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AAA Service Vehicle: 1973 Ford Bronco

How cool is this thing? This rusty 1973 Ford Bronco was a loyal service vehicle for two gas stations for decades, being sent out on distress calls on behalf of AAA members. The Bronco, like small, square-body SUVs of almost every configuration, seem to have a tendency to end up as the gas station beaters for any number of hard-work tasks. Bringing this Bronco back will be a labor of love, but doesn’t it deserve it? Find it here on eBay with bids just over $4K.

The Bronco is located in Delaware, not exactly ground zero for rust-belt cars and trucks, but certainly not immune to the perils of winter and road salt. The Bronco is described as a desirable, uncut example, but it has plenty of rust in the body and frame to make inexperienced restorers think twice before bidding. The nose panel actually doesn’t look too bad, and I’m not surprised at all to see a giant push bar on the front – perfect for bucking stranded motorists out of a snow bank.

The seller says the drivetrain is one of the highlights, with the 302 V8 running and sounding strong. It’s paired to a C4 automatic transmission and has power steering. The seller further notes it is equipped with front drum brakes and a nine-inch rear, and that the manual locking hubs you see in pictures are not included (shame, those are a nice upgrade – but cheap to source and install). A replacement shift collar has been installed, but further re-assembly is required.

Woof – here’s where you can see where the next owner will have their work cut out for them. The body is, indeed, rusty, with evidence of prior failed attempts to stop it from spreading. We haven’t even seen the frame yet, but this isn’t good. While I love the patina and hope those doors never get painted (the seller feels they can be saved), this rusty Bronco does raise the question as to whether it’s better to wait for a less rusty example, albeit without the cool AAA connection.

Comments

  1. Avatar Stangalang

    I’d rather have this than the 86 944…ok not really…I’m slightly incocitated ocifer

    Like 4
  2. Avatar Erich

    Push bar? Up North we call that a plow frame. 😊

    Like 4
    • Avatar Walter

      Yup, looks like a Meyer. Think it was a dealer installed option. Dad bought a new 72 F100 and picked it up W/ Meyers plow.

      Like 3
  3. Avatar TimM

    The rust is definitely concerning!! Could be re bodied if the frame is good!!! It amazes me how many are still around and being used!! Most are just sitting behind the barn or garage waiting to be rescued like a cat that had its kittens behind the dumpster!!!

    Like 1
  4. Avatar chrlsful

    every single prt (I can think of) is as avail as all the mustang prts. The following has been big enuff U can build a brandie new one, take the VIN plate offa this one and claim a ‘restore” (as some do). At the sale price (bronks were the top for abt 6 mo, over this fall) some would do so. I call ‘dirty pool’…
    This 1 needs a frame ck (esp @ gas tank area), as noted…then begin the process (see hood’n fenders already done?).

    Like 1
  5. Avatar Allegro37

    This is a big job. I have no idea about what the parts would cost alone should you decide to restore it after a frame inspection. It’s possible I think to
    find a better car for a bit more money?

    Like 0
  6. Avatar John

    “The Bronco is located in Delaware, not exactly ground zero for rust-belt cars and trucks, but certainly not immune to the perils of winter and road salt. …”

    Yes, but the plates are Pennsylvania, home range of the tin worm. According to the seller it served as a AAA service truck and at two gas stations. I’ve seen plenty of PA gas station plow trucks. I have yet to see one I wouldn’t run away from. Fast!

    This may well be saveable by a dedicated or crazy person. There are better starting points, I think.

    Like 4
  7. Avatar Steven

    Looks cut to me.

    Like 3
    • Avatar aamodel

      Yes definitely cutout rear wheel openings for sure!

      Like 0
  8. Avatar half cab

    Clear coat it and park it in front of a service station. ..just sayin

    Like 0
  9. Avatar petemcgee

    Sold for $4550. Someone just started a very long journey…

    Like 2
  10. Avatar Del

    Only thing holding this together, is massive amounts of rust

    Like 0
  11. Avatar David Mika Member

    We are restoring a ’73, and this one’s definitely cut.

    Like 0

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