La Aduana: 1968 Ford Bronco

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Where I grew up in Texas the Ford Bronco was generally associated with things such as straight pipes, mudding, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and The Confederate Flag. By the time I left the state eighteen years later my opinion on the vehicle was, needless to say, less than favorable. Unfortunately, I think many people fail to see the Bronco for the great vehicle it is and quickly discount it as I did. Originally released in 1966, the Bronco was designed to be a small off road vehicle that could compete with the popular Jeep CJ and International Scout models of the day. It was a completely new platform and fairly well equipped with a straight six engine, Dana transfer case, and locking hubs as standard features. An optional Windsor V8 was soon to follow which greatly increased the Ford’s performance and helped it compete against the larger and more popular Chevrolet Blazer. While the first generation Bronco died out in 1978 the love for it did not, which inspired beautiful restorations like the one we’ve found for you today.

This 1968 is a wonderful example of a classic car that has been infused with modern equipment. The seller estimates that over $80,000 was spent during the project, and with the lengthy list of modifications, I would believe it. The previous owner started the restoration by sandblasting and re-painting the frame before attaching it to a rust free body. Keeping with the Bronco heritage, they then installed a Windsor V8 engine which was mated to a new NV4500 5 speed transmission to provide plenty of power and smooth shifting. Next the truck was lifted 2″ to accommodate larger 33″ BFG KM2s and an upgraded suspension for an improvement in the overall ride. The owner went on to install many additional modifications including a Dana 44 rear end, custom fuel tanks totaling 35 gallons, front and rear lockers, and a full roll cage.

Take a closer look on Ebay Motors here:

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Here’s a look at what the seller has to say:

This is one sweet 1968 Ford Bronco 351 Windsor V8 4X4!

Wow!! If you don’t like attention I would not suggest buying this Bronco, it easily turns heads everywhere it goes and with good reason too. It doesn’t matter if you’re parking or headed down the highway. It’s sharp… clean inside and out, and fully restored. There are a ton of these out there that have been used and abused, this one’s been babied, obviously loved and well cared for, it’s a survivor. This Bronco was purchased at Mecum auction and unfortunately I just don’t have time to drive it. I travel a lot and other than the occasional trip to the grocery store, it stays parked in the garage. This custom one of a kind Bronco deserves someone who can get it more attention, drive it daily, and cherish it like the wonderful piece of Ford history that it is. Ok, so now for the good stuff. It was a full frame off restoration believed to be an investment of over 80k. The frame was sandblasted and powder coated black. Believed to be rust free California tub. It features a 351 Windsor V8 with an NV4500 5 speed transmission. Boys and girls it’s a blast to drive. Quick acceleration, smooth shifts, and great handling too. If you get behind the wheel you’ll definitely fall in love. The heads are ported and polished with roller rocker arms. The James Duffy suspension and shocks ride beautifully. It has oversized valves, a 2″ body lift, Dana 2 Split shift, Dana 44 Ford 9″ rear, Custom gas tanks; 23 gallon main tank, 12 gallon auxillary tank, On board air compressor and tank connections in front and rear, Detroit lockers front and rear with new 410 gears, Winch mount pre runner bumper with Warn Winch M8472-50, Infinity speakers with Alpine CD player, Vintage air, Flaming River tilt steering column, Rear hitch 8 point family roll cage, full safari soft top, 5 practically brand new 33×10.5×15 tires and wheels; BFG KM2’s, Custom laser one-off dash with Dakota gauges, Pro Car seats, and so much more. The list goes on and on. Bottom line is someone spared no expense in making this one bad ass Bronco. If you have any questions about this please feel free to message me and I’ll answer as soon as possible. I’m more than happy to schedule test drives if you’re in the area, and welcome all phone calls, just message me your number, and I have more pictures upon request as well. Thanks so much for your interest.

 

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Chris didn’t receive a real taste of the outdoors until moving to Prescott, Arizona, in 2009. While working on his business degree, he learned to fly and spent his weekends exploring the Arizona desert and high country. It was there that he fell in love with backcountry travel and four-wheel drive vehicles, eventually leading him to Overland Journal and Expedition Portal. After several years of honing his skills in writing, photography, and off-road driving, Chris now works for the company full time as Expedition Portal's Senior Editor while living full-time on the road.