small block engine mounting

I have a plate sandwiched between the water pump and timing cover on the last ET bracket Challenger with a 2x3 frame. I was concerned about leaks, but never had any. I did use 4 long studs in addition to the regular, but longer, bolts on the other holes. I also ran a mid-mount for additional support because it was a longer distance between the plate and trans mount. In a catastophic trans failure, it would be possible for the trans and rear of the engine to drop and drag or dig into the ground.

Mounting a plate elsewhere will be a custom fab because nobody makes such a plate system that I know of.

The biggest problem will be accessory mounting/alignment, including alternator and water pump pulleys. (It would help to have a electric pump like a Meziere.)

The second problem would be to fabricate a fore-aft limiter because the engine/trans WILL move back & forth at least an inch or two, depending on the situation. That can cause problems with the radiator as well as bottoming out the driveshaft in the trans. That movement will eventually crack the plate.

I'm happy with my spool mounts and torque strap on my '75 Dart Sport. If I ever get my other car done, which has the sandwich mounts, I'll be using the mounts with interlocking tabs that prevent seperation as well as a strap again.


Why all the extra work for an uncommon set-up?