Vehicle Overview

American Motors Corporation's AMX and Javelin were bold attempts to crack Ford, GM, and Chrysler's dominance of the pony car market in the late 1960s. The Javelin, launched for 1968, was AMC's stylish interpretation of the pony car formula: a long-hood, short-deck fastback coupe built on AMC's compact Rambler American platform but lengthened, widened, and restyled with aggressive Coke-bottle side sculpting, a distinctive egg-crate grille, and optional hood scoops. The Javelin was no clone of the Mustang or Camaro; it offered more interior room, a standard V8 option from the start, and AMC's well-proven overhead-valve inline-six as the base engine, all backed by a chassis that was surprisingly competent for both street and Trans-Am racing.

The AMX (American Motors eXperimental) arrived in 1968 as a two-seat variant of the Javelin, produced through 1970. It remains one of the only American-produced two-seat cars outside of the Corvette lineage. AMX models featured a shortened rear deck, unique suspension tuning, and most famously the optional 390 cubic-inch V6 (actually a V8 -- the 390 cubic inch, or 6.4-liter, V8) producing 315 horsepower. The 1968-1970 AMX achieved legendary status, particularly the 1968 AMX-SS (Super Stock) and "Go Package" variants, many of which now command substantial collector prices.

The Javelin continued through 1974, receiving a complete restyle for the second generation (1971-1974) that adopted a longer wheelbase, smoother fastback, and the AMC 401 cubic-inch V6 as the top engine option. Whether you own an early 1968 coupe with a 232 inline-six, a 1970 AMX with the 390, or a 1973 Javelin AMX with the 401, this service manual provides the critical technical data needed to maintain and restore these iconic American muscle cars.

Service & Repair Scope

• Engine Overview - Coverage of the 232 cubic-inch inline-six, 258 cubic-inch inline-six, 290 V8, 343 V8, 360 V8, 390 V8, and 401 V6 engines; displacement specs, bore and stroke for each variant, compression ratios across model years
• Engine Maintenance - Oil change procedures (capacity and viscosity by engine), spark plug specification and gap by engine, distributor points replacement and dwell angle setting (pre-1972), electronic ignition conversion (1972+), valve lash adjustment (hydraulic), timing chain cover gasket replacement, oil pump inspection and replacement
• Engine Top-End - Cylinder head removal torque sequence; head gasket identification and installation; valve job procedures including seat angles (45/30-degree), valve guide replacement, valve spring pressure specification; intake and exhaust manifold gasket replacement; carburetor rebuild (Autolite/Motorcraft/Carter options per application)
• Engine Bottom-End - Cylinder bore measurement (standard and oversize); piston removal and installation; piston ring gap measurement; connecting rod bearing clearance specification; crankshaft grinding limits and bearing undersizing; camshaft lobe wear inspection; timing chain inspection and replacement; rear main bearing seal replacement
• Fuel System - Carter YF or AMC two-barrel carburetor cleaning and rebuild; four-barrel carburetor float bowl and secondary diaphragm service (on V8 applications); fuel pump (mechanical) pressure test; fuel line inspection; fuel filter replacement; fuel tank sender unit repair
• Emissions - PCV valve replacement; evaporative canister inspection; EGR valve (later models) service; air pump service (early smog models)
• Cooling System - Thermostat replacement (temp specification by engine); water pump inspection and replacement; radiator flush and refill; heater core replacement; fan clutch inspection (on equipped models); radiator cap pressure test
• Clutch & Manual Transmission - Clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing replacement; pilot bushing removal and installation; flywheel resurfacing; T-10 four-speed removal and rebuild; Borg-Warner T-5 five-speed (later) service; three-speed manual synchro ring inspection; gear oil specification
• Automatic Transmission - Borg-Warner and Chrysler-sourced automatics; torque converter seal inspection; valve body service; band adjustment; kick-down linkage adjustment; ATF type and capacity
• Rear Axle - AMC 15-bolt and 12-bolt differential ring and pinion setup; backlash adjustment; pinion depth shim selection; axle shaft removal and bearing/seal replacement; limited-slip clutch pack inspection and rebuild; gear ratio identification
• Driveshaft - U-joint replacement; slip yoke inspection; two-piece driveshaft center support bearing inspection
• Front Suspension - Upper and lower A-arm ball joint wear testing and replacement; control arm bushing inspection and pressing; coil spring rate and replacement; shock absorber function test; sway bar end link service; steering knuckle ball joint and kingpin service; wheel bearing adjustment (tapered roller)
• Steering - Recirculating ball steering box adjustment (sector shaft lash and worm bearing preload); idler arm bushing replacement; steering linkage (pitman arm, center link, drag link, tie rod end) service; power steering pump removal, bench test, and hose replacement
• Brakes - Front disc brake pad and rotor service (disc-equipped models); rear drum brake shoe replacement and wheel cylinder rebuild; brake proportioning valve function; master cylinder rebuild; power brake booster vacuum test; brake line and hose inspection
• Electrical - Alternator output and voltage regulator test (external on early models, internal on later); starter motor removal and solenoid test; complete wiring diagrams organized by circuit (lighting, instrument panel, charging, starting, ignition, accessories); fuse block identification; horn relay and circuit test; windshield wiper motor and linkage repair; power window motor service (on equipped models)
• Body & Interior - Door adjustment and window regulator service; weatherstrip replacement; convertible top removal and frame adjustment (where applicable); dash pad inspection; instrument cluster removal and PCB repair; seat track mechanism service
• HVAC - Heater box removal and heater core replacement; blower motor and resistor service; A/C compressor clutch replacement; receiver-drier service; R-12 system evacuation and conversion to R-134a (specifications and required orifice change)

Technical Specifications

• 232 I6: bore 3.75" x stroke 3.50"; 145 HP; 195 lb-ft; firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
• 258 I6: bore 3.75" x stroke 3.875"; 150 HP; 215 lb-ft; firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
• 290 V8: bore 3.75" x stroke 3.28"; 225 HP; 305 lb-ft; firing order 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2
• 343 V8: bore 4.08" x stroke 3.28"; 280 HP; 365 lb-ft
• 390 V8: bore 4.16" x stroke 3.58"; 315 HP; 425 lb-ft
• 401 V8: bore 4.08" x stroke 3.85"; 255 HP; 340 lb-ft (net, later emission standards)
• Valve lash: hydraulic lifters (zero lash specified)
• Distributor dwell: 30 degrees (pre-electronic ignition models)
• Oil capacity: I6 - 5 qt, V8 - 5-6 qt depending on application
• Transmission: T-10 4-speed ratios (1st 2.20, 2nd 1.64, 3rd 1.28, 4th 1.00, R 2.17); 3-speed ratios
• Brakes: front disc rotor min thickness; rear drum max ID
• Alignment: camber -0.5 to +0.5 degree, caster 1.0-3.0 degrees, toe-in 0.062-0.125"

Diagnostic Information

Pre-OBDII diagnostics are thoroughly covered with emphasis on conventional testing methodologies. Engine diagnostics include compression testing (minimum 120 psi per cylinder with maximum 30 psi variance), leak-down testing for ring and valve seat assessment, ignition timing verification with a timing light (initial and advance curves by engine), and vacuum gauge diagnostic readings at idle for common conditions (retarded timing, restricted exhaust, intake leak). Fuel system testing covers mechanical pump pressure (nominal 4-7 psi), carburetor float level, and idle mixture adjustment. Electrical diagnostics emphasize the external voltage regulator configuration used on pre-1972 models, including generator-to-alternator conversion procedures.

Illustrations & Diagrams Included

Exploded engine assembly views for all engine families (232/258 I6, 290/343/390/401 V8); cylinder head sectional views with camshaft in block (OHV); carburetor cutaway diagrams (Carter and Autolite types); transmission sectional diagrams (T-10 4-speed, 3-speed, automatic); differential cross-section with bearing and shim callouts; complete wiring diagrams for lighting, instrument gauges, charging, starting, and ignition circuits; vacuum hose routing for HVAC and emissions; body panel assembly; door lock and window regulator diagrams; brake hydraulic circuit schematic.

Compatibility

This service manual covers the 1967-1973 AMC AMX and Javelin model years. Engine coverage includes the 232, 258, 290, 343, 390, and 401 cubic inch variants. Much of the content also applies to 1974 Javelin models and other AMC vehicles sharing these engine families (Matador, Hornet, Ambassador), though model-specific body, suspension, and calibration differences should be noted.

File Properties

• Format: Searchable PDF with bookmarked navigation and full-text search
• Language: English
• Delivery: Instant digital download after purchase
• Access: Available 24/7 from any device connected to the internet
• Printing: High-resolution quality for individual pages or complete sections

Vehicle Overview

American Motors Corporation's AMX and Javelin were bold attempts to crack Ford, GM, and Chrysler's dominance of the pony car market in the late 1960s. The Javelin, launched for 1968, was AMC's stylish interpretation of the pony car formula: a long-hood, short-deck fastback coupe built on AMC's compact Rambler American platform but lengthened, widened, and restyled with aggressive Coke-bottle side sculpting, a distinctive egg-crate grille, and optional hood scoops. The Javelin was no clone of the Mustang or Camaro; it offered more interior room, a standard V8 option from the start, and AMC's well-proven overhead-valve inline-six as the base engine, all backed by a chassis that was surprisingly competent for both street and Trans-Am racing.

The AMX (American Motors eXperimental) arrived in 1968 as a two-seat variant of the Javelin, produced through 1970. It remains one of the only American-produced two-seat cars outside of the Corvette lineage. AMX models featured a shortened rear deck, unique suspension tuning, and most famously the optional 390 cubic-inch V6 (actually a V8 -- the 390 cubic inch, or 6.4-liter, V8) producing 315 horsepower. The 1968-1970 AMX achieved legendary status, particularly the 1968 AMX-SS (Super Stock) and "Go Package" variants, many of which now command substantial collector prices.

The Javelin continued through 1974, receiving a complete restyle for the second generation (1971-1974) that adopted a longer wheelbase, smoother fastback, and the AMC 401 cubic-inch V6 as the top engine option. Whether you own an early 1968 coupe with a 232 inline-six, a 1970 AMX with the 390, or a 1973 Javelin AMX with the 401, this service manual provides the critical technical data needed to maintain and restore these iconic American muscle cars.

Service & Repair Scope

• Engine Overview - Coverage of the 232 cubic-inch inline-six, 258 cubic-inch inline-six, 290 V8, 343 V8, 360 V8, 390 V8, and 401 V6 engines; displacement specs, bore and stroke for each variant, compression ratios across model years
• Engine Maintenance - Oil change procedures (capacity and viscosity by engine), spark plug specification and gap by engine, distributor points replacement and dwell angle setting (pre-1972), electronic ignition conversion (1972+), valve lash adjustment (hydraulic), timing chain cover gasket replacement, oil pump inspection and replacement
• Engine Top-End - Cylinder head removal torque sequence; head gasket identification and installation; valve job procedures including seat angles (45/30-degree), valve guide replacement, valve spring pressure specification; intake and exhaust manifold gasket replacement; carburetor rebuild (Autolite/Motorcraft/Carter options per application)
• Engine Bottom-End - Cylinder bore measurement (standard and oversize); piston removal and installation; piston ring gap measurement; connecting rod bearing clearance specification; crankshaft grinding limits and bearing undersizing; camshaft lobe wear inspection; timing chain inspection and replacement; rear main bearing seal replacement
• Fuel System - Carter YF or AMC two-barrel carburetor cleaning and rebuild; four-barrel carburetor float bowl and secondary diaphragm service (on V8 applications); fuel pump (mechanical) pressure test; fuel line inspection; fuel filter replacement; fuel tank sender unit repair
• Emissions - PCV valve replacement; evaporative canister inspection; EGR valve (later models) service; air pump service (early smog models)
• Cooling System - Thermostat replacement (temp specification by engine); water pump inspection and replacement; radiator flush and refill; heater core replacement; fan clutch inspection (on equipped models); radiator cap pressure test
• Clutch & Manual Transmission - Clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing replacement; pilot bushing removal and installation; flywheel resurfacing; T-10 four-speed removal and rebuild; Borg-Warner T-5 five-speed (later) service; three-speed manual synchro ring inspection; gear oil specification
• Automatic Transmission - Borg-Warner and Chrysler-sourced automatics; torque converter seal inspection; valve body service; band adjustment; kick-down linkage adjustment; ATF type and capacity
• Rear Axle - AMC 15-bolt and 12-bolt differential ring and pinion setup; backlash adjustment; pinion depth shim selection; axle shaft removal and bearing/seal replacement; limited-slip clutch pack inspection and rebuild; gear ratio identification
• Driveshaft - U-joint replacement; slip yoke inspection; two-piece driveshaft center support bearing inspection
• Front Suspension - Upper and lower A-arm ball joint wear testing and replacement; control arm bushing inspection and pressing; coil spring rate and replacement; shock absorber function test; sway bar end link service; steering knuckle ball joint and kingpin service; wheel bearing adjustment (tapered roller)
• Steering - Recirculating ball steering box adjustment (sector shaft lash and worm bearing preload); idler arm bushing replacement; steering linkage (pitman arm, center link, drag link, tie rod end) service; power steering pump removal, bench test, and hose replacement
• Brakes - Front disc brake pad and rotor service (disc-equipped models); rear drum brake shoe replacement and wheel cylinder rebuild; brake proportioning valve function; master cylinder rebuild; power brake booster vacuum test; brake line and hose inspection
• Electrical - Alternator output and voltage regulator test (external on early models, internal on later); starter motor removal and solenoid test; complete wiring diagrams organized by circuit (lighting, instrument panel, charging, starting, ignition, accessories); fuse block identification; horn relay and circuit test; windshield wiper motor and linkage repair; power window motor service (on equipped models)
• Body & Interior - Door adjustment and window regulator service; weatherstrip replacement; convertible top removal and frame adjustment (where applicable); dash pad inspection; instrument cluster removal and PCB repair; seat track mechanism service
• HVAC - Heater box removal and heater core replacement; blower motor and resistor service; A/C compressor clutch replacement; receiver-drier service; R-12 system evacuation and conversion to R-134a (specifications and required orifice change)

Technical Specifications

• 232 I6: bore 3.75" x stroke 3.50"; 145 HP; 195 lb-ft; firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
• 258 I6: bore 3.75" x stroke 3.875"; 150 HP; 215 lb-ft; firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
• 290 V8: bore 3.75" x stroke 3.28"; 225 HP; 305 lb-ft; firing order 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2
• 343 V8: bore 4.08" x stroke 3.28"; 280 HP; 365 lb-ft
• 390 V8: bore 4.16" x stroke 3.58"; 315 HP; 425 lb-ft
• 401 V8: bore 4.08" x stroke 3.85"; 255 HP; 340 lb-ft (net, later emission standards)
• Valve lash: hydraulic lifters (zero lash specified)
• Distributor dwell: 30 degrees (pre-electronic ignition models)
• Oil capacity: I6 - 5 qt, V8 - 5-6 qt depending on application
• Transmission: T-10 4-speed ratios (1st 2.20, 2nd 1.64, 3rd 1.28, 4th 1.00, R 2.17); 3-speed ratios
• Brakes: front disc rotor min thickness; rear drum max ID
• Alignment: camber -0.5 to +0.5 degree, caster 1.0-3.0 degrees, toe-in 0.062-0.125"

Diagnostic Information

Pre-OBDII diagnostics are thoroughly covered with emphasis on conventional testing methodologies. Engine diagnostics include compression testing (minimum 120 psi per cylinder with maximum 30 psi variance), leak-down testing for ring and valve seat assessment, ignition timing verification with a timing light (initial and advance curves by engine), and vacuum gauge diagnostic readings at idle for common conditions (retarded timing, restricted exhaust, intake leak). Fuel system testing covers mechanical pump pressure (nominal 4-7 psi), carburetor float level, and idle mixture adjustment. Electrical diagnostics emphasize the external voltage regulator configuration used on pre-1972 models, including generator-to-alternator conversion procedures.

Illustrations & Diagrams Included

Exploded engine assembly views for all engine families (232/258 I6, 290/343/390/401 V8); cylinder head sectional views with camshaft in block (OHV); carburetor cutaway diagrams (Carter and Autolite types); transmission sectional diagrams (T-10 4-speed, 3-speed, automatic); differential cross-section with bearing and shim callouts; complete wiring diagrams for lighting, instrument gauges, charging, starting, and ignition circuits; vacuum hose routing for HVAC and emissions; body panel assembly; door lock and window regulator diagrams; brake hydraulic circuit schematic.

Compatibility

This service manual covers the 1967-1973 AMC AMX and Javelin model years. Engine coverage includes the 232, 258, 290, 343, 390, and 401 cubic inch variants. Much of the content also applies to 1974 Javelin models and other AMC vehicles sharing these engine families (Matador, Hornet, Ambassador), though model-specific body, suspension, and calibration differences should be noted.

File Properties

• Format: Searchable PDF with bookmarked navigation and full-text search
• Language: English
• Delivery: Instant digital download after purchase
• Access: Available 24/7 from any device connected to the internet
• Printing: High-resolution quality for individual pages or complete sections