Ralph Epstein:
My 1975 Sundowner has a crack in the engine mount assembly (the metal tube,not the Lord mount.
1: What are the pros and cons of repair as opposed to replacement?
2: If sending it out for repair is the way to go, what are some qualified repair shops; preferably with Sundowner experience?
Bob Steward, A&P-IA:
Kosola and Associates in Albany, GA, is THE shop to deal with. They are a Certified Repair Station for engine mounts, and can repair yours or build you a new one.
You will be taking the engine and nose gear off, whether for repair or replacement of the engine mount frame. You will be down for a few weeks, while shipping and work are taken care of.
Either way, taking it off and having it cleaned and inspected for cracks, and then re-welded and stress relieved, is the correct process. Most “Welding shops” have neither the materials (correct rod), nor an appreciation for Aerospace welding, so don’t even THINK about getting it welded locally without getting the FSDO involved in the selection of the shop.