Possibly Bent Ear - Motor Mount Bracket

[TJRD4]

I’m finishing up an engine rebuild (97 4.0) and noticed the rear ear/bolt area of the driver-side engine mount bracket looks a little bent. The Jeep had a minor front-end hit years ago under the previous owner, and the airbag did go off. The frame has since been replaced due to rust, and during teardown I didn’t see anything that suggested the frame itself was bent.

I’m trying to figure out if the ear of the driver-side motor mount bracket is actually tweaked or if this is normal. I ran three bolts through the bracket into the block and snugged them up, and it pulled in mostly flush. I haven’t torqued them yet.

I know the Brown Dog brackets are an option, but they’re pretty pricey, and this Jeep is going to be mainly a daily driver or some light trails.

Posting a few pics below. What do you guys think—does this bracket look bent, or am I overthinking it?

 

[mrblaine]

I’m finishing up an engine rebuild (97 4.0) and noticed the rear ear/bolt area of the driver-side engine mount bracket looks a little bent. The Jeep had a minor front-end hit years ago under the previous owner, and the airbag did go off. The frame has since been replaced due to rust, and during teardown I didn’t see anything that suggested the frame itself was bent.

I’m trying to figure out if the ear of the driver-side motor mount bracket is actually tweaked or if this is normal. I ran three bolts through the bracket into the block and snugged them up, and it pulled in mostly flush. I haven’t torqued them yet.

I know the Brown Dog brackets are an option, but they’re pretty pricey, and this Jeep is going to be mainly a daily driver or some light trails.

Posting a few pics below. What do you guys think—does this bracket look bent, or am I overthinking it?

View attachment 662615View attachment 662616

If the machined flat spots around the bolt holes don't touch ALL of the machined flat spots on the engine block easily, the mount is bent.

 

[TJRD4]

If the machined flat spots around the bolt holes don't touch ALL of the machined flat spots on the engine block easily, the mount is bent.

Thank you. Ill look for a used one in good shape. I appreciate it!

 

[GoldenGorilla]

They're pretty easy to find on ebay from the various junkyards... er parts recyclers. The early and late blocks bolt up differently, so make sure you get the one you need for the 97.