I am looking at getting a 1984 Ford Broncos II. can anyone tell me how good the engine is at handling steep hills (paved) ? What kind of lift and tires can I put on it that will off road well and not negatively affect the performance?

 

It's been a long time since I've owned it, but my old '84 Ranger with a 2.8 L. V-6 was fairly unimpressive in the power department. If you install taller tires, you are effectively changing the overall gear ratio and will have to compensate with lower gears in the differentials. Also, taller tires will make the brakes less powerful, something that these older trucks can ill afford. Their brakes are a bit weak to start with.

 

I had a feeling the engine was a bit of a dud. Thanks

 

Unless you are willing to trash out the stock carb, distributor, and computer and emissions controls and Duraspark convert it, then you can add goodies like a hi-po cam, Offenhauser 4bbl manifold, holley 390 4v carb and edlebrock headers.

Then you can leave the guys with 4.0s in the dust.

 

I am not looking for speed so much as torque. Where can I find info on a duraspark conversion

 

The Ranger Station has the best write up on Durasparking the 2.8 I have ever seen......VERY simple.

 

Thanks a lot.