Make:
American Motors Corporation (AMC)
Manual Title:
1973 AMC Service Repair Manual
Vehicle Platform Codes:
GMT 103 (Gremlin), GMT 108 (Hornet), GMT 109 (Matador), XJ (Javelin)
Market Segment:
AMC competed in various segments, from compact (Gremlin, Hornet) to intermediate (Javelin, Matador) and full-size (Ambassador).
Competitors:
Ford (Maverick, Comet, Torino, Galaxie), Chevrolet (Vega, Nova, Chevelle, Impala), Plymouth (Duster, Valiant, Satellite, Fury), Dodge (Dart, Charger, Polara), American Motors' models offered a unique value proposition, often focusing on affordability and distinctive styling.
Vehicle Strengths:
AMC vehicles from this era were known for their robust engineering, often utilizing shared platforms and proven components. The styling was generally distinctive and not derivative of larger manufacturers.
Models Covered:
AMC Gremlin, AMC Hornet, AMC Javelin, AMC Matador, AMC Ambassador
Type:
Factory Service Manual
Format:
Print (assumed from product description, typically physical for this era)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, exhaust systems for all applicable 1973 AMC engines.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, service, and adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshafts, axles, differentials, and wheel bearings.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system.
Brakes:
Front and rear drum/disc brake systems, hydraulic system, parking brake.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, accessories, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body exterior and interior trim, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, sheet metal repair basics.
HVAC:
Heating and air conditioning system service and repair.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, lubrication, fluid changes, tune-up procedures.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems and diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Adjustments:
Carburetor, ignition timing, brake, clutch, and other system adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
File Format:
Physical Book (Standard for this era)
Print Quality:
Likely original factory print quality, with black and white diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
Perfect bound or spiral bound (common for service manuals)
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock, suitable for workshop use.
Gremlin Hornet Engines:
Inline 6-cylinder (232 cu in, 3.8L; 258 cu in, 4.2L), V8 (304 cu in, 5.0L; 360 cu in, 5.9L).
Javelin Matador Ambassador Engines:
Inline 6-cylinder (232 cu in, 3.8L; 258 cu in, 4.2L), V8 (304 cu in, 5.0L; 360 cu in, 5.9L; 401 cu in, 6.6L).
Horsepower Torque Range:
Varies significantly by engine and model. Example: 232 CID I6 approx. 145 hp, 360 CID V8 approx. 245 hp (gross ratings common for the era).
Carburetion:
Single-barrel or two-barrel carburetors (e.g., Carter BBS, Rochester Quadrajet).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (transitioning era).
Crash Test Data:
No formal government crash test ratings (NHTSA) existed in the same way as today. Safety features were typical for the era, including seat belts and padded interiors.
Braking System:
Power front disc brakes and rear drum brakes standard on most models, with non-power options available.
Interior Safety:
Padded dashboard and steering wheel, lap belts and shoulder belts.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Tune Up:
Spark plugs, points, condenser, and ignition timing checks recommended every 12,000-24,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SE, SF service category oil. Viscosity grade typically SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Check specific engine recommendation.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture (50/50 with distilled water).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-II (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Rust Corrosion:
Common for vehicles of this era, particularly in areas exposed to salt. Floor pans, rocker panels, and wheel wells are common areas.
Electrical System:
Aging wiring harnesses, faulty voltage regulators, and corrosion in electrical connectors can lead to intermittent issues.
Cooling System:
Leaking hoses, worn water pumps, and clogged radiators can lead to overheating.
Carburetor:
Varnishing of fuel in carburetors due to ethanol or long storage can cause running problems. Tuning and rebuilding are common.
Amc Legacy:
American Motors Corporation, established in 1954 through the merger of Nash-Kelvinator Corporation and Hudson Motor Car Company, focused on offering competitively priced, distinctive vehicles, often with innovative engineering solutions.
Gremlin:
Introduced in 1970 as a subcompact, known for its unique styling and short wheelbase. 1973 saw minor updates.
Hornet:
A compact car introduced in 1970, available in various body styles (sedan, coupe, wagon). 1973 models featured styling refinements.
Javelin:
AMC's pony car, introduced in 1968. The 1970-1974 generation (AMX/Javelin) featured more aggressive styling. 1973 models included the 'SST' and 'AMX' trims, with significant front-end styling changes and larger bumpers due to federal regulations.
Matador:
AMC's full-size car, evolving from the Ambassador line. The 1973 Matador received a substantial redesign with a distinctive 'airplane wing' grille and integrated bumpers.
Ambassador:
AMC's flagship full-size model, shared a platform with the Matador. For 1973, the Ambassador received the same front-end styling updates as the Matador.
Production Period:
1973 model year production typically ran from late 1972 through mid-1973.
