Your Complete Guide to the 1966-1974 Buick Skylark Automatic Transmission Mount
Stop the clunking and shaking by choosing the right transmission mount for your classic Skylark.
- Symptoms of failure are distinct: listen for clunking when shifting and feel for new vibrations.
- For a stock Skylark, a standard rubber mount from a brand like Pioneer is a reliable choice; for performance, use polyurethane.
- Replacement is a simple, one-hour job for a DIYer with a jack and basic tools.
- Don't ignore a bad mount; doing so can cause damage to your exhaust, driveshaft, and engine mounts.
Is Your Skylark's Transmission Mount Failing?
The transmission mount is a simple part made of rubber and metal that holds your transmission in place and absorbs vibrations. Over decades of use, the rubber can crack, get saturated with oil, or simply wear out from age. When it fails, the transmission can move around more than it should, leading to distinct symptoms. Because this is a common wear item on a classic car, it's one of the first places to check if you're experiencing new noises or vibrations.
Top 3 Signs of a Bad Transmission Mount
If your Skylark's transmission mount is worn out, it will let you know. Listen and feel for these common symptoms:
- Clunking or Banging Noises: This is the most common sign. You may hear a loud "clunk" or "thud" when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse. The noise is the sound of the transmission lifting and hitting the underbody of the car because the mount is no longer holding it down securely. You might also hear this when you accelerate hard.
- Excessive Vibration: A new or worsening vibration felt through the floor or seats is a classic symptom. The mount's job is to absorb vibration, so when the rubber fails, more of that shaking is transferred into the car's cabin. This is often most noticeable when the car is idling in gear.
- Visible Drivetrain Movement: A worn mount will allow the engine and transmission to move excessively. A simple way to check this is to have a helper watch the engine while the car is parked with the emergency brake on. With your foot firmly on the brake, shift from Park to Reverse or Drive. A bad mount will allow the engine and transmission to lift or twist noticeably.
Pro Tip: Check Your Engine Mounts Too
The transmission mount works as part of a team with the engine mounts. If the transmission mount has failed, there's a good chance the engine mounts are also old and worn. A failed transmission mount puts extra stress on the engine mounts, and vice-versa. It's good practice to inspect all of them and replace them as a set if they look cracked or collapsed.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount for Your Skylark
For a vehicle from 1966-1974, finding a new original GM part is not a realistic option. Your choices are new aftermarket parts, which are readily available and affordable. The main decision is between a standard rubber replacement and a performance-oriented polyurethane mount.
Standard Rubber Mounts (Good for Most Owners)
These are designed to be direct replacements for the original part and provide a smooth, quiet ride. They are the most affordable option.
- Pioneer Cable: Generally considered a good quality standard replacement. Reviews and forum discussions suggest they often have a good fit and appearance, similar to the original factory part.
- Anchor: A widely available and very budget-friendly option. However, quality can be inconsistent. Some owners report they work fine for a daily driver, while others have experienced premature failure or fitment issues. It's a basic replacement part that gets the job done, but may not last as long as other options.
Performance Polyurethane Mounts (For Modified Cars)
If your Skylark has a modified, higher-horsepower engine, a polyurethane (poly) mount is a smart upgrade. Brands like Lakewood specialize in performance parts.
- Lakewood / Polyurethane Brands: These mounts use a much stiffer polyurethane material instead of soft rubber. This drastically reduces drivetrain movement, which helps put more power to the ground and improves shift feel. The trade-off is a noticeable increase in vibration and noise (NVH) inside the car. This is a great choice for performance applications but may be too harsh for a stock cruiser.
Known Issues & Recalls
There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA related to the automatic transmission mount for the 1966-1974 Buick Skylark. Failure of this part is due to normal wear and tear over many decades of use.
Cost of Replacing Your Transmission Mount
This is one of the more affordable repairs for your Skylark. The part itself is inexpensive, and the labor is straightforward.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part (Rubber) | $11.55 - $14.90 |
| New Aftermarket Part (Polyurethane) | $35 - $70 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the transmission mount myself?
Yes, this is a very DIY-friendly job for a rear-wheel-drive car like the Skylark. It requires safely lifting the vehicle on jack stands, supporting the transmission with a floor jack and a block of wood, and using basic hand tools. The entire process typically takes about an hour.
Is a polyurethane mount better than a rubber one?
It depends on your car and how you use it. For a stock or lightly modified Skylark used for cruising, a standard rubber mount provides the best ride comfort. For a car with a high-performance engine that sees aggressive driving or racing, a polyurethane mount provides superior strength and control but will make the ride harsher.
Will a bad transmission mount cause the transmission to slip?
No, a bad mount will not cause the transmission to slip. However, in rare cases, the excessive movement could affect the shift linkage, leading to poor shift quality. The primary symptoms are noise and vibration, not internal transmission problems.
What happens if I don't replace a bad mount?
While the car is still drivable for short periods, ignoring a failed mount is a bad idea. The constant movement puts extra stress on other expensive parts, including the engine mounts, driveshaft u-joints, exhaust pipes, and even the transmission case itself. A small repair can prevent a much larger one down the road.
Technical Specifications
The standard mount for this application is a single-stud design that bolts to the transmission crossmember. It consists of a metal housing bonded to a rubber block to absorb vibration. Polyurethane versions are available for performance applications.
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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.
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- Is Your Skylark's Transmission Mount Failing?
- Top 3 Signs of a Bad Transmission Mount
- Pro Tip: Check Your Engine Mounts Too
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount for Your Skylark
- Known Issues & Recalls
- Cost of Replacing Your Transmission Mount
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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