Installing a motor mount is one of the most important steps in building or upgrading an RC airplane. A poorly supported engine can introduce damaging vibration, shorten the lifespan of your airframe, and cause fasteners to loosen or fail in flight. DU-BRO’s unique motor mount system is engineered to prevent vibration transfer, protect your structure, and make engine installation easier and more precise. With proper setup, the mount provides years of dependable service and noticeably smoother flying.
This guide walks you step-by-step through installing a DU-BRO motor mount, whether you’re fitting a glow engine, gas engine, or retrofitting a new mount into an older model.
DU-BRO offers a wide range of engine mounts, including anti-vibration mounts, T-style mounts, and large-scale versions.
Step 1: Remove the Elastomer Bushings
Each side of the DU-BRO mount includes four elastomer bushings. Remove all eight so you can drill your mounting holes without damaging them. These elastomers are the core of the vibration-reducing design, so keep them clean and set aside for later.
Step 2: Determine the Correct Engine Depth
Your engine’s crankshaft centerline must sit the proper distance from the firewall so the prop hub aligns with your cowl. Follow your model’s instructions to measure from the firewall to the front of the prop hub, adding an extra 5 mm to account for the elastomers once reinstalled.
Step 3: Mark Your Drilling Locations
Using a spring clamp makes it easy to hold the mounts in position and mark hole locations accurately. Double-check your measurements—engine alignment affects thrust angles, cowl clearance, and overall performance.
Secure the mount in a vise or clamp before drilling. Use lubricant for cleaner, smoother drilling, and to protect the mount’s material.
Once drilled, clean away all metal shavings and bolt the mount to your engine. Then lubricate the elastomers with castor oil or another suitable lubricant before reinstalling them.
Step 4: Transfer Measurements to the Firewall
Determine your motor’s orientation and measure the spacing between your firewall mounting holes. Mark the centerline of the firewall first, then transfer your hole spacing precisely.
If you’re retrofitting an older airframe and old holes exist, plug them using hardwood dowels and epoxy or CA glue. This restores strength and prevents misalignment.
Step 5: Install Blind Nuts and Mount the Engine
Drill the firewall holes and install two of the supplied blind nuts at opposite corners inside the fuselage. Use the included bolts to pull each blind nut securely into the wood.
Next, install the motor mount onto these two blind nuts. After aligning everything, install the remaining two bolts and blind nuts. Your engine is now mounted firmly, cleanly, and vibration-isolated.
For fuel tanks, fittings, and accessories that pair well with a new motor installation, DU-BRO offers a wide range of compatible parts.
Smooth, Reliable Power Starts With a Proper Motor Mount
A DU-BRO motor mount dramatically reduces airframe stress, prevents fatigue cracks, and helps your engine run more smoothly. Whether you're building a new model or refreshing an older one, installing your mount step-by-step ensures precise alignment and long-term durability.
