A little Bronco history, for those interested.
The first generation of Bronco's are the 1966-1977. Don't have the numbers in front of me, but I believe the wheelbase of the early Bronc's was around 104 inches. They had a Ford 9" rear, with a Dana 44 up front. Base motor was a straight six, backed by a manual three speed and a dana 20 transfer case. A 289 v-8 as well as a auto were optional through '68. Mid year 68 the 302 was introduced and remained as the largest engine offered in a Bronco until '77. There was an optional half cab or full hard top for the first generation Bronco's. Doors and tops are easily removeable. Right now the first generation Broncos are highly desireable and command a high price if in decent shape.
The second generation Bronco are the fullsize 78-79's. They were the first Bronco to be based on the 1/2 ton short box chassis. They also were equipped with the nine inch rear and dana 44. Engines offered were the 302, 351, 400. Gear boxes included either the auto or a manual 4 speed. These years are still plentiful and are good raw building material. A 460 swap is very easy in these models.
The third and final generation are the 1980-1996 models. They are quite similar to the 78-79's. They share the same wheelbase as the 78-79's. But the major weak point is the twin traction beam dana 44 front axle. Don't get me wrong the ttb is a decent axle. But it will never compare to a straight axle. For the rear they had the Ford 8.8 axle. A decent axle, but not as stout as the nine inch. All engines had carbs until '85. In '86 Ford went to fuel injection.
I'd love to have a 78 or 79 to plow with. But for play I'd have to have a 66-77.
