Amc 401

Since reading a post by Tim concerning an AMC 401 it has tweaked my curiosity. My mother owned a 72 401 Gremlin X and I was wondering when the last year they made a 401. Was it 75?
I know that the Alabama State Patrol used a 401 Javlin. Also, the 401 was introduced in 74 as an optional engine for the J-pickups and Wagoneers.

The other question I have is what engine vin# code signifies the 401 engine. The 360 being N and the 304 is an H. Thanks in advance for your help.

 

1978 would be the last year for 401 I believe

"Z" is the indicator in the VIN #

if you find an engine out of vehicle, the engine ID or build code tag is attached to the right or pass side valve cover; an example of the code would be: 709-Z-20
once again, the "Z" is your 401 identifier
please note valve covers are interchangable between the V8s; and the tags are easily removed
401 should be cast into the side of the block as well
all I can think of

 

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A bold statement, cast into the block. One of these would definitely make your CJ jump!

 

Jim, thanks for the info.
Tim, thanks for the pic…….your right……hang on!

Is there one particular vehicle more so then others that would have the optional 401 engine? I’m thinking bone yard, back yards and such. I understand it’s a hard item to come by.

 

Tim is da link man !!
Jeep got it in 74
but used prior to that in pass cars
I would look closely at any full size AMC car
(me no expert)
I acutally know a Jeeper who put 401 into 75 CJ5; but becasue of emissions, he ground off block "401" then recasted out of bondo "304" to fool emissions folks;
fooled me, looked very "factory" at first glance

 

AMC police cars, Ambassador wagons were popular with it, still see some aound you know with the woodgrain. Also FSJs had a 76 J20 with one and I think they were available in Cheerokee and Wagoneer but not as likely as the trucks.

 

Chuck Being up in Ma you will have better luck finding a motor in a fs wagoneer, i live in se Mo and found 1 in a wagoneer for $250 for the whole waggy . look close at waggys you can reach up on the driver side of the block and feel the 401 cast in the block it stands out well.

 

Thanks jd7 and littewolf. I do remember seeing a Ambassador at a bone yard hopefully it hasn't been scrapped yet. Waggys, there are many of them around. I will let you know if I find one.