Finite Element Modeling and Design of a Diesel Engine Chassis Mount

A new diesel engine mounting bracket, that was used as a part of a repowering package for one-ton trucks, was analyzed by using a finite element model under an equivalent static loading to simulate maximum service loads. Upon finding stresses above the yield strength of the material, alterations in the design were made to stiffen the bracket in the areas of high stresses, the maximum of which was at the isolator mounting hole. This new design added several dimples and bends to increase the stiffness of the entire bracket, especially in the isolator mounting area. The results of these design changes indicated a successful reduction of the stress in that critical area. The fatigue life was evaluated for the chassis mount, and was found to be acceptable for this retrofit condition.