I am looking into purchasing a 1984 Bronco (project). Does anyone know of any problems that are notorious associated with this year? Any frame problems? I was told that Ford had some frame issues in the early 80's. For future reference, is there anything I should look out for when looking at these "projects"? And by the way, Big Bronco FAQ's is great.

 

well welcome, go into your CP and fill out your sig with info on your rig when you get it. the 84 is a good year. the frame issues were more in the 80-81 models. what size motor, tranny are in it and for how much.

 

84 is a good year.
I put over 150,000 on a 85.
Rust is the only main problem to look out for check tailgate bottom,if window seals are shot water will sit at the bottom of the tailgate.
Also check for rust the Rear wheel wells door bottoms and were the back door meets the body,bring a maganet to see if there is any mud in these spots.
All the drive train in that year was good.
In a project truck I would be looking for a good straight body.
After that I would look for one with a good interior.
As fars as the drive train you can put in anything from a 385 series "460"
too a stright six just depends on what you want the truck for.

 

The frames were notorious for flexing and cracking around where the steering box goes. I never had problems with mine (85 192,000 when sold) but it was something I was told to look out for. Good luck.

Dan

 

Thanks for the information! The Bronco has a 351W, Automatic Transmission, some rust in the passenger side floor pan. The body is not bad, a few dents, it runs and drives o.k. I went ahead and bought it for $500. Any thoughts on where I should go from here, other than the obvious spark plugs, wires, cap and rotor, change the fluids? After these initial items are addressed, should I just begin driving it to see what other problems may arise? I would like to lift it and put taller tires on it for crawlin' around in the mountains and desert. Also, I'd like some opinions about puttin' in a holley or edelbrock carb.

 

I would check balljoint's and tierod's to start with.
Breakdown the front end and grease the wheel bearing's.
Check the wheel joints while you have it apart.
Check the calipers to see if they were sticking.
Check rotors.
Did it come with a 9 inch ?
Hard to go wrong for 500 bones if the body is good.

 

Thanks for the info. The Bronco does have a 9-in. Is there something I can do to check the transmission and transfer case?