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The AMC 232 inline 6 (I6) uses a cast iron block and cylinder head with hydraulic lifters, 7 main bearings, and a cast iron crank and rods. It was the standard engine in CJs and Commandos from '72-'78 and in '65-'70 J-series pickups and Wagoneers. While the engines for both these applications have the same displacement, there are some important differences.
Prior to 1971, the 232 had the "Rambler" bellhousing pattern, and shared an engine block with AMCs 199 I6 engine. In 1971, AMC unified their engine line by changing the bellhousing pattern on the I6s to be the same as their V8s. At this time, the deck height and rod length for the 232 was changed as well as the bellhousing pattern, and the cylinder block was shared with the new 258 I6.
The 232 can be identified by the 4th character of the engine build date code, stamped into the side of the engine block between and below the number 2 and 3 spark plugs. Early (Rambler) 232s have a "K" or "L" code (7.5:1 and 8.5:1 compression ratios respectively). Later (AMC) 232s have an "E" or an "F" (8.5:1 and 7.7:1 compression ratios respectively). All other codes (A, B, C and M) are used for 258 engines.
| AMC 232 I6 | |
|---|---|
| Bore x Stroke | 3.75" x 3.50" |
| Displacement | 232 (3.8L) |
| Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 |
| Horsepower (net) | 100@3600 |
| Torque (net) | 185@1800 |
| Main Bearings | 7 |
| Valve Configuration | OHV |
| Fuel | 1bbl |
The AMC 232 was the standard engine in '65-'70 J-series pickups and Wagoneers.
| AMC 232 I6 | |
|---|---|
| Bore x Stroke | 3.75" x 3.50" |
| Displacement | 232 (3.8L) |
| Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Horsepower (gross) | 145@4300 |
| Torque (gross) | 215@1600 |
| Main Bearings | 7 |
| Valve Configuration | OHV |
| Fuel | 1bbl Carter or Holley |