Question about Clutch kits 1966 Ambassador

  You can't install a bigger flywheel,  how would your starter work?

The problem is the 66 used an AMC specific self-adjusting clutch -- or rather most did. The standard clutch was an option. If you have a cable operated clutch it's the self-adjuster. The easiest to see tell-tale is a big spring going from a bracket on the intake down to the clutch linkage.

The clutch disc is the same on both, a 9.5" disc. The pressure plates are VERY different, so is the throw-out bearing. The throw-out bearing continuously rides on the clutch fingers, something a normal T-O bearing doesn't do. The levers on the pressure plate work in reverse -- the more they are pushed the stronger the clutch engages. They have light springs to pull the plate back when the clutch is disengaged. Only three bolts hole the pressure plate to the flywheel.

The self-adjusting clutch was only used in 66 and 67. It proved to be troublesome for most drivers. If you have this it's not hard to use 64-71 232/258 big car linkage parts to convert. I'm pretty sure your existing flywheel is drilled to accept a standard pressure plate. If not it can be drilled and tapped by a machine shop.

Here's the self-adjusting setup:


EVERYTHING needs to be replaced. You can keep the bell housing and the shield in front, and the flywheel, that's about it. Below are the group numbers you need. You will also need the lever, spring, and anchor  (5.123, 5.130, 5.132). Parts are different for 6s and V-8s under the group headings. This really just gives you an idea of what you would need from a parts car. I don't have time to look up all the individual part numbers right now. PM me your e-mail address and I'll send you a PDF file of the Group 5 parts list and you can look them up. It's only 30 pages.



Edited by farna - Jul/10/2012 at 11:53am

I am really surprised by the fact that clutch kits for AMC I6 engines are almost impossible to find.  There are clutch kits galore for the v8s, but almost none for the I6s.