1971-1978 AMC 401 V8 - True Powerhouse Engine

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 พ.ย. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 507

  • @jeremythompson9895
    @jeremythompson9895 6 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    I'm a Mopar guy but I've always loved AMC muscle cars ever since I was a kid. The AMX, Javelin, Hurst S/C Rambler, and the Rebel Machine we're always favorites of mine. Both the 390 and 401 were great engines. It's a shame how so many people ignore AMC when talking about muscle cars

    • @ohioalphornmusicalsawman2474
      @ohioalphornmusicalsawman2474 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Same here. I was an AMC guy when I started driving back in the 80's, as my Grandfather was a Rambler/AMC guy. Grandpa replaced his '78 Matador in '87 with a Diplomat SE, said that Mopar was the next best thing to AMC. I followed Grandpa's cue. My first car was a '75 Hornet D/L sedan, 258 straight 6. Second car was a '74 Sportabout 304. My first non AMC was a '73 Fury III with the 360 motor, followed by Grandpa"s old Dippy, which was a daily driver well into the 2000's, until rust got the better of it.

    • @dodgesportsman772
      @dodgesportsman772 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I agree.... I had a 1972 javelin with a 401 when I was a teenager in 1987. I couldn't be beat in street races.... I loved my Abby... I miss her

    • @timmotel5804
      @timmotel5804 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Me too & I agree.

  • @johnderekmitchell1510
    @johnderekmitchell1510 6 ปีที่แล้ว +162

    Extremely underated Company.

    • @20alphabet
      @20alphabet 6 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      They caused it themselve by their BUILD quality, especially towards the end. Mitt Romney's father did as lot to speed up the demise.

    • @dansmusic5749
      @dansmusic5749 6 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      20alphabet Why do you say that? Romney took a company nearly bankrupted by the Ford and Chevy price war and made it the #3 selling car in the country by 1961. Quite a feat and the only independent to successfully compete against the big 3. Additionally, Romney's car was a precursor to the high value sedans that Honda and Toyota marketed in the 80s and 90s. They were smaller, comfortable, reliable and long-lasting designs that emphasized value, quality and convenience features and economy over style. Exactly like the Rambler.

    • @N-Scale
      @N-Scale 6 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I worked for AMC and Lincoln Mercury and I would take an AMC over ANY of Mercury's products.
      My job was way easier at AMC.
      IMHO
      Mike

    • @N-Scale
      @N-Scale 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I liked all their cars but they just really never went far enough .
      Mike

    • @dansmusic5749
      @dansmusic5749 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Michael McHugh Styling is subjective. Every car maker tried to achieve its own brand identity in its styling (as well as everywhere else). Quite different than today where everybody clones each other. The exceptions today are more traditional style vehicles like muscle cars and pickups. Just look at how similar SUVs and cars are to each other now. It is true that manufacturers have always mimicked the top sellers. Just not as closely as they do now (which is probably done for cost reasons as well as market acceptability). I just wish they would experiment more. I guess people love conformity.

  • @manowar5516
    @manowar5516 6 ปีที่แล้ว +101

    Back in the 90's I swapped a modded 401, 727, Dana 60 combo in an 81' eagle spirit hatchback. And it was probably the best sleeper I ever terrorized the streets of Milwaukee with.😁

    • @ragimundvonwallat8961
      @ragimundvonwallat8961 6 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      hahaha in a 81 eagle at that point i dont even call this a sleeper , its a stealth weapon or a tranvestite job!
      an hopped hop 401 produce a tad more torque than those emission era inline 6 do they =D

    • @ramirodiaz4545
      @ramirodiaz4545 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Man O War that's exactly what I was thinking of putting together. I've seen a few fine specimens out there for this swap.

    • @KC9UDX
      @KC9UDX 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Either it wasn't an Eagle, or you did a lot of work to the front end. Either way I'm surprised I don't remember seeing it or at least hearing about it.

    • @zacdeyonker1077
      @zacdeyonker1077 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      There never was a vehicle called an Eagle Spirit. You had one or the other. Eagles were 4wd and came in many body styles, Spirits were 2wd coupes.

    • @richardkaltenbach9203
      @richardkaltenbach9203 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +Zac DeYonker From What I Remember, The AMC Eagle Was Only Available With The 258 Six.

  • @tonychavez2083
    @tonychavez2083 6 ปีที่แล้ว +109

    Sooo underated. AMC 390 and 401 were excellent motors...

    • @johnhull6363
      @johnhull6363 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Tony Chavez i still actually prefer the last390....rev harder than the 401

    • @johncollins7423
      @johncollins7423 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Tony Chavez In high school, I had a Hornet with the 360 in it. That was another good one, imo

    • @gregorytimmons4777
      @gregorytimmons4777 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@johncollins7423 Oh yeah, friends of mine had a 6 cylinder Hornet. It was quickly obvious those Hornets were light weight cars. I'll bet it was no slouch with a 360.

    • @johncollins7423
      @johncollins7423 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Gregory Timmons Oh yeah, it was really a quick car with an awesome power to weight ratio. I could hang with or beat most cars on the ol' Friday & Saturday night stoplight drags in my hometown. I could even hole-shot big blocks, but they'd be able to catch me if the driver knew what they were doing.

    • @craigcarroll1790
      @craigcarroll1790 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Just a few bolt on parts and they were scary quick

  • @fubarmodelyard1392
    @fubarmodelyard1392 5 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    Their dynamic run was short but memorable. Few cars can match the looks of the later javelins

  • @phantomblott1
    @phantomblott1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I am the original owner of a 1973 AMC Javelin AMX, I ordered it new in March of 1973. It took almost 40 days to build and then ship it to, Art Post Rambler, Kalamazoo Michigan. I ordered the 401 engine along with the functional cowl induction, 4-speed manual and 3.91 rear gears. The important option here was not just the 360 or 401 engine, but the functional cowl induction system. Only the 1971 through 1973 AMX's with the 360 or 401 engine could be ordered with functional cowl induction, as no 1974 AMX's were built with functional cowl induction. Mater of fact, AMC ran out of the fiberglass hood, part way through the 1974 model year, and replaced it with a regular Javelin hood with the T-Stripe added. According to an early memo from 1970, the cowl induction system worked so well over the regular AMC hood scoop, that is was estimated by engineering that an additional 16 to 19 horsepower would be added to the standard 255 horsepower of the 401 engine, but was never actually stated in any literature. Out of the 1971 to 1973 AMX production, of which there were a total of 10,981 AMX's built. Slightly less than 25% or roughly 2,700 AMX's were actually ordered and built with the functional cowl induction option. This is really a fantastic system, and when carefully studied, can be greatly improved upon.

  • @-DC-
    @-DC- 6 ปีที่แล้ว +38

    Had a ride in a Amx javelin as a kid and it started a life long love for a really underrated car !

    • @ramirodiaz4545
      @ramirodiaz4545 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      D C I bought a 90 Grand Wagoneer that the previous owner installed a 401in....and now I can't get enough AMC videos and want to purchase another AMC vehicle.

  • @BrewBlaster
    @BrewBlaster 6 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    When I was a mechanic, my boss had an early 70s CJ-5 Jeep with a 401 ci and I loved the sound of it.

  • @w41duvernay
    @w41duvernay 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I am still awed about what this company did. At one time, they put out an ad saying "the only race we are interested in is the human race", but by the end of the 70's they got serious and made the 401. Their cars were some of the best value performance cars, and were some serious sleepers.

  • @rondyechannel1399
    @rondyechannel1399 5 ปีที่แล้ว +45

    Something missed in the tech info. was the forged steel crankshaft and rods in the 390/401 engine. Tough stuff.

    • @rickmaynhart6812
      @rickmaynhart6812 5 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Ron Dye Channel and the high nickel content of the block. Very tough engine that never got the respect it deserved.

    • @johnfairchild8242
      @johnfairchild8242 5 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Ron Dye Channel, the engine block , heads, and I believe crank and rods had also inherited the high nickel content of the old Hudson flathead straight sixes that were beating the V-8s on the NASCAR tracks in the 1950s!

    • @powerwill8748
      @powerwill8748 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Very tuff

    • @markbrinton6790
      @markbrinton6790 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      My dad had the 401 in his 77 cherokee cheif. It was ok, but had trouble starting on hot summer days, and it would overheat very easily. This started when it was only 2 years old. Still, its one of the best looking trucks I've ever seen.

    • @howabouthetruth2157
      @howabouthetruth2157 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnfairchild8242 Pretty sure the lower center of gravity of the Hudson's is why they worked so well in stock car racing, they could drive through the turns better. The floorboards were much lower than anything else made at the time. Of course it didn't hurt that the late great Smokey Yunick was building the race engines for Hudson during those years as well.

  • @williamschneider9928
    @williamschneider9928 6 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Took my first drivers test in a 1971 amx with 401. No longer have it but it’s still on the road.

  • @FOH3663
    @FOH3663 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Nice video, thanks.
    Growing up in the 70s we were an AMC family. Grand parents on both sides had early 70s Ambassadors, one a wagon one a sedan.
    The sedan side also had a Rambler wagon (I believe w/3 on the tree).
    We had a Rambler wagon, then a beautiful blue '71 Ambassador wagon.
    Then my Dad ordered (very big deal for us of modest means) a '73 Ambassador Brougham 4dr sedan 304, optioned just the way he wanted.
    Great car, really, but all I wanted was a Javelin AMX 401, loved the overall look and the fender swells etc.
    But when the Plymouth Voyager minivan debuted, Mom and Dad went that route and never turned back.
    A side note; the '73 Ambassador had these outstanding seats that folded back completely flat, ... a feature I found quite appealing thru my high school dating years.

  • @JorgeRodriguez-po7kx
    @JorgeRodriguez-po7kx 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    AMC were the favorite brand of Cars of my Late Father and Me when I was much Younger

  • @KREEPERNELSON
    @KREEPERNELSON 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Loved my 1971 Javelin SST black with white stripes one of the most enjoyable cars I ever owned! With added intake, Holley, Lunatic stick, and double valve springs it out ran SS 396s and 383 Road Runners all day long!

  • @Mr1963corvette
    @Mr1963corvette 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    The Javelin and the AMX are beautiful cars. I am buying one this year. I own a 63 split window and want an AMX beauty to augument my muscle car list.

  • @anthonyc1883
    @anthonyc1883 6 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    Thanks for this. The 401 was, indeed, a very rare and surprising engine. A friend's dad had an Ambassador Brougham station wagon, no doubt a heavy beast, and he had no reservations about driving the car "enthusiastically," shall we say. I enjoyed more than one 0-60 mph blasts in Low 1 on the automatic.

    • @ramblerdave1339
      @ramblerdave1339 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I had a '71 Ambassador Brougham wagon with a 360, about 3700 lbs. 😎👍

  • @ty1959
    @ty1959 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Had a 69 AMX with a 390 4 speed. Very fast and a really cool ride. 2 seater that cranked down flat. A real chick magnet.

  • @powderriver2424
    @powderriver2424 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    My grandfather loved AMC cars he had a matador and a hornet, both 304 equipped, I had a 76 CJ 7 with the 304, what a great engine all the way around. Super reliable I wish I still owned the CJ it was mint all stock except 31” tires and wheels the best hunting rig I ever owned.

  • @GJM866
    @GJM866 5 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Never had the chance to own a 401, but I did have a 304, 360, and 390. Love AMC! Great information, thanks for posting!

    • @joed5472
      @joed5472 ปีที่แล้ว

      It be close to that 390 you had it's only 11 cubes

  • @AandWProductions
    @AandWProductions 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My dad had a Javelin when I was little. I only remember the color and it was a 4 speed. As much as I am a diehard GM guy, if I could get my hands on a Javelin or AMX with a 4 speed, I would without question. I love the look and the fact that so few people own them, makes me love them more.

  • @rickmaynhart6812
    @rickmaynhart6812 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I have the early 71 401. It’s 30 over with a full list of street parts. Well over 480hp with the right intake and carb.

    • @Steve_Kelly_Oak
      @Steve_Kelly_Oak 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Which manifold is working best for you? I have a 401 71 Javelin as well as a 401 74 Jeep cherokee.

  • @commanderofthenorth3348
    @commanderofthenorth3348 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    i use to work for AMC/JEEP many years i liked the 401 police interceptor engine best , i miss AMC ,

  • @johneason6540
    @johneason6540 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I owned a 1970 Rebel Machine. What a sleeper this was, and handled great.

    • @johneason6540
      @johneason6540 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Mine was bayside blue, no scoop on the hood, no vinyl top, no ac or pwr brakes. Just all motor 390 cid. Just looked like a midsize car, nothing fancy. Oh yeah, it did have fold down front seats.

    • @jeremythompson9122
      @jeremythompson9122 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Love the 70 Rebel Machine. My favorite car ever built by AMC. The 69 Hurst S/C Rambler and 71 Matador Machine were awesome cars too. And ive always really liked the 390/401 AMX and Javelin too

  • @lancethelush
    @lancethelush 6 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I grew up in the wrong era. I learned something today watching this :)

    • @timmotel5804
      @timmotel5804 หลายเดือนก่อน

      10/2024: Good Day from The Future. Those were great times for muscle cars. I was mostly a MOPAR guy, but loved them all.

  • @t.d.mich.7064
    @t.d.mich.7064 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The S/CRambler was a cool little ride! Had a new 68 Javelin, it too was pretty cool.

  • @jessicaahrweiler57
    @jessicaahrweiler57 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I have a 1977 Jeep Cherokee Chief with the 401. I had it rebuilt with an RV cam and forged pistons. I retained the factory forged crank and rods. It cruises better at 75mph than my 1997 Cherokee with a 4.0L!

    • @BobSmith-kd6lq
      @BobSmith-kd6lq ปีที่แล้ว

      I had a 76 with the 360. That thing was a beast. Not sure if it was a Chief thing, but mine was a 2 door as well

    • @richardkaltenbach3961
      @richardkaltenbach3961 ปีที่แล้ว

      4.0=242 Cubic Inches!

  • @deanlabbe9952
    @deanlabbe9952 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I owned three new GTO's 66 67 and 69. I also owned a 72 AMX Go Package 401. The GTO's were no match for the Javelin in any category. It was a very fine muscle car.

  • @shwt121
    @shwt121 6 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    You're right....the 401 should have been available for the marlin, ambassador & rebel during the mid to late 60's.

  • @rfunk727
    @rfunk727 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Had a 2 door Ambassador with a 343 engine back in my college days. Great Car. My Mother had a 360 Javalin when I was in high school and used that on dates.

  • @73twall
    @73twall 6 ปีที่แล้ว +66

    Your channel is great. I watch every new upload, every time. Good stuff. Plus, you cover AMC a lot, and give them their due. I really respect that. There were so many factors that doomed them, and they were largely ignored and forgotten by "real car guys (and girls)". Again, respect to you for respecting AMC.

    • @GeoTrashPanda
      @GeoTrashPanda 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Todd Wall second!

    • @dansmusic5749
      @dansmusic5749 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Todd Wall It really makes me happy that AMC is given their due. It should be shown that AMCs had many quality upgrades that most big 3 cars did not have. Two examples: Their cast iron engine blocks had a higher nickel content than most others (maybe all) and molybdenum piston rings. This allowed greater strength and longer life. Details like coil spring seats ( more expensive, like mattresses. Even the bucket seats) on all models. The list was much longer and extended throughout the lineup. They were known for going well over 100,000 miles in an era where the average was about that. Yet many people mistakenly regarded them as cheaply made. Let's get the word out and correct that mistake. :)

    • @edarcuri182
      @edarcuri182 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah, when the French union had Besse assassinated, that was it for AMC. Renault couldn't take the heat.

    • @kalaga2k
      @kalaga2k 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The best example was the racing period of Marc Donohue, one of the best if not the best racing driver of all categories. When he swithched to Javelin he beats all the competition in Trans Am series , same with the Matador in Nascar. To do that in such a short time, AMC engines must have been incredible. But saddly AMC and Marc Donohue are always underated.
      I ‘m so glad that historic topic is brought to our attention by Mr Todd Wall. Thank you Sir.

    • @richardkaltenbach3961
      @richardkaltenbach3961 ปีที่แล้ว

      AMC ROCKS!!!!

  • @philiphoward1731
    @philiphoward1731 6 ปีที่แล้ว +38

    Time to bring back AMC time to bring back Pontiac time to bring back Olds Time to bring back Plymouth

    • @derreckschill1383
      @derreckschill1383 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes,bring them back!what is Old is new again.i have a 69 Toronto,my pop has a 68 cougar.

    • @jeremythompson9122
      @jeremythompson9122 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Mercury too

    • @andyn46
      @andyn46 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Car sales are declining. I think if anything we’re going to see less marques, not old ones being revived

    • @branon6565
      @branon6565 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Philip Howard ....first they gotta bring back Mercury, then Plymouth, then AMC....the Garbage Motors produced Olds and Pontiac vehicles can stay gone far as I'm concerned....

    • @roadracer517
      @roadracer517 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      International Scouts and Travelall's too

  • @quadsman11
    @quadsman11 6 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    You nailed it !
    The 401 was absolutely one of the greatest unsung V8's of the era !
    Had this 401 in my CJ5, with a 4speed, and it was all the power I could ask for !

    • @gregchiropolos9885
      @gregchiropolos9885 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Quadsman11 I put a 401 with a T18 in my CJ5 a few years ago I’ve had it for over forty years and every time I gun it I get thrown back in my seat, takes me back to my teenage years just love that power and sound!

    • @rickrichter9445
      @rickrichter9445 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      CJ-5 401 and 4 speed w/ super low granny gear in my garage right now. That thing could probably pull a house down!

    • @joed5472
      @joed5472 ปีที่แล้ว

      You Dodge had 440 and Chevy the 454 the 401 was not a threat to these engines. 401 still an awesome engine just a bit small

  • @stephaniebooth6169
    @stephaniebooth6169 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    A very good and well done video on American Motors V8 engines. Thank You.The best cars we're made by AMC American Motors Kenosha ,Wi.

  • @dogsbark5750
    @dogsbark5750 6 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    I was working in a oncology floor years ago. Back in 04 an old state trooper came in. He was s true gear head. He had about ten cars from his a younger years. Mostly 30s Rods, a 454 chevelle, boss 429, 409 Impala, 95 ZR1 and a hemi challenger. The fastest car he claimed he ever drove was the 401 police car. His crew kept them until the mid 80s. They would have them cammed and ported and lower the gearing. He claimed he hit over 150 mph, and the motors would make north of 500hp. He use to love surprising trans am owners in the late 70s.

    • @jackrohde4709
      @jackrohde4709 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      The fastest cop car before 1990 was the 1968---71 Dodge Polara 147. Mph and 14.7 ET Q M

    • @jackrohde4709
      @jackrohde4709 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      That was stock.

    • @jeffnorbert1871
      @jeffnorbert1871 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@jackrohde4709 with fuel economy axle ratio. 2.73, I think.

    • @jackrohde4709
      @jackrohde4709 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@jeffnorbert1871 That's probably true then, because all those muscle cars came with high gearing 3.23 or higher stock which wasn't good for top speed, many other cars would have been faster with the same gears as the Javelin or lower like a 2.65 in a 69-70-71 boss or Cobra jet 429 Torino or a 67 427 dual quad Fairlane or a 454 Chevelle, 440 Mopar b body's, 455 tempest t37 or a 455 olds cutlass, but all these came with drag type gears of 3.23 or higher.

    • @jackrohde4709
      @jackrohde4709 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Stealth Customs Corporation The stock hemi charger of 1968 stock could hit 152 at red line with 3.23 gears and manual trans, 1968 motor trend.

  • @heathersanborn4914
    @heathersanborn4914 6 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    AMC built a good vehicle, those 4.0 motors from the late 80's through 90's were the best of the best

    • @73twall
      @73twall 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Heather Sanborn
      I do believe Chrysler just fixed the injection, and continued the engine in the Jeeps. Being a Jeep lover, I know the 4.0 is a legendary engine. But it was an AMC design originally. It faltered a bit when they tried putting Bosch injection on it.

    • @KC9UDX
      @KC9UDX 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      It was discontinued for 2007.

    • @PsalmFourteenOne
      @PsalmFourteenOne 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Heather Sanborn
      Yup. The Jeep 4.0 is just a slightly downsized AMC 258 which read about 4.2 liters.
      My grandparents used to love AMC cars with that engine.
      My uncle had an approx 1980 ANC Eagle which was an AWD station wagon with the 258 straight six

    • @richardkaltenbach9203
      @richardkaltenbach9203 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Shawn Barnish The 4.0 Was A 242 Cubic Inch Six.

  • @tomruggenberg5812
    @tomruggenberg5812 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I had a 1979 AMC CJ5 Jeep which I swapped out the 258 CI inline 6 for a AMC 401 out of a 1973 jav. That engine was quite the powerhouse with enough torque to lift the front end off the ground. The balanced engine coupled to a T18 four speed was capable of 7500 RPM out of the basement. By far the best motor I ever rebuilt.

    • @rickrichter9445
      @rickrichter9445 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Tom Ruggenberg I have one in my ‘78 CJ-5 (T-18 too). It’s a screamer for sure!

  • @Jim-nz4nw
    @Jim-nz4nw 6 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    it was the dog leg ports that started in 1970 that made these engines such good performers. They were some of the best breathing heads, bar none.

    • @twiz8789
      @twiz8789 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      yup

    • @charlessmileyvideos
      @charlessmileyvideos 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Easy swap too. Different head bolts, move the middle intake manifold holes a bit and new headers.

    • @SSGTA440
      @SSGTA440 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, very true, when it comes to flow #'s the dog leg port heads are WAY better than the previous concave port early heads...and are on par if not slightly better than some of the other offerings from Detroit. the dog leg port heads flow surprisingly well for a wedge head...

    • @SSGTA440
      @SSGTA440 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Art Vandelay The port is essentially rectangular, but there is a "kick out" on one corner of the base of the port....seems to enhance flow as well as the internal shape Iisn't concave when the charge leaves the exhaust valve the roof is convex....less turbulence...you need to go online and see what is meant by this...

    • @SSGTA440
      @SSGTA440 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @Art Vandelay Yeah, I'm Mopar all the way, but I have "dabbled" in other makes over the years, and have built some AMC's that can really wail....they can be built to make some serious power whether a 401 or down to the 360..using stock parts. The only setback is the oil system. That needs serious work.

  • @ALABAMAHEADHUNTER
    @ALABAMAHEADHUNTER 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Cool picture of the Alabama State Trooper Javelin . A friend of mines dad was an Alabama Trooper and was assigned to one in Gadsden , Alabama . He said it was a very fast car .

  • @hudsonhawk0016
    @hudsonhawk0016 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    There was a kid in my town that had a Gremlin X with the 304. He swapped a 401 in that thing and it was sick! It was pretty much a bolt up swap as all the AMC V8's were dimensionally identical.

    • @jeremythompson9122
      @jeremythompson9122 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      That thing must've been really fast with a 401. They probably weighed 2,500- 2,700 pounds. Would be really sweet with a 4 speed too

    • @hudsonhawk0016
      @hudsonhawk0016 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jeremythompson9122 it was dangerous even with the automatic. You couldn't drive it in the rain and forget the snow. Lol

  • @buzzsah
    @buzzsah 6 ปีที่แล้ว +49

    They were a good car and quick but never really got the recognition like the others.

    • @marcchaffee7751
      @marcchaffee7751 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      thats because people are stupid .

  • @PearComputingDevices
    @PearComputingDevices 6 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    AMC forever! Awesome job!

  • @anthonyc1883
    @anthonyc1883 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    In 1971 Popular Mechanics tested three big wagons of the day: AMC Ambassador Brougham with a 401, a Chrysler of some sort with a 440 and another make, probably Chevy/GM. Part of the test involved towing an Airstream trailer, including acceleration runs, I kid you not! The 401 did NOT get shown up, if I recall.

  • @bohemialite6371
    @bohemialite6371 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I wish AMC would somehow return.😔my mom had a 1970 4/door rebel sst 304.

  • @timklein3962
    @timklein3962 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great video; you did your homework on this; usually not the case when it comes to AMC; Thanks !!!!!

  • @RANDOMNATION907
    @RANDOMNATION907 6 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Not really related, but. My grandpa had a '74 Gremlin with a 304 V8 and a 3-speed manual. He bought it new and claimed he paid $1995.00 for it. My Dad (his son) had, at that time, a '74 Super Beetle with fuel injection. Grandpa would rib him for buying foreign and for paying $2600.00 for it. The Beetle caught fire and burnt to the ground in '78 and Grandpa drove the "Gremy" (Gremlin) til he passed away in '84. Dad inherited the Gremy and I was just about of driving age and I begged Dad to give me 'Ol Gremy. But, Dad hated that car so much he sold it. It had 147,000 miles on it and didn't leak oil, although it did puff out some oil smoke til it warmed up a bit. My first car ended up being a '76 Mustang II with a 2.8l V6, 4-speed stick. I would have loved to have had 'Ol Gremy instead.

    • @jeremythompson9895
      @jeremythompson9895 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah for sure. Those mustang 2s were a disaster. The 304 Gremlin was a pretty quick little car

  • @scootergeorge9576
    @scootergeorge9576 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The 401 bolts right into a Gremlin with factory V-8 mounts. Instant tire melting monster! Lighter than a Javelin too!

    • @gregorytimmons4777
      @gregorytimmons4777 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'd love to build a 401 Hornet 2dr.

    • @richardkaltenbach3961
      @richardkaltenbach3961 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Scooter George How About Going Into The Engine Compartment Of A PACER?

    • @randycrowe2698
      @randycrowe2698 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      A Chrysler 440 will fit right in there also.

  • @grantsdad98
    @grantsdad98 6 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Your videos are like being in a history class. Thanks.

  • @gregorytimmons4777
    @gregorytimmons4777 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    That early 70's Matador Coupe was a uniquely styled car. Didn't think much of it when new but it has grown on me over the years. Now days I would love to have one.

    • @jeremythompson9122
      @jeremythompson9122 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Would be cool to have a 2 door coupe with the 401-4 speed. Probably be a pretty fast car. Those 401's were really reliable too. Had a few. The 258 straight six was a great engine too

  • @ladamyre1
    @ladamyre1 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    My dad had a 401 Ambassador and it was badass. FYI, it had a switch on the A/C knob for "dessert only" where it dropped the low side pressure in the evaporator so much it would freeze up if there was more than 10% humidity. One more thing, if you can't seem to get your A/C on an older car to working like it used to, check your door and trunk gaskets. If you can't keep humid air from the outside from getting in, the air inside can't dry out and your max A/C setting will be no different from the normal setting that brings in outside air on purpose.

  • @HeavyJ318
    @HeavyJ318 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    AMC engine blocks were cast with a very high nickel content making them extremely resistant to wear.

    • @jackierandall2230
      @jackierandall2230 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Had an eagle wagon with a 401 transplant.a fantastic car. 4 wheel drive fast fun and beautiful sleeper car.

    • @joed5472
      @joed5472 ปีที่แล้ว

      Are you shore

  • @garyd.7294
    @garyd.7294 6 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Great video, my favorite was my high school friends '69 AMX factory two seater 390 four-speed. Gary D.

    • @ragimundvonwallat8961
      @ragimundvonwallat8961 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      those were sweet puppies!

    • @gregorytimmons4777
      @gregorytimmons4777 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      The most desirable car AMC ever built. A 2 seater that AMC or at least some at AMC considered direct competition to Chevy's Corvette.

  • @cjhodgson3000
    @cjhodgson3000 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I know this is late, but the early 1971 401 had 10.2 compression. I had one in a 1971 Javelin AMX. Traction was a problem, smoke shows were easy. What impressed me most was the brakes. I have had more than 2 dozen cars since, none could stop shorter.

  • @douglaselliott8298
    @douglaselliott8298 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    A friends brother bought a well cared for 401 AMX in 1977. It was a TORQUE MONSTER!
    4-spd stick with 2nd gear starts being the norm around town. Too much fun!

  • @andrewbecker3700
    @andrewbecker3700 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Couple years ago I was doing some research on AMC V8s for my buddies '71 Javelin build. Turns out all 390s and 401s came with forged reciprocating assemblies from the factory. If the oiling systems are modified properly, these engines are capable of making decent power. Good luck finding one? We settled on a 360cid.

  • @richardcurrin8940
    @richardcurrin8940 6 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    A buddy bought a Javelin with a 401 in we were in high school. It would fly. I think he still has it

    • @mdytmhgd
      @mdytmhgd 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Loved my 73 401 Javelin. Great engine but the rest of the car fell apart....

    • @richardcurrin8940
      @richardcurrin8940 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      mdytmhgd after I posted my buddy posted on Facebook he still has the car. Based on the photo it’s looking pretty good

  • @silvernail6
    @silvernail6 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Well your video pushed me to subscribe. Back in '73 an AMC fan made me aware of a car that I SHOULD have bought for the paltry sum of $1500. It was a Hornet SC/360 which had been bought new by an expectant father who had previously owned a Mustang. It was a bare bones 360 cu in, 2 bbl., 3-speed stick, open rear end, green w/stripes removed, dog dish sleeper. The sleeper factor was the fact that engine grenaded and "all" AMC had available to replace under warranty was a 401. I believe dealers had access to "upgrades" so "Dad" added a Crane cam, a high rise, 4bbl and headers, that you could barely make out from beneath. Here's the fuzzy part. Much like a lost time experience on a UFO something happened that programmed me to not buy this. Maybe my Dad wouldn't co-sign but it was the test drive that I believe started the premature greying of my hair.......

  • @69dodgecharger440
    @69dodgecharger440 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Always wondered about the amc motors! Work as a lot boy in 1980 and the parts manager had a 401 AMX! Cool video! 😎

  • @georgeadolf666
    @georgeadolf666 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Just scooped an original 77 401 complete and standard bore. Im so excited to refresh it and swal it into my CJ!

  • @SSGTA440
    @SSGTA440 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yes...a real underestimated mill...I knew a guy back in the '70's that had a 1970 Rebel machine...with the 340 horse 390 motor and a 4 speed...that was the first year of the dog leg port head fitted to these motors, and it ran consistently around 14'0's at 100 mph completely stock. I told him to put a set of 8 inch slicks on it....then it would dip into the 13's for sure! Never did it to my knowledge..I think he was worried about driveline breakage...

  • @alexandrec9372
    @alexandrec9372 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Those AMCs were Very interesting. Unfortunatly we did not had those here in Brazil. Thank you for upload!!!

  • @poky1958
    @poky1958 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I had a 71 javelin and my step dad had a 1970 ambassador, both were great cars!

  • @beyond_the_infinite2098
    @beyond_the_infinite2098 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    4:10 Javelin AMX 401 stock was capable of 13s. It didn't lack power , it lacked grip. The rear wheels would spin and the axle would hop badly so you had to go easy off the line. Needed traction bars and bigger tires.

  • @nzsaltflatsracer8054
    @nzsaltflatsracer8054 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    It was only a blip on the HP radar but the dog leg head has 2.02 intake valves & is a flowing muther. I have a stock 401 shoehorned into a belly tank with a power-stroke Ford turbo blowing through a Holley that makes 654 hp at the wheels. It's street driven now.

    • @gabecrockett6574
      @gabecrockett6574 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You can't just tell us about such an awesome build and not show us.

  • @Spritsailor
    @Spritsailor 6 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    The Cleveland police dept. also had a fleet of Matadors.

  • @RADIOACTIVEMASCULINITY
    @RADIOACTIVEMASCULINITY 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I swapped a 401 into my Jeep Scrambler. It’s a perfect swap. Tons of power and it has all direct bolt in possibility with factory parts

  • @lonjiran7965
    @lonjiran7965 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have a 74 javelin amx pulled the 360 and put a 401 in it, headers, aluminum intake and balanced crank, can smoke the tires at 20 mph, wife's 73 has 360, both are fast and nimble cars👍👍👍

  • @oh8wingman
    @oh8wingman 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    I used to service two International 3/4 ton trucks that had 401's in them. International had a strange engine mount system consisting of one central front mount and two mounts on the bell housing. The 401 had so much torgue that it kept breaking the one bolt on the rear mount on the drivers side and the engine would jump to the passenger side with a vengeance. The solution was to attach a small piece of chain from the exhaust manifold to the shock mount to control the engines movement. Crude but effective. We also had some Chevies with 350's and 400's but the Cornbinders out performed them, especially when in the bush. The 401 was truly a great motor.

  • @banditdad9837
    @banditdad9837 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have 76' cj 7 with built 401 the torque is massive, a lot of fun too!

  • @JosephCowen-fz8vj
    @JosephCowen-fz8vj 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    One of only two small block engines that were over 400 ci , the 401 AMC and the 403 Olds , both motors having a come back these days ! Two of the biggest small blocks !.

  • @hank1556
    @hank1556 6 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    AMC knows how to make a good engine thats for sure. got a 4.0L in my Jeep, very robust engine

    • @trythinking6676
      @trythinking6676 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Had that engine in a 76 hornet. Bulletproof motor.

  • @craigfaircloth313
    @craigfaircloth313 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    My Dad bought a new International pickup in 1974 with this engine. It came with a 2 barrel carb he put on a 4 barrel 780 Holley
    and the truck was very strong. No Ford , Chevy or Dodge pickup in the day could run with it. He traded it off but has gotten it back
    just like it was when he had it first, original engine and driveline. 727 Chrysler Tranny and Dana 60 rearend. It came from IH like that

  • @dannymyers5345
    @dannymyers5345 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    My best friend and I built a 81 AMC spirit. It had a 4 cyl and a 4 speed and a 4.11 posi. I had a monti that had a rotten frame. Needless to say the 327 4bbl came out of the monti and went in the little hatch back. Bolted to the 4 speed and the factory posi. We put 300 double hump heads and a a 292 potato cam in the car with a 3 inch aluminum hi intake. With a dead hook on a 9.5 28 inch tire it would bring the tire's of the ground 8 inches. Not bad for 20 years ago and a 20 plus year old engine

  • @chasem.639
    @chasem.639 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My 1974 j10 has a 401 and it’s perfect w/ turbo 400 trans and Dana 44f/r 👌

  • @novaboy49
    @novaboy49 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I had a International Travelall with the 401--damned good reliable vehicle, wish I still had it.

  • @powerwill8748
    @powerwill8748 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I love the company. I want a 73 so bad. The high flow heads. This engine could of been much faster

  • @AMCmachine
    @AMCmachine 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The Javelin sold respectable numbers despite never threatening the Mustang or Camaro sales-wise. I recall reading that they managed to outsell the A-body Plymouth Barracuda for '68 and '69, and even beat the E-body Challenger and 'Cuda in sales a time or two between 1972 and 1974.

  • @scottlilly7705
    @scottlilly7705 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    1976 AMC started building for Chrysler and those famous matador patrol cars recieved new sheet metal and interiors and became lebarons diplomats and then Gran furys. I had one built at Kenosha. AMC was known to sell a lot of their properties and entire chassis of their best cars were no exception. The Mopar E58 360 is an example. It was an AMC built police engine that was also used for other commercial applications and was basically a reworked by AMC engine that had AMCs 401 interceptor performance package.

    • @Russell-nk7do
      @Russell-nk7do ปีที่แล้ว

      😮😊,, ,, I, DID, KNOW, THIS, !!,

  • @Bonzi_Buddy
    @Bonzi_Buddy 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I remember seeing a minty 1969 SC/390 parked down the street from my home with a for sale sign "$10K". Pricy, I thought. I should have bought it. Kill me.

  • @jwelchon2416
    @jwelchon2416 6 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    I had a 304 in an Gremlin X. It was really quick what with the car being so light.

    • @NiteGambler
      @NiteGambler 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I still own my '75 Gremlin X 304 3 speed since June 1975.....it is fast.Beat a Camaro in 2nd gear with snow tires lol.

    • @treyvader
      @treyvader 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      JWelchon 401 gremlins were so much better

    • @chief1972
      @chief1972 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      trey capers 304 was the biggest engine available.

    • @treyvader
      @treyvader 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      JWelchon true but some such as the Gremlin XR we’re swapped out to 401 by dealers much like Mr Norms Dodge did with Dodge Darts

    • @monsieurdubitatif8567
      @monsieurdubitatif8567 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      My father had one, bad also a pacer... a station wagon.😀

  • @billsavarese1671
    @billsavarese1671 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love my 390 Mark Donahue Javelin, very rare column shift. Was told only 9 were made. Have pictures of the Javelin from 1973 when the last owner bought it

  • @marcturk4410
    @marcturk4410 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This friend of mine years ago had a 74 AMC Matador with a 401 I remember laughing at the poor mustang chevelle even some b block molars too it was fun

  • @robertwatkins364
    @robertwatkins364 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Trivia time: What 1974 James Bond movie had AMC police cars in it? Roger Moore drove a Hornet hatchback in an insane stunt.

    • @jamessimms415
      @jamessimms415 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Robert Watkins Man w/The Golden Gun

    • @Russell-nk7do
      @Russell-nk7do ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ,, ,, LIVE, &, LET, - DIE, !!,

  • @kenswitzer4133
    @kenswitzer4133 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Sure wish these would have taken off. As a Chevy guy I will say AMC made some really good cars. The 401 power with that CR was very respectable muscle carI am 72 years old and never knew what AMC had

  • @vmat1000
    @vmat1000 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Wow, what a great eye opening video. Lots of juice once available from what looked like a small block mill. All i knew about AMC's was AMX's spinning out like Vette's on the time trial tracks family used to race a Sprite on (and win trophies) in the late '60s/early '70s and the '72 Javelin my GF (wife)'s brother had in '77 that was nothing but trouble. Nice to know his experience was apparently isolated, given the civic duty these cars gave. Thank you for posting!!!

  • @kayeninetwo3585
    @kayeninetwo3585 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the great video.

  • @hotwheel6663
    @hotwheel6663 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Good in depth on AMC V8s. The first Year Javelin only went up to 343. The 390 was second year. The 390 had a little more HP.

    • @jeremythompson9122
      @jeremythompson9122 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Keep dreaming pal. A 70 Hemi Cuda did 13.1 in the 1/4 mile. You're telling me a 390 AMC Ambassador is faster than a Hemi Cuda, LS6 Chevelle, or Buick GSX 455 Stage 1? You're probably about 2.5-3 seconds off on that 1/4 mile time lol

  • @HoosierDaddy_
    @HoosierDaddy_ 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Anonymous great video! Thanks for your hard work!

  • @tetekofa
    @tetekofa 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    The AMC CJ Jeep series was just fantastic from 1976 - 1979 with the 304 and 360 setup.

  • @mikecernick5575
    @mikecernick5575 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video thanks for the lessons.

  • @randomthoughts1001
    @randomthoughts1001 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I have a 401 Pacer😁 1 of 6.
    Never forget the Pacer .

    • @MrTheHillfolk
      @MrTheHillfolk 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      That thing must move out pretty good,considering the times.

  • @davekent4829
    @davekent4829 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    True story, I had a early 80's Grand Waggoner 4X4, lifted, 33" tires, ect. When it got tired, I rebuilt the 360, when I pulled the heads off, surprise! One head was the regular 360 sized valves, but for some odd reason, the other head was off a 401, with larger 2.02 valves! We fitted the 360 heads with the larger valves, ran REAL strong,(and smoother!). BTW, the AMC had an external oil pump, too. Never had great oil pressure, either.

    • @gabecrockett6574
      @gabecrockett6574 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      One of your heads must have been from a 304. 360's and 401's use the same heads and valves.

  • @Bricklinsv1970
    @Bricklinsv1970 6 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Legendary Cars.

  • @buddygallagher1193
    @buddygallagher1193 ปีที่แล้ว

    Cool video thanks for all the info

  • @JeffDeWitt
    @JeffDeWitt 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Don't know what engine it had but I recently drove Route 66 and a couple of times ran across some guys from Quebec who were driving a really nice 74(?) Matador wagon, complete with the required wood siding. Hope they made it to Santa Monica!

  • @shwt121
    @shwt121 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Every engine that AMC ever produced from the early 60's until the mid 80's were lasting & durable. I personally remember both my father's station wagons ( the 1967 Rebel Cross Country 770 & the 1970 Rebel Cross-Country wagon). The 67 had a 232 2bbl & 3 on the tree, it also sported a luggafe rack made of chrome, also came with the three spoke, anodized steering wheel & cigarette lighter along with full chrome hubcaps... the 70 has a 304 2bbl v8 & the 3 spd automatic that, when shifted to 'D2' @ a stoplight, would take off in second gear, giving a little more ease if you were stuck in the mud or snow. The 70 wagon also came srandard with airshocks and 70 series blackwall tires as part of a towing pkg......

  • @dukeman7595
    @dukeman7595 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Love the show, make more videos please.

  • @5litreho
    @5litreho 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Had a 1972 Gremlin X. Swapped out the factory 304 and installed a 360 4bbl with 727 trans. Car was stupid fast, Lol

  • @OldCrowsClassicCars
    @OldCrowsClassicCars 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great engine, great cars, great video!

  • @MasterKeyMagic
    @MasterKeyMagic 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The second Gen Javelin is the best looking muscle car period.

    • @will7its
      @will7its 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah, if your canadian......

    • @James-hd4ms
      @James-hd4ms 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@will7its You have your generations mixed-up.

  • @blipco5
    @blipco5 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Love the intro music.