GM Generation III & IV V8 Universal Legacy Series Engine Mounts

for

Jeeps

These mounts are one of our options for installing GM LS Vortec V8's into Jeeps.

Novak engine mounts have been among our flagship products for over 50 years. Note that this mount design, while still popular, has been superceded by Novak's MMX mount system. Consider which option will serve your project best.

LS Vortec Engine Mounts for Jeeps

Kit contents:

  • Frame platform sets
  • Frame anchor bracket
  • Upper urethane bushings
  • Lower urethane bushings
  • Engine block plates
  • Fastening hardware
  • Instructions

Ease of Installation

These mounts are weld-in style and detailed instructions will guide to an ideal installation.

Strength

The Novak mounts feature thick 3/16” laser cut and CNC bent steel construction. After years of real world testing, these mounts have shown to handle even the wildest V8s.

Vibration Isolation

Each mount kit comes with our high-grade urethane isolators that are specified for that ideal balance of isolation and firmness with the power of modern engines. Substantial 5/8” through bolts capture the assembly. Replacement bushing sets are available below should replacement ever be needed.

Compactness

Geometry of the mounts is compact to provide clearance for stock frame components and the recommended exhaust headers below.

Adjustability

The design on these mounts allows outstanding placement freedom in most any vehicle that meets the width requirements and has parallel frame channels. They have a large adjustment range for placement in the vertical, left-right offset and longitudinal directions.

Engine Mount Finish

All parts are ready to accept the coating of your choice which allows matching the brackets and adjacent frame area in paint, powder coat or other finish.

Applications & Compatibility

Compatible Jeeps

CJ7 with GM Vortec Engine

A 6.0L Vortec Max engine in a Jeep CJ7, performed by Novak employee Steve J.

MM35 fits Jeep models including:

  • All CJ models (if installing into a 1976-1986 CJ, we recommend these mounts instead
  • FC Series
  • Commando Models
  • Utility Trucks & Wagons
  • YJ Wrangler (however, these mounts are usually superior)
  • FSJ Trucks, Wagoneers and Cherokees (however, for 1980+ FSJ's, we recommend these mounts)
  • Other vehicles with parallel frame rails and an inside to inside frame width range of 25" - 31"

The "Low Hood" Jeeps really don't have the clearance needed for tall Vortec V8 intake manifolds. One must install the shorter LS series intake assemblies for hood clearance or make other accommodations.

Compatible Engines

These mounts will fit GM Gen III & IV LS/Vortec V8 engines, but not GM Gen V.

Jeepster Commando with 5.3L GM V8

A pristine Jeepster Commando with a 5.3L Vortec V8 for customer Avery G.

Related Products


LS Vortec Headers for Jeep Swaps
Engine Mount Bushings, spares
Radiator for GM Chevy engines in Jeeps
Pilot bushings for Jeeps
GM Fuel Injection Pump for CJ Jeeps

Installation Requirements

Old Mount Removal

Unbolting or cutting is required to remove the factory frame mounts for factory Jeep engines. This process will vary from model to model. you will want to completely remove and smooth the surface of your frame rails for a nice fitment of the new engine mount channels to your frame.

Engines & Engine Mounting

Novak engine mounts are available to ease the installation of your GM V6 or V8 engine. Novak has engines mounts for most Chevy, Buick and GM Gen III+ V8's.

Novak's engine mounts, feature vibration dampening, superior strength and useful adjustability - adjustable even after the engine is installed. The design, strength, and affordability of our mounts are second to none.

Jeep CJ with new engine installed

Lowering a Gen III V8 into a CJ Jeep.

Engine placement in these Jeeps should consider the following points:

  • Left-right offset location is similar to factory at ~1-1/4" to the driver's side
  • Avoid installing the engine too low (axle clearance and other issues)
  • Avoid installing the engine too high (transmission tunnel interference, etc.)
  • Set your engine to 4-7 degrees of tilt rearwards, like the factory engine & powertrain
  • It is usually best that Chevy and Gen III+ V8 engines install approximately 3" further forward, using the back of the engine block face as the datum
  • When mocking up your engine installation location, pay special attention to radiator and fan clearance.
  • Firewall modifications are not expected.

Since Jeeps featuring the T18 transmission are "high-hood", clearance for classic Small Block and high Vortec (truck style) intakes and accessories is not a problem.

Novak Gen III+ engine mounts for 1976-1986 Jeep CJ models will remove any guesswork from the engine installation location as they are predetermined for the best location and engine clearance margins. We recommend this version of our engine mounts if you have one of these Jeeps.

CJ7 with GM Vortec V8

Customer Chad B's CJ7 and early Gen III Vortec installation.

Driveshafts

Driveshaft length changes may be required. Chevy engines can install up to 3" further forward than AMC engines (using the back face of the block as the datum point) for exhaust clearance, firewall access, etc.

Some installers, concerned about the expense of new or modified driveshafts, attempt to let the existing driveshafts dictate engine, transmission and transfer case location, often to the detriment of the project. Our recommendation is to prioritize the correct position of drivetrain components over saving a few dollars which is usually regretted in the long run with compromised positioning.

Jeeps that require extensive travel or specialty-built driveshafts have this option available through several fabricators across the nation. These are normally specified after placement of the new transmission and measured at vehicle ride height. As the rear driveline gets shorter, it is often advantageous to us a Double Cardan or “CV style” rear shaft with the correct geometry at the axle to minimize vibrations and possible binding.

Axles

Use of factory axles is completely acceptable with this conversion. Axle upgrades are not necessary, but they may be chosen for reasons external to this transmission upgrade.

Also See

Bolt-In Mounts vs. Universal Mounts

We at Novak receive many compliments on our engine mounts. Many customers find that it is liberating to install their engine where they determine is the best place.

In some situations, Novak offers bolt-in (predetermined location) engine mounts for some Jeeps. However, if our bolt-in mounts are not available for your model or you want the liberty to determine your engine location, these mounts or Novak's #MMX series mounts should be considered.