How fast should i run?????

[calger]

I am geting ready to go pick up my first EB. I live in Illinois, and i am buying it in GA. It is all stock, with 302, and auto tranny. I was wondering what would be a safe speed, so i dont tare any thing up? Thanks

 

[trailpsycho]

Theres no limit. You wont hurt it--most likely. It really depends on what kind of condition the steering and suspension are in...as to how safe it is to drive it at a higher rate of speed. The bushings (C-bushings, rear radius arm bushings and trackbar bushings) can greatly impact the ability of the vehicle to track straight...in that case it tends to feel like the front end is wandering--alot of olks attribute this to their steering box or shaft--but its usually the bushings...it depends on how bad it is and how brave you are as to what speed you can safely go. Long before I ever upgraded my suspension--the first time--I used to drive my Bronco all over the southeast from Mobile, AL...Orlando, NOLA, N. Carolina, Atlanta, Tuscaloosa...wherever, whenever sometimes quite fast...you just have to get used to it. It could be that yours is in good condition--steering-wise.

If you have some tools or a place to do the service when you pick up the Bronco, you may want change the oil and some of the fluids (drain and refill radiator, tranny, transfercase) and check the oil levels in the differentials. At the very least, check all of these levels and pick up a couple of quarts of oil, a gallon or two of coolant/water, and some gear oil. You could always take it to a shop...but it all depends on whats in your budget.

Be aware of all of these things, but try to put them to the back corner of your mind and enjoy....some of the best times and most beautiful drives have been road-trips in my Bronco. Welcome to the forum.

If the oil is clean, the steering is tight and the mood is there, 70-75 should be achievable...the engine can run all day at 3000 rpm. As well, actual speed may be different than what the speedo reads, if it has larger tires, your speedo will read lower than the speed you are going. Try timing mileage markers with a stop-watch over a few miles to get a good guess-timation. Safe travels and have fun!!

 

[bfoldy]

Given the other factors you have stated, I'd say it depends on gearing mostly. If you don't know the gear ratio, you can check out the little tag on your rear differential. A 3.50 to 1 ratio is going to be better suited for highway cruising than a 4.10 to 1 (3.50 will have less engine RPMs at a given speed).

Actually, I think the most important thing to consider would be braking ability (Safety First). If it has good brakes, a 3.50:1 rear end, and a solid engine, I don't think you'll have any problems running 70+ mph consistently. Maybe 65
if it has 4.10:1 gearing.

You'll know if you're going too fast in these things.

 

[Skiddy]

Yep every thing he said and do bring tools incase you need to fix something along the way. I would drive it at what ever speed you feel safe and after driving it a while you won't worry as much. Good luck and be safe
Also welcome to the addiction or is it money grubber;D

 

[bfoldy]

Oh yeah....we want to see some pictures!

 

[Broncobowsher]

At this point it is about condition and modifications. Stock Bronco in good shape can cruise as fast as you dare.

Mine, has everything new, but nice soft mushy springs and is lifted which catches a lot of air. The result, over 80 is spooky. 90 requires very good conditions. 100 has occured on a private track and doubt the front tires were really spending much time on the ground.

Without knowing too much about what your rig is like, I can guess that it should have no trouble keeping up with traffic.

As for the engine, the old rule of thumb is 2000 FPM sustained piston speed fur durability. That come down to 4000 RPM in the 302 and it could run there for days.

 

[calger]

Wow, i am so glad to have found this web site. You guys are very helpfull. I will take some tools. This bronco is a 76 stock every thing down to the rims. The guy,hue seems very nice, that i bought it from say's no rust and all that. So I am hopeing that it is veryroad worthy. I have been reading a lot, and there are a lot of post's that say "never seen a rust free bronco" so i hope i did not get ripped off.
I have a TON moor ????'s for you guys. But will waite for later. Thanks for all your help

Cody

 

[brian72]

got AAA??? Get it...may need a tow or something.

 

[trailpsycho]

Good call Brian. Not that I've ever needed a tow in my Bronco%) %) %) . ;D

 

[Skuzzlebutt]

If you're not used to driving old, low thech, short wheel base rigs, I say keep it in the slow lane until you develope a feel for it. It's not going to handle like anything else you've driven.

 

[DRBRONCO69]

Do yourself a favor and make sure all the nuts for the front end are tight. Especially the track bar. Not cool going down the highway on your first ride and experiencing the death wobble. The day I bought mine it happened to me and I thought I was a goner! Luckily the PO left an adjustable wrench in the glove compartment and I was able to get it home w/out any other probs! Welcome to the hobby/lifestyle.

By the way, since you live in Illinois, Check out www.66to77.com
It is a bunch of us Midwesterners.

 

[Broncobowsher]

...It's not going to handle like anything else you've driven.

How true. It ain't like a new car.

 

[Hazegray]

Depends on what is chasing you!!! Sorry...had to do it.