The Complete Guide to AMC Pacer Suspension Parts

Restoring an AMC Pacer is a labor of love, and finding the right suspension parts is crucial for both handling and ride comfort. Whether you're doing a full frame-off rebuild or just refreshing worn components, this guide covers the essentials—from factory-style replacements to performance upgrades. We'll walk through each major part of the Pacer's suspension system, compatibility notes, and what to look for when buying.

Understanding the AMC Pacer Suspension System

The Pacer uses a conventional setup for its era: independent front suspension with coil springs and a solid rear axle with leaf springs. The front features upper and lower control arms, coil-over shocks, and a stabilizer bar. The rear uses semi-elliptic leaf springs and tube shocks. Many parts are shared with other AMC models (Hornet, Gremlin, Concord) from the same period, which can expand your sourcing options.

Front Suspension Components

Coil Springs

The front coil springs determine ride height and spring rate. Stock Pacers have a relatively soft spring for a smooth ride. Over time, springs sag, causing uneven stance and poor alignment. New springs are available from brands like Moog (part 5658 for V8, 5660 for six-cylinder). For a slight lowering (1-2 inches) without sacrificing ride quality, consider performance spring sets from Eaton Detroit Spring or Coil Spring Specialties.

Upper and Lower Control Arms

Control arms are subject to bushing wear. Stock arms can be rebuilt with new ball joints and bushings. Replacements are available from Dorman (front lower control arm assembly) or Rare Parts (bushings). If you want adjustable camber/caster, aftermarket arms from Specialty Products Company allow alignment tweaks during upgrades. For serious handling, tubular control arms reduce weight and add stiffness, but they require welding in some cases.

Stabilizer Bar (Sway Bar)

The factory front sway bar is about 7/8-inch diameter. A thicker bar (1 inch) from Addco or Hellwig reduces body roll significantly. Polyurethane bushings (from Energy Suspension or Prothane) also tighten up the response. Note that the Pacer's sway bar attaches with links to the lower control arms; these links need replacement if corroded. Dorman offers direct replacement sway bar links.

Steering Knuckle and Ball Joints

Ball joints are wear items; replace them if there's play. Moog sells both upper and lower ball joints (K7251 for upper, K7252 for lower). The steering knuckle (spindle) is unique to the Pacer but can be sourced from used parts suppliers. Moog wheel bearings and seals are widely available.

Rear Suspension Components

Leaf Springs

The rear leaf springs are a common failure point. They can sag or crack. Direct replacements are available from Eaton Detroit Spring (custom manufacturing) or General Spring. For an improved ride, consider multi-leaf springs with a light arch to maintain stock ride height. If you want to lower the rear, de-arching or a custom spring is needed. Also, look for spring shackle and bushing kits—these often wear out and cause clunking.

Rear Shocks

Shocks are straightforward—standard tube shocks for the rear. Monroe, KYB, and Gabriel offer gas-charged units that improve control. For better handling, Bilstein or Koni adjustable shocks provide excellent damping. Note that the rear shock mounts may need repair if rusted; reinforcement plates are available from aftermarket suppliers.

Rear Axle and Differential

The Pacer uses an AMC 15 or 20 rear axle. While not strictly a suspension part, the axle's housing and mounting are integral. If you're upgrading to a limited-slip differential or changing gear ratios, keep in mind that the leaf spring perches must be aligned correctly. Axle assemblies are interchangeable with other AMC models, but check width.

Bushings and Mounts

Polyurethane bushing kits for the entire Pacer suspension are available from Energy Suspension and Prothane. They cover front control arms, rear leaf spring eyes, sway bar, and even body mounts. Polyurethane reduces flex and improves steering response, but it transmits more road noise. If comfort is priority, use rubber bushings from Moog or Dorman (many still in production).

Compatibility and Sourcing Tips

Many Pacer suspension parts are shared with the AMC Hornet (1970-1977) and Gremlin (1970-1978) as well as the Concord (1978-1983). This opens up used parts availability at salvage yards. However, the Pacer's unique unibody design means some brackets and mounting points are specific. When buying used parts, inspect for rust in critical areas, especially shock towers and leaf spring hangers.

Brands like Moog, Dorman, AC Delco, and Rare Parts produce new parts. Online specialty retailers such as RockAuto, Classic Industries, and AMC-specific vendors like Kennedy American or Galvin's AMC Parts have good stock. For custom springs, Eaton Detroit Spring can replicate original specs or create custom rates.

Performance Upgrades vs. Stock Restoration

Stock Restoration

For show-quality restoration, use OEM-style parts whenever possible. NOS (New Old Stock) parts are scarce but can be found on eBay or at swap meets. Alternatively, reproduction parts from the Original Parts Group or similar are acceptable. Focus on correct ride height, original spring rates, and standard shock valving. Alignments should follow factory specifications: caster 0-1°, camber 1/4° positive, toe 1/16" in.

Performance Upgrades

If you drive your Pacer regularly, consider these improvements:

• Addco front sway bar (1") and a rear sway bar (Addco 633 or similar) for flatter cornering.
• Bilstein HD shocks for balanced ride and control.
• Energy Suspension polyurethane bushings throughout.
• Quick-ratio steering box (from a later AMC or aftermarket) to reduce turning effort.
• A steering gear brace to reduce flex in the frame.

These upgrades won't turn the Pacer into a track car, but they make it much more enjoyable on curvy roads.

Common Problems and Diagnosis

1. Sagging rear: Leaf springs lose arch. Measure ride height from wheel center to fender lip; stock is about 14" front, 13" rear. Replace springs if more than 1" low.
2. Front end clunk: Worn lower control arm bushings or ball joints. Unload the suspension and check for play.
3. Poor steering return: Bind in ball joints or steering column. Lubricate all grease fittings.
4. Excessive body roll: Weak sway bar bushings or broken stabilizer bar. Replace bushings and links.
5. Bouncy ride: Shocks are exhausted. Replace in pairs.

Final Recommendations

For a daily-driven or weekend cruiser, we recommend the following parts bundle:

• Front: Moog springs (5658 or 5660), Moog ball joints, Dorman control arm assemblies (if needed), Addco sway bar with Energy Suspension poly bushings, and KYB Gas-A-Just shocks.
• Rear: Eaton Detroit Spring leaf springs (stock height), Monroe Sensa-Trac shocks, and a Prothane leaf spring bushing kit.

This combination provides a solid blend of ride quality and handling without breaking the bank. For concours restorations, stick to OEM parts from original suppliers or high-quality reproductions.

Remember to always replace suspension parts in pairs (both sides) and get a professional alignment afterward. With the right parts, your Pacer will handle safely and look great as it cruises down the road.