It is quite common to find an enthusiast who commences a restoration only to decide they have too many projects to tackle. Such is the case with this 1969 Ford Sport Bronco. The seller has attended to most of its mechanical shortcomings but this classic now needs a new owner to return its panels and paint to their former glory. The list of completed work is extensive, and the seller includes a range of additional items to help the winning bidder achieve the goal of returning the Ford to a rust-free state. If you are already tempted, their decision to list this Bronco with No Reserve could be the icing on the cake.
The seller purchased this Bronco four years ago with grand visions to return the vehicle to a spotless state. They commenced the process below the skin, and haven’t touched its panels of paint. The included Marti Report confirms it rolled off the line wearing Reef Aqua paint, which remains visible in areas like the engine bay. The panels sport a few bumps and bruises, and the seller admits it is suffering the typical First Generation Bronco rust issues. That suggests the buyer faces replacing items like the floor pans and front inner fender wells. However, the frame is said to be solid, and the deal includes a selection of secondhand doors and a shiny new tailgate for the buyer to install. The glass and trim generally look good, and the Bronco retains desirable items like the rocker moldings and swing-out spare tire carrier.
Powering this Bronco is Ford’s venerable 302ci V8. It sends 205hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque to Planet Earth via a three-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The first owner didn’t splash the extra cash on power-assisted steering or brakes, both of which would have been welcome in tight situations. The drivetrain is where the seller has spent a significant sum of money. Every brake component is new, including the master cylinder, wheel cylinders, drums, shoes, lines, and hoses. The same is true of the fuel system, while the alternator, hoses, shocks, and tires are also new. The exercise aimed to return the Bronco to a roadworthy state, and that goal is within reach. This classic runs and drives, and only requires minor tweaks before it graces our roads once again.
The interior is a mixed bag, with the front seats wearing what appear to be new Black covers. The optional back seat retains its original Parchment upholstery, with the same true of the door trims. It is serviceable, but it requires TLC to return to its former glory. The dash houses an aftermarket radio/cassette player, but the seller includes a freshly rebuilt factory radio for the winning bidder to install. Many potential buyers will welcome the aftermarket air conditioning, and while it blows cold, the seller believes it would benefit from recharge. Otherwise, every gauge, light, and other feature works as it should.
The ongoing popularity of First Generation Ford Broncos is beyond question, making the subdued action on this 1969 example quite surprising. It has only received four bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Logan, Utah. That has pushed the price to $10,100, although it is worth noting that there is plenty of time remaining for the price to climb significantly. That will undoubtedly happen, but what would you be prepared to pay to park this classic in your workshop?
The first owner didn’t “splash the cash on power-assisted steering or brakes” because they weren’t options in 1969. Power steering wasn’t an option until 1973 and power brakes didn’t arrive until 1976.
I have PS in my 6 cyl. Easy.
I C Adam back on the bronk review duties. Got more learning/understanding under the belt too. Keep it up bra!
Y would any 1 want this over any other bronk? It’s a 1st few yrs. With the apex at 25K in ’75 it was all dwn hill after ’69 (in my mind). Here U get pull out window frames, clips for windshield (er, ah) and chrome spiners for release (also negatory), no side markers, and more (late model trims). I like the 1/2 cab / bench seat so have ‘em in mine along w/the oem PTO. A/C? no, not so much…