MK5 Golf GTI

General => Product Reviews => Topic started by: john_o on November 08, 2010, 12:53:07 pm

Title: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: john_o on November 08, 2010, 12:53:07 pm
Why

well Im sure most of you already know Ive been incrementally trying to decrease the amount of engine movement I feel my car has had from day 1.
So my cars manual Ed30 'timeline' of incremental actions Ive researched and subsequently tried has been :

0 miles :  car delivered with OE mounts
12,000 miles :  ECS Lower Mount Insert review (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,393.0.html)
26,000 miles :  VWR 'Fast Road' Engine Mount + Powerflex Insert Bush - Review (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,6995.0.html)    (Note : this replaces the ECS insert with a complete new mount)
44,900 miles : THS side mounts fitted : this review      (Note : VWR Lower Mount  + Powerflex bush still remain)

I strongly recommend you take a look at the VWR Lower mount review above as it also outlines lots of general detail about the TFSI engine mounts Im not going to repeat here. (as well as links to RedRobins other engine mount reviews)

For a long time now I have endured  a broken oil cap / engine cover due to excessive movement that the dealer refuses to agree is a problem! (Note : I am now out of warranty)
Each time I have made changes the situation has improved to a varying degree, but over time either the new modification has 'softened' and/or the other mounts have continued to deteriorate.
This means unless you do a replacement of all items at once, theres a knock on effect.
I definitely felt that fitting the lower VWR mount hastened the demise of the side mounts (or maybe its just the way the OE mounts age past a certain amount of 'flexibility')

So I got to a point where I could face it no longer, my daughter would have to have a few less toys so that daddy can buy some engine mounts (lol).
The horrendous wheel hop and gradually returned and was painful, so much so I rarely 'pushed on'. As well as that deactivating the cruise control resulted in a jolt as the mounts rocked back and forth, very annoying. I have spent

best part of 6 months driving around the inadequacies of my engine mounts.

Having researched all the choices (see below) , and SteveP kindly setting up a very well timed
THS Engine Mount Group Buy (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,20100.0.html), I jumped at the THS side mounts
(remember I already have a VWR lower mount which is the same as the THS lower version to all extents).

Why THS ?
I believe this represents a good halfway house between OE mounts and fully reworked mountings (BSH/VWR etc)
My previous experience with VWR lower mount showed me just how much a small difference can alter the NVH within the car, combined with  stokeballons review on BSH mounts (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,9477.0.html)
, and the fact he removed them, prudence was required and I knew some compliance would still be required in the mounting system.
I like the concept of taking the OE design and improving it as well. (Although longer term this may also mean the mounts 'age' just like OE, but VWR/BSH mounts may not)
And lastly the price point is appealing, especially as theres a chance I dont like them!


Sourcing

from
THS Performance (http://www.thsperformance.co.uk/category/FR3_Engine_Mounting_Systems/2005_Present__MK5_6_Platform_VAG_cars_,i.html)
Quote
"2005-Present (MK5/6 Platform VAG cars)
THS Performance have developed a new engine mounting system for the 1.8T FSI and 2.0T FSI MK5 and MK6 type application.
The outer casing of the mounting system maintains stock appearance, whilst the internal rubber has been carefully re-engineered by means of shape and stiffness to reduce engine/drive train movement. The rubber is 30% stiffer than standard but becasue of the re-engineered shape the engine movement is reduced by over 50% without transmitting any serious engine vibration back into the vehicle unlike polyurethane mounts.
The extra control over the engine and drive train makes for a much more precise power transmission to the road both on 2wd and 4wd applications.
Significantly reducing wheel hop on 2wd cars. Other benefits are reduced stress on the exhaust system."

cost was £160 (£200 normally) via the forums group buy.

Fitting

It looks scary but in reality its not that bad, as long as you take your time and have the right tools.
I was quoted by Awesome GTi Manchester around 1.5 to 2 hours labour (£82.50  to £110), but decided to attempt it myself.
SteveP quotes around an hour, it took me around 2.

(install guide copied from SteveP's notes (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,20317.msg284188.html#msg284188))
Tools Needs: -
19 (maybe 18 mm lol), 13 & 10mm Sockets
16mm deep Socket
Couple of medium and long extension bars
T20 Torx Screwdriver
Jack and a wooden block to support the engine
Also found a magnetic pick up tool very helpful  :grin:

On the drivers side mount I removed the bolts/screws for the washer filler neck, charcoal cannister and expansion tank, then unbolted the side support bracket.
Then you can get at the mount, that's unbolted by removing the2 x 16mm bolts and 2 x 19mm bolts.

Pics of the driver side mount: -

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FStevep_010%2FTHS%2FDSCF3184.jpg&hash=35282780cb9cd01c578fe74795ac84dc415c8e69)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FStevep_010%2FTHS%2FDSCF3185.jpg&hash=b631adfd3241a895ebd0ee34538291dea049babb)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FStevep_010%2FTHS%2FDSCF3186.jpg&hash=0a72c9b8b49fe42bbbfeda945e5526cc21ab5fad)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FStevep_010%2FTHS%2FDSCF3187.jpg&hash=73f4087cd5a49dcdea0fdbace025b42b49b09494)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FStevep_010%2FTHS%2FDSCF3188.jpg&hash=77fc3fa7c4b4b9cd4c38c299e8d9a8d9bd2873cf)

This side done: -
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FStevep_010%2FTHS%2FDSCF3189.jpg&hash=c32a8c2f3cb61b6fbe87b2f7ed1e6c912a38ad6d)

For the passenger side mount, the battery and battery tray (3 x 13mm bolts) need to be removed, then unclip the wiring loom tray the rest on top of the mount.
Then unbolt the three 19mm bolts on the engine side of the mount and the 4 x 19mm.
Pics of the Passenger side: -
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FStevep_010%2FTHS%2FDSCF3190.jpg&hash=7ac7a14efcc894cf1279b67690afcf581b165c73)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FStevep_010%2FTHS%2FDSCF3191.jpg&hash=664f65008b63dfb588afa5e495cdc3ee9795130d)

This side done
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FStevep_010%2FTHS%2FDSCF3192.jpg&hash=eb5e264fd55fcecf2b201ad39200154a3118f5f1)


my comments
I reused my original bolts
Use a torque wrench! +1/4 turn is a lot.
keep bolts in removal position order by punching holes in boxes new mounts come in to store bolts
fit bolts to chassis side first THEN engine side, if it feels wrong dont force or risk a cross thread!
use a jack to support the engine (THIS IS A MUST), once you see how much it all moves with a mount removed youll wonder why the OE mounts arent twice the size they are.
If you have a map e.g. REVO  theres a chance the settings may get lost so have an SPS switch handy

other data
comments as fitted by Gaz (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,21009.0.html)
original mounts query thread by me (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,20317.0.html)


torque specs

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flh5.ggpht.com%2F_f42ZbKWLXUk%2FTLXUxFOfI4I%2FAAAAAAAARyY%2FATZPAeYZezw%2Fs800%2Fside%2520mount%2520diagram%2520and%2520torque%2520settings.jpg&hash=f2a226615ba436c214935ef772f8670f46871290)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flh6.ggpht.com%2F_f42ZbKWLXUk%2FTLXUxg6uUNI%2FAAAAAAAARyc%2FgMRCH_yvBKU%2Fs800%2Flower%2520mount%2520diagram%2520and%2520torque%2520settings.jpg&hash=3e6e7e0ebeb015de2aaeec116f7221e5b5b3dbc0)


Bolt numbers and approximate costs should you wish to buy replacements

Engine Mount =
2 x N 019 502 13 - M8x25 (£0.51 each)
1 x N 905 969 06  - M10x55x32 (£4.11 each)
2 x N 105 524 02 - M12x1,5x70 (£2.35 each)
1 x N 910 296 02 - AM10x55/M6x12 (£3.94 each)

Gearbox Mount =
4 x N 905 969 06 - M10x55x32 (£4.11 each)
2 x N 105 524 02 - M12x1,5x70 (£2.35 each)

Lower Mount =
1 x N 911 671 01 - M10x75 (£1.65 each)
1 x N 910 661 01 - M10x35 (£1.65 each)

All prices are inc VAT and as a guide only (part list from ETKA for a 2008 Golf).

TODO : describe old mounts
TODO : add pic of old mounts

Alternative engine mounts to consider

Theres a considerable amount of choice out there for engine mount replacements, its just a question of how far you want to go, and how much NVH you are willing to put up with.

BSH mounts
(non OE appearance but stealth like , poly  bushing , inc new bolts)  78a durometer bushings
BSH speedshop (http://www.bshspeedshop.com/store/mounts)
stokeballons review (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=9477.0)
vortex review (http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?4609947)
golfmkv review (http://golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=118998)

VWR mounts
(non OE appearance, poly bushing)
VWR Racing (http://volkswagenracing.co.uk/Tuning%20General%20Pages/Engine%20Mounts%20Overview.html)
RR's lower mount review  (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,5082.0.html)
my review of lower mount (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,6995.0.html)
RR's full set review (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,6086.0.html)

VF Engineering
(look the same as BSH version)
VF Engineering (http://www.jkm.org.uk/performance/tfsimotormounts.htm)

BlackForestIndustries (US)
 BlackForestIndustries  (http://store.blackforestindustries.com/engine19.html)
supply inserts (passengers side) , preassembled  or full items (drivers side) , 3 levels of hardness from 1 to 3
"Stage1 65a poly inserts vs. the stock (45a)inserts are 50% stiffer than stack. Will increase some vibration in cabin - especially during certain rpm ranges"
they have a useful diagram of the collapsed OE mount .....
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fblackforestindustries.com%2Fblah%2Fmk5transcompare.jpg&hash=77a18ac52d62d4803911a5603d4546a8d6245255)

Use OE new mounts and fill as per TeutonicTamer
 TT's thread on modded engine mounts (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,18680.0.html)
My only concern is that its still 2 different types of material that may seperate and age differently. Not entirely convinced it will last for very long.

I remember jonnyc also filled some engine mounts for his S3


Specific noise data

Im trying to compare to how I previously reported when the VWR lower was fitted. Now bear in mind that this got quieter over time as both it and other mounts have softened further

idle  or idle+aircon
in a previous review I complained that a vibration was existent with air con on once the VWR lower had been fitted, ironically with the 2 side mounts fitted AND new REVO software this is now gone! something has meant the harmonics have changed out of this range. At idle my car is now quieter than it was before.

clutch biting point
I always have moaned that the DMFlywheel and clutch on the GTI is pants. feel is non existent. Immediately after fitting I felt the noise at the biting point was worse, but almost straight away this went, now the

noise at takeup has gone as feels much less harsh (ironic when you consider the NVH increases in all other phases, I would theorise the mounts 'settled' post installation, or maybe Im just deaf from the Grr...)

acceleration mild : feels coarse/harsh, +50% NVH increase. level increases as revs rise

deceleration :  feels coarse/harsh, +50% NVH increase. level increases as revs rise

acceleration full :  wtf! way more noise, easily +100% or more, when I spoke to Gaz I mentioned its more like an old mk2escort on twin 45DCOE carbs at full chat!
its intake/gearbox + just about any noise you can think of lol. Sounds like I have an intake fitted when I dont.not for the faint hearted or the paranoid.

You can modulate some of the sound with load applied but some still remains even on a flat throttle.
however cruising at 70-80mph is almost identical to before. Definitely lower speeds you notice the noises more.

now that sounds bad but it isnt really. I have now completed over 200 miles and already the noises are improving.
But in reality the car is no longer the paragon of smoothness you hoped for, but for me the benefits FAR outweigh the disadvantages of fitting.
I find it hard to imagine what the full BSH/VWR mounts sound like, if this is the halfway house.

Plus Points

OE look. OE design but better.
Fits just like OE
Warranty friendly
Its an easy to fit modification that looks daunting but isnt (but could be if you get it wrong)
Depending on how they last, I would say good value.
Engine no longer moves at all. Engine Cover/Oil Filler cap are now safe (as are aftermarket intakes if you have one installed re: forge snapping bracket)
Aural improvement if thats your thing. Grrrrr TM according to RedRobin
adds some intake like type noise even with stock engine cover
wheelhop is gone (finally)
clutch bitepoint noise has improved significantly.
THS Performance support seems to so far have been top notch with questions answered quickly and even torque settings supplied.

Minus Points

NVH. not really in keeping with the GTI fast but refined ethos. coming from very worn OE mounts they are a vast difference.
Long term resilience as yet unproven.
May impact if you planned to sell the car, prospective buyer will just compare to OE sounds and reckon your gearbox/engine is fkd
The lower mount (which I didnt fit , as I have a VWR one) is much less of a DIY proposition.


Summary
Until someone creates adaptive engine mounts that can be retrofitted to mk5/mk6 golfs the whole area is a compromise of
reduced engine movement VS Noise/Vibration/Harshness levels.
These can be effected by design and nature of the components used to build the engine mounts (contact surface area ,durometer of rubber/poly used etc)

The OE mount does a fantastic job at keeping noise levels low but allows significant engine movement even when new (and gets % wise far worse as they wear more).
I guess if you could get them cheap enough, replacing the OE mounts with new OE mounts every 5-10k miles could be an option but thats not for me, besides even when new they arent that great.

So if like me you can sacrifice some comfort for a fully restrained engine you will have to fit aftermarket mounts using one of the options I listed above.

My advice after doing this incrementally (assuming you place engine restraint over noise levels) would be to

IDEAL SCENARIO : fit all 3 mounts (2 x side + lower) at the same time so that the loads are spread evenly across all stress points.
Doing it incrementally I believe, has greatly shortened the life of my OE side mounts as well as my newer lower mount. all at once or nothing.

COMPROMISE SCENARIO 1 :
less effective (but more cost efficient) maybe to consider 2 x side with the dogbone insert, that way you can fit it all at home without the need for a press.
(I do however feel this is suboptimal and may not last as long as in combination with a 'good' lower mount), I havent tried it but the noise levels maybe reduced too.

COMPROMISE SCENARIO 2 :
fit lower VWR/THS mount and 2 new OE mounts, and replace the OE mounts frequently. that way noise is significantly reduced, OE mounts arent left to age to any great extent.

Its a double edged sword as you want them to hold the engine tight but at the same time soften to reduce noise levels.

At this stage 200 miles since fitting, I am very happy with the THS side mounts and Im quite happy to give them 1000 miles or more to bed in.  :happy2:
Ill be sure to update this review as the miles progress........


thanks to everyone for their help and input on all aspects of providing data etc of this review.  :happy2:

Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: wigit on November 08, 2010, 04:33:00 pm
that is a cracking in depth write up and hats off to you for taing the time fella  :happy2:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: Poppa Dom on November 08, 2010, 06:03:48 pm
+1  :happy2: A superb review, I have put 1500 miles on mine in the past 2 weeks and I love the full set of mounts, not finding the noise an issue, in fact I like a little more rawness. Thanks for taking the time on this review, if anyone is considering these they get my vote! Agree that there is little change in sound, cabin noise at motorway cruising speeds
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: RedRobin on November 08, 2010, 06:28:36 pm
Wow! An incredibly thorough and very detailed and informative review.

You wrote: "the car is no longer the paragon of smoothness you hoped for, but for me the benefits FAR outweigh the disadvantages"

^^^^ That's it in a nutshell. Car manufacturers have to make their products 'smooth' for the bigger market. Hardcore enthusiasts who prefer dependable driver feedback and sounds to monitor and enjoy, are a minority.

Good point you make about it being preferable to do all three mounts so that wear and stresses are likely to be more even.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: Top Cat on November 08, 2010, 09:01:32 pm
Not a bad review all things considered.  :indifferent:  :fighting2:


Incredible.  :congrats:  And not one mention of the word GRRrrr!.  You should get yourself a job working for "Which".  :happy2:



Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: KRL on November 08, 2010, 09:05:08 pm
He did mention GRRRrrr once  :P
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: Top Cat on November 08, 2010, 09:22:56 pm
He did mention GRRRrrr once  :P

Your right.  :ashamed:

I retract my comment on your review. I now feel it is pance.  :driver:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: john_o on November 08, 2010, 10:27:08 pm
thanks everyone, its a team effort  :happy2: not just my info in this review.

and TC , I couldnt mention mounts without using one of Robins trademark catchphrases  :laugh:
(which unsurprisingly describes the sound pretty well  :signLOL:)
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: TT-Turbo on March 20, 2011, 12:38:10 am
Nice write up. I have been looking into the THS mounts compared to BSH and BFI. The THS mounts seems fairly un-spoken about so gives a valuable opinion. 
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: the bruce on April 21, 2011, 11:47:10 pm
 :happy2:


Great review !!!

 :congrats: :congrats: :congrats: :congrats: :congrats:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: fab5freddy on May 02, 2011, 08:57:34 am
Spot on John_o, all the info i was looking for. Thank you  :congrats:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: danishmkvgti on May 02, 2011, 09:03:22 am
Fitment of the 2 upper mounts has helped with the judder i had with the Sachs uprated SMF clutch pack, Still trying to get used to the changed engine noise inside the car, keep thinking something is wrong  :laugh:
The extra noise is well within acceptable soundvlevels IMO off course  :happy2:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: Neilgti on June 23, 2011, 09:47:32 pm
I fitted the fast road vwr engine mount 2 weeks ago, had it on 3 days and then removed it, the vibration was driving me crazy 
I think it is a dsg thing because the manual versions dont seem to suffer this ?
it feels like the clutch is at biting point on tickover when your in gear (the only way to explain the vibration) no probs on the move and feels more responsive,
i have now fitted the standard rubber mount with the fast road poly insert to stiffen it up thinking that it wouldnt vibrate as much as the ally version vwr mount, but it feels just the same, will have to get use to it methinx 
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: JamesH on July 07, 2011, 12:19:05 pm
Just been thinking about the THS mounts and found this thread. REALLY useful guide and also review.

Thanks.  :happy2:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: Carrera2RS on July 08, 2011, 09:35:17 am
Seems they vary in how they perform.

My car, a  manual Pirelli has the botom THS mount and it is AWFUL..... I have given it 500+ miles and it is better but the dash shake, pulling away in a 100k mile taxi with a duff clucth vibration is still there. Fine on the move but frankly awfyul

I am tolerating until I can find a solution to wheel hop without the problems thei creates. To put this in context I let my friend drive the car and he was shocked how afwul the vibration was......

Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: rich83 on July 08, 2011, 09:39:02 am
I find that most of the wheel hop it caused by the ESP system.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: wigit on July 13, 2011, 10:07:57 pm
I fitted the fast road vwr engine mount 2 weeks ago, had it on 3 days and then removed it, the vibration was driving me crazy 
I think it is a dsg thing because the manual versions dont seem to suffer this ?
it feels like the clutch is at biting point on tickover when your in gear (the only way to explain the vibration) no probs on the move and feels more responsive,
i have now fitted the standard rubber mount with the fast road poly insert to stiffen it up thinking that it wouldnt vibrate as much as the ally version vwr mount, but it feels just the same, will have to get use to it methinx 

neil, i'd been having increased vibration issues on the rocco after the coilies went on with the vwr lower nount, turned out the oem top mounts were well past there best, i've swapped the top mounts to VWR and strangely the car is now more refined and the vibration has been significantly reduced, in reality Geordie highlighted this on his tsi rocco  :happy2:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: MAT ED30 on July 13, 2011, 11:07:24 pm
Same as me as when I fitted the lower race mount the car growled like mad but after the I had the side ones fitted the noise was less
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: james on July 15, 2011, 05:08:47 pm
just to let you know, there is a group buy on these
http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,32106.0.html (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,32106.0.html)
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: the bruce on March 05, 2012, 07:33:13 pm
fantastic review !!

 :happy2: :happy2: :happy2: :happy2:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: 56OctyVRS on June 11, 2012, 09:51:41 am
I fitted my set yesterday apart from the lower engine mount. I am impressed at the improvement they have made to the egear change and thrttle response. Plus the engine has an M3 type induction growl now. Just need to get the lower mount fitted. There has been no increase in engine vibration at any speed. If anything the engine feels smother than before.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: berg on June 11, 2012, 10:04:04 am
I fitted my set yesterday apart from the lower engine mount. I am impressed at the improvement they have made to the egear change and thrttle response. Plus the engine has an M3 type induction growl now. Just need to get the lower mount fitted. There has been no increase in engine vibration at any speed. If anything the engine feels smother than before.


i found this too, but wait till you get the lower mount fitted, that is when you get the vibration! :laugh:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: 56OctyVRS on June 11, 2012, 04:47:50 pm
It cant be any worse than my Fabia VRS diesel with a Super pro solid lower engine mount. That vibrated but wasnt overly intrusive.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: RedRobin on June 11, 2012, 06:01:05 pm
^^^^
I think those sort of vibrations being talked about here are very minor - Just a buzz felt through the steering wheel but only when first starting up cold. At least, that's what the VWR engine mounts are like and they can't be that different from THS.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: 56OctyVRS on June 12, 2012, 08:03:43 am
Booked in next wednesday to have the lower mount fitted. £30 fitted, so its not worth me struggling on the driveway.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: JMP on June 20, 2012, 04:39:44 pm
I just installed the FR3 top mounts to my GTI. I already had the powerflex insert done to the dogbone mount. Well I can pretty much agree to all comments already given here, the vibrations hardly increased at all. Everything feels solid during drive. However, I still get some wheelhop. Its a lot better, but not all gone.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: RedRobin on June 20, 2012, 05:53:41 pm

I just installed the FR3 top mounts to my GTI. I already had the powerflex insert done to the dogbone mount. Well I can pretty much agree to all comments already given here, the vibrations hardly increased at all. Everything feels solid during drive. However, I still get some wheelhop. Its a lot better, but not all gone.


....It's the lower mount which should cure wheelhop, not what you are calling the "top" mounts. At least that's the way it is with VWR engine mounts.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: JMP on June 21, 2012, 11:38:54 am
....It's the lower mount which should cure wheelhop, not what you are calling the "top" mounts. At least that's the way it is with VWR engine mounts.

I think youre right. I was hoping that the powerflex insert combined with THS top mounts (btw THS calls them "top mounts") would be sufficient, but I guess not. Since Im not a fan of dropping the subframe, is the HPA solid mount the only improved option for me? Are there any other option that is intented to work only with the bottom "puck" changed? thanks..
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: RedRobin on June 21, 2012, 01:28:06 pm

....It's the lower mount which should cure wheelhop, not what you are calling the "top" mounts. At least that's the way it is with VWR engine mounts.


I think youre right. I was hoping that the powerflex insert combined with THS top mounts (btw THS calls them "top mounts") would be sufficient, but I guess not. Since Im not a fan of dropping the subframe, is the HPA solid mount the only improved option for me? Are there any other option that is intented to work only with the bottom "puck" changed? thanks..


....I know I am right on this one - There isn't a soley poly insert made which can match the effect of a proper engine mount inserted in the subframe.

There's no harm in removing the subframe in order to fit a proper lower engine mount - It does need the right tools though.

Btw, the term "top mounts" is usually interpreted to mean those relating to suspension. I think THS have got it wrong there.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: the bruce on June 21, 2012, 02:49:45 pm
Keep in mind a solid  lower mount will increase engine vibrations more than the FR3 top mounts.

Modding a car is a great compromise. Whatever you do you have to make a decision between
reliability, sportiness and comfort (+ cost).
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: RedRobin on June 21, 2012, 03:10:56 pm

Keep in mind a solid  lower mount will increase engine vibrations more than the FR3 top mounts.

Modding a car is a great compromise. Whatever you do you have to make a decision between
reliability, sportiness and comfort (+ cost).


....So true  :happy2:

However, I only got (very minor) vibrations transferred from the engine bay when I fitted the two VWR engine mounts, not from when only the VWR lower mount was fiitted.

We each have our own individual definitions of what we think of as 'comfortable' - I feel extremely uncomfortable driving any car which feels like a caccooned blancmange!
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: wigit on June 21, 2012, 04:34:15 pm
Keep in mind a solid  lower mount will increase engine vibrations more than the FR3 top mounts.

Modding a car is a great compromise. Whatever you do you have to make a decision between
reliability, sportiness and comfort (+ cost).


i think you have to look at engine mounts as a complete package from a manufacturer, i've tried something else on the Ed35 as a comparison to the vibratechnics i was going to do and more than happy especially as dog bone is not so intrusive so my spare subframe will gather dust in the garage

i wanted a different compromise on the Ed35
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: RedRobin on June 21, 2012, 05:22:09 pm

i think you have to look at engine mounts as a complete package from a manufacturer


....I agree. they are designed to work and balance out the dynamic forces together.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: the bruce on June 21, 2012, 05:30:03 pm
I feel extremely uncomfortable driving any car which feels like a caccooned blancmange!

True, Robin !!

Even my GF likes a "stiffer ride" much more cos it feels "safe" at all speeds.  :wink:



ps:
I'd go for the top mounts + insert first and see how it works. Adding a solid rubber later
is easy.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: 56OctyVRS on July 07, 2012, 07:48:46 am
Didnt get the lower mount fitted as i had to cancel. Got it rebooked for the 18th july now. I think whilst the subframe is off i might get the ecs subframe bolts fitted too. Though i feel the vibrations less now I have removed the iridum 8s and refitted the 7s.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: 56OctyVRS on July 17, 2012, 04:04:12 pm
Booked in tomorrow to have the lower mount fitted. Cant wait to see how much difference it makes :happy2:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: 56OctyVRS on July 18, 2012, 09:04:49 pm
Got it fitted today and am really impressed at the difference. I had a neuspeed inserrt and oe mount before. The engine seems to have quietened down since fitting the lower mount and the front ed seems more solid. The gear changes are even better and the vibration isnt that bad at all. It only vibrates slightly when pulling away but once moving you cant tell its any different nvh whise.
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: danishmkvgti on March 12, 2014, 10:19:18 am
Just a heads up, these are not available for sale anymore unfortunately according to THS
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: robern2 on March 12, 2014, 09:47:54 pm
Do we know why ?
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: flashp on April 03, 2014, 06:01:39 pm
It was suggested to me that maybe they could have been using original VAG castings with the part no removed and their own rubber fitted. Speculation only of course.  :happy2:
Title: Re: THS Replacement FR3 Engine Mounts TFSI : Review
Post by: danishmkvgti on April 05, 2014, 09:58:24 am
034 Motorsport have a similar product that are still in production  :happy2: