Restoring a classic Ford truck can be a rewarding and exciting project, but it can also be challenging.
A Closer Look at the ’79 Bronco
The 1979 Ford Bronco is a full-size sport utility vehicle that was part of the fifth generation of Ford Broncos. It was introduced in 1978 and was produced until 1979, before being replaced by the sixth generation of Broncos in 1980.
One of the most distinctive features of the 1979 Bronco is its boxy, rugged design. It has a tall, square body with flat surfaces, sharp edges, and minimal curves, giving it a no-nonsense, utilitarian appearance. This design was intended to emphasize the Bronco’s off-road capabilities and durability.
The 1979 Bronco was offered in three different body styles: a two-door wagon, a two-door cab, and a two-door chassis. The wagon and cab models were the most popular and were available in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.
Under the hood, the 1979 Bronco was powered by a range of engines, including a 4.9-liter inline six-cylinder engine, a 5.8-liter V8 engine, and a 6.6-liter V8 engine. These engines were mated to either a three-speed manual, four-speed manual, or three-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of interior features, the 1979 Bronco was available with a range of options, including air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a tilt steering wheel. The rear seat could also be removed to create more cargo space.
Overall, the 1979 Ford Bronco is an iconic SUV with a distinctive design and a reputation for off-road performance and durability. Its boxy, rugged appearance has made it a favorite of collectors and enthusiasts, while its versatile capabilities continue to appeal to those who need a reliable and capable SUV.
Personalize Your ’79 Bronco
There are several ways to personalize a 1979 Ford Bronco to make it your own. Here are some options to consider:
- Exterior upgrades: You can customize the exterior of your Bronco by adding a new paint job, upgrading the wheels and tires, adding a lift kit, or installing new bumpers and grille.
- Interior upgrades: You can also personalize the interior of your Bronco by upgrading the seats, adding new carpet, or installing a new sound system.
- Performance upgrades: If you’re looking to improve the performance of your Bronco, you can consider adding new exhaust headers, upgrading the suspension, or installing a new air intake system.
- Off-road upgrades: If you plan on using your Bronco for off-roading, you can add off-road lights, a winch, or even upgrade the engine for more power.
- Restoration: If you want to keep your Bronco as original as possible, you can restore it to its original condition by replacing worn or damaged parts and ensuring that everything is in working order.
Ultimately, the options for personalizing your ’79 Bronco are limitless, and it’s up to you to decide what upgrades and modifications will make it your own.
Take Your Bronco’s Ride to the Next Level
There are several ways to take your 1979 Ford Bronco’s ride to the next level. Here are some options to consider:
- Suspension Upgrades: Upgrading your Bronco’s suspension can improve its off-road capabilities and overall ride quality. Lift kits can increase ground clearance and accommodate larger tires, while upgraded shocks and springs can improve handling and stability.
- Engine Performance: Installing performance upgrades such as a new air intake, headers, and exhaust can improve your Bronco’s power and torque, as well as its sound.
- Wheels and Tires: Choosing the right set of wheels and tires can enhance your Bronco’s appearance and performance. Larger tires with aggressive tread patterns can improve off-road traction, while stylish wheels can add a personalized touch.
- Interior Upgrades: Upgrading your Bronco’s interior can enhance your driving experience and add comfort and convenience features. Options include new seats, modern sound systems, and upgraded climate control systems.
- Exterior Accessories: Adding accessories such as a front bumper, winch, or roof rack can increase your Bronco’s off-road capabilities and give it a more rugged appearance.
Ultimately, the upgrades you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your driving style and the terrain you’ll be traversing to determine which upgrades will provide the most value.
Make Some Noise: Choosing an Exhaust System
Choosing the right exhaust system for your vehicle is important to improve performance and sound. Here are some things to consider when selecting an exhaust system for your 1979 Ford Bronco:
- Material: Exhaust systems can be made from various materials like steel, aluminized steel, and stainless steel. Stainless steel is the most durable and expensive option, while aluminized steel is less expensive but less durable.
- Type: There are two main types of exhaust systems: axle-back and cat-back. Axle-back systems replace the muffler and the tailpipe, while cat-back systems replace the entire exhaust system from the catalytic converter to the tailpipe. Cat-back systems offer better performance gains.
- Diameter: Exhaust systems come in different diameters. A larger diameter exhaust system will improve performance, but it may also increase noise.
- Muffler: The muffler is responsible for reducing noise. A straight-through muffler is the loudest but also the most free-flowing, while a chambered muffler is quieter but less free-flowing.
- Brand: There are many brands of exhaust systems available in the market, and each offers different levels of performance gains and sound.
Consider these factors when choosing an exhaust system for your 1979 Ford Bronco. It is also important to check with your state’s emissions regulations to ensure the exhaust system you select complies with local laws.