When to replace engine mounts

I have condition inspection coming up and was wondering when the engine mounts should be replaced. It?s been 15 years on o360 rv8. I read somewhere where people were using gel mounts. Any thoughts?

Have a A&P show you the rubber mallet test. If the mounts look in good shape, this test will be telling. 15 years is not a long time.
Are you experiencing any new vibrations since new?

R

tracy said:

I read somewhere where people were using gel mounts. Any thoughts?

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I have two friends that installed Lord gel mounts and the gel leaked out in less than 5 years. Also, its my understanding that the gel makes no difference in flight... the gel dampens engine movement during startup and shut down. Is this correct?

If your mounts are in good shape, I don't think you need to replace them. They typically give plenty of warning before they fail (sagging engine, new vibrations, cracked rubber).

Get the LORD mounts. They cost more but are worth it. The ones I am thinking of have the silicon (gel) inner sleeve. The other brands can't compare.

If you have a leaky one you can call LORD and they will give you a new one.