Re: [Amc-list] sx4 issues to check while buying

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

Well, it's either a 258 six or a Pontiac "Iron Duke" four. I don't necessarily agree with Jim -- I don't think the four is any harder to work on than the smog encrusted six, but the six is definitely the more desirable engine. More you can do with it, and makes it easy to drop a 4.0L in later! The four has unique engine mounts and I think a lot needs to be changed to put a six in later. If there are salvage yards around with mid 80s vehicles you can get the head and TBI system from a later model 2.5L as long as the donor engine has a distributor. Around 86-87 GM came out with a distributorless ignition system that can't be retrofitted -- the tone wheel is cast into the middle of the crank and the block has a hole in it for the sensor. 

Watch out for rust in the rear wheel wells, around the gas tank, and under the tops of the front fenders. The rear leaf springs also rust and can break INSIDE the metal covers -- at least they do on the Spirit/Concord, and I think the Eagles used the "isoclamps" (metal covers with rubber bushing around the leaf spring) also... but maybe not.

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Date: Fri, 5 Sep 2008 17:09:05 +0000
From: Andrew Blomer <lotharamc@xxxxxxxxxxx>
 
I'm a Javelin/mid 60's Rambler guy, and I'm considering buying a 81 sx4. 
Are there any specific things I need to check out when I go to look at it? 
Its a 4 spd and I don't know the engine.

-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
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