Hi folks,

I have a 1992 Accord LX automatic, and it has a really terrible vibration. The vibration appears when the car is in gear, especially reverse. With someone shifting between drive and reverse, I can see the engine shift up to two inches forward or backwards in response to gear engagement.

I suspect the engine mounts, but I'm a little confused about how to tell if I have the solenoid or non-solenoid rear mount. Also, I have done extensive work on straightforward RWD vehicles (and did motor mounts this weekend on my DD), but I have no idea how to approach my 'irrational' FWD Honda. The most I've done on this car is distributor, FI seals, spark plugs, and the odd coolant hose.

This vibration began a long time ago, before I was car-savvy, when the timing belt etc. was replaced by a local shop. I figure that the engine had to be lifted somewhat to reach everything, and I wonder if one of the mounts was damaged or omitted on reassembly. It's also possible that the balance belt was not replaced correctly.

What can I check to confirm motor mount wear/breakage? Is there a crossmember that the engine may be hitting? Also, which of the mounts would be most prone to breakage?

Thanks!

Ari

 

I may be completely wrong here, but I think all AT '92 Accords came with the solenoid actuated rear mount.

I suppose there can be many reasons for vibrations, but considering that you see the engine sways back and forth, I'd check the front mount first -- it's the wimpiest of them all and quite often breaks first; luckily it's the easiest to replace too. Take a look at it, see if the rubber core is torn or separated.

I replaced all four mounts myself last fall on my '92 MT Accord -- it did help with vibrations a lot. With the exception of the front mount, none of them were actually broken, the rubber cushions just plain lost their elasticity over time and became very hard thus not dampening anything anymore.

 

Thanks for the reply.

I stuck my head under the intake manifold and observed that I do indeed have the solenoid mount. I will check the front mount - you're right, it does appear to be the most flimsy. Thanks!

Ari