- Joined
- Apr 28, 2017
- Messages
- 424
So I have been looking fairly consistently for a 73-77 Ranger package Bronco the last few years. I kind of assumed I would have to settle for a project that I would be able to work on over time. This last weekend I was fortunate enough to come across and purchase a one family owned 1976 Blue Ranger.
Father bought it brand new in 1976 and was willed to his son when he passed in 2002. The son didn't have alot of interest at the time so the Bronco was parked in an outbuilding at their family farm until about 2 years ago when the son pulled it out of storage and decided he wanted to clean it up and sell it. It was a very difficult decisions for him since his Dad meant so much for him.
When my buddy Crab and I looked at the bronco, we couldn't believe the originality. It has 117k original miles. The paint is original and all the interior is original. Everything works, its crazy. The seller had the original sales brochure and the original purchase invoice from the dealer from 1976. It is like a time capsule, there are almost no mods to it. I would really say it is 98-99% original. The only thing done which is a bummer is he installed swing out mirrors to tow a small trailer.
So, I made the purchase with the promise to the seller that I would keep it original and preserve it, which I plan to do.
Here in lies my question and where I am looking for advice. I am unsure as to where to start. There are a few things I would like to do and I want to respect the Previous owner as well as the originality of the Bronco.
Here is kind of a short list on things I am considering. I welcome feedback on any of them.
1-Replace the carpet, it is a bit tattered in spots with holes and stains. I have been talking with a fellow member who has a 76 Ranger specific blue carpet kit and we are working through a purchase
2-Repair the upholstery on the front seats. I can go a couple ways with this. The drivers seat is pretty good with just some cracks in the vinyl, but the houndstooth is nice. No rips or anything. There is a heavy wear spot in the houndstooth insert on the passenger seat that will need repair. What I would like to do is find a used cover with good material and replace it with an original piece, but not sure how realistic this is. Alternatively I can order a set of replacement seat covers from Bronco Hut, but I struggle with this because ultimately the original stuff is not that bad and if I can find a patch panel it keeps more original.
3- Suspension work. I need to replace bushings/springs/etc. My original thought was to do a 2 1/2" lift and run a 30x9.50x15 and is ultimately still what I would like to do. But again is keeping it stock height with a stock size tire better for originality.
4 - Roll bar. My wife is not keen at all on the original lap belts. She is actually super uncomfortable even driving in it with lap belts. She wants me to put a roll bar and 3 point seat belts in. I was thinking I could do just a simple behind the front seats roll bar with the kickers that go back to the flat spot by the tailgate. I am hating the idea of drilling the body, but safety is important.
5- Center Console. Thinking about a tuffy center console so we can lock things up and install a radio in it.
Maybe this Bronco is just a limited driver too take to events and shows and only a driver on rare occassions...
Father bought it brand new in 1976 and was willed to his son when he passed in 2002. The son didn't have alot of interest at the time so the Bronco was parked in an outbuilding at their family farm until about 2 years ago when the son pulled it out of storage and decided he wanted to clean it up and sell it. It was a very difficult decisions for him since his Dad meant so much for him.
When my buddy Crab and I looked at the bronco, we couldn't believe the originality. It has 117k original miles. The paint is original and all the interior is original. Everything works, its crazy. The seller had the original sales brochure and the original purchase invoice from the dealer from 1976. It is like a time capsule, there are almost no mods to it. I would really say it is 98-99% original. The only thing done which is a bummer is he installed swing out mirrors to tow a small trailer.
So, I made the purchase with the promise to the seller that I would keep it original and preserve it, which I plan to do.
Here in lies my question and where I am looking for advice. I am unsure as to where to start. There are a few things I would like to do and I want to respect the Previous owner as well as the originality of the Bronco.
Here is kind of a short list on things I am considering. I welcome feedback on any of them.
1-Replace the carpet, it is a bit tattered in spots with holes and stains. I have been talking with a fellow member who has a 76 Ranger specific blue carpet kit and we are working through a purchase
2-Repair the upholstery on the front seats. I can go a couple ways with this. The drivers seat is pretty good with just some cracks in the vinyl, but the houndstooth is nice. No rips or anything. There is a heavy wear spot in the houndstooth insert on the passenger seat that will need repair. What I would like to do is find a used cover with good material and replace it with an original piece, but not sure how realistic this is. Alternatively I can order a set of replacement seat covers from Bronco Hut, but I struggle with this because ultimately the original stuff is not that bad and if I can find a patch panel it keeps more original.
3- Suspension work. I need to replace bushings/springs/etc. My original thought was to do a 2 1/2" lift and run a 30x9.50x15 and is ultimately still what I would like to do. But again is keeping it stock height with a stock size tire better for originality.
4 - Roll bar. My wife is not keen at all on the original lap belts. She is actually super uncomfortable even driving in it with lap belts. She wants me to put a roll bar and 3 point seat belts in. I was thinking I could do just a simple behind the front seats roll bar with the kickers that go back to the flat spot by the tailgate. I am hating the idea of drilling the body, but safety is important.
5- Center Console. Thinking about a tuffy center console so we can lock things up and install a radio in it.
Maybe this Bronco is just a limited driver too take to events and shows and only a driver on rare occassions...
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I am more and more leaning towards a 1 1/2" lift with 30" tires with stock wheels and hubcaps
. Not sure I am going to make it over there tomorrow. Will message you tomorrow. Luv that new find!
