ignition

Ignition Coil - Single

for 1970 AMC Rebel Machine 390ci V8 · RWD

Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years

Difficulty

Easy

Time

1.0 h

Tools

Steps

✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the ignition coil on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine with the 390ci V8 engine.

Warnings

⚠️Disconnect battery negative terminal before working on ignition system to prevent electrical shock or accidental engine start

⚠Allow engine to cool completely before beginning work if vehicle was recently operated

ℹ️The ignition coil retains high voltage even when engine is off; discharge coil by grounding the coil tower with a screwdriver before handling

Tools required

Socket wrench set with extensionsEssential

Combination wrench setEssential

Flathead screwdriver

Wire brush

Electrical contact cleaner

Masking tape and marker

Parts

Ignition coil × 1 — Use OEM specification for 1970 AMC 390 V8

Preparation

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
Ensure engine is cool to the touch
Disconnect negative battery cable and secure away from battery terminal
Locate ignition coil mounted on driver side valve cover or firewall area

Procedure

1
Label and document wire connections
Using masking tape and marker, label the primary wires (small terminals) and note the high tension wire (center tower) position. The primary terminals typically include a positive wire from the ignition switch and a negative wire to the distributor points. Take a photo if possible for reference during reassembly.
2
Disconnect high tension wire
Grasp the high tension wire boot firmly and pull straight off the center tower of the coil. Do not pull on the wire itself as this can damage the conductor. Set wire aside in a clean location away from the work area.
3
Disconnect primary wires
Remove the primary wire connections from the positive and negative terminals on the coil. These may be secured with small nuts or push-on terminals. If using nuts, typically 1/4 inch or 5/16 inch, carefully remove and retain hardware. Note the exact position of any washers or insulators.
4
Remove coil mounting hardware
Remove the coil mounting bracket bolt(s) securing the coil to the valve cover or firewall mounting bracket. The 1970 AMC 390 typically uses a single-bolt clamp-style bracket. Support the coil while removing the final fastener to prevent it from falling.
5
Remove old ignition coil
Carefully lift the ignition coil and mounting bracket assembly away from the engine compartment. Inspect the mounting bracket for damage or corrosion. If bracket is reusable, separate it from the old coil.
6
Prepare new ignition coil
Clean the mounting bracket with a wire brush if reusing. Verify the new coil matches the original in terms of terminal configuration and mounting style. Install the mounting bracket onto the new coil in the same orientation as the original.
7
Install new ignition coil
Position the new coil assembly in the mounting location, ensuring the terminals are oriented for easy access and the high tension tower faces the distributor. Start the mounting bolt(s) by hand to ensure proper thread engagement.
8
Secure coil mounting
Tighten the mounting bracket bolt(s) securely, ensuring the coil is firmly held but avoiding overtightening that could crack the coil case. The coil should not move or rotate when gently hand-tested.
9
Reconnect primary wires
Connect the primary wires to the correct terminals as labeled earlier. The positive terminal connects to the ignition switch circuit (typically a wire with constant 12V when key is on), and the negative terminal connects to the distributor points circuit. Secure connections with nuts and washers if applicable, ensuring tight electrical contact.
10
Reconnect high tension wire
Press the high tension wire boot firmly onto the center tower of the new coil until it seats completely with an audible click or firm resistance. Ensure the boot makes full contact around the tower to prevent arcing and misfires.
11
Final inspection and battery reconnection
Verify all connections are secure and no tools or parts remain in the engine compartment. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery terminal and tighten securely.

Reassembly

Ensure all wire connections are tight and properly routed away from hot exhaust components
Verify the high tension wire is fully seated on the coil tower
Double-check that no wires are pinched or stretched during installation

Verification

Turn ignition key to ON position (do not start) and verify no sparking or arcing occurs at coil terminals
Start engine and verify smooth idle with no misfiring or hesitation
Rev engine moderately and listen for consistent firing across all cylinders
Inspect for any visible arcing around coil terminals or tower, especially in low light conditions
Test drive vehicle to confirm proper ignition performance under load

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