Newbie Questions

Hi all, I am new to the forum and interested in restoring a Bronco. I have read a lot on this forum an appreciate the information and knowledge here.

I am currently trying to find a vehicle to restore and my main criteria are V8, automatic and a mostly stock interior.

How much is originality important? It seems like values are not affected by swapped or incorrect parts as long as the build is done well.

For example I am looking at a vehicle that would need a complete restoration but was originally a 6 cylinder with 3 speed manual. If I restore this vehicle putting in a V8 and automatic transmission will the value be less as it was not originally a V8 with automatic transmission. Do packages add value to the vehicle like Ranger or Explorer?

I am not looking to build to resell but want to make the right decisions in selecting the vehicle I start with.

Thanks for the input!

Read as much on here for rust repair there are several total builds on this site that way you know where the rust hides and what to look for. also make sure you get a title and not just a bill of sale. make sure the frame stamping matches the title. from there it just takes money. engine and driveline are cheap compared to rust repair body work and painting. Good luck in your search. buy the best body you can afford with a good title..

First off, Welcome! This is a great site.

Back to your questions, I'd say swapping a 6 cyl w manual trans to V8 w automatic would actually increase the value. I only got into Bronco's a few years ago from a lifetime of Mustangs and had same questions about original paint, engines, etc. From what I can tell best builds are done to be safe and then fun! Fun to some is pure off road action, to others it's more cruising to get ice cream with the kids. Either way safety is first, then whatever color, tires, lift, etc is up to you. And as Rustytruck says be sure to start with best body you can and a good number matching title!!!

Good luck!
Norm

Welcome.

I would agree with both of the previous responses with 1 minor exception. A early 66 or pristine survivor keeping it original which would be more for the collectors not the drivers. Sounds like you want a driver and a V8 would make you happy.

Welcome; as stated above, buy the best body and frame that you can afford.

For problem areas to check, see this Buying FAQ page.

https://classicbroncos.com/forums/showthread.php?t=86541

I'm a little bit of a 'Search Freak' on this site, so here is a link with 'Buying' in the title within the Chat threads.

https://classicbroncos.com/forums/search.php?searchid=7909924

Some individual buying advice threads I have marked:
https://classicbroncos.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3249320&postcount=2
https://classicbroncos.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3249326&postcount=5
https://classicbroncos.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3249459&postcount=15
https://classicbroncos.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3249630&postcount=17

I'd copy and paste all the text from those here, but I'd rather let the advice you see come from those that gave it. Lots of great people and information to be had all over this site.


Finally, at the top of the Chat threads are some 'Sticky' threads that always remain. Take a read through some of those build threads to get an idea of the work put into Broncos that started at varying condition levels.

Again, welcome. At some point consider becoming a Contributor. It's an easy $12 and you'll be able to post pictures with easy. Having pictures in your posts/threads will greatly increase the quality and amount of advice and support you will get when posting. With all the variations of a Bronco, pictures make it a lot easier.

https://classicbroncos.com/forums/showpost.php?p=254194&postcount=1

Welcome to the forum and good luck on your search. As a recent owner of an EB, I agree with the previous posts. Solid body and mostly original is important to me.

Welcome aboard Justin....

Welcome Justin... think of your Bronco as a blank canvas, you can do anything... only your imagination is your limit. Good luck and keep us updated!