Your boat's engine mounts are relatively small and inexpensive parts, but they perform a key role in keeping your engine protected and preventing vibrations and noise from being transmitted to other parts of the vessel. Each one should last for several years — in fact, the manufacturer should tell you how many years or engine hours will pass before having them replaced. However, marine engine mounts can sometimes wear out sooner than expected.

With that in mind, here are just four common reasons for marine engine mounts to wear out prematurely.

1. Heavy Seas 

Taking your boat out when the waves are high and the weather is stormy can put a strain on many key parts, including the engine mounts. Mounts will be compressed on one side and stretched on the other when severe conditions cause your boat to heel for extended periods. At the same time, the shaking and shocks associated with rough seas can put additional pressure on your mounts. Of course, this is just the type of stress they were designed to take, but encountering such conditions often will mean they're likely to wear out sooner than expected.

2. Incorrect Installation

If you've recently had new engine mounts installed, you might think there will be nothing to worry about for some time. However, you could still experience excessive vibrations or noise due to poorly installed mounts. If marine engine mounts aren't well installed, they aren't going to properly distribute the engine's weight and won't be able to perform as they should. Alternatively, you may have chosen the wrong mounts to fit your engine. If you pick mounts that are either too hard or too soft, they won't be able to function properly.

3. Bumps and Knocks

Any kind of knock or bump to your boat can do damage, but you might be so concerned about the integrity of the hull that you forget to consider how impact forces can affect other components. In some cases, accidents can cause engine mounts to be knocked out of proper alignment. If this is caught early, they may not need to be replaced. However, they will wear out faster if you continue through the waves without addressing the problem.

4. Fluid Leaks

Leaking fluids can cause several problems, including damage to your engine mounts. When exposed to engine oil or fuel, the elastomer that helps engine mounts control vibrations will be compromised and cease to work as it should. Additionally, certain fluid leaks can cause your engine mounts to become corroded — when this happens, they will need to be replaced.

Find out more about marine engine mounts.