Make:
AMC (American Motors Corporation)
Model:
304, 360, 401 V8 engines
Model Variant:
V8 engine family, used in various AMC vehicles
Production Years Covered:
1970-1991 (varies by displacement and application)
Engine Type:
90-degree V8, overhead valve, pushrod
Displacement Range:
304 cu in (5.0L), 360 cu in (5.9L), 401 cu in (6.6L)
Target Audience:
AMC V8 owners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians, restorers
Competitive Advantage:
Most comprehensive workshop manual available; fully bookmarked for easy navigation; step-by-step instructions suitable for home workshop or professional use
Key Features:
Covers complete engine rebuild: assembly, lubrication, cylinder heads, valvetrain, timing, bottom end, and specifications
Engine Systems and Components
Engine Assembly:
Complete step-by-step assembly procedures
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil pan, and related components
Positive Crankcase Ventilation:
PCV system service
Cylinder Head Cover and Gasket:
Removal, inspection, and installation
Rocker Arm Assembly:
Service and adjustment
Valve Spring - Valve Stem Oil Seal:
Replacement procedures
Intake Manifold:
Removal, installation, and torque specifications
Exhaust Manifold:
Service and installation
Cylinder Head and Gasket:
Removal, cleaning, and installation
Cylinder Head Reconditioning:
Valve job, resurfacing, and inspection
Hydraulic Valve Tappets:
Service and replacement
Vibration Damper:
Inspection and replacement
Timing Chain Cover:
Removal and installation
Timing Chain:
Replacement and timing marks
Camshaft and Bearings:
Removal, inspection, and installation
Oil Pan:
Removal and installation
Oil Pump:
Service and replacement
Rear Main Bearing Oil Seal:
Replacement procedures
Connecting Rod Bearings:
Inspection and replacement
Connecting Rod and Piston Assemblies:
Disassembly, inspection, and assembly
Crankshaft Main Bearings:
Inspection and replacement
Crankshaft:
Inspection and service
Short Engine Assembly:
Block preparation and assembly
Flywheel and Starter Ring Gear Assembly:
Service and installation
Specifications:
Torque specs, clearances, and tolerances
File Format:
PDF (searchable, bookmarked, zoomable)
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android — any device with a PDF reader
Requirements:
A PDF reader application (e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader, free)
Searchability:
Fully text searchable for fast lookup of any topic
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital pages, printable at full clarity
Binding Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical paper
Displacements:
304 cu in (5.0L), 360 cu in (5.9L), 401 cu in (6.6L)
Configuration:
90-degree V8, OHV, pushrod, 2 valves per cylinder
Bore x Stroke (304):
3.75 in x 3.44 in
Bore x Stroke (360):
4.08 in x 3.44 in
Bore x Stroke (401):
4.165 in x 3.68 in
Compression Ratio:
Varies by year and application; typically 8.0:1 to 9.5:1
Fuel System:
Carbureted (2-barrel or 4-barrel); some later models fuel injected
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 130-330 hp depending on year and tuning
Torque Range:
Approx. 245-430 lb-ft depending on year and tuning
Service Intervals:
Refer to vehicle owner's manual; typical oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles
Oil Capacity:
304: 4.5 quarts; 360/401: 5 quarts (with filter)
Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (conventional)
Coolant Capacity:
Varies by vehicle; typically 12-16 quarts
Spark Plug Gap:
0.035 in (0.89 mm)
Firing Order:
1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2
Common Wear Items:
Timing chain, valve stem seals, rear main seal, oil pump
Known Issues:
Oil leaks from rear main seal and valve covers; timing chain stretch
Brand Heritage and Evolution
Manufacturer:
American Motors Corporation (AMC)
Model Evolution:
AMC V8 engine family introduced in 1956; 304, 360, and 401 variants produced from 1970 to 1991
Production Location:
Various AMC plants in the United States
