WHY
As time goes on, the OEM engine mounts perish. This allows engine movement during acceleration. Any energy that is spent moving the engine in the engine bay is energy that isn't used by the front wheels i.e. wasted.
Additionally, aftermarket down pipes (particularly with inadequate or short flexi pipes) may fail under this excessive engine movement.
The front subframe has to be dropped for fitting, so a realignment afterwards is strongly advised. As I wanted to have my car aligned anyway, I felt it was the perfect time to get the mount installed.
SOURCING
Our very own vRSAlex of AKS Tuning is a supplier, and is the cheapest I found.
FITTING
Of course, another job for vRSAlex. Takes 1 hour, and he is able to provide the alignment as well. (He has set my car up beautifully. It feels like a totally different car.)
OTHER VERSIONS
THS
VWR
BlackForest Industries
ECS
PLUS POINTS
Subjectively the car feels much more taut and firm and the engine feels a little torquier (although I did have a larger intercooler and some less ristrictive pipework fitted at the same time which could explain the torque.)
MINUS POINTS
At idle, particularly when cold, there is definitely increased NVH in the cabin. It feels a bit like a rough diesel. Certainly nothing unbearable. When it's warmed up and when you're cruising, it's completely unnoticeable. I've been told it'll take a couple of weeks to bed in so I'm hoping that NVH at idle will soften slightly
SUMMARY
There are cheaper options out there, but Vibratechnics are more robust than these. vRSAlex mentions that THS mounts may wear over time, but the Vibratechnics are will outlive the life of the car.
The upper mounts are quote pricey, but definitely something I'll look to do when I have the money. Overall it's a thumbs up from me thus far.
