Engine Mount, for Type 2 Bus 72-79, Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity and smooth operation of your late-model Volkswagen Type 2 Bus, few components are as critical yet overlooked as the rear engine mounts. These heavy-duty rubber mounts are specifically designed for the engine support cross-member found on 1972 through 1979 Buses equipped with the Type 4 engine. Over decades of service, the original factory rubber becomes brittle, oil-soaked, and compressed, leading to excessive engine movement, drivetrain misalignment, and unpleasant vibrations that resonate through the entire cabin. By upgrading to these high-quality EMPI replacements, you are restoring the factory-engineered dampening characteristics that keep your powerplant secure and your ride quality refined.

As a master air-cooled specialist, I cannot stress enough how vital these mounts are for protecting your expensive Type 4 engine casing and the rear mustache bar. When these mounts fail, the engine begins to sag, putting undue stress on the transmission nose cone and the shifting linkage, which often results in gear pop-outs or difficult shifting. These mounts feature a robust construction with a high-durometer rubber compound bonded to a steel core, ensuring they can handle the weight and torque of the 1700cc, 1800cc, and 2000cc powerplants. Whether you are performing a full restoration on a Westfalia camper or simply keeping your daily Transporter on the road, installing fresh engine mounts is a foundational step in preserving your VW''s longevity and driving dynamics.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Models: Transporter, Kombi, Campmobile, Westfalia, and Panel Van
• Engine Compatibility: Fits 1.7L, 1.8L, and 2.0L Type 4 Air-Cooled Engines
• Placement: Used on the rear engine support cross-member (2 required per vehicle)

SPECS

• Part Number: 021-199-231C
• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Material: Heavy-duty vulcanized rubber with integrated steel mounting plates
• Quantity: Sold individually (Each)
• Hardware: Designed to accept standard factory mounting bolts
• Function: Vibration isolation and engine weight support
• Weight: Approximately 0.50 lbs

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Always Replace in Pairs for Balanced Support

While these engine mounts are sold individually, I strongly recommend replacing both the left and right sides at the same time. Rubber ages at a consistent rate; if one mount has collapsed or cracked, the other side is almost certainly in a similar state of decay. Replacing only one side can lead to an uneven engine sit, which puts "twist" or torsional stress on the cross-member and can cause premature failure of the brand-new mount. To ensure your drivetrain remains perfectly level and the vibration dampening is symmetrical, always install a fresh pair.

Tip 2: Support the Engine Safely During Installation

When you are ready to swap these out, never rely solely on the transmission mounts to hold the engine in place. Use a floor jack with a wide wooden block under the engine case (avoiding the oil strainer plate) to take the weight off the rear cross-member. This allows you to remove the mounting bolts without them binding or stripping the threads. Once the old mounts are out, you can slowly lower or raise the jack to perfectly align the holes for the new mounts. This prevents cross-threading the bolts into the chassis, which is a common and expensive mistake for DIY mechanics.

Tip 3: Check for Oil Contamination and Leaks

Rubber''s greatest enemy in an air-cooled engine bay is petroleum. If you notice your old mounts are "mushy" or swollen, it is usually because of an oil leak from the oil cooler, pushrod tubes, or the rear main seal. Before installing your new EMPI mounts, take the time to degrease the mounting area and identify any active leaks. If you install fresh rubber onto an oil-soaked engine, the new mounts will degrade significantly faster than they should. A clean engine bay not only looks better but significantly extends the life of all your rubber bushings and mounts.