew that engine mount replacement can be a fiddly job. I was hoping the pre-loaded design and height adjustability would make the installation process easier than anticipated, and my initial impressions held hope that my expectations would be met.

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Real-World Testing: Putting R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial test of the R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint took place in the choppy waters of the Chesapeake Bay. I specifically chose a day with moderate waves to assess the mounts’ ability to dampen vibrations under demanding conditions. Installation took an afternoon, but alignment was easier than expected, thanks to the slotted holes.

The difference was immediately noticeable. The engine vibrations, which had previously rattled the entire boat, were significantly reduced. The ride felt smoother and quieter, making it easier to hold a conversation and enjoy the scenery.

The only minor issue I encountered was needing to make slight height adjustments after the initial run to perfectly align the prop shaft. However, the mounts’ adjustability made this a simple task. After adjusting, I had no issues!

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve taken the boat out in various weather conditions, including rough seas and hot summer days, and the mounts have consistently performed well. There is no degradation of the rubber dampening noticed so far.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The zinc plating still looks pristine, and the rubber components show no signs of cracking or deterioration, even after prolonged exposure to saltwater and engine fluids. The oil shield definitely seems to be doing its job protecting the rubber.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the mounts occasionally to remove any salt spray or grime. The ease of maintenance is a huge plus, as it allows me to focus on enjoying the boat rather than constantly worrying about upkeep. Replacing the motor mounts was well worth it.

Compared to my previous experiences with failing engine mounts, the R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint has far exceeded expectations. My previous mounts deteriorated quickly, leading to constant vibrations and requiring frequent replacements. These R & D Marine mounts provide superior vibration damping and greater longevity, making them a worthwhile investment.

Breaking Down the Features of R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint

Specifications

• The R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint has a 6.85″ footprint, which refers to the dimensions of the mount’s base where it attaches to the boat’s stringers. This size is crucial for ensuring proper fitment and stability.

• It features a 5/8″ stud for securing the engine to the mount. The stud’s diameter determines the strength and load-bearing capacity of the mount.

• The mount has a 50-75lbs capacity per mount. This weight range dictates the size of engine and transmission the mount can safely support.

• The R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint is compatible with Yanmar 1GM, 2GM, 3GM, 3YM, 3HM, and 3JH series engines. This targeted compatibility ensures optimal performance and fit for these popular marine engines.

• The mount has zinc-plated and passivated steel parts. This coating protects against corrosion in harsh marine environments, extending the mount’s lifespan.

• There is an oil shield protecting the rubber component. The shield prevents petroleum-based products from degrading the rubber, maintaining its vibration-damping properties.

These specifications are important because they directly affect the engine’s stability, vibration levels, and overall performance. A properly sized mount with adequate corrosion protection ensures a smoother, quieter, and more reliable boating experience. Choosing the correct mount with the specified foot print is key!

Performance & Functionality

The R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint excels at its primary job: isolating engine vibrations and absorbing propeller thrust. This translates to a significantly smoother and quieter ride.

While the 50-75lbs capacity per mount might seem limiting, it’s perfectly suited for smaller diesel engines commonly found in sailboats and smaller powerboats. It meets the weight and engine requirements for my Yanmar, providing excellent performance without any noticeable sagging or instability. The vibrations are reduced dramatically.

The mount’s ability to dampen vibrations is exceptional. It effectively minimizes hull vibrations, reducing noise and improving overall comfort on board. There is little to no perceivable vibration.

Design & Ergonomics

The R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint boasts a robust design with high-quality materials. The zinc-plated steel and oil-shielded rubber components inspire confidence in its durability.

While engine mounts aren’t typically thought of as ergonomic, the height adjustability and slotted mounting holes of the R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint significantly ease the installation process. This makes them remarkably user-friendly compared to fixed-height mounts that require shimming.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the construction quality, I expect the R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint to last for many years. The corrosion-resistant materials and robust design are built to withstand the rigors of the marine environment.

Maintenance is simple: a periodic wipe-down to remove salt and grime is all that’s needed. This ease of maintenance contributes to the mount’s overall long-term value.

Accessories and Customization Options

The R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but the slotted mounting holes allow for some flexibility in bolt placement. This compatibility with standard hardware makes it easy to adapt to various engine stringer configurations.

While there are no direct customization options, the mount’s height adjustability provides a degree of customization for achieving proper prop shaft alignment. The oil shield protects the rubber.

Pros and Cons of R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint

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Who Should Buy R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint?

The R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint is perfect for boat owners with smaller diesel engines (especially Yanmar 1GM, 2GM, 3GM, 3YM, 3HM, and 3JH series) who are experiencing excessive engine vibrations. This product is also beneficial for those who want to improve ride comfort and reduce noise levels on their boat.

This product might not be suitable for boat owners with larger, heavier engines that exceed the mount’s weight capacity. You will need a heavier duty model, or a different set of mounts with increased capacity.

Must-have accessories include high-quality stainless steel mounting bolts and a prop shaft alignment tool to ensure proper alignment after installation. Also be sure to properly follow all installation instructions.

Conclusion on R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint

The R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint is a well-designed and effective solution for reducing engine vibrations in smaller boats. The price of $180.00 is justified by the mount’s superior performance, durable construction, and ease of installation.

I would personally recommend the R & D Marine Engine Mount w/6.85″ Footprint to any boat owner looking to improve the comfort and longevity of their vessel. Don’t let engine vibrations ruin your boating experience – invest in a set of these mounts and enjoy a smoother, quieter, and more enjoyable time on the water.