Wednesday, January 04, 2006

Finding AMC Parts

Finding AMC Parts
After Chrysler acquired AMC in 1987 it destroyed AMC's parts inventories and the molds for producing new stock, instantly creating some serious shortages. Some parts survived in dealers' inventories, but these are fast becoming scarce -- and expensive. The suppliers listed here offer a mix of NOS (new old stock), reproduction, and used parts. Nobody has everything, but chances are fairly good that you'll get what you need if you call around.

When looking for parts, remember that parts for AMC cars are very frequently interchangeable between models. For example, the AMX shared most of its parts with the Javelin, which was produced in much higher numbers (fenders, bumpers, doors, most of the interior, and most of the running gear are interchangeable; windshields and rear windows are the same; side glass is not). The Javelin/AMX platform was derived from the old Rambler American, and many of their trim pieces and controls were taken from the larger Rebel and Ambassador series. Luckily for AMC enthusiasts, many AMC parts also made their way into Jeeps, for which there is a booming aftermarket parts business.

American Motors purchased many parts from other auto makers, like Chrysler automatic transmissions, Pontiac four-cylinder engines (the infamous "Iron Puke"), Saginaw (GM) steering on the Pacer, and various Delco and Ford electrical components. If your local Pep Boys tells you that a part you need is no longer available, check Hollander's Interchange Manuals (junkyards, mechanics, and some libraries have them). You'll often find that the part is really a cheap and readily available GM, Ford, or Mopar item.

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