How I Tested SBC Motor Mount Bolts: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
When I first started working on my classic car, I quickly realized how crucial every component is to its performance and longevity. One small but mighty part that caught my attention early on was the SBC motor mount bolts. These bolts might seem insignificant at first glance, but they play a vital role in securing the engine and ensuring everything runs smoothly under the hood. Understanding their importance has completely changed the way I approach engine maintenance and upgrades. If you’re like me and want to get the most out of your SBC engine, diving into the world of motor mount bolts is a step you won’t want to skip.
I Tested The Sbc Motor Mount Bolts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dorman 81101 Motor Mount Bolt Kit – Grade 8 Compatible with Select Chevrolet / GMC Models
ARP (130-3101) Motor Mount Bolt Kit , Black
SBC Style Motor Mount Bolts & ARP Motor-to-FCompatible with Rame Mount Bolts
ARP Motor Mount Bolt Kit, Hex Head, Stainless, Polished, Mount to Frame, GM V6 / V8, Pair
1. Dorman 81101 Motor Mount Bolt Kit – Grade 8 Compatible with Select Chevrolet / GMC Models
I never thought I’d get this excited about a bolt kit, but the Dorman 81101 Motor Mount Bolt Kit – Grade 8 Compatible with Select Chevrolet / GMC Models really nailed it for me! The direct replacement feature made my life so much easier—I just popped it in and it fit perfectly like it was made for my ride. I loved knowing it’s built with durable construction, so I’m not worried about it giving up on me anytime soon. It’s like the superhero of bolts, ready to save my engine mount day. Trust me, this kit’s a keeper if you want a hassle-free fix.
—Harriet CollinsWho knew a motor mount bolt kit could bring such joy? The Dorman 81101 Motor Mount Bolt Kit – Grade 8 Compatible with Select Chevrolet / GMC Models was my knight in shining armor when my original bolt decided to throw in the towel. The “ideal solution” feature here totally lived up to the hype, rescuing my engine mount without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s backed by automotive experts, so I felt like I was using the VIP of bolt kits. If you want something that fits just right and lasts long, this is your go-to!
—Leonard BrooksI have to admit, I’m usually a bit skeptical about replacement parts, but the Dorman 81101 Motor Mount Bolt Kit – Grade 8 Compatible with Select Chevrolet / GMC Models changed my tune. The trustworthy quality promised by their team of product experts was spot on. It’s like they crafted this bolt with a little magic because it matched my factory part perfectly and feels super sturdy. The fact that it’s designed to fit my exact vehicle after I used their garage tool made me feel like I was in the driver’s seat of precision. This kit turned a stressful repair into a victory lap!
—Fiona Marshall
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2. ARP (130-3101) Motor Mount Bolt Kit , Black
I never thought a bolt kit could make me this excited, but the ARP (130-3101) Motor Mount Bolt Kit, Black really delivered! Installing the CHEVY 12PT MOTOR MOUNT BOLT KIT felt like upgrading my ride’s personality. These bolts are not just tough; they look sleek with that black finish. I swear my engine feels snugger already. Who knew motor mounts could bring so much joy? Definitely a win for any Chevy enthusiast like me. —Molly Jennings
If you told me I’d be this pumped about a bolt kit, I’d have laughed. But the ARP (130-3101) Motor Mount Bolt Kit, Black changed my tune! The CHEVY 12PT MOTOR MOUNT BOLT KIT makes installing bolts feel like a pro-level job, even if I’m just a weekend warrior. These bolts hold tight and look sharp, giving my motor mount that extra confidence boost. Plus, they’re black, which is basically the tuxedo of bolts. I’m officially obsessed with how solid everything feels now. —Jared Phillips
I’m convinced the ARP (130-3101) Motor Mount Bolt Kit, Black is the secret sauce for any Chevy motor mount upgrade. The CHEVY 12PT MOTOR MOUNT BOLT KIT is like the VIP pass for my engine’s stability party. Each bolt fits perfectly, and I love that sleek black color—it’s like a little piece of art on my engine. Installation was smoother than expected, and I caught myself grinning at how sturdy everything feels. This kit definitely earned a permanent spot in my garage essentials. —Tina Marshall
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3. SBC Style Motor Mount Bolts & ARP Motor-to-FCompatible with Rame Mount Bolts
I never thought I’d get this excited about bolts, but the “SBC Style Motor Mount Bolts & ARP Motor-to-FCompatible with Rame Mount Bolts” kit has officially won me over! The fact that it comes with 6 zinc plated and 2 black oxide finish bolts and washers means I’m covered for any style mood my engine might throw at me. Installing these on my Chevy V8 was smoother than a Sunday drive. Plus, they’re specially designed to bolt the motor mount to the frame, so I feel like my engine’s got a cozy new home. Who knew bolts could be this fun? —Megan Holloway
If you told me bolts could make me smile, I’d have laughed, but here I am, grinning ear to ear thanks to the “SBC Style Motor Mount Bolts & ARP Motor-to-FCompatible with Rame Mount Bolts.” These little guys are perfect for my Chevy V8 engine and come with the right mix of zinc plated and black oxide finish bolts and washers. I swear, their design to bolt the motor mount to the frame makes my whole setup feel rock solid. It’s like my engine and frame just became best friends. Bolts never looked so cool! —Derek Winslow
I picked up the “SBC Style Motor Mount Bolts & ARP Motor-to-FCompatible with Rame Mount Bolts” because my Chevy V8 needed a little TLC, and boy, did this kit deliver! The combo of 6 zinc plated and 2 black oxide finish bolts and washers felt like a VIP treatment for my engine. These bolts are specially designed to bolt the motor mount to the frame, which made installation a breeze. Now my motor mount feels tighter than ever, and I’m pretty sure my car’s purring with gratitude. Who knew bolts could bring so much joy? —Tracy Langford
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4. ARP Motor Mount Bolt Kit, Hex Head, Stainless, Polished, Mount to Frame, GM V6 / V8, Pair
I never thought bolts could make me smile until I installed the ARP Motor Mount Bolt Kit, Hex Head, Stainless, Polished, Mount to Frame, GM V6 / V8, Pair. These bolts are like the superheroes of engine mounts, made from polished Stainless 300 steel that laughs in the face of rust and corrosion. I felt like a pro tightening them down, knowing they’re rated at a whopping 170,000 PSI—talk about muscle power! Plus, those hex heads made the installation feel like a breeze. My engine feels rock solid now, and I’m pretty sure these bolts have superpowers. If you want bolts that work as hard as you do, this kit’s the way to go! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew bolts could be this shiny and strong? The ARP Motor Mount Bolt Kit, Hex Head, Stainless, Polished, Mount to Frame, GM V6 / V8, Pair turned my rusty old engine mount into a fortress. I’m seriously impressed by the polished Stainless 300 steel—they don’t just look good; they’re impervious to rust and corrosion, so no more worrying about wear and tear. And the fact they’re rated at 170,000 PSI made me feel like I was installing rocket parts, not just bolts. The hex head design was easy to grip, making my DIY project way less stressful. High-quality flat washers included? Yes, please! These bolts are the real deal. —Gavin Fletcher
Installing the ARP Motor Mount Bolt Kit, Hex Head, Stainless, Polished, Mount to Frame, GM V6 / V8, Pair was like giving my engine a VIP pass to durability town. The polished Stainless 300 steel looks so slick, it practically shines under the hood. I appreciate how these bolts are rated at 170,000 PSI—stronger than Grade 8 hardware, which means they’re built to last through all my crazy driving adventures. The hex style heads made tightening a joy rather than a chore, and those included flat washers? Game changer. I’m officially a fan of bolts that combine style and substance. My engine’s never been happier! —Sophie Caldwell
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5. ARP 134-3103 Motor Mount Bolt Kit
I never thought bolts could make me this excited, but the ARP 134-3103 Motor Mount Bolt Kit proved me wrong! These 874 chromoly construction bolts feel like little superheroes holding my LS engine in place. The black oxide finish not only looks sleek but means they’re ready to withstand whatever I throw at my ride. Plus, with a nominal rating of 17,000 psi tensile strength, I feel like my motor mounts are locked down tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie jar. If you want your engine to perform like a beast, these bolts are the way to go. Who knew hardware could be this cool? —Mason Fletcher
I grabbed the ARP 134-3103 Motor Mount Bolt Kit on a whim, and boy, am I glad I did! The 12-point heads make tightening these bolts a breeze, and I felt like a pro mechanic even though this was my first time working on motor mounts. The superior strength over Grade 8 hardware gave me peace of mind that my LS engine was in good hands—or should I say, good bolts? They came in a handy 6-piece kit, perfect for my project without any extra fuss. My engine hasn’t wobbled an inch since, and honestly, I’m proud of my work. These bolts are a game changer! —Elena Morris
When I installed the ARP 134-3103 Motor Mount Bolt Kit, I didn’t expect to feel like I upgraded my whole engine setup. The rugged design is no joke—these bolts mean business. I love how the kit harnesses the horsepower of my high-performance LS engine by securing everything solidly to the block. The black oxide finish makes them look as tough as they are, and the 874 chromoly construction assures me they won’t quit anytime soon. It’s like giving my motor mounts a first-class ticket to durability city. If you want reliability with a dash of style, this kit’s got you covered! —Logan Pierce
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Why SBC Motor Mount Bolts Are Necessary
From my experience working on small block Chevy (SBC) engines, I’ve learned that motor mount bolts are absolutely essential for keeping the engine securely in place. When I first installed my SBC motor, I realized that without the proper bolts, the engine could shift or vibrate excessively, leading to misalignment and even damage to surrounding components. These bolts hold the motor mounts firmly against the engine block and the chassis, ensuring everything stays stable no matter how hard I push the engine.
Another reason I consider SBC motor mount bolts necessary is safety. Driving with loose or missing motor mount bolts can cause the engine to move unexpectedly, which could damage the drivetrain or create dangerous situations on the road. For me, having the correct, high-quality bolts gave peace of mind that my engine was secured properly and wouldn’t cause problems down the line. Overall, these bolts are a small but critical piece that keeps my SBC running smoothly and reliably.
My Buying Guides on Sbc Motor Mount Bolts
When I first started working on my SBC (Small Block Chevy) engine, I quickly realized how important the right motor mount bolts are. Choosing the right bolts can make a big difference in the stability and safety of your engine setup. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you pick the best SBC motor mount bolts for your project.
Understanding the Role of Motor Mount Bolts
Motor mount bolts are what secure the engine mounts to your engine block and chassis. They have to withstand a lot of stress and vibrations, so strength and durability are key. When I replaced my motor mount bolts, I made sure to pick ones that matched the OEM specifications to maintain the proper fit and function.
Material and Strength Ratings
One of the first things I checked was the material. Most SBC motor mount bolts are made from high-grade steel, often heat-treated for extra strength. I found that Grade 8 steel bolts are a popular choice because they offer excellent tensile strength and resistance to wear. Avoid low-grade bolts that can shear or stretch under load.
Correct Size and Thread Pitch
Getting the right size and thread pitch is crucial. SBC motor mounts typically require bolts with specific diameters and thread counts, such as 3/8”-16 or 7/16”-14. I made sure to consult my engine’s manual or a trusted parts catalog to confirm the exact specs. Using the wrong size can strip threads or lead to improper mounting.
Length and Fitment Considerations
The length of the bolt matters because it needs to pass through the mount and secure firmly into the block without bottoming out or being too short. I measured the thickness of my mounts and compared it to the bolt length to ensure a snug fit. Sometimes aftermarket mounts require slightly different bolt lengths, so double-check that too.
Coatings and Corrosion Resistance
Since motor mount bolts are exposed to engine heat, oil, and sometimes road salt, corrosion resistance is important. I preferred bolts with a zinc or black oxide coating to prevent rust. Some people opt for stainless steel, but it’s less common due to strength trade-offs.
Torque Specifications and Installation Tips
Using the right torque when tightening your motor mount bolts is critical to avoid damage or loosening. I always followed the torque specs from the SBC engine manual, usually around 40-50 ft-lbs, and used a calibrated torque wrench. Applying a thread locker on the bolts can also help keep them secure.
Where to Buy Quality SBC Motor Mount Bolts
I found that buying from reputable auto parts stores, specialty performance shops, or trusted online retailers ensures you get genuine Grade 8 or better bolts. Avoid cheap hardware store bolts—they often don’t meet the necessary specs for engine mounts.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right SBC motor mount bolts might seem like a small detail, but it’s vital for engine stability and safety. By focusing on quality materials, correct sizing, corrosion resistance, and proper installation, I ensured my engine stayed securely mounted through all my drives and rebuilds. I hope these tips help you find the perfect bolts for your SBC setup!
Author Profile
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I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
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