🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

AMC

Models Covered:

Production Years Covered:

👋 Introduction

Historical Context:

AMC's performance-oriented muscle cars and intermediates during a significant era of American automotive design and engineering.

Segment Competition:

Directly competed with models from Ford (Mustang, Torino), Chevrolet (Camaro, Chevelle), Plymouth/Dodge (Barracuda, Challenger, GTX, Road Runner), and Pontiac (Firebird, GTO).

Vehicle Appeal:

Unique styling, powerful V8 engine options (including the potent 390 and 401), often offered at a competitive price point. The AMX was a unique two-seater sports coupe, while the Javelin was AMC's pony car offering, and the Rebel was a larger intermediate offering available in various body styles.

Restoration Utility:

Indispensable for AMC enthusiasts undertaking restoration, repair, or maintenance, providing factory-correct part identification and procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Parts Manual (1967-1972) & Factory Service Manual (1973)

Language:

English

Format:

Auto-run menu-driven CD, Adobe PDF

Estimated Page Count Parts Manual:

Likely several hundred pages per model year, typical for OEM parts catalogs of the era.

Estimated Page Count Service Manual:

Likely several hundred pages, typical for OEM service manuals of the era.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed diagrams and part numbers for all AMC V8 and inline-6 engines used in these models (e.g., 232, 258, 290, 304, 343, 360, 390, 401).

Engine Fuel System:

Carburetor assemblies, fuel pumps, fuel lines, intake manifolds.

Engine Cooling System:

Radiators, water pumps, thermostats, fan shrouds, hoses.

Engine Ignition System:

Distributors, coils, spark plug wires, ignition timing (service manual).

Transmission Manual:

Internal components, shifter mechanisms, clutch assembly, gear ratios for Borg-Warner T-85, T-10, and others.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converters, valve bodies, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls for Chrysler (TorqueFlite) and Borg-Warner automatics.

Drivetrain Rear Axle:

Differential assemblies, axle shafts, gear sets, bearings, housings (including AMC's Twin-Grip limited-slip differential).

Suspension Front:

Control arms, ball joints, coil springs, shock absorbers, steering knuckles, sway bars (independent front suspension typical for these models).

Suspension Rear:

Leaf springs, shock absorbers, trailing arms (depending on specific model configuration).

Brakes Front:

Disc brake assemblies (calipers, rotors, pads), wheel cylinders (for drum brakes if applicable).

Brakes Rear:

Drum brake assemblies (shoes, drums, wheel cylinders, parking brake mechanisms).

Steering:

Steering gear box, tie rods, idler arms, power steering pump and system components.

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator/generator, voltage regulator, wiring harnesses.

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor, solenoid, battery specifications.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, bulb types and locations.

Electrical System Instruments:

Gauges, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer (if equipped).

Body Exterior:

Body panels, bumpers, grille, trim, glass, weatherstripping, doors, hood, trunk lid.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, steering column components.

HVAC System:

Heater core, blower motor, ventilation controls, air conditioning components (if factory equipped).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, spark plug replacement, tune-up procedures.

Engine Overhaul:

Engine disassembly, inspection, cleaning, assembly, torque specifications, valve adjustments, piston ring replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch adjustment and replacement, manual transmission internal rebuild, automatic transmission diagnosis and repair (e.g., band adjustments, valve body service).

Brake Service:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, wheel cylinder and caliper seal replacement, brake bleeding, parking brake adjustment.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Ball joint replacement, control arm bushing replacement, tie rod end replacement, shock absorber installation, power steering pump replacement, steering box adjustment/replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting wiring issues, starter/alternator testing, common electrical faults and their solutions.

Body And Trim Repair:

Panel alignment, glass replacement, weatherstrip installation, trim piece removal and installation.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic charts for common symptoms (e.g., engine won't start, poor performance, braking issues).

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive OEM-level detail for parts identification and service procedures. Covers from basic adjustments to major component overhauls.

Diagnostic Information:

Includes specifications for engine timing, carburetor settings, brake system pressures, and electrical system resistance/voltage checks.

Part Identification:

Detailed exploded views and part numbers are a primary feature of the parts manual, crucial for correct part ordering and restoration.

Torque Specifications:

Critical torque values for engine, chassis, and drivetrain fasteners are included in the service manual.

Special Tools:

Mentions of any special AMC-specific tools required for certain procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Primary File Type:

Adobe PDF

Searchability:

PDF format typically allows for text searching of keywords and part numbers.

Printability:

User can print any or all pages. Quality depends on user's printer.

Binding On Cd:

N/A (Digital format on CD)

Paper Type On Cd:

N/A (Digital format on CD)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Offerings:

AMC's robust 'Gen II' OHV V8 engines and OHV inline-6 engines. Common V8s include 290, 304, 343, 360, 390, 401 cubic inches. Inline-6 options typically include 232 and 258 cubic inches.

Horsepower Range:

Varies significantly by engine, from approximately 180 HP (base 232 I6) to over 325 HP (401 V8 with performance tuning).

Torque Range:

Varies significantly by engine, from approximately 250 lb-ft (base 232 I6) to over 430 lb-ft (401 V8).

Carburetor Types:

Single-barrel, two-barrel, and four-barrel carburetors from Carter, Motorcraft, and Rochester depending on year and engine. High-performance engines often featured Holley four-barrel carburetors.

Fuel Type:

Leaded gasoline (primarily) or unleaded gasoline with appropriate octane rating.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Types:

Manual transmissions were often standard on base models, typically 3-speed or 4-speed units (e.g., Borg-Warner T-85, T-10).

Optional Transmission Types:

Automatic transmissions were widely available, commonly the Chrysler-derived TorqueFlite A727 (3-speed) or Borg-Warner M11 (3-speed).

Transmission Features:

Some performance models offered heavy-duty manual transmissions and limited-slip differentials (e.g., AMC's 'Twin-Grip').

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Amx:

Approximately 97 inches (unique short wheelbase for the two-seater AMX).

Wheelbase Javelin:

Approximately 101 inches.

Wheelbase Rebel:

Approximately 114-118 inches depending on body style (Hardtop, Sedan, Station Wagon).

Track Width Front:

Varies by model, but typically around 57-59 inches.

Track Width Rear:

Varies by model, but typically around 57-59 inches.

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 3000 lbs (AMX) to over 3800 lbs (Rebel Station Wagon).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Modern crash test data (NHTSA, IIHS) is not available for vehicles of this era. Safety was primarily focused on passive restraint systems and vehicle structure of the time.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel drum brakes were standard on most models, with front disc brakes becoming increasingly common and available as an option or standard on higher trims/performance models. Power steering and power brakes were often optional.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (lap belts standard, shoulder belts optional or standard on later models), padded dashboards, energy-absorbing steering columns (introduced gradually during this period).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Basic AM/FM radio (mono), with AM/FM stereo and 8-track tape players available as options on higher trims or later models. No digital or integrated screen-based systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

Virtually none by modern standards. Features like cruise control were optional luxuries.

Connectivity Options:

N/A. Communication was limited to the radio.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or every 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Specific recommendation found in service manual.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plug replacement, distributor point adjustment (if applicable), and ignition timing checks typically recommended every 10,000 to 15,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 20,000 to 30,000 miles or every 18-24 months for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid changes typically at longer intervals (e.g., 50,000 miles).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Commonly SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 for V8 engines, and SAE 10W for inline-6s in milder climates. Check manual for specific year/engine recommendations. API classification SF or earlier.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (green) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Capacity varies by model.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-II or equivalent for TorqueFlite automatics. Specific part number like DEXRON II D.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Gear oil, e.g., GL-4 rated SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Check manual for specific gearbox recommendations.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 glycol-based brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, exhaust systems, brake components, U-joints, and wheel bearings are common wear items on vehicles of this age.

Engine Specific Concerns:

AMC V8s are generally robust, but oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), cooling system leaks, and carburetor tuning can be common. Ignition points and condensers require regular maintenance on pre-electronic ignition models.

Rust Prone Areas:

Common areas for rust include fender lips, rocker panels, floor pans, rear quarter panels, and trunk drop-offs.

📚 Vehicle History

Amc Legacy:

American Motors Corporation, known for producing innovative and often unique vehicles, often with a focus on value and distinctive styling. Struggled to compete with the Big Three but fostered a loyal following.

Amx Evolution:

Started as a performance variant of the Javelin, later becoming a distinct two-seater sports coupe known for its unique positioning. Saw styling updates and engine upgrades throughout its run.

Javelin Evolution:

AMC's pony car entry, designed to compete with Mustang and Camaro. Evolved through styling changes and performance packages, offering various engine and trim levels.

Rebel Evolution:

Positioned as AMC's intermediate offering, available in various body styles (sedan, coupe, hardtop, station wagon). Received styling updates and powertrain changes to align with market trends.

Production Locations:

Primarily Kenosha, Wisconsin, USA.

Production Volumes:

AMC models generally had lower production volumes compared to Ford, GM, and Chrysler, making original parts and service information highly valuable.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Awards:

While specific awards for individual models might be scarce, AMC vehicles of this era were often praised for their bold styling and performance value. The AMX, in particular, was seen as a unique American sports car.

Contemporary Reviews:

Contemporary automotive magazines (e.g., MotorTrend, Car and Driver) provided reviews that highlighted performance, handling, and styling, often comparing them to competitors like the Mustang, Camaro, and Barracuda.

Industry Certifications:

N/A in the context of modern certifications. The primary certification is that these are official OEM manuals.