Ford F-350 Engine Mount Guide for 1989-1998 Models
Everything you need to know about replacing the engine mounts on your OBS Ford F-350 truck.
- Symptoms of failure include clunking noises, heavy vibration, and visible engine lurching on acceleration.
- OEM/Motorcraft mounts are the highest quality, but aftermarket brands like Anchor and DEA are budget options with very mixed reviews on longevity.
- Always replace engine mounts in pairs. It is also best practice to replace the transmission mount at the same time.
- There are no recalls or TSBs for this issue; failures are due to age and wear.
Is Your F-350's Engine Mount Failing?
The engine mounts on these '89-'98 Ford trucks are known to wear out simply due to age and hard work. The rubber inside them cracks, gets soaked with oil, and eventually breaks down. When this happens, you'll likely notice one or more of these symptoms.
Key Symptoms of a Bad Mount:
- Excessive Vibration: You might feel a new, heavy vibration in the steering wheel, floor, or seats, especially when the truck is idling.
- Clunking and Banging: Loud clunks, thuds, or bangs from the engine bay are common, particularly when you accelerate, let off the gas, or shift gears.
- Engine Lurching: The most obvious sign is the engine physically moving too much. A common test is to have a friend watch the engine (from a safe distance) while you hold the brake, put the truck in drive, and give it a little gas. If the engine lifts up more than an inch or two, a mount has failed.
- Shifter Movement: On manual transmission trucks, you might see the gear shifter jump or move significantly during acceleration.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
When shopping for new engine mounts, you'll find OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and several aftermarket brands. For this specific generation of F-350, finding new OEM Ford/Motorcraft parts can be difficult as they are often discontinued.
Brand Quality Tiers
- OEM (Motorcraft): If you can find them, original Ford mounts are widely considered the best option for fit and durability. However, they are often no longer available new and can be expensive.
- Performance Polyurethane: For trucks with high horsepower or those used for heavy pulling, some companies offer polyurethane mounts. These are extremely durable but will transfer more engine vibration into the cab.
- Economy Aftermarket (Anchor, DEA, Westar): Brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are widely available and very affordable. However, owner experiences are very mixed. Many users in forums report these mounts failing in as little as a few months to a year. Others have used them without issue. Be aware that fitment can sometimes be a problem, requiring you to modify the part to make it fit. These are a budget-friendly choice, but may not have the longevity of an OEM part.
Engine Mount Replacement Costs for 1989-1998 F-350
The cost to replace your engine mounts will depend on the parts you choose and whether you do the job yourself or hire a professional.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Parts Only) |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $100 - $200+ per mount (if available) |
| New Aftermarket | $18 - $75 per mount |
| Shop Labor | $250 - $600 (for a pair) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many engine mounts does my F-350 have?
Your 1989-1998 F-350 has two main engine mounts (left and right) and one transmission mount at the rear of the transmission. It's best practice to replace all three at once.
Are the mounts for the 7.3L diesel and the gas engines (5.8L, 7.5L) different?
Yes, the part numbers and designs for the diesel and various gas engines are often different. It is critical to order the mount that is specific to your truck's engine, model year, and drivetrain (2WD vs 4WD), as the frame brackets and mounting points can vary.
Can I replace just the one broken mount?
You can, but it's not recommended. The mounts wear out together. A single new, stiff mount paired with an old, soft one on the other side will put uneven stress on the engine and frame, and the old mount will likely fail soon after. For best results, always replace them in pairs (or all three including the transmission mount).
Were there any recalls or TSBs for F-350 engine mounts?
No. Searches of the NHTSA database and TSB archives show no specific recalls or technical service bulletins for engine mount failure on the 1989-1998 Ford F-350. Failures are typically due to normal wear and tear over time.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: F7TZ-6038-CA F5TZ-6038-C E8TZ-6038-F E7TZ-6038-F
Typically consists of two steel plates bonded together with a solid rubber insulator. Mounts are specific to engine type (gas/diesel) and drivetrain (2WD/4WD). The truck uses two engine mounts and one transmission mount.
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.
- Ford F-350: