Need Help With 69 Bronco: Transmission, Fuel Injection Wheels/tires

[Glredmanii]

Hello Everyone!

I'm getting closer to finishing my 1969 Bronco. But I've decided to replace the 3 speed original transmission with an automatic OD. And, I want it fuel injected. It has the stock 305 in it. It's been rebuilt and looks brand new.

I am grateful for any suggestions or ideas you could give me.


1. Fuel Injection. Is there a kit that I could buy? Or, what are the main parts that I should provide to the mechanic. He's never restored a bronco. I'm sure he could figure it out. But, I want to make sure the best parts are used and hopefully cut down on his time.

2. Electronic Distributer

3. Which Transmission with Over Driver? I plan to use it as a daily driver. Mainly short drives, but I want to enjoy taking in on long trips when needed.

4. What is the best steering column? And, where should I buy it.

 

[DirtDonk]

The trans could be as simple as an AOD (non-electronic) but the most popular one nowadays seems to be the last iteration of that family in the 4R70W model found in four, and all-wheel drive Explorers. And probably Broncos and F150's too, but most are being sourced from '97-'01 Explorers. That's likely because people want the engine, EFI setup, computer, part of the harness, and especially the front accessory drive and it's very compact serpentine design. More radiator clearance than any other setup.

The good news with that is that we have EFIGuy here who will program the computer and modify the harness beautifully and you can get the EFI and transmission controlled by the factory computer.

As for an EFI "kit" there are a few available. Most follow the TBI (throttle body injection) format where basically an electronic carburetor bolts on to a standard 4bbl intake manifold.
Very handy, very simple, works well when they work well.
Same for any EFI conversion for that matter. Work wonderful, but only when they work wonderful.
This is where careful research like you're starting here will save the day and a lot of headaches.

Electronic distributors are as easy as substituting a '74-ish or later Ford Duraspark unit for your old one. If you don't need the computer to control the timing, this will work with any setup except the Explorer. The good news is that the Explorer engine does not even use a distributor anymore. Best of all worlds.
But other options exist from all the usual distributor companies and then some. A popular setup are the converted GM HEI distributors (not really converted literally, but using the old GM design) but these are not optimal for a Bronco with it's very low clearance under the hood and air cleaner areas.

Lots of good steering column options out there. I have a hard time usually with the "best" of anything for a Bronco. Just too many options and too many opinions on what's best!
But here are at least a few that we offer (he says, leading to another advertisement for WH!): https://www.wildhorses4x4.com/category/s?keyword=steering+column
And I like the "Direct Fit" version myself.
Not because it's "the best" but because it suits my liking of using Bronco/Ford components for easier servicing in the future.
Not that the generic GM stuff isn't easy to service. But there is less thinking if you just say you need a turn signal switch from a '75 Bronco instead of having to remember what model GM unit is in your non-stock column!
And they bolt on easily and have matching wire colors too.
When all is said and done, they're not that much more than buying a universal version with adapters and such. But they are more expensive typically.

The junkyard still has some interesting donors as well.
Just depends on what you want.

Paul

 

[sanndmann3]

Lots of guys here have gotten with EFIGuy for their fuel injection needs, myself included. Installation is pretty straight forward and my 351 has run great right from the beginning. Message Garry with your questions. He is a wealth of knowledge and very pleasant to talk to.