1974 AMC Hornet Hatchback review from North America

1) Had to replace "T.A.C." hose every couple of weeks. It was an aluminum hose covered with black paper. It connected the air filter to the exhaust header, providing warm air to the carburetor during startup. It was designed poorly, and was easily damaged just by bumping it. Without it, the engine would take longer to warm up.

2) The drivers seat was a problem, dealer had to replace the bottom section a number of times, as the support kept breaking where the seat back hinged together. The hinge didn't fail, it was the rear section on the bottom seat.

3) A tapping noise was heard, the dealer replaced the lifters, and still heard the noise. Then the rocker arms were replaced. Turns out, the last rocker was scored, thus creating the tapping. After replacing, was quite as new!

4) Valve cover design caused the gasket to leak oil. Unlike "normal" covers, A.M.C.'s design had the bottom metal rolled over where the gasket met. Later in 1977, AMC changed it, and made it with a "channel" where the gasket met. I changed over to this design and had no more valve cover oil leaks.

5) The hatchback gas filled supports failed and replaced twice. When they fail, the hatchback would not stay opened.

It was my first car. I was in the last year of High School, and holding down a job. My friends accepted it as a "cool" car.

The stock AM radio was the first thing to be replaced, for of all things, an "AM/FM 8-Track player!

The stock shocks were next to be replaced, as they were not very good. Put air shocks in the back. Kids then loved that raised rear look. My dad threatened to cut the lines if he ever saw it "jacked up"

After the stock tires wore out at 29k miles, replaced with Michelin's. Boy that really improved the ride. It was so noticeable. Felt like a new car.

The folding rear seat came in handy for hauling things and for date night!!

The car survived my "teenage years". I tried to run the heck out of it, and it kept coming back for more.