1989 Bronco
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Cross-Country
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 60
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From: KY
1989 Bronco
I am going to look at a 1989 Bronco XLT with 5.0 engine with auto trans, manual hubs and manual xfer case gear shift. I would like some info on type of trans it may have and any related known problems that the trans and xfer case used that year might have.My experience has been with a 1979 Bronco with C-6 trans and NP-205 xfer case and I know little about the 1989 model. Thanks in advance for any info.
scratcherky
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 132
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From: South Bend
1989 Bronco
I have an '88 that has all the same equipment so it should be the same. They have a 4 speed AOD transmission that I have been told tend to need work at about 90,000 miles. The transmission in mine was changed at about 80,000 miles, before I bought it so I can't really tell you why. I've put another 80,000 on it and see no reason for it to be replaced yet. Mine has the BW 13-45 transfer case which is chain driven. I've never replaced the chain or had any problems. The 302 is about as trouble free an engine as you can get. The only problems I have ever had is with the engine control stuff (sensors, etc...). I put a new engine in a few months ago and added a K&N Filtercharger system and headers which helped the power a lot, it had 160,000 on it and was just worn out. Since your '79 probably had a bigger engine you'll notice the change in the amount of power.
If you have any other questions let me know.
John Green
If you have any other questions let me know.
John Green
Junior User
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 71
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From: Dallas
1989 Bronco
I have a 90 model. My AOD lasted 160k miles, 13-56 xfer and 5.0 is over 186k (broke speedo for a while, and big tires). I get as bad as 12mpg in city sometimes, and as much as 16mpg on highway. It sucks on low end power, but that may be the miles taking toll. Driveshaft went out at about 120k miles, while the ignition module, as on all EEC-IV cars, needs replacing every 40k, it seems (probably not, if it wouldn't break near a cheap *** parts store). Word to the wise, if you plan on tires over the 235/75/15 OEM, think about gears. I won't go into all that I've learned for my next bronco purchase here, but top on the list is gearing of 4.10 or 4.56 (not factory). I may considor 3.73 in a 5.8. Contact me for the whole story, if still interested.
New User
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: clarksdale usa
1989 Bronco
Well, Funny how you should ask this question. I just purchased an 89 bronco with the AOD and a 302. I knew the trany was going to need work but I bought it anyway. It was a steal for the money and the truck looked good but then again I have not seen too many broncos this year that didnt. This should tell you about the body of these trucks. Now about the trany, This truck has 160,000 miles on it and the trans does not want to shift into 3rd until arouind 45 mph. Over drive hits pretty hard to when it finaly catches. It also doesnt want to turn loose of 3rd gear until almost at a stop. These transmissions dont come cheap Im finding out but I think all in all its worth it. If the truck runs and shifts good and you can get it at a good price, go for it. Its a fun truck to drive.
