Replace a single sealed beam or halogen headlight bulb on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine by accessing the bulb from behind the headlight assembly in the engine bay.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight bulb sealed beam unit × 1 — 7-inch round sealed beam, typically Type 2 (high/low beam) or consult owner's manual

Preparation

1. Turn off headlights and ignition
2. Allow headlights to cool if vehicle was recently operated
3. Open and secure the hood
4. Identify which headlight requires replacement (driver or passenger side)

Procedure

1. 1

   Access headlight assembly from engine bay
   Locate the rear of the headlight assembly from inside the engine compartment. The headlight is accessed from behind the grille area on the corresponding side.
2. 2

   Disconnect wiring harness
   Locate the wiring harness connector attached to the back of the headlight sealed beam unit. Pull the connector straight off the terminal prongs on the back of the headlight. The connector should release with firm hand pressure.
3. 3

   Remove headlight retaining ring
   Identify the headlight retaining ring which holds the sealed beam unit in place. This is typically a chrome or painted metal ring visible from the front. Using a flathead screwdriver or by hand, remove the screws (typically 3-4 screws) that secure the retaining ring to the headlight bucket. Do not remove the headlight aim adjustment screws located at different positions.
4. 4

   Remove retaining ring and old bulb
   Once screws are removed, carefully pull the retaining ring away from the headlight assembly. The sealed beam unit can now be pulled forward out of the headlight bucket housing. Tilt and maneuver the bulb to clear the housing opening.
5. 5

   Install new sealed beam unit
   Using a clean cloth or wearing gloves, position the new sealed beam headlight with the terminal prongs facing rearward toward the engine bay. The unit will only fit one way with alignment tabs. Insert the sealed beam into the headlight bucket, ensuring it seats fully against the mounting surface.
6. 6

   Reinstall retaining ring
   Position the headlight retaining ring over the sealed beam unit, aligning screw holes. Thread in the retaining ring screws and tighten evenly in a cross pattern to secure the ring without over-tightening. Ensure the sealed beam remains properly seated during installation.
7. 7

   Reconnect wiring harness
   Push the wiring harness connector firmly onto the terminal prongs on the back of the new sealed beam unit until it seats completely. Ensure the connector is secure and making good contact.

Reassembly

1. Verify headlight retaining ring screws are snug but not over-tightened
2. Ensure wiring harness is not pinched or interfering with other components
3. Close hood once testing is complete

Verification

• Turn ignition to accessory or on position and test headlights on both low and high beam settings
• Verify the new headlight illuminates with proper brightness matching the opposite side
• Check that headlight beam pattern appears correct and aimed properly from in front of vehicle
• If beam aim is off, adjust using the headlight aim adjustment screws (not the retaining ring screws)

More procedures for this vehicle