The AMC Spirit is a subcompact car produced by American Motors Corporation (AMC) between 1979 and 1983. The Spirit is designed to be an affordable, fuel-efficient car for the masses. It is built on the same platform as the Gremlin, but with a redesigned body that offered more space and improved aerodynamics. The Spirit is offered in several different trim levels and body styles, including a two-door hatchback, a four-door sedan, and a station wagon.
One of the key features of the AMC Spirit is its electrical system, which is designed to be reliable and easy to service. The car’s fuse box and relay were crucial components of this system, and they played a vital role in ensuring that the car’s electrical system worked properly.
The AMC Spirit’s Fuse Box and Relay System
The AMC Spirit’s fuse box and relay system were located under the dashboard on the driver’s side of the car. The fuse box contained a series of fuses that protected various electrical components of the car, including the headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers. Each fuse is rated for a specific amperage, and if a component failed or drew too much current, the corresponding fuse would blow, preventing further damage to the electrical system.
The relay system in the AMC Spirit is used to control various electrical functions of the car, such as the power windows, door locks, and windshield wipers. The relays were small, electromagnetic switches that were activated by electrical signals from the car’s control modules. When a relay is activated, it would close a circuit, allowing electricity to flow to the corresponding component. Like the fuses, the relays were designed to fail if they became overloaded or if they were subjected to too much heat.
Maintenance and Repair of the Fuse Box and Relay System
The fuse box and relay system in the AMC Spirit were relatively easy to service and repair. If a fuse blew or a relay failed, the component could be easily replaced by removing the old part and installing a new one. It is important to use the correct replacement part, as using a part with the wrong amperage rating could cause further damage to the electrical system.
Regular maintenance of the electrical system is also important in ensuring that the fuse box and relay system worked properly. This included checking the condition of the fuses and relays periodically, as well as inspecting the wiring for signs of damage or wear.
(1979-1983) AMC Spirit fuse box and relay with Diagram
| No. | Amps | Assignment/Designation |
| 1 | 10A | Parking lights, key/headlights warning buzzer |
| 2 | 15A | Stop light and hazard warning |
| 3 | – | – |
| 4 | 3A | Cluster illumination |
| 5 | – | – |
| 6 | – | – |
| 7 | 25A | Heater/blower motor, A/C clutch |
| 8 | 15A | Radio, cigar lighter |
| 9 | 15A | Turn signals, backup lights, windshield washers |
| 10 | 5A | Gauges, seat belt warning |
| 11 | 30A | Power door lock, power windows circuit breaker |
| 12 | 25A | Heated rear window |
Circuit Breaker:
- Headlights — 20 amp. the circuit breaker in the headlight switch
- Windshield Wiper — 6 amp. the circuit breaker in the wiper switch.
- Power Windows & Tailgate Switches — 20 amp. circuit breakers located in the instrument panel.
In conclusion, the AMC Spirit is a reliable and efficient car that is built to last. Its fuse box and relay system were crucial components of its electrical system, and they played a vital role in ensuring that the car’s electrical system worked properly. Regular maintenance and repair of the fuse box and relay system were essential in keeping the car running smoothly and preventing costly electrical problems.
