- 03/15/2019
- 2 Min Read
- By: Kyle Bascombe
Why You Should Upgrade To Mercedes-Benz Black Series Engine Mounts
Mercedes AMG models, particularly ones equipped with the M113K and M156 engines, have a propensity to go through engine mounts rapidly. With the mounts being fluid filled, the design doesn’t lend itself well to the high torque output of these engines. Upgrading from your stock mounts to these Black Series mounts are an upgrade that you shouldn't need to think twice about.
Symptoms & Diagnosis of Failing Engine Mounts:
When your engine mounts fail, it typically leads to excessive cabin vibration and can affect how quickly torque is transmitted to the rear end. Excessive engine and drivetrain movement from motor mount failure doesn’t just affect your driveline. Movement adds stress on other unrelated components such as your exhaust system as well as the various hoses and lines found in your engine bay.
If your engine mounts are showing signs of failure or if they're five years old or older, we always recommend replacing them. One of the easiest ways to test for mount failure is to rev the engine in drive or reverse while firmly pressing the brake pedal. What you’re paying attention for is excessive movement of the engine. On top of this, you can also visually check the motor mounts for brown stains which are a result of hydraulic fluid escaping the mount. With most things that come in pairs on your car, if one mount has failed you will want to replace them as a pair. When a single mount fails, it will typically place additional stress on the opposing mount and cause that to fail soon after. Personally, I’ve seen bolts and studs on the crossmember snap from this type of failure—not something you want to occur while driving down the road.
Why Black Series Engine Mounts?
The Mercedes Black Series Engine Mounts in our upgrade kit are OE mounts that are stouter than the stock components, all while not delivering any undue harshness to the cabin. The ones featured in our kit were a factory option on the CLK63 AMG as well as on the V12 twin-turbo equipped Mercedes Maybach (Mercedes’ ultra-luxurious limousine model offered in the mid-2000’s).
This engine mount kit is a direct upgrade that fits numerous models:
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Mercedes created the Black Series models as more sports-focused versions of their most capable sports coupes. The first Black Series model was the 2006 SLK55 and wasn't offered in the states. We received the CLK63, SLS, and SL Black Series models as well as the C63 AMG which ended up being a resounding sales success in the US market. The typical Black Series upgrades from the standard model included a hike in power, fixed carbon roofs for convertible models, flared wheel arches and adjustable suspension. The reasons above are why engineers at Mercedes-Benz had to design these mounts to be sturdier without taking away from the luxury feel that you expect from a Mercedes-Benz.
Replacing the Engine Mounts:
Replacement of the engine mounts is a more straightforward process on some of the Mercedes models compared to others. For most of them, we recommend purchasing the special tool designed to access the engine mount bolts to get the job done. Since access is limited in some engine bays, you may need to remove your catalytic converters and exhaust manifolds to gain sufficient clearance. We found that this was the case when upgrading the mounts on a W211 E63 AMG.
When removing the exhaust system from the rubber hangers, we recommend using the Lisle Hanger Removal Pliers. Transmission mount replacement is simple and can be performed in under five minutes. The mount is fastened to the transmission and the transmission crossmember by four easily accessible bolts.
If you're replacing your engine mounts, there's no reason not to upgrade to these Black Series mounts. Not only will they offer a tighter driveline for spirited driving, they will also last longer as well. If you're interested in more Mercedes-Benz content, be sure to visit the Mercedes hub, check back here on the blog, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
