1973 Ford Bronco 4WD

Launched in August 1965, the new Ford Bronco hit showrooms alongside the highly successful Mustang that had been introduced just a year earlier.

It was a robust project aimed at securing some market share at the expense of the Jeep CJ-5 and International Scout models. The first generation Broncos were built solidly with a body-on-frame platform with a perfectly dimensioned 92" wheelbase, using a Dana front axle with Dana wheelbase and transfer case, and an unbeatable and reliable 9" Ford rear axle. This allowed for tight maneuverability and highly capable off-road capabilities. As with all automotive successes, the Bronco became a mainstream 4WD competitor with many improvements over the years. In 1969 the 289ci V8 changed to the new 302ci V8 and in 1973 the new 3-speed automatic transmission was introduced for the first time! Offered here is a nicely restored '4 Ford Bronco 1973WD custom repainted in Blue Streak Metallic over Blue Herringbone Cloth/White Vinyl for a sharp presentation. Under the hood is its original 302ci V8 paired with a 2-barrel Holley carburetor and mated to a C4 column-shift automatic transmission with a 3.50:1 rear axle ratio. Options include four-wheel drive selector with floor shift, power brakes, power steering, front and rear chrome bumpers with crossovers, dual sun visors, door armrests, and more. During the restoration, it was fitted with Classic Auto Air Perfect Fit under-dash air conditioning for a race-inspired presentation. This special truck was originally built in October 1972 and delivered new from the Denver, Colorado area, but soon had to head south. It was last found by the current owner along with the help of a longtime restorer friend about 7 years ago parked in a Texas garage with a super solid body in very original condition. It created the perfect foundation for frame restoration. The body would be stripped of all chrome, trim, emblems, interior, window glass and weather seals before being professionally prepared for the body and repaint. The rear quarter panels received new steel wheel openings for larger wheel and tire combinations using a common modification to fit the front fender wheel opening to the rear wheels. These were expertly welded on site by Dave Clark Auto Body of St. Charles, MO to ensure no body filler or puddy is needed. The finished body and roof paint was completed by Anchor Paint & Body in Winfield, Illinois. The interior would receive full soundproofing along with fresh floor mats, rebuilt seats with new foams and upholstery by Dan's Auto Upholstery of Crystal City, MO; new lockable center console with cup holders; all new wiring; rebuilt steering column fitted with a new custom wood steering wheel; a custom Bluetooth audio system from Audio Ace in Maryland Heights, MO; brand new tinted window glass and seals; insulating the body against the weather. A new single 22-gallon fuel tank was installed below it; 15" ultra-polished wheels with 31x10.5R15LT General Grabber tires; Nerf side bars were installed and the exhaust system mounted from the rear of the muffler. The engine was repaired by Frank Newberry of Fredericktown, MO at approximately 82,000 miles with stock internals using original factory components.It has about 2,500 miles since completion.Most of the parts for this restoration came from Tom's Bronco Parts, Bronco Hut, Dennis Carpenter, and Jeff's Bronco Graveyard.