1976-1980 Dodge Challenger Automatic Transmission Mount: A Comprehensive Guide
If you're hearing clunks and feeling vibrations, your Challenger's transmission mount might be the problem.
- The 1976-1980 Challenger is a rebadged Mitsubishi Galant Lambda; search for Mitsubishi parts for a better chance of finding a fit.
- A bad mount will cause clunking noises and excessive vibration.
- No recalls or TSBs are on record for this specific part, so failure is due to age and wear.
- If you find a replacement, consider changing the engine mounts at the same time for a complete repair.
The Second-Gen Challenger: A Different Breed
Before you start shopping, it's important to understand your vehicle. The 1976-1980 Dodge Challenger is part of the second generation (produced from 1978-1983), which was a captive import manufactured by Mitsubishi in Japan. This car is essentially a rebadged Mitsubishi Galant Lambda (also sold as the Plymouth Sapporo). This is the single most important fact to know when searching for parts, as direct searches for "1976-1980 Dodge Challenger" parts often lead to incorrect listings for the first-generation (1970-1974) models.
Symptoms of a Failing Transmission Mount
A worn-out transmission mount will make its presence known through a few common symptoms. Because the mount's job is to absorb vibration and hold the transmission steady, its failure results in noticeable noises and movements.
- Clunking or Banging Noises: This is the most common sign. You may hear a loud "clunk" or "bang" when you accelerate, decelerate, or shift gears. This sound is the transmission itself moving and hitting against the frame or other components because the mount is no longer holding it securely.
- Excessive Vibrations: A bad mount can't absorb vibrations properly, so you'll feel them in the cabin, especially during acceleration. This can feel like a rough ride or a deep rumble that wasn't there before.
- Engine and Transmission Movement: If you have a helper, you can sometimes see the engine and transmission move excessively when shifting from park to drive or reverse with the brakes applied. This visible lurching is a clear indicator of a failed mount.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
After a thorough search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database and other technical resources, no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) were found for the automatic transmission mount on the 1976-1980 Dodge Challenger. Any issues you experience are likely due to the age and wear of the original part rather than a manufacturing defect.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
Finding a new aftermarket transmission mount specifically listed for the 1976-1980 Dodge Challenger is extremely difficult. Most major parts retailers do not list a direct replacement. This is due to the car's Mitsubishi origins.
Your options are:
- Search for a Mitsubishi Part: Your best bet is to search for a transmission mount for a 1978-1983 Mitsubishi Galant Lambda or Plymouth Sapporo. These are mechanically identical cars, and the part should fit. You may need to visually compare your old mount to pictures online to confirm.
- New Old Stock (NOS): You might find an original Mopar part that has been sitting on a shelf for decades. These are rare and can be expensive, but offer a perfect fit.
- Used OEM: Sourcing a used part from a salvage yard is a viable, low-cost option. However, the condition and remaining lifespan of a 40-plus-year-old rubber part are always a gamble.
- Polyurethane Inserts: Some companies, like Energy Suspension, offer universal polyurethane bushings. It might be possible to press out the old, worn rubber from your original mount's metal shell and install a new polyurethane insert, effectively rebuilding your mount. This often requires custom work and is not a guaranteed solution.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (NOS) | $100 - $250+ (If found) |
| New Aftermarket (As Mitsubishi Galant) | $50 - $150 |
| Used OEM | $20 - $60 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
Pro Tip: Check Your Engine Mounts Too
The transmission mount and engine mounts work together as a system. If your transmission mount has failed, there's a good chance your engine mounts are also worn out. Replacing them all at the same time can save you from doing the job twice and will restore your car's smoothness and stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I still drive with a bad transmission mount?
It is not recommended. While the car may still be drivable for short distances, a failed mount puts significant stress on other components like the driveshaft, exhaust system, and coolant hoses. Continued driving can lead to more expensive repairs.
How can I be sure the mount is bad?
A visual inspection is the best way. Look for cracks, tears, or separation in the rubber part of the mount. You can also perform a load test: with the parking brake on and your foot on the brake pedal, shift into drive and have a helper watch the transmission for excessive movement. Be extremely careful when performing this test.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For a moderately experienced DIY mechanic, this is a manageable job. It requires safely supporting the transmission with a jack, unbolting a cross-member, and then unbolting the mount itself. Access to the bolts can be tight. If you are not comfortable working under your car and supporting the weight of the transmission, it is best to leave this job to a professional.
Why can't I find a part listed for my Challenger?
Because your 1976-1980 Challenger is a rebadged Mitsubishi Galant Lambda. Parts are often cataloged under the Mitsubishi name, not Dodge. This is a common issue for owners of these unique cars.
Technical Specifications
The mount consists of a metal frame with a central rubber or polyurethane block designed to absorb vibration. It bolts to both the transmission housing and the vehicle's cross-member. Due to the vehicle's age and origin, specific OEM part numbers are not readily available in online catalogs.
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.