I decided to install a new transmission mount on my '86 Westy. Not because
the original had broken, but that it was original and the rubber *must* be
worn out buy now. Besides that I have already replaced the rear mounts (all
four) on the engine.

What a difference! The end of the transmission was lifted approximately 10mm
using the new mount. I had a problem with stiff shifting into first and
third gear, no problems at all with the new mount. I also have noticeably
less road noise being transmitted into the van.

So my experience with 23 year old engine mounts is that they *may* be
responsible for a lot of other things not working well. I suppose that this
makes sense as they do hold the engine/trans in a specific location for
everything else to work with (shifting, suspension, CVs etc.). If I was
restoring a van again, these would be the first parts I replaced.

D