Ford Fairlane 1963-1970 Automatic Transmission Mount: A Replacement Guide
Stop the clunking and shaking—here’s what you need to know about replacing your Fairlane's transmission mount.
- For a stock Fairlane, choose a standard rubber mount (Anchor, DEA, Westar) to maintain a smooth ride.
- Choose a polyurethane mount (Prothane) only for high-performance cars, and expect more cabin vibration.
- Symptoms include loud clunks when shifting, new vibrations, and visible engine lurching.
- This is a good DIY project for a home mechanic and takes about an hour.
- Always inspect your engine mounts at the same time; they are likely worn as well.
Is Your Fairlane's Transmission Mount Failing?
The transmission mount is a wear-and-tear item. The rubber that does the hard work of absorbing vibrations will crack, harden, and break down after decades of use, heat, and exposure to fluids. When it fails, the transmission is no longer held securely in place, leading to several distinct problems.
Key Failure Symptoms:
- Clunking or Banging Noises: This is the most common sign. You may hear a loud clunk or bang when you shift from park into drive or reverse. The noise can also happen during hard acceleration or braking as the transmission shifts and hits the frame.
- Excessive Vibration: A bad mount can no longer absorb drivetrain vibrations. You'll feel this as a new or worsening vibration in the cabin, through the floor, or in the steering wheel, especially when accelerating.
- Visible Movement: If you can safely have a helper watch the engine and transmission (with the parking brake on and foot on the brake), you may see the whole assembly lurch or rock excessively when shifting between drive and reverse.
Don't Mistake a Bad Mount for a Bad Transmission
A failed transmission mount can cause symptoms like rough shifting or loud noises that might make you worry your transmission is failing. Because a mount is inexpensive and relatively easy to replace, it's one of the first things to check when you experience these issues.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
For a classic car like the 1963-1970 Fairlane, new original Ford (OEM) mounts are not available. The market consists entirely of aftermarket reproductions, which fall into two main categories.
Tier 1: Standard Rubber Mounts
These are designed to be direct replacements for the original part, prioritizing a smooth, comfortable ride by effectively absorbing vibrations. For a stock or daily-driven Fairlane, a standard rubber mount is the correct choice for maintaining original ride quality.
- Brands: Anchor, DEA, Westar, Pioneer
- Quality: Forum discussions among classic car owners suggest that these brands are generally similar in quality for a simple part like this. They are considered affordable, functional replacements. Some users have noted minor differences, such as Anchor having thicker metal than Westar in one comparison, but both are seen as budget-friendly options. Pioneer is also regarded as a solid standard replacement.
Tier 2: Polyurethane Performance Mounts
Polyurethane is a much harder and more durable material than rubber. These mounts are designed for performance applications to better control torque and prevent drivetrain movement, which is beneficial for high-horsepower engines or track use.
Pro Tip: While polyurethane is stronger, it does not absorb vibrations as well as rubber. Installing a polyurethane mount will noticeably increase the amount of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) you feel inside the car. This is a trade-off: you get more durability and performance at the cost of comfort.
- Brands: Prothane, Energy Suspension
- Quality: These are considered a significant upgrade in durability. They are resistant to oil and other chemicals that degrade rubber. They are ideal for modified cars but may be too harsh for a stock cruiser.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace the transmission mount depends on whether you do it yourself or use a repair shop. The part itself is very affordable.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part (Standard Rubber) | $16 - $22 |
| New Aftermarket Part (Polyurethane) | $30 - $50+ |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $120 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the transmission mount myself?
Yes, for a classic rear-wheel-drive car like the Fairlane, this is a very feasible DIY job for someone with basic tools and safety equipment. The process involves safely supporting the transmission with a jack and a block of wood, unbolting the transmission crossmember, and swapping the old mount for the new one. It typically takes about an hour. Always use jack stands to secure the vehicle before working underneath it.
Should I choose a rubber or polyurethane mount?
For most owners of stock 1963-1970 Fairlanes, a standard rubber mount is the best choice. It will preserve the smooth ride the car was designed for. Choose a polyurethane mount only if you have a high-performance engine and prioritize drivetrain stability over a quiet, comfortable ride.
Should I replace my engine mounts at the same time?
It's a very good idea to inspect your engine mounts when you replace the transmission mount. All three mounts work together to secure the drivetrain. If the transmission mount has failed due to age, the engine mounts are likely in similar condition. Replacing them all at once can save you from doing the job again in the near future.
Were there any recalls for the Fairlane transmission mount?
No recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) were found for the transmission mount on the 1963-1970 Ford Fairlane. While there was a well-known NHTSA investigation into Ford transmissions from this era for a "park-to-reverse" issue, it was related to the internal parking pawl mechanism, not the external mount.
Technical Specifications
The primary specification is the material: standard Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) for OEM-style replacements or polyurethane for performance upgrades. The mount consists of a metal base, a top plate, and the insulating material. Fitment is specific to the vehicle's chassis and transmission crossmember.
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.