Ever since Nads got his car back with the new Toda internals, he's been nothing but Persian smiles. That is, until his motor made an unnatural clunking noise not much different than a really wet fart. Upon investigating the sound, the source appeared to be from the increased torque (a problem we'd all like to have, right?). With some coaxing and coercing, Nads was able to acquire a set of urethane motor mount inserts from Energy Suspension and an Ingalls Stiffy Engine Torque Damper. Lucky for Nads, Elton Lo at Raceline finished relocating his shop to perform the install.
Because Nads is super busy and super foolish, I have been assigned the super task of putting together this install. Bear with me here, as I wasn't there and I attempt (poorly) to re-enact the events. Warning: to attempt to install any of the products using this as a guide could lead to serious side effects (i.e. frustrations, anger, etc). For a complete guide refer to the manufacturers or email Nads--he was there. (uh, sorry. - JN)
NADS' DRIVING IMPRESSION
"When I first started the car with the inserts and engine damper installed, I could feel the added vibration through the steering wheel at idle. This was more of a result of the mounts than the Stiffy damper. But all was forgiven when I started driving. With this stiffer setup the RSX launched like a finely-tuned drag car. The launch response is positively instantaneous. The Stiffy is adjustable and I do have it on the stiffest setting. I could probably soften it a bit to help reduce the vibrations a little but then I might lose something on my 60-foot times, what with all of the sanctioned drag strips I encounter on my short commute home."
MSRP: Energy Suspension motor mount inserts $30.98..Ingalls Stiffy Engine Torque Damper $340.07
PROS: Eliminates drivetrain lash and wheel hop, improves launch, inexpensive
CONS: Motor mount inserts are difficult to install and increase NVH levels
INSTALL DIFFICULTY: The Stiffy is easy, the Energy inserts, difficult
VERDICT: If you need to reduce motor movement the Stiffy is a quick and easy fix, but if you want razor sharp drivetrain response add the Energy inserts to the mix.