1983 SD Turbo Diesel..
Everytime I am idling there is a much more distinct noise and its a "hard idle." When I acclerate it goes away and it drives beautifully. Also there has been more smoke from the tailpipe then normal, any connection?
Thanks.

 

Hi! Seems we both have the same problem. After I replaced the transmission mount last week, I just looked at the right angle from the front of the engine underneath. What I found, to my shock, was that the entire vibration problem was due to the original motor mounts sagging and the engine/transmission bell housing resting on the suspension subframe brace. It goes between the two subframes for the guide rods. They have the really big rubber mounts in them. The engine won't make noise if you rock it by hand, but once it is running, and you have torque, it makes just enough contact to drive you up the wall. Nice thing though, the mounts can be had for about 25 dollars a pair, and look easy to replace. The little shocks, though, are about 35 each. Think I'll just get new mounts for now...