1975 Ford Bronco

I’ve had this Bronco for more than 20 years, and this is the third rebuild I’ve done on it. After the first two rebuilds and years of abuse, it was time for a major restore. It took me more than 7 years for this ground-up restoration. Starting with the drive train, I rebuilt the front 44 axle and the rear 9-inch axle, transfer case, transmission and went through the top-end of the engine, which I rebuilt back in the early 90s. There are many custom parts that I fabricated myself: bumpers, rear disc brakes, hydro-boost brakes, stainless steel brake lines, transmission cooler. I bought the shock hoops but fabricated them onto the frame. For the front and rear winches, lights and light racks I made custom wiring harnesses for the off-road lights and the side steps were fabricated to the frame. The front cage kit was off the factory roll bar for a 6-point cage. The old body was too far gone, so I had to find another one that was in better shape. That’s virtually impossible in Michigan! I finally found one that was better that what I had, but not by much. I started out with sandblasting the tub, cutting off, and replacing the floor pans, the front wheelhouse, and the rocker panels. I spent hours on straightening, welding, and bodywork. Everything was epoxy-sealed and primed…right down to every bolt. The interior is after-market. I recovered the seats, hand-laid the carpet and custom-made the speaker boxes, which I covered in buckskin. The products I used were from local parts stores, Napa, AutoZone, and Advanced Auto. All reproduction parts were from Jeff’s Bronco Graveyard. The paint for the frame and under body was Mason enamel paint and Mason epoxy sealer from Napa. On the body and interior panels, I used Diamont paint and clear coat and DP40 epoxy sealer. I used a Miller mig welder for all of the welding, 3M tape and adhesives, and a Napa paint gun. This truck was on the front cover and was the topic of the feature article of Issue #44 of Bronco Driver Magazine