It can sometimes be challenging to determine what sort of life a classic has lived, but this 1971 Ford Bronco provides at least one good clue. It features an optional snow plow, suggesting it has seen plenty of winter service. It might also account for some of the more worrying rust issues that plague this Ford. The seller planned its restoration, but a lack of space means it needs a new home. They have listed the Bronco here on eBay in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania. Bidding has raced to $3,100, but considering the inherent value of these classics, I’m unsurprised that figure falls short of the reserve.
This is a First Generation Bronco, meaning it is almost inevitable that we must discuss the rust hiding below the non-original paint. It has impacted the areas we have grown to know and love, including the rockers, inner front fender wells, and the floors. The seller includes a new set of rockers, but that could be the least of the buyer’s worries. The underside shots reveal some significant frame rust that is beyond simple plating. Its presence makes me wonder whether there are further hidden issues requiring attention. There are a couple of options if it proves beyond salvation. Sourcing a parts car is one, but history shows these are rarely cheap. Approaching one of the many companies that manufacture reproduction frames may prove more affordable. These generally retail for around $6,000 and have the advantage of being fabricated from new steel with no history of rust. The panels have never been cut, and the glass looks good.
The 302ci V8 that Ford bolted under the hood of the 1971 Bronco provided excellent on and off-road capabilities. It produced 205hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque. The new owner receives a three-speed automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes. The low-end torque delivery of the V8 makes it ideal for climbing over harsh terrain, but returning to the tarmac should see it cruise comfortably at freeway speeds. The vehicle isn’t presently roadworthy, although the motor kicks to life on starter fluid. The existing fuel tank is well beyond its best, but the owner includes a new replacement and installation kit for the winning bidder to fit.
The Bronco’s interior is a surprise because the only missing item is the radio. The carpet is a later addition that would find its way to a dumpster if I were the winning bidder, and the entire interior requires a retrim, These classics share a common trait with many from this era because trim kits are readily available and affordable. A kit in the appropriate materials and colors will cost the buyer approximately $2,000, but the potential value of this Ford might justify the cost.
This 1971 Bronco leaves me torn because its unmolested state would typically motivate me to discuss how straightforward and rewarding its restoration would be. However, the apparent frame rust is a game-changer because addressing structural issues is not recommended for enthusiastic amateurs. Dismantling these vehicles to the last nut and bolt is a common approach, but the new owner will protect themselves from future grief by handing the frame to a professional or replacing it entirely. This will add extra expense to an already relatively expensive build. However, the potential rewards at the end might make it worthwhile. Would you agree or place this Bronco in the “too-hard” basket?
A 1st gen Bronco being used for its original intent, and not 5 figures? Preposterous, yet,,,I’m happy, nay, relieved, that some folks are still pretty cool, this time in, where now? Coraopolis, Pa. population, 708,,SALUTE!!!
Sorry, again, no air cleaner, IDK, may as well walk around with your zipper down, and typical wear of a snowplow. Actual “condition” ois unimportant, as long as it pushed the snow. Sitting on lawn chairs with no cab was common.Thanks to Adam for bringing us back to earth here, what will happen next once the vultures get a hold of it, well, you know the rest.
I live in an area where we are fighting snow at least 5 months of the year and I have come to the conclusion that mount a plow on a vehicle no matter how careful you are you have cut the life of the vehicle substantially. The front end, the transmission and complete drivetrain pay a high price!
Plowing snow, especially wet stuff, is probably the toughest thing for a truck. It’s why Ford made such a great plow truck, it took it with stride. I had a friend “up nort’ that had a long road he plowed for the neighbors. He had a ’77 F250, 4×4, 4 speed, 300/6, no box, and that truck plowed the road for YEARS, and never a whimper. It sat all summer, as if to be just waiting for winter. I never knew me a better truck, and I guess I never will.
I, for one, don’t understand the attraction to these old Broncos. Those in decent shape run the same as a new one. Go figure.
Someone obviously loved this truck at one time because the automatic, power steering, and power brakes were added to it – they were not available from the factory in ’71.
Front end sagging as is, drop plow on and would probably chop the tires, the plow is old d hook, no power left or right, you got to get out to turn it, good for parking lots, turns on a dime, many here in Connecticut years ago at gas stations with chains on all 4 tires doing its job, then take battery out and use next year, these had a purpose.
A sno plow sure beats a shovel ❄️
reminds me of my own seein the same plow pump (fisher)under hood (placed other side to mod ina PS pump this side). My sno p. frame is a step or 2 above that tho (hasa bumper & winch), & no power break here… Not much to comment about otherwise as these’s a carpet in the way, no ‘under pic’ & am not on site to see the ‘real reality’. Adams now produced more bronk write up than other writers.
There’s just something about the old broncos that can’t compare to the new models.
Although Ford did a great job with the new ones, there’s just a cool feeling driving an older vehicle knowing that 99% of the people walking down the sidewalk are looking at you driving it wishing it was them.
Not crazy about the whole plow thing. Living in New Hampshire all my life and having to plow snow for at least 6 months out of the year, I can say that that metal pusher on the front of a truck really abuses the front end even if it is for personal use doing your own driveway.
I bet 75 to $100,000 would do wonders to this rig but good luck to the person that wants to do it.
The plow hitch says it all.
Getting ready to put my 69 back on the road. I bought it in 87, drove until 91 and stowed it away for when I could afford to rebuild it. Once the wiring is finished she will be on the road again after 30 years of patience.