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American Motors/79 amc amx
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Question
My son brought home a 79 amc amx there are no keys for this car. is there anyway to "hotwire" this car to see if the engine turns over /runs before he sinks money into it?
Run a wire from the + side of the battery to the + side of the ignition coil. This will provide a spark to the coil.
Use a screwdriver to short across the + terminal of the SOLENOID and the smaller "I or S" terminal of the SOLENOID. This will engage the starter. DO NOT let the engine run too long like this because you can burn up the ignition coil.
Make sure the transmission is in Park or Neutral.
You will need a key to unlock the steering wheel.
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Kevin Pilotte
Expertise
I can answer many technical questions relating to AMC vehicles prior to 1979. I also have experience with Rambler & Nash vehicles.
Experience
I am a former AMC technician, service writer and service manager. I have worked in AMC dealers in Illinois in the 70's. After college, I was a Field Service Rep for American Motors Sales Corporation, working out of the Chicago Zone office. I traveled to AMC dealers assisting in the diagnosis and repair of AMC vehicles. I was also the Area Training Manager for DeLorean Motor Company. I have 10+ years as an Automotive Instructor. I have modified and restored
numerous AMC vehicles. I have been working on AMC vehicles for over 30 years.
Organizations
I have been an ASE Certified Master Technician since 1975. This includes L1. I am also currently a Toyota Certified Master Diagnostic Technician.
Publications
I have articles in "American Motoring", the official publication of the American Motors Owners Association. They are the largest AMC club in the world.
Education/Credentials
I have a certificate I printed out from a website.
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