1971 AMC GREMLIN

Symptoms: Excessive driveline clunk on throttle application, Transmission shifter vibration at idle, Visible sagging of transmission tailshaft, Difficulty shifting into gear

Fix: The rubber transmission mount deteriorates badly with age on these vehicles, especially if original. Requires lifting transmission slightly to replace mount. 1.5-2 hours labor for competent DIYer, less for experienced shop.

Estimated cost: $150-350

Symptoms: Hard starting when warm, Rough idle and stalling, Poor fuel economy below 15 mpg, Hesitation on acceleration, Black smoke from exhaust

Fix: The single-barrel Carter YF (232) or two-barrel BBD (258) carburetors develop vacuum leaks, stuck chokes, and worn throttle shafts. Complete rebuild kit installation takes 3-4 hours if you know these carbs; first-timers double that. Often needs manifold gasket replacement simultaneously.

Estimated cost: $300-600

Typical onset: 100,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Blue smoke on startup and acceleration, Oil consumption exceeding 1 quart per 500 miles, Low compression readings below 120 psi, Fouled spark plugs

Fix: AMC inline sixes are sturdy but ring wear is inevitable at high mileage. Requires full engine teardown, cylinder honing, new rings, rod and main bearings typically replaced while apart. 20-25 hours for complete job. Many owners opt for reman long block instead at this point.

Estimated cost: $2,500-4,000

Typical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Grinding when shifting into second gear, Difficulty engaging third gear when cold, Popping out of gear under load

Fix: The three-speed manual (T-150 or T-14) develops synchro wear, particularly second gear. Full rebuild requires transmission removal, case splitting, synchro replacement. 8-12 hours labor. Four-speed Warner T-150 is more robust but still wears.

Estimated cost: $800-1,400

Symptoms: Visible rust perforation in floor under carpet, Soft or crumbling metal at rocker panels, Water entering cabin during rain, Jack points completely rusted through

Fix: Critical structural rust is extremely common on surviving Gremlins, especially in salt states. Floor pan replacement requires full interior removal, cutting out old metal, welding in patch panels. 15-25 hours depending on severity. This is a deal-breaker issue on many examples.

Estimated cost: $1,500-3,500

Symptoms: Fuel starvation under acceleration, Clogged fuel filter within 500 miles of replacement, Hard starting after sitting, Visible fuel weeping at steel line connections

Fix: Original steel fuel lines rust internally, and old fuel varnish clogs the tank, sending unit, and filter. Proper fix involves tank removal, cleaning or replacement, new fuel pump, and replacement of steel lines with modern EFI-rated hose where possible. 6-8 hours for thorough job.

Estimated cost: $400-800

Typical onset: 60,000-90,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking over bumps, Wandering steering, Excessive play in front wheel when jacked up, Uneven tire wear on inside edge

Fix: Upper and lower ball joints wear, particularly lowers. These are riveted from factory, replacement requires drilling out rivets and bolting in new joints. Both sides should be done simultaneously. 4-6 hours labor, alignment required after.

Estimated cost: $500-900