Clunking Noise / Engine mount clamp?

[300sflyer]

Hey folks,

In the last few weeks, our 03 Bonneville has had a occasional clunking noise somewhere in the front end. I drove the car up on some ramps, and discovered that the left end right engine mounts have an issue. Towards the top of both mounts, there is a bolted ring clamp, [kind of looks like a big hose clamp] that goes around the mount itself, with what apperars to be some kind of gaurd on the ring. The ring itself has broken, and now only held in place by the bolt, and is loose on both engine mounts.

What does this ring do? Can I just replace it with a new one, or do I have to replace both engine mounts as well?

Thanks for your help!

[justdave]

See the following already posted here:
viewtopic.php?f=9&t=19337
And yes, ANY clunk means time to replace mounts! Auto Parts stores won't have them; bargain with mr dealer and good luck.

[300sflyer]

Took it to my mechanic yesterday, and he said the mounts themselves are still good. I was told the clamps and the hunk of cast iron bolted to them, are vibration dampners and are not really needed. He said everything will work just fine without them. He removed them, took it for a drive, and all of the clunking noise is now gone.

[harofreak00]

I agree, those stupid rings are worthless.