Q: How to inspect, maintain, and replace engine mounts and torque rods on Acura Legend?
A: But engine mounts are usually something that doesn't need any attention, unless they are broken or worn, at which point they should be replaced immediately to protect driveline components. To check the mounts, jack the engine slightly and take weight off of the mounts; make sure the vehicle is supported on jackstands with a jack centered under the oil pan and protected with a block of wood if the block will be damaged. Look for cracks in the mounts or in hardened rubber, or separation between the mounts and the engine or frame; if movement exists between the mount plates and engine or frame, this may need to be tightened down with fasteners. Rubber preservative can slow deterioration by applying it. If you're not already already, disconnect the negative battery cable, set the parking brake, block the rear wheels and raise the front of the vehicle securely on jackstands. The weight bearing mounts and the torque rod make up the engine mounting system, with the upper mount fastened near the timing belt, and the lower mount between the crossmember and the engine. Most of the engine weight-supported by the front and rear mounts which are bolted on to the crossmembers and which are positioned relatively low, between the engine and firewall and between the engine and radiator-is bolted to the cross members. The torque rod reduces twisting forces on the mounts and, with automatic transaxle models, an additional upper transaxle mount. During final tightening, it should be level with the engine weight on the mounts, to prevent bushings from twisting or being offset too much for optimal bushing life, and to minimize noise and vibration. If you are replacing mounts, raise the engine up using a floor jack and set a block of wood over the oil pan so you protect it. Remove retaining bolts, and slide out the lower mount, then install new mount, and tighten fasteners securely. Remove the mount to bracket nut, then unbolt the mount from the bracket and lift it out, lift the engine to do so, for the front and rear mounts. Drop the engine on the new mount, tighten the nut and install the new mount on the crossmember. The upper mount carries little weight and almost never fails, however when the engine is removed you should inspect and replace it, much like you would change a car muffler; remove the through bolt and pull the mount from its bracket reinstalling it in reverse order and tighten bolts securely. Unbolt the torque rod from both the engine and frame brackets, lift it out and re-bolt it back into the same order, ensured that all bolts are tight.