10 Things To Look For When Buying a Classic Ford Bronco - Kincer Chassis (2024)

The classic Ford Bronco is one of the most popular and iconic SUVs in America. It has captured the hearts of countless car enthusiasts over the years. The classic Ford Bronco is still in high demand, sold and purchased with great enthusiasm. If you’re a classic car enthusiast, we don’t need to tell you – the Ford Bronco is probably already on your radar.

If you’re interested in a first-generation Ford Bronco (also known as the early Bronco), there are several things to consider before making a purchase. Is the Ford Bronco the classic car for you? Learn about the top 10 factors to consider when buying a classic Ford Bronco.

1. Assess The Overall Condition

When buying a classic Ford Bronco, the vehicle’s condition is critical. Inspect the interior, exterior, body, frame, and undercarriage for signs of damage, corrosion, and rust. Look for signs of previous accidents such as inconsistent welding or mismatched paint or panels. A solid and well-maintained Bronco will be more enjoyable to drive and give you less trouble in the future.

2. Check The Mechanical Condition

The second most important thing to check is the mechanical condition of the Bronco you are buying. Many important things fall under the category of “mechanical conditions” like the engine, suspension, and car transmission. Ensure the engine runs smoothly and doesn’t exhibit unusual problems such as noises or vibrations. Take the Ford Bronco for a test drive to assess its performance for yourself.

The test drive will give you a better picture of what other problems might be in the car. Are you inexperienced at peeking under the hood? Take a professional mechanic with you to make sure the Ford Bronco is in good mechanical shape. The pro will identify any problems you may miss, and they’ll be able to tell you whether or not any issues are deal breakers. Before leaving, make sure to check for any leaks or issues with the transmission and suspension.

3. Inspecting Electrical Systems

Evaluating the electrical system in a Classic Ford Bronco is also a significant step to consider. Electrical issues can be challenging to diagnose and can cause costly repairs, especially when it comes to vintage vehicles. So check the lights, turn signals, horn, gauges, wipers, and washer fluid. It is also suggested that you check the heater and defrost. Make sure they are producing hot air and defrosting the windshield. You should also check the interior, such as radio, power windows, and aftermarket lighting.

Inspect the battery for signs of corrosion and ensure that the alternator charges the battery effectively. Test the fuse box and inspect the wiring for damage or fraying. Always remember that diagnosing and repairing these electrical problems requires expertise, especially when it is a vintage car. If you see electrical problems during an inspection, it will be best to have the Ford Bronco evaluated by an expert mechanic or auto electrician. You want your Bronco to be reliable!

4. Documentation of The Vintage Ford Bronco

A genuine Ford Bronco could come with all the relevant documents, which helps you verify its authenticity and could even increase its value. Good documentation will also show whether the car has been well-maintained by the owners. When buying a classic vehicle like a Ford Bronco, some documentation can save you from a lot of headaches.

So what documentation should you look for? Good documentation of a vintage car will include maintenance records, service history, modifications and other papers related to the Bronco’s past. Always take the time to read and verify any documentation provided by the seller before purchasing a vintage Ford Bronco.

5. Assessing Interior Condition

Inspecting a classic Ford Bronco’s interior condition is important to assess its overall comfort and value. When examining the interior, pay close attention to the components, like seats, dashboard, steering wheel and controls, carpets and flooring, headliner, and accessories. It is important to know that the cost of replacing or restoring the interior of a classic Ford Bronco can vary.

Interior work depends on the availability of original / aftermarket parts and the extent of work that is required. When you are assessing the interior, it is important to consider how the overall condition of components matches your budget and your preferences. Interior restoration is a substantial part of the restoration process, especially of any classical vehicle, so consider these aspects in detail.

6. Body Style

Bronco owners know that classic Ford Broncos come in various body styles. These body styles include the Bronco Roadster, half cab, and full cab. You probably already have your eye on a particular body style. If you’re not sure which style you want, the internet is an amazing resource. Do a Google image search of the various Ford Bronco body types and see which one revs your engine. Each style has its unique characteristics and appeal, so choosing a classic Bronco body style is a matter of taste.

Once you find your ideal body style, make sure any Broncos you might buy fit all the characteristics of the style in that year. Inspect the body and cab for replacement panels; cracks, dents, or rusted parts of the body; and any mismatched paint or odd welding joints. Each of these suggests indicates that the auto body has undergone major restoration due to an accident or poor upkeep.

7. Manual or Automatic Transmission

It’s crucial to check the transmission before buying any car. Although you may think that an automatic transmission is the #1 indicator that a car isn’t vintage, Ford Broncos were created with both manual and automatic transmissions. Starting in 1973, Ford built Broncos with the option of a manual transmission or an automatic, three-speed transmission. Choosing a transmission type depends purely on your driving style and desired year (pre-1973 Broncos were only available with manual transmissions).

Generally, cars with manual transmissions offer a more engaging driving experience; however, automatic transmissions provide ease of use for daily drivers or cars that may have multiple drivers on a regular basis. Decide if transmission type is important to you before beginning your search for a classic Ford Bronco.

8. Suspension & Steering

This is another important factor you should consider when buying a Ford Bronco. Make sure you test the suspension and steering components by taking the Bronco for a long test drive on various terrains and at various speeds. When you drive, you will learn about any unusual noises or vibrations, which will make you better understand the condition of the Bronco model. While driving, also check if the steering feels loose or tight. Checking the suspension and steering is a crucial factor, and good suspension and steering can indicate that the car has been well maintained.

9. Check The Rust Prone Areas

Old cars like Classic Ford Broncos might be susceptible to rust in certain areas. There are a lot of areas to inspect before you purchase an old Bronco, so start with the rear quarter panels, wheel wells, floor pans, and rocker panels. These areas are prone to rust and corrosion, so a thorough inspection will give you a good idea about whether the car has had problems with rust or has needed repairs. Rust in these areas is fixable, but it’s always best to go into a purchase with your eyes open. This puts you in a good position for negotiating and also ensures you have the budget for repairs or replacement panels.

10. Know Your Budget

Last but not least, know what’s in your pocket. Determining your budget before diving into the world of classic Ford Broncos is very important because prices can vary significantly depending on the vehicle’s model year and condition. Always be realistic about your money and consider the additional costs of replacements, maintenance, repairs, and potential restoration. Sit down and do the budgeting and make sure you are not putting yourself in a bad spot. Always choose the Bronco that suits your budget to have peace of mind.

Vintage Charm & Rugged Performance

First and second-generation Broncos are some of the most popular vehicles for vintage car enthusiasts. These iconic cars feel nostalgic because of their timeless design, durable engines, mechanical performance, and rugged charm. Whether you’re a classic car collector or simply a fan of vintage Broncos, there’s no denying the appeal of these classic off-road cars.

Kincer Chassis: Classic Ford Bronco Experts

At Kincer Chassis, we specializein classic Ford Bronco chassis fabrication. With determination, years of experience, and a love for classic cars (especially Fords), Kincer Chassis has become the top choice for custom, 4-wheel drive, and early Bronco chassis building. We take pride in providing the highest quality Ford Bronco chassis.

Whether you’re a proud new owner or a seasoned Bronco driver, our extensive knowledge of vintage Bronco’s and the Bronco chassis is here to serve you. We understand the details of early Bronco frames and have put the work in to make sure you never have to worry about the details being right. We appreciate the charm of daily driving a vintage Bronco, and want yours to be reliable for years to come. We know the value you place on your Ford Bronco and that’s why we empower you with choices for your engine, transmission, and suspension when you buy a chassis from us.

When it comes to early Bronco chassis and frames, we’re the best in the business. We offer top-tier quality and customization options for your chassis to perfectly align with your style, budget, and specific requirements. We have 3 options, our premium quality adventure series coil-over rolling chassis, classic early Bronco chassis, and freeway series early Bronco chassis. Looking for the best Ford Bronco Chassis and frames? Call us today for a custom experience for your classic Ford Bronco.