Blower Motor

Remove and replace the heater blower motor assembly located under the dashboard on the passenger side of the 1970 AMC Rebel Machine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Blower motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Blower motor resistor (if faulty) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Electrical connector (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery cable terminal
3. Remove passenger side floor mat to protect interior
4. Allow engine to cool completely if vehicle was recently operated
5. Position work light to illuminate area under passenger side dashboard

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the blower motor area
   Position yourself in the passenger footwell. The blower motor is located in the heater housing under the right side of the dashboard. You may need to remove the lower dash panel or glove box for better access depending on your reach. On the 1970 Rebel, access is typically possible from the footwell without removing these components, though tight.
2. 2

   Disconnect blower motor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the blower motor. The connector will have 2 wires leading to it. Carefully press the retaining tab and pull the connector straight off the motor terminals. If the connector is corroded or difficult to remove, gently wiggle it while pulling. Note the wire colors and orientation for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Disconnect cooling hose if equipped
   Some blower motors have a small rubber cooling hose attached. If present, locate where this hose connects to the motor housing and carefully pull it free. This hose directs air over the motor to keep it cool during operation.
4. 4

   Remove blower motor mounting screws
   Locate the 3 or 4 sheet metal screws securing the blower motor to the heater housing. These are typically 1/4 inch hex head or Phillips head screws. Support the blower motor with one hand while removing the screws with the other, as the motor assembly is relatively heavy and will drop when the last screw is removed.
5. 5

   Remove blower motor assembly
   With all mounting screws removed, carefully lower the blower motor assembly down and out of the heater housing. The motor with attached fan cage (squirrel cage) should come out as a single unit. You may need to rotate or angle the assembly to clear the housing and dashboard structure. Work slowly to avoid damaging the fan cage blades.
6. 6

   Inspect blower motor resistor
   With the blower motor removed, locate the blower motor resistor block, typically mounted nearby on the heater housing. Check for signs of burning, melted connectors, or broken resistance coils. If the resistor shows damage or if you experienced issues with blower speed control, replace it at this time by removing its mounting screws and electrical connector.
7. 7

   Clean the heater housing opening
   Use a shop vacuum or clean rag to remove any debris, leaves, or dirt that has accumulated in the heater housing opening where the blower motor mounts. This material can restrict airflow and cause premature motor failure. Clean the mounting surface to ensure a good seal with the new motor.
8. 8

   Prepare new blower motor
   Remove the new blower motor from its packaging and verify it matches the original unit in size, mounting hole locations, and electrical connection type. Check that the fan cage rotates freely and shows no damage. Ensure any foam or rubber sealing gasket is properly positioned on the motor flange.
9. 9

   Install new blower motor
   Position the new blower motor assembly up into the heater housing opening, carefully maneuvering the fan cage through without bending the blades. Align the mounting screw holes with the holes in the heater housing. The motor should sit flush against the housing with any sealing gasket compressed evenly.
10. 10

    Install mounting screws
    Install all blower motor mounting screws finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Then tighten the screws in a cross pattern to ensure even seating. Tighten screws firmly but do not overtighten, as you are threading into sheet metal and can strip the holes. The motor should be secure with no movement or gaps.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector and hose
    Push the electrical connector firmly onto the blower motor terminals until it clicks into place. Ensure the connection is secure and the retaining tab is fully engaged. If equipped with a cooling hose, reconnect it to the motor housing. Verify all wiring is routed clear of moving parts and sharp edges.
12. 12

    Test blower motor operation
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition to the RUN position without starting the engine. Turn the heater fan switch to each speed setting (LOW, MEDIUM-LOW, MEDIUM-HIGH, HIGH) and verify the blower motor operates at each speed. Listen for unusual noises such as squealing, grinding, or rubbing which could indicate improper installation or a defective motor.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any dashboard panels or glove box that were removed for access
2. Replace passenger floor mat
3. Verify all tools and fasteners have been retrieved from the vehicle interior

Verification

• Start the engine and test blower motor operation at all speed settings with engine running
• Verify strong airflow from dashboard vents at all fan speeds
• Listen for any abnormal noises from the blower motor area during operation
• Check that air direction changes properly when moving the mode control (defrost, vent, heat)
• Ensure no air leaks are present around the blower motor mounting area
• Verify battery connection is secure and no warning lights are illuminated

More procedures for this vehicle