The AMC Pacer, a distinctive and often polarizing vehicle from the 1970s, enjoys a dedicated following among classic car enthusiasts. As these cars age, finding reliable replacement parts and performance upgrades becomes crucial for owners looking to maintain or enhance their Pacers. While specific “Amc Pacer Car Parts” might seem niche, the reality is that a variety of options exist, often leveraging the broader AMC parts ecosystem and the resourceful aftermarket community. This article explores some key areas for finding parts and upgrades for your AMC Pacer.
Suspension Solutions for Your AMC Pacer
Improving the handling and ride quality of your AMC Pacer can significantly enhance the driving experience. While a direct rack and pinion conversion kit specifically for the Pacer might be elusive, exploring universal or adaptable kits is worthwhile. Companies like Unisteer (http://www.unisteer.com/mm5/merchant.mvc) specialize in rack and pinion conversions and electric power steering solutions that can be tailored for various vehicles, potentially including the AMC Pacer. Investigating street rod components might also reveal adaptable solutions, as this segment of the aftermarket is known for creating universal fit parts.
For those aiming for high-performance applications, particularly drag racing, specialized kits similar to those mentioned for other AMC models might be adaptable. Forums dedicated to AMC performance, such as amcare.net, could be valuable resources for finding fabricators or vendors who have experience with AMC suspension upgrades, even if not Pacer-specific. Remember, custom fabrication or adaptation might be necessary for certain advanced upgrades.
If retaining the original suspension design is preferred, rebuilding the existing components is a viable option. This includes sourcing replacement bushings, ball joints, and potentially upgrading to performance-oriented shocks and springs where available.
Steering Enhancements for Your Classic Pacer
Similar to suspension, steering upgrades offer a chance to modernize your Pacer’s handling. If your Pacer came with manual steering (common for older AMCs), several upgrade paths exist. Power steering conversions are desirable for many, and while factory power steering for Pacers might be rare, aftermarket electric power steering kits present a compelling option. Again, Unisteer and similar companies offer electric power steering solutions that can be adapted to classic cars. These systems offer the benefit of power assist without the complexity of traditional hydraulic power steering, and can be particularly advantageous in Pacers.
Rebuilding the original manual steering box is another route. Specialists like Jeff Kennedy (mentioned in the original text, though contact information needs verification) may offer rebuild services and the option to install faster ratio gears, improving steering response and reducing the number of turns lock-to-lock. This can provide a noticeable improvement even without a full power steering conversion.
Engine and Performance Parts for AMC Pacers
The AMC Pacer often came equipped with AMC straight-6 or V8 engines. A significant advantage for AMC engine owners is the overlap with Jeep engines. This means a wide range of engine parts, from basic maintenance items to performance upgrades, are readily available through the robust Jeep aftermarket. Engine components, including fuel injection systems, performance oil pans (like Canton), and other enhancements designed for AMC/Jeep engines, can often be adapted or directly used in Pacers. Exploring Jeep performance parts suppliers is a smart strategy for Pacer engine upgrades.
For those seeking more modern performance, electronic fuel injection conversions are available for AMC engines, improving fuel efficiency and drivability. These systems replace the original carburetor and offer more precise fuel control.
Brake System Improvements for Safety and Performance
Upgrading the brake system is paramount for safety, especially when enhancing engine performance. Several avenues exist for improving Pacer brakes. Aftermarket brake kits designed for AMC vehicles, while not always Pacer-specific, can often be adapted or offer compatible components. MR SPARES (http://stores.ebay.com/MR-SPARES_AMC-Rambler_W0QQ_fsubZ8113107QQ_sidZ93131041QQ_trksidZp4634Q2ec0Q2em322), an Australian vendor, is mentioned as a source for larger brake setups for AMCs, though fitment should be carefully verified for Pacers due to axle variations.
In the USA, Mike Luke of Aerospace Brakes (contact information: Mike Luke, 3522 Beaver Run Road SW, Hebron, Ohio 43025 , phone (740) 929-1300 – verify current details) is another vendor specializing in AMC brake upgrades. They offer kits suitable for both street and racing applications, with options for lighter, drag-focused Pacers and more robust kits for street use.
Scarebird (scarebird.com) offers bracket kits and parts lists for disc brake conversions using readily available components, which can be a cost-effective way to upgrade to disc brakes on Pacers that originally had drum brakes. Exploring junkyards for disc brake setups from later AMC models might be an option, though increasingly challenging due to the age of these vehicles.
Conclusion
Finding “amc pacer car parts” for upgrades and replacements requires a resourceful approach. While Pacer-specific kits may be limited, the broader AMC aftermarket, combined with universal street rod components and Jeep engine parts compatibility, provides numerous avenues for enhancing your Pacer. By exploring vendors like Unisteer, Aerospace Brakes, MR SPARES, and resources within the AMC enthusiast community (like amcare.net), Pacer owners can effectively maintain, restore, and even upgrade their unique vehicles. Remember to always verify part compatibility and consider professional installation for critical systems like brakes and steering.
