Ford Ranchero 1957-1966 Engine Mount Replacement Guide
Keep your classic Ranchero's engine secure and your ride smooth by learning to spot and replace worn engine mounts.
- Verify your Ranchero's year and engine (I6 vs V8) before ordering, as mounts differ between the 1957-59 and 1960-66 generations.
- Symptoms like heavy vibration at idle and clunking noises during acceleration are clear indicators of failed engine mounts.
- Aftermarket brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are affordable and functional replacements for daily driving and stock restorations.
- It is strongly recommended to replace engine mounts as a set to ensure proper alignment and prevent premature failure of the new parts.
Is Your Ranchero's Engine Mount Failing?
A worn-out engine mount can cause a range of issues, from annoying vibrations to noticeable clunks. Because these vehicles span two different platforms (full-size Fairlane for 1957-1959 and compact Falcon for 1960-1966), symptoms can vary slightly, but the core signs of failure are consistent.
Common Symptoms:
- Excessive Vibration: This is the most common sign. You'll feel a heavy vibration through the steering wheel, floor, or dashboard, especially at idle or when the car is in gear.
- Clunking Noises: A loud clunk or thud when you accelerate, decelerate, or shift between drive and reverse is a clear sign the engine is moving excessively due to a broken mount.
- Engine Movement: In severe cases, you can physically see the engine lift or rock when an assistant revs the engine with the brakes applied. Forum users have noted that with early V8 mounts, one hard launch can be enough to tear the rubber completely.
- Visible Damage: A visual inspection may reveal cracked, separated, or oil-soaked rubber on the mount itself.
Generation & Engine Differences Are Critical
You must order the correct mount for your Ranchero's specific year and engine. The 1957-1959 models are based on the full-size Ford platform and use different mounts than the 1960-1966 Falcon-based models. Furthermore, the mounts for an inline-6 are different from those for a V8 (like the 289). Always verify the part fits your exact configuration.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
For a vehicle of this age, finding New Old Stock (NOS) Ford mounts is nearly impossible. The aftermarket is your primary source for replacements. The available brands—Anchor, DEA, and Westar—are considered standard, economy-grade replacements.
Brand Quality Assessment:
- Anchor, DEA, Westar: These brands are widely available and very affordable. They are designed to meet original equipment (OE) specifications for fit and function. Forum discussions among classic Ford owners suggest these brands are functional but may not have the longevity of original parts, sometimes requiring replacement again after a few years. They are generally seen as a practical choice to get the vehicle back on the road safely.
- Pioneer: While also available, Pioneer is less commonly discussed for engine mounts in forums compared to the other three.
Pro Tip: Given the straightforward design of these mounts and the ease of replacement, using a standard aftermarket brand is a cost-effective solution. Some owners of modified vehicles with more powerful engines opt for custom or polyurethane mounts for added durability, but for a stock restoration, standard rubber mounts will restore the original ride quality.
Aftermarket Engine Mount Cost for 1957-1966 Ford Ranchero
| Part Type | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount | $9.46 - $41.91 | Price per mount. Most common and practical option. |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 | Estimated cost for professional installation. |
| New OEM Mount | Not Available | Original Ford parts are no longer in production. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace all engine mounts at once?
It is highly recommended. When one mount fails, extra stress is placed on the others, causing them to wear out faster. Replacing them all at once ensures proper engine alignment and saves you from doing the same job again soon.
Are there any recalls for 1957-1966 Ranchero engine mounts?
No, there are no active recalls or relevant Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA for engine mounts on the 1957-1966 Ford Ranchero. The formal recall system was not fully established until 1966.
How difficult is it to replace a Ranchero engine mount?
For a mechanically inclined owner with proper tools, it's a relatively straightforward job. 🎬 Learn more about common symptoms and how to fix them. It involves supporting the engine with a jack and a block of wood, unbolting the old mount, and installing the new one. It typically takes 1-2 hours.
What is the difference between the early and late V8 mounts?
Forum discussions on similar Ford models from the era indicate there were different mount designs, such as a "post" type and a two-piece steel and rubber channel design. The channel design was known to separate under heavy torque. It's crucial to visually match your old part to the new one before ordering.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: B7A-6038-B
Constructed of steel and Styrene Butadiene (SBR) rubber. Mounts are specific to vehicle generation (1957-1959 Fairlane-based vs. 1960-1966 Falcon-based) and engine type (I6 vs. V8).
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.