Reinforcement for various Body sections

[Torkman66]

I am just starting a total rebuild of the body. It is off the frame and headed to the media blaster. I would like to know what specific areas on the Bronco that folks reinforce with added support. Are there areas that are prone to cracking, weak, or metal fatigue? I have heard something about the hoods needing some extra support somewhere. Please provide any knowledge of what I should fabricate, weld, add metal support to, etc. before I start the primer/painting phase. Thank you.

 

[1970 Palmer]

I added two additional roof supports to my new roof salvaged from the old roof. Really stiffened it up.

 

[Torkman66]

Hoping there are some more inputs. I have heard something about welding in extra supports on the hood somewhere. Doors? Anywhere else?

 

[Cortez]

You’re right about the hood, there’s areas that are prone to cracking on the outside Edges along each fender. If I remember correctly one possible fix for this is to bond in a square rod inside the folded edge along the underside for the length of these areas. I think maybe a 1/2” aluminum or steel square rod Was what people used to fix it. If you use hood shocks or lift supports they are prone to causing failure points on the hood outside edge where they attach, but Even without them in general the flexing of the hood will eventually cause the cracks.

 

[Torkman66]

Thank you. I did find an article last night about installing 3/4” square tubing along sides of hood. I’ll do that. Also saw something about cracks at door striker but nothing regarding how to fix that. Guess I could add a plate.