Remove and replace the starter motor on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine with 390ci V8 engine, including disconnecting electrical connections and mounting hardware.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Starter motor × 1 — Use OEM specification or compatible aftermarket
• Starter mounting bolts × 2 — Reuse if not damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Disconnect negative battery cable at battery
4. Raise front of vehicle using floor jack and support securely on jack stands at frame rails
5. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
6. Spray mounting bolts with penetrating oil if visible corrosion is present

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the starter motor
   Position yourself under the passenger side of the vehicle. Locate the starter motor mounted to the lower passenger side of the bellhousing where the engine meets the transmission. The starter will have two electrical connections on the solenoid.
2. 2

   Disconnect starter solenoid wire
   Locate the small spade terminal wire on the starter solenoid (S terminal). Pull the wire connector straight off the terminal. This is the trigger wire from the ignition switch.
3. 3

   Disconnect battery cable from starter
   Using a 9/16 inch wrench, remove the nut securing the positive battery cable to the large stud on the starter solenoid (BAT terminal). Remove the cable and position it away from the starter. This cable carries full battery voltage.
4. 4

   Remove upper starter mounting bolt
   Using a 1/2 inch drive socket with extension, locate and remove the upper starter mounting bolt. This bolt threads into the bellhousing. Support the starter with one hand as you remove this bolt, as the starter may shift once loosened.
5. 5

   Remove lower starter mounting bolt
   Remove the lower starter mounting bolt using a 1/2 inch drive socket. The lower bolt may be more accessible from different angles depending on exhaust routing. Continue supporting the starter weight.
6. 6

   Remove starter motor
   With both mounting bolts removed, carefully work the starter forward and away from the bellhousing. The starter nose housing fits into a recess in the bellhousing and may require slight rotation or wiggling to disengage. Lower the starter carefully and remove it from under the vehicle.
7. 7

   Inspect mounting area
   Examine the bellhousing mounting surface and starter mounting holes for cracks or damage. Check the flywheel ring gear teeth visible through the starter opening for wear or damage. Use a wire brush to clean the mounting surface on the bellhousing.
8. 8

   Prepare new starter
   Verify the new starter drive gear engages smoothly by hand. Compare the new starter to the old unit to ensure mounting bolt pattern, nose housing diameter, and electrical terminal positions match. Clean mounting bolt threads with a wire brush.
9. 9

   Install new starter motor
   Position the new starter under the vehicle and guide it into position. Align the starter nose housing with the recess in the bellhousing. Rotate the starter as necessary to engage properly with the bellhousing. Support the starter weight while aligning mounting holes.
10. 10

    Install starter mounting bolts
    Thread both upper and lower mounting bolts in by hand to prevent cross-threading. Tighten both bolts evenly and securely using a 1/2 inch drive ratchet. Ensure the starter is firmly seated against the bellhousing with no gaps.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery cable to starter
    Position the positive battery cable terminal over the BAT stud on the starter solenoid. Install the retaining nut and tighten securely with a 9/16 inch wrench. Ensure the connection is tight to prevent voltage drop and heat buildup.
12. 12

    Reconnect solenoid trigger wire
    Push the spade terminal connector firmly onto the S terminal of the starter solenoid until it clicks into place. Ensure the connection is secure and the wire is routed away from moving parts and heat sources.

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands and remove stands from under vehicle
2. Reconnect negative battery cable to battery terminal and tighten securely
3. Remove wheel chocks

Verification

• Turn ignition key to start position and verify starter engages and cranks engine smoothly without grinding noises
• Check that starter disengages immediately when key is released
• Verify no unusual noises from starter area during engine cranking
• Inspect starter area for any fluid leaks that may have been disturbed during installation
• Confirm all electrical connections are secure and no wires are contacting hot or moving components

More procedures for this vehicle