Parts for your 1997 Daihatsu Gran move-Engine mount

1997 Daihatsu Gran Move engine-mount — purpose, care and replacement

According to Daihatsu’s Gran Move/Pyzar G3-series workshop manuals and the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue (engine mounting section), the 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move uses multiple engine mounts to support and locate the transverse engine and transaxle. These sources list right-hand and left-hand mounting insulators plus front/rear torque mounts, so an engine-mount is absolutely relevant to this vehicle.

On this tidy little people-mover, the engine-mounts do more than just hold the engine in place. They isolate vibration, keep the driveline aligned, and stop the engine rocking on take-off, over speed bumps, or on corrugated Kiwi and Aussie back roads. The Gran Move typically runs a set of rubber or hydraulic mounts: side mounts carry the weight, while the front and rear “torque” mounts control twist under acceleration and braking.

When the mounts age or crack, owners may notice extra vibration at idle with the air-con on, a thump when shifting from Park to Drive, or a shudder on take-off. Under the bonnet, excessive engine movement when blipping the throttle is a giveaway. Hydraulic mounts can even seep fluid when they’re shot.

• Inspection: have the mounts checked at each service interval. Look for perished rubber, collapsed height, torn torque-rod bushes, loose brackets, or fluid leaks.
• Road feel: listen for clunks on start-up or gear changes, and note any new buzz through the steering wheel or dash.
• Lifespan: they’re wear items, many last well past 120,000–200,000 km, but city heat, oil contamination, and rough roads can shorten that.

Replacement on the Gran Move is straightforward for a competent tech. Support the engine from below with a jack and wood block, swap one mount at a time, and loosely fit all fasteners before final torque. Tighten with the engine settled at normal ride height to avoid preloading the rubber. If a torque mount is gone, it’s smart to inspect the others and the lower dogbone bush at the same time. Choose quality OEM or reputable aftermarket parts, super-hard “race” inserts can add harshness that’s not ideal for family duties.

Post-replacement, expect a smoother idle, cleaner shifts, and less drivetrain lash. It’s an underrated refresh that makes the 1997 Gran Move feel newer, quieter, and happier on daily runs and summer roadies alike.

FAQs

How many engine mounts does a 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move have?
Most Gran Move (G3-series) setups use four: a right-hand engine mount, a left-hand transaxle mount, and front/rear torque mounts. Some variants may list the torque rod as a separate assembly in the parts catalogue, but functionally it’s part of the engine mounting system.

What are the common signs the mounts need replacing?
Tell-tales include extra vibration at idle, a clunk when selecting Drive or Reverse, thuds on take-off, and visible cracking or sagging of the rubber. If a hydraulic mount leaks or the engine rocks noticeably when the throttle is snapped in Neutral, it’s time for a closer look.

Is it safe to keep driving with a worn engine-mount?
Short-term, the car may still drive, but continued use can stress exhaust flex joints, CVs, and shifter linkages. If a mount fails badly, it can allow excessive engine movement and cause further damage. Best bet is to book it in promptly once symptoms show.