Despite its unique pedigree, 'Cruisaire' Bronco goes off-road on the regular.
Sporting Custom
Stripes and Broncos are just one of those perfect combinations. Ford began offering enhanced trim options in 1967, culminating with the sunset-inspired Free Wheelin' packages of the late 1970s. Aftermarket companies quickly followed suit. Sporting era-specific 'Cruisaire' graphics, this patina-perfect 1978 Bronco packs more than classic good looks with its 5.0L Coyote motor tucked under the hood.
Photos: Montana Broncos
Funky Feature
Owned by Jake Gertsch, the unrestored truck is a unique time capsule. When not occupied as a sales manager at Auto Auction of Montana in Billings, Gertsch runs Montana Broncos, which offers graphics packages for old and new Broncos. In a recent YouTube feature with Ford Era, he recounted some of the truck's backstory and elaborated on the funky stripes.
First Possession
It would be no exaggeration to say that Gertsch is a 'certified' Bronco enthusiast. On the Montana Broncos website, he writes that he's “owned over forty Broncos from all five generations.” The current number in his possession reportedly hovers in the mid-teens. He also states that his first vehicle ever was a Bronco that he bought in 1994.
Perfect Outdoors
More than just a solo hobby, Bronco-passion is a family affair shared by Gertsch's wife and their numerous children. He also believes, rather knows first hand, that Montana and Broncos are a perfect fit. Gertsch states, “Living in Montana is a great place to enjoy adventures in the outdoors, and Ford built the Bronco for just that!”
Delayed Vintage
Originally a California truck, the 1978 Bronco eventually found its way to Mississippi, where Gertsch first spotted it posted in a Bronco forum. After delayed messages and the help of a third party, the second-generation truck was finally delivered to a friend's house in Mississippi. From there, Gertsch shipped it to Firehouse Vintage in Statesville, North Carolina, to get a new motor and interior.
Double Ponies
Tucked under the paint-faded hood is a Gen 2 Coyote V8. Introduced with the Mustang in 2010 and updated in 2015, the second version of Ford's potent powerplant puts out 435 horsepower. The small block is backed by a 6R80 automatic transmission. With all the extra ponies, nearly double what the truck had in 1978, Gertsch plans on upgrading the brakes.
Longevity Treatment
The eye-catching graphics are original to the truck. Formerly based in Gardena, California, and marketed through Ford dealers, Cruisaire provided a range of custom appearance packages for vans and trucks. Gertsch's 1978 Bronco was purchased new by the company before receiving its stylish treatment. The unique stripes were painted on, attributing to their longevity and nicely weathered look.
Love Rolls
Gertsch does not plan on selling his 'Cruisaire' and off-roads it regularly—despite its unique pedigree. Riding on Ranchero shocks, the truck sits at stock height and rolls on 33'' BF Goodrich T/A Tires. Gertsch sums up neatly, “Life is about doing what you love with those you love, and there is no better vehicle to do that in than a Ford Bronco!”
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