They can be replaced without pulling the engine. Removing the grille/hood helps a lot. I used open end wrenches on the top of the bolts and let them push against the engine/frame, then used a socket from below. It's a bit tricky getting the ones near the front QA lever out, but it can be done with the engine in. Then just us a pry bar to lift the engine enough to slide them out, and the new ones in.
Having said all of this, you really want to pull the engine and do the cradle mod if you are able. And it's MUCH easier to replace the mounts once the engine is out. But if all you're looking to do is replace the mounts, the engine can stay in.
And x100 on the solid mounts from Jeff if you go that route. Great craftsmanship. Personally, my solid mounted 1200 fells much smoother than my 149. Maybe it's not as smooth as a QL was in 1976, but I don't find it rattles too much. And I guarantee solid mounts will be a whole lot smoother than what you have now.
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-Jason
Cub Cadets: 1200 | 149 | 1650 | 122 | Z-Force S 54
Implements: QA42A | Push Blades | #2 Tiller | Rear Blade | 223A Utility Trailer | And a few mower decks
Gravelys 5260 | CI Walk-behind (Project)
And a couple of Subarus
