Brown Dog Motor Mounts: Strength Tested, Myths Debunked
From crushing 20‑ton press trials to clearing up lift misconceptions — discover how Brown Dog keeps your Jeep engine secure and your knowledge sharp.
Real‑World Proof — From the Press to the Trail
Our lab tests are only half the story. The other half happens in the dirt, mud, and rock. Competition rigs equipped with Brown Dog motor mounts, lifts, and brackets deliver feedback from the toughest conditions — rock crawling, mud slinging, and desert racing.
After years of sponsorships and field testing, we’ve never seen a structural failure of a Brown Dog engine bracket. If it ever happens (and we’d love to see how), our lifetime warranty has you covered.
So don’t risk a sagging engine miles from civilization. Equip your Jeep with Brown Dog motor mounts and engine brackets, and head into your next off‑road adventure knowing your engine is secure — no matter what pressure you face.
Understanding Motor Mount Lifts (MML)
When it comes to Jeep modifications, motor mount lifts (MML) often spark confusion. Many assume they’re automatically required when installing a body lift — but that’s not true.
Myth busted: A body lift doesn’t require a motor mount lift.
While both affect vehicle height, they serve entirely different purposes. A body lift simply raises the body from the frame, while a motor mount lift adjusts the engine’s position. The only connection is that a body lift can eliminate the need to relocate the radiator or fan shroud.
That said, certain Cherokee configurations can benefit from a motor mount lift, depending on the setup and driving conditions.
The Real Purpose — Correcting Driveline Angles
Under normal circumstances, a motor mount lift’s main job is to correct driveline angle issues that cause vibrations or u‑joint binding. Installing one on a Jeep with no vibration problems can actually create vibration instead of solving it.
There’s no universal formula to determine which lift height works best — it depends on your vehicle’s configuration, suspension setup, and driveline geometry. A motor mount lift can be the perfect fix only when misalignment is the root cause of those unwanted vibes.
Choosing the Right Lift Height
It’s tempting to think that more lift equals better performance, but that’s not always the case.
Most Jeeps with up to 6 inches of suspension lift perform best with either a stock‑height or 1‑inch motor mount lift.
A 2‑inch lift is rare and should only be used in extreme setups — such as custom frames, unique engine installations, or bodies requiring special engine positioning. Before installing one, always check for clearance between the bell housing and floor pan, and between the valve cover and hood. A simple test using modeling clay on the valve cover can help measure available space.
Remember: a motor mount lift corrects alignment issues, not mechanical failures like bent shafts or damaged parts.
Need Guidance?
Still deciding between rubber and polyurethane? Contact our team for tailored advice.