Engine mount to firewall not flush

goanddo · #1 03-04-2020, 06:55 AM

Has anyone else seen this issue? This engine mount does not sit flush to the firewall. The bolt is torqued to 190 in/lbs. And yet still, HALF of the way around the bolt there is this gap of .004 of an inch and no gap the other half of the way around the bolt. The quick build firewall is not perfectly straight and flat. Prior people have written about a gap, but not a gap only halfway around.

I am so grateful for any thoughts anyone can share. Thank you.

scard · #2 03-04-2020, 07:23 AM

I would bet that Vans would tell you to put away the feeler gauge and build-on. That is what I would do.

Jpm757 · #3 03-04-2020, 08:14 AM

If you removed the mount I think you would find that the bushing that the bolt passes through is not flush with the mount tabs Torque to specs and build on!

Ralph Inkster · #4 03-04-2020, 08:20 AM

Shim with washers as required.

BobRV7 · #5 03-04-2020, 08:28 AM

Ralf is right had to put washers on mine per manual.

FinnFlyer · #6 03-04-2020, 08:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ralph Inkster

Shim with washers as required.

Did you not read the original post???

Finn

rv8ch · #7 03-04-2020, 08:55 AM

Thanks Ron! Another thing I need to check on mine.

Now that I think about it, what is the function of that disc/flange? Distribute the load? Look nice? I've seen aircraft with engine mounts without that flange, and they seem to be flying ok.

vfrazier · #8 03-04-2020, 08:58 AM

Get out your belt sander, Dremel, or surface grinder (if your shop is so equipped) and make the dang thing fit the way you want it to fit. Or make a suitable shim(s).

Then build on!

FinnFlyer · #9 03-04-2020, 09:18 AM

JB Weld if you really want to fill the void

But surely 1/2 of the washer area should be plenty.

3G negative max, compared to +6G on the lower mount points.

Finn

goanddo · #10 03-04-2020, 10:07 PM

Thank you!!! The collective brain power of this group is fantastically enormous!!! I truly appreciate your help. Thank you!