Hey guys and gals, I'm going to start looking into Bronco's as a project for my Son's and I to build up/restore for they're first ride. They seem to be going for around $3000-$4000 for a decent one. What should I look out for, ie. typical problems. I'm new to Bronco's. What would you say is the best year to get, EB, XLT? I'm sure it will eventually get a T444, but what motor would be the best option for now, 302/351?

 

I think the '78 and '79 dent-side trucks are the best. If I had to pick one of the factory available options in it, I'd get the 400 with a 4 speed.

 

$3000 - $4000 should be for a GOOD one. I can find decent ones all day long around here for $1000 - $2000. Sometimes in the 3 digit range as well. Just keep your eyes open.

Are you interested in a carb'd engine or an EFI engine?
Carb'd

400 V8 1978 - 1979
351 V8 1978 - 1979
300 I6: 1980 - 1986
302 V8: 1980 - 1984
351W V8: 1980 - 1987


All were EFI after that. The 300 was dropped in '94 I believe.

All are good motors, but the recommended are the 300I6 or the 351V8. There are plenty who love their 302s (and the EFIs are pretty good for gas mileage), but they're more of a high RPM motor.

Typical problems are rust, especially in the fender wells and the tailgate.


If you know how to do automotive work, you can find a cheap Bronco for next to nothing and get them running nicely for not a lot of money. Parts are dirt cheap since they share almost everything with the F150s. (Personally, just picked up a non-running '84 for $600 and had it purring like a kitten over a weekend for $200 extra.)

Body style changes:

78 - 79
80 - 86
87 - 91
92 - 96

I'm sure others will have more to add, but I'd also recommend a search since this topic comes up quite a bit. Best of luck! Be sure to check craigslist.

yuba-sutter all for sale / wanted classifieds "ford bronco" - craigslist


Also, since you're in California, I'd recommend being sure it passes emissions before a sale.

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I got my '78 with no engine or trans, chassis and underside already blasted and epoxy painted, new skyjacker suspension, new ford fenders, and a big box of parts, for $700. It turns out there was a brand new locker carrier in it, which is worth the $700 by itself.

Craigslist..

 

Wrenching is old hat for me I was looking to pick up something like this

1993 Ford Bronco 4x4 Eddie Bauer

FORD BRONCO '94 - $3250

96 white ford bronco

1988 Ford Bronco Full Size

The first 2 really caught my eye. I would like to find one that's not lifted and somewhat stock.

 

I really like what you've done with yours, by the way, American Thunder! I'm a big fan of conversions.

 

WOW, might have to swoopthis one up!

1979 Ford Bronco

 

If i were on the market i would search for a 94-95 Bronco (search one that has MAF instead of SD, it will accept any mods easier). My choice for the engine should be the 351W, it has the torque of the 300, as good a mileage as the 302 and the V8 sound. As for the gearbox, i think that's a personal choice, both the auto and manual are good units, but if you intend to use it off road on a regular basis i would advice picking an auto.

If you plan on doing any off-roading, the EFI is the way to go, also a lot easier to trouble-shot. Good hunting!.

 

That's definitely a find. Although, unfortunately, it's dated as the 19th of last month. I doubt it's still available. Worth looking into though.

 

Thanks! I love my truck.

 

That '79 looks awesome, but check out what he said:
"I literally found this thing in a field you have to get a salvage title for it and pay 300 in back registraion so it'll cost 800 to buy and register this classic"

CA makes you pay for all the years the vehicle sat??? Back-registration??? Seriously??