Hello

I have a couple of "J" model convertibles ('96 Cavalier 2.2 auto & a ' 96 Sunfire 2.4 5 sp.) that have what I feel is excessive engine movement. The engines move around like they're mounted on Jello. Is this normal for these cars?

You probably need to replace one or more motor mounts. That amount of movement is not normal.

Thanks for the reply.

I figured mounts were the problem as well. So I replaced the engine mounts on the Sunfire, but not the transmission mounts. The trans mounts looked fine.

The engine still had a lot of movement, even with the new mounts.

I'll keep looking, and maybe I'll try new trans mounts, but the originals really do not look worn at all.
Best that I can tell, the engine is pretty much suspended, with the exception of the right side top mount, and there really isn't much holding it in place.

Is there an after market torque brace?

My main complaint is the front end vibration @ highway speeds. I'm not sure if the vibration is being caused by engine movement, but if the car is allowed to coast in neutral, the vibration stops.

With the engine off and the car in park, open the hood and then rock the car backward and forward. If you have a bad mount this will cause the engine to jump around.

The other way to check (takes 2 people) is to start the engine, place it in gear, and with foot firmly on the brake give it a little gas (not enough to move the car). Foot off gas, and repeat in reverse. If the engine bucks like a bronco you have a bad mount. Please exercise appropriate caution when doing this.