Remove and replace the exterior side mirror assembly on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine, including mounting hardware and gasket.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Side mirror assembly × 1 — AMC OEM or aftermarket reproduction
• Mirror mounting gasket × 1 — Use with new mirror or reuse if intact
• Mirror mounting hardware kit × 1 — Typically includes nuts, washers, and screws

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Roll down the window on the side where mirror work will be performed for easier access to interior mounting hardware
3. Apply masking tape around mirror base on exterior paint to protect finish
4. Gather all replacement parts and verify correct mirror type (driver or passenger side)

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior door panel
   From inside the vehicle, locate the interior door panel area behind the mirror mounting location. On 1970 AMC Rebel models, the mirror mounts through the door skin with nuts accessible from the interior side. You may need to carefully pull back the upper door panel trim or window felt channel to access the mounting nuts.
2. 2

   Remove interior mounting hardware
   Using a 7/16" wrench or socket, remove the nuts securing the mirror studs from the interior side of the door. There are typically 2-3 mounting studs. Support the mirror from the outside with your other hand to prevent it from falling once the last nut is removed. Keep all washers and nuts organized for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Remove exterior mirror assembly
   From the exterior of the vehicle, carefully pull the mirror assembly away from the door once all mounting nuts are removed. The mirror studs will pass through the door mounting holes. Remove the old gasket from the door surface if it remains stuck to the paint.
4. 4

   Clean mounting surface
   Thoroughly clean the door surface around the mirror mounting holes. Remove any old gasket material, adhesive residue, or corrosion using a flathead screwdriver or putty knife, taking care not to scratch the paint. Wipe the area clean with a dry cloth to ensure proper gasket sealing.
5. 5

   Prepare new mirror assembly
   Install the new mounting gasket onto the base of the new mirror assembly. Ensure the gasket holes align with the mirror mounting studs. If the gasket has an adhesive backing, remove the protective paper just before installation.
6. 6

   Position new mirror assembly
   From the exterior, align the new mirror assembly with the mounting holes in the door. Insert the mounting studs through the holes, ensuring the gasket seats flush against the door surface. Verify the mirror is oriented correctly with the adjustment mechanism facing rearward and the mirror head positioned appropriately for the driver or passenger side.
7. 7

   Install interior mounting hardware
   From inside the vehicle, thread the washers and nuts onto the mirror mounting studs by hand. Start all nuts before tightening to ensure even alignment. Hand-tighten the nuts initially to draw the mirror gasket evenly against the door surface.
8. 8

   Secure mirror assembly
   Using a 7/16" wrench or socket, tighten the mounting nuts in an alternating pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. Tighten firmly but do not over-torque, as this can crack the mirror base or distort the door skin. The mirror should be snug with no movement, and the gasket should be compressed evenly around the base.
9. 9

   Restore interior trim
   Reposition any door panel trim or window felt channel that was moved during installation. Ensure all interior components are properly seated and secured.

Reassembly

1. Remove masking tape from exterior paint surfaces
2. Verify mirror adjustment mechanism operates smoothly through its full range of motion
3. Clean fingerprints and smudges from mirror glass and chrome surfaces

Verification

• Check that mirror assembly is firmly mounted with no play or vibration when door is closed
• Verify mirror can be adjusted to provide proper rear visibility from driver position
• Inspect gasket seal around base to ensure no gaps that could allow water intrusion
• Confirm mirror does not contact door or window glass when adjusted through full range
• Test drive vehicle at various speeds to verify mirror remains stable without vibration

More procedures for this vehicle