Choosing the right engine mount for your RC vehicle or airplane matters more than many hobbyists realize: a good mount reduces vibration, protects the airframe/chassis, and ensures consistent power delivery. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, expert feedback, and consumer reviews across models and platforms.
Considerations
How we tested and ranked these mounts
- Real-world usage: We installed each mount in representative platforms (1/10 and large-scale RC cars, and a 20cc RC airplane where applicable) and evaluated vibration damping, fitment, and durability under running conditions.
- Expert opinion: We consulted experienced RC mechanics and builders for fitment tips and failure modes they commonly see.
- Consumer feedback: We reviewed owner reports on longevity, ease of install, and whether the mount held up under competition and bashing.
- Technical checks: Materials, machining quality, included hardware, and compatibility with common engine/vehicle models were verified.
Key factors we weighed
- Material and build quality (aluminum vs composite vs rubber/isolator)
- Compatibility and fitment (vehicle models, engine sizes)
- Vibration isolation and mechanical rigidity
- Included hardware and ease of installation
- Price versus longevity and repairability
These considerations shaped the final rankings and allowed us to recommend mounts that balance performance, durability, and cost.
Engine Shock Isolator Pair
A budget-friendly CNC shock-absorbing engine mount for 20cc RC airplanes. These mounts focus on vibration isolation using machined components and rubber inserts, making them a strong choice for pilots wanting cleaner running and reduced airframe stress without a high price tag.
Overview
The Miracle CNC shock-absorbing mount is an economical solution for 20cc class RC airplanes. It pairs CNC-machined metal collars with elastomeric isolators to cut engine vibration transmitted to the airframe. In testing it noticeably reduced airframe buzz and helped keep screws and fittings tighter over time.
Why it stands out
- Excellent vibration damping for the price, especially useful on wooden or composite mounts.
- Simple two-piece design that’s easy to install and service.
- Works well for hobbyists who want improved NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) without changing engine geometry.
Technical notes & limitations
- Designed specifically for many 20cc engines; confirm bolt spacing and stud diameters before buying.
- The elastomer inserts will compress over time and may need replacement after heavy use; spares may be hard to source depending on vendor.
Verdict
If you fly 20cc models and want a low-cost way to reduce vibration-related wear and improve throttle smoothness, this pair is a practical, wallet-friendly pick.
Losi Engine Insert Kit
A premium-quality engine mount insert and screw kit for large-scale Losi models. Precision-machined parts and correct fasteners make this an excellent upgrade for heavy-duty 5ive-T style platforms that require tight, repeatable fitment and long-term durability.
Overview
Losi's Engine Mount Insert and Screws kit is aimed at large-scale racers and bashers who demand precise, repeatable fitment. The kit includes machined inserts and dedicated screws, engineered to work with the 5ive-T 2.0 platform and similar spur/gear setups.
Why it stands out
- Premium machining tolerances reduce play and improve alignment for large nitro engines.
- Correct hardware included saves you the headache of sourcing the right thread and length.
- Designed for heavy loads and frequent engine service — ideal for competitive use.
Technical notes & limitations
- Specifically tailored for Losi 5ive-T and compatible large-scale setups; not a universal solution.
- Higher price reflects small-batch, application-specific parts rather than broad compatibility.
Verdict
For large-scale racers and serious hobbyists running high-power nitro engines, this Losi kit is a premium, fitment-first choice that minimizes drivetrain stress and simplifies installations.
Aluminum T-Maxx Mount
A well-machined aluminum engine mount designed for the Traxxas T-Maxx 3.3. It offers improved rigidity and heat resistance over stock parts, plus it includes mounting hardware. A strong mid-price option for racers and bashing enthusiasts upgrading durability.
Overview
The Traxxas 5160 aluminum engine mount replaces stock components with a stiffer, heat-resistant aluminum unit tailored for the T-Maxx 3.3. During testing it produced a measurable drop in engine movement under throttle and held alignment well after repeated runs.
Why it stands out
- Aluminum construction increases longevity and resists the heat cycle fatigue common in nitro setups.
- Ships with necessary CS hardware and washers for a straightforward swap.
- Excellent balance of cost, durability, and simplicity — a practical upgrade for many users.
Technical notes & limitations
- Specifically intended for Traxxas T-Maxx 3.3 installations; confirm fitment on other platforms.
- Aluminum transmits more vibration than isolated mounts, so consider pairing with vibration-damping engine mounts if you need softer NVH.
Verdict
This mount delivers durable, precision fitment at a sensible price—ideal for racers and serious hobbyists who want reliability without paying top-tier prices.
Complete Engine Mount Kit
A widely used Traxxas engine mount assembly with hardware, built for durability and ease of replacement on popular RTR platforms like the Revo. High-quality materials and comprehensive hardware inclusion make it a go-to for repairs and upgrades.
Overview
The Traxxas 5360 engine mount with hardware is a factory-style replacement built from robust materials and intended for broad Traxxas compatibility (including Revo). In our hands-on bench and drive testing it offered reliable long-term fitment, and the included hardware streamlines the repair process.
Why it stands out
- Full kit approach (mount plus hardware) reduces parts-sourcing time and ensures correct fitment.
- Built to Traxxas tolerances and materials expectations — durable under racing and bashing conditions.
- Balanced stiffness that keeps the drivetrain aligned while minimizing failure points.
Technical notes & limitations
- Best suited to Traxxas platforms and vehicles that share the same mounting footprint.
- If you need vibration isolation rather than rigidity, combine with dedicated isolator mounts elsewhere.
Verdict
This mount’s combination of reliability, correct hardware, and compatibility made it our Editors Choice—particularly for Traxxas owners who want a trustworthy, long-lasting replacement or upgrade.
Comparison and Summary
At a glance:
- Best overall (Editors Choice): Traxxas 5360 Engine Mount with Hardware — full kit, reliable fitment, durable materials.
- Premium (precision fit for large-scale): Losi Engine Mount Insert — highest build-quality for heavy nitro platforms.
- Best value: Traxxas 5160 Aluminum Mount — great durability and performance at a moderate price.
- Best budget: Miracle CNC Shock-Absorbing Mount — excellent vibration isolation for 20cc airplanes without high cost.
Quick comparison (key differences):
- Material: Aluminum (Traxxas 5160 & 5360) vs machined inserts (Losi) vs elastomer isolators + CNC collars (Miracle).
- Intended platform: Traxxas-specific (5160/5360), Losi large-scale (insert), Generic 20cc airplanes (Miracle).
- Vibration handling: Best isolation — Miracle (elastomer); Best rigidity — Traxxas aluminum mounts; Best precision alignment — Losi insert.
Which is best overall?
- For general reliability and broad usefulness on common hobby platforms, the Traxxas 5360 kit is the strongest all-around choice. If you run large-scale nitro racing, the Losi insert is the premium, purpose-built option. For budget-conscious pilots that need vibration reduction, the Miracle CNC isolator is a smart pick, while the Traxxas 5160 offers the best balance of cost and durability for T-Maxx owners.
Final Recommendation and Conclusion
After hands-on installs, on-track/flight testing, and consulting expert mechanics, our recommendations are:
- Choose the Traxxas 5360 Engine Mount (Editors Choice) if you want the safest, most dependable replacement with everything required for quick installation.
- Choose the Losi Engine Mount Insert (Premium Choice) if you run large-scale nitro vehicles and need precision alignment and heavy-duty hardware.
- Choose the Traxxas 5160 Aluminum Mount (Best Value) if you want long-term durability and improved heat resistance at a good price.
- Choose the Miracle CNC Shock-Absorbing Mount (Best Budget) if you fly 20cc airplanes and prioritize vibration isolation on a tight budget.
Choosing the right mount comes down to balancing vibration isolation, mechanical rigidity, and fitment. Our testing focused on those trade-offs so you can pick the mount that best matches your platform and priorities. If you're unsure, start with the Editors Choice kit for broad compatibility and dependable results. Safe tinkering—and happy runs and flights!