The 1978 American Motors Gremlin has 47 engine parts with verified fitment on this page — 13 part types and 15 brands, covering all 3 engine options (2.0L 121cid L4, 3.8L 232cid L6 and 4.2L 258cid L6). Each part includes a manufacturer part number and application notes.
On the 1978 American Motors Gremlin, the engine covers the internals and hard parts that build compression and keep oil where it belongs — gaskets, bearings, camshafts, lifters, seals and timing components. 23 parts of the 47 listed are Connecting Rod Bearing (9 parts), Crankshaft Seal (9 parts) and Camshaft Bearing (5 parts). The other 10 part types cover the remaining 24 parts.
The 1978 American Motors Gremlin was sold with 3 engines. Every part on this page is engine-specific. Each part shows which engine(s) it fits.
The most listed brands for 1978 American Motors Gremlin engine parts are ENGINETECH (9 parts), MAHLE / CLEVITE (7 parts) and MELLING (4 parts), plus 12 more brands. Quality grades include Standard Replacement and Heavy Duty / Towing.
6 parts on this 1978 American Motors Gremlin page carry a "Popular" badge — the source catalog's flag for options frequently chosen for this vehicle — including ENGINETECH CC480 (Camshaft Bearing) and ENGINETECH BB612J (Connecting Rod Bearing). Click any part number to see every vehicle that part fits.
Camshaft
Heavy Duty / Towing
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGINETECH Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | ES1122R | 🇺🇸 US | Stage 1Hydraulic flat followers | View on Amazon |
Standard Replacement
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGINETECH Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | ES652 | 🇺🇸 US | with 1 Barrel | View on Amazon |
| MELLING Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | SRC6 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | 1BBL | View on Amazon |
| MELLING Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | MC809 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Automatic trans.2BBL | View on Amazon |
This table covers the camshafts that open the valves.
4 Camshaft parts for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin come from 2 brands — ENGINETECH and MELLING.
The Heavy Duty / Towing section lists 1 option from ENGINETECH — grouped under the catalog's "Heavy Duty / Towing" designation — the notes column spells out what sets them apart. ENGINETECH ES1122R is listed in this group.
In the Standard Replacement grade, MELLING and ENGINETECH supply 3 parts: built to original-equipment specification. A representative part number is ENGINETECH ES652.
Listed part numbers: ENGINETECH ES1122R, ENGINETECH ES652 and MELLING SRC6, plus the other parts above.
Camshaft & Lifter Kit
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MELLING Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CLSRC6 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | 1BBL | View on Amazon |
| MELLING Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CLMC809 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Automatic trans.2BBL | View on Amazon |
This table covers the Camshaft & Lifter kits.
2 Camshaft & Lifter Kit parts for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin come from MELLING.
Part numbers include MELLING CLSRC6 and MELLING CLMC809.
Camshaft Bearing
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGINETECH Popular Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CC480 | 🇺🇸 US | Full Set | View on Amazon |
| DURA-BOND Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | N7 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Standard | View on Amazon |
| DURA-BOND Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | N7B | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | (Special Oil Control Set with OD Groove No. 2, 3 Position) | View on Amazon |
| MAHLE / CLEVITE Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | SH1980S | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Full Set | View on Amazon |
| SEALED POWER Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 1244M | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Set | View on Amazon |
This table covers the Camshaft bearings. Typical signs include a growl that rises with speed, or play in the shaft or hub. Set preload the way the notes specify. A dry or crushed bearing fails quickly.
5 Camshaft Bearing parts for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin come from 4 brands — DURA-BOND, ENGINETECH, MAHLE / CLEVITE and 1 other brand. The "Popular" part is ENGINETECH CC480.
Part numbers include ENGINETECH CC480, DURA-BOND N7 and DURA-BOND N7B, among others listed above.
Camshaft Hardware Kit
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGINETECH Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | HK113 | 🇺🇸 US | View on Amazon |
This table covers the Camshaft hardware kits.
This group shows a single part: ENGINETECH HK113.
Camshaft Plug
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DORMAN Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 555076 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Nominal Dia.: 2-9/64"SCMetric Dia. | View on Amazon |
This table covers the Camshaft plugs. Typical signs include a leak at the drain or glow-plug hole, or a plug that has rounded off. Replace the crush washer and torque to the spec in the notes.
This group shows a single part: DORMAN 555076.
Connecting Rod
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGINETECH Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | ECR110 | 🇺🇸 US | Reconditioned | View on Amazon |
This table covers the connecting rods between each piston and the crankshaft.
This group shows a single part: ENGINETECH ECR110.
Connecting Rod Bearing
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGINETECH Popular Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | BB612J | 🇺🇸 US | Set | View on Amazon |
| MAHLE / CLEVITE Popular Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CB960A | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | A Series (Aluminum)Pair | View on Amazon |
| KING ENGINE BEARINGS Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CR648SI | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | SetBimetal (Aluminum Silicon Base) | View on Amazon |
| KING ENGINE BEARINGS Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CR6805SI | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | SetBimetal (Aluminum Silicon Base) | View on Amazon |
| KING ENGINE BEARINGS Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CR6869SI | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | SetBimetal (Aluminum Silicon Base) | View on Amazon |
| MAHLE / CLEVITE Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CB960P | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | P Series (Tri-Metal)Pair | View on Amazon |
| MAHLE / CLEVITE Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CB960A6 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | A Series (Aluminum)Set | View on Amazon |
| SEALED POWER Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 3310CPA | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | View on Amazon | |
| SEALED POWER Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 63310CPA | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Set | View on Amazon |
This table covers the bearings in the connecting-rod big ends. Typical signs include a growl that rises with speed, or play in the shaft or hub. Set preload the way the notes specify. A dry or crushed bearing fails quickly.
9 Connecting Rod Bearing parts for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin come from 4 brands — MAHLE / CLEVITE, KING ENGINE BEARINGS, SEALED POWER and 1 other brand. The "Popular" part is ENGINETECH BB612J.
Listed part numbers: ENGINETECH BB612J, MAHLE / CLEVITE CB960A and KING ENGINE BEARINGS CR648SI, plus the other parts above.
Conversion / Lower Gasket Set
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEL-PRO Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | CS81692 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Multi-Piece | View on Amazon |
| VICTOR REINZ Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 081008801 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | View on Amazon |
This table covers lower / conversion gasket sets for oil-pan and related joints. Typical signs include the leaks that sent the engine or gearbox to the bench. Use every gasket the set is meant for that opening — leftover unused pieces usually belong to another configuration.
2 Conversion / Lower Gasket Set parts for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin come from 2 brands — FEL-PRO and VICTOR REINZ.
This group includes FEL-PRO CS81692 and VICTOR REINZ 081008801.
Crankshaft
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGINETECH Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 251700 | 🇺🇸 US | Includes BearingsIncludes Connecting Rod Bearings & Crankshaft Main Bearings | View on Amazon |
This table covers the crankshafts that turn piston motion into rotation.
This group shows a single part: ENGINETECH 251700.
Crankshaft Main Bearing
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGINETECH Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | BC315J | 🇺🇸 US | Set | View on Amazon |
| KING ENGINE BEARINGS Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | MB763SI | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | SetBimetal (Aluminum Silicon Base) | View on Amazon |
| MAHLE / CLEVITE Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | MS704P | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | P Series (Tri-Metal)Set | View on Amazon |
| SEALED POWER Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 4289M | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Set | View on Amazon |
This table covers the main bearings that support the crankshaft in the block. Typical signs include a growl that rises with speed, or play in the shaft or hub. Set preload the way the notes specify. A dry or crushed bearing fails quickly.
4 Crankshaft Main Bearing parts are listed for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin, from ENGINETECH, KING ENGINE BEARINGS, MAHLE / CLEVITE and 1 other brand.
This group includes ENGINETECH BC315J, KING ENGINE BEARINGS MB763SI and MAHLE / CLEVITE MS704P and the remaining parts above.
Crankshaft Repair Sleeve
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NATIONAL Popular Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 99179 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Front | View on Amazon |
| BCA Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | NS99139 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Front | View on Amazon |
| SCHAEFFLER Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | SR3500 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | 20.32 mm Widthwith Flange | View on Amazon |
| TIMKEN Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | KWK99179 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Kwik-Sleeve | View on Amazon |
| WJB / INMOTION PARTS Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | WS99179 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Front | View on Amazon |
This table covers the sleeves used to restore a grooved crankshaft seal surface.
5 Crankshaft Repair Sleeve parts are listed for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin, from NATIONAL, BCA, SCHAEFFLER and 2 other brands. NATIONAL 99179 carries the "Popular" badge.
Part numbers include NATIONAL 99179, BCA NS99139 and SCHAEFFLER SR3500, among others listed above.
Crankshaft Seal
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEL-PRO Popular Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | BS40612 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Rubber | View on Amazon |
| NATIONAL Popular Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 321460 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Front | View on Amazon |
| ENGINETECH Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | S0692 | 🇺🇸 US | View on Amazon | |
| MAHLE / CLEVITE Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | JV1611 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | SetRubber | View on Amazon |
| SCHAEFFLER Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | SS2839 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Front9.525 mm Width | View on Amazon |
| TIMKEN Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 321460 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Material: S-Nitrile | View on Amazon |
| ULTRA-POWER Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | JV1611 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Fits Rear Main Bearing Seal SetDouble Lip | View on Amazon |
| VICTOR REINZ Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 191006301 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | SetImproved Design | View on Amazon |
| WJB / INMOTION PARTS Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | WS321460 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Front | View on Amazon |
This table covers the front and rear seals that keep oil in at the crankshaft. Typical signs include a wet housing, a drip after sitting, or fluid flung off a rotating shaft. Fix the surface the seal rides on. A new seal on a grooved shaft will leak again.
9 Crankshaft Seal parts are listed for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin, from FEL-PRO, NATIONAL, ENGINETECH and 6 other brands. FEL-PRO BS40612 carries the "Popular" badge.
Listed part numbers: FEL-PRO BS40612, NATIONAL 321460 and ENGINETECH S0692, plus the other parts above.
Cylinder Head Gasket
| Brand | Part Number | Markets | Notes | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEL-PRO Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 8169PT | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | View on Amazon | |
| MAHLE / CLEVITE Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 1199 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | Composite | View on Amazon |
| VICTOR REINZ Fits: 4.2L 258cid L6 | 611054500 | 🇺🇸 US 🇨🇦 CA | View on Amazon |
This table covers the head gaskets that seal the block to the cylinder head. Typical signs include seepage at the joint, a burnt-oil smell, or a leak that appears only after a long drive. Clean both flanges and torque in the sequence the notes or the manual call for.
3 Cylinder Head Gasket parts for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin come from 3 brands — FEL-PRO, MAHLE / CLEVITE and VICTOR REINZ.
Listed part numbers: FEL-PRO 8169PT, MAHLE / CLEVITE 1199 and VICTOR REINZ 611054500.
Buying Engine Parts for a 1978 American Motors Gremlin
On this vehicle, the engine covers the internals and hard parts that build compression and keep oil where it belongs — gaskets, bearings, camshafts, lifters, seals and timing components.
- Match the engine first. Every engine part here is engine-specific; each row shows which engine(s) it fits.
- Read the notes on each row for position, trim and spec qualifiers before you order.
- Where labor overlaps, replace the seals and gaskets for anything you open up; a timing job should always include the tensioner and guides, not just the belt or chain.
- Cross-reference the manufacturer part number against your old part or a service-manual listing.
Start with the largest groups on this page: Connecting Rod Bearing and Crankshaft Seal .
Frequently Asked Questions
How many engine parts fit the 1978 American Motors Gremlin?
Our catalog currently lists 47 engine parts for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin across 13 subcategories and 15 brands, covering all 3 engine options (2.0L 121cid L4, 3.8L 232cid L6 and 4.2L 258cid L6). Each part is matched to the engine(s) it fits.
Do engine parts differ between 1978 American Motors Gremlin engines?
Yes. Every engine part on this page is engine-specific. Each row shows which engine(s) it fits — use the filter at the top to hide the rest. If you're unsure which engine you have, check the emissions label under the hood or the 8th character of your VIN.
What are the signs of engine problems on a 1978 American Motors Gremlin?
Common symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle, blue or white exhaust smoke, ticking from the valvetrain, or coolant mysteriously disappearing. If you notice any of these, identify the affected subcategory above and cross-reference the part numbers listed.
What should I replace at the same time?
Where labor overlaps, replace the seals and gaskets for anything you open up; a timing job should always include the tensioner and guides, not just the belt or chain.
What do the market flags (US, CA, MX) on each part mean?
They show the market for which the manufacturer published application data for that part — where the vehicle was first sold, not where the part was made. If your 1978 American Motors Gremlin was originally sold in the US, the safest choice is a part marked for the US market.
How do I make sure a part fits my 1978 American Motors Gremlin?
First match the engine — each row shows which engine(s) the part fits. Then engine hard parts are unforgiving of guesswork — confirm the casting or engine code before ordering, because one model year can hide two different blocks. The notes column carries position and trim qualifiers where they apply.
Other Parts for the 1978 American Motors Gremlin
Engine Parts for Other American Motors Gremlin Years
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