Ford is currently introducing a new Bronco for 2021 and the automotive world, particularly the 4×4 segment is buzzing. People are excited to see a new SUV hit the market that’s not just a warmed-over crossover, it’s about time Jeep had some competition. The new Bronco pays homage to the first-generation more so than the full-size second-generation we have here. Broncos have always been popular and have quite the cult following, most were used hard and rust is a big enemy of these. This truck seems to be the exception, although not perfect its hard to find a nice example with little rust that has been cared for like this one. Find it here on eBay in Bigfork, Montana with bidding up to $9,100 at the time of writing.

One benefit of buying this truck will be going to pick it up, the background scenery looks beautiful. However, if you do go get your new Bronco bringing a trailer is advisable, the seller fully discloses some issues that need to be addressed. The good thing is the truck is very original with mostly factory paint except for possibly the hood and little rust to deal with. There is some rust in the floorboards and rear tailgate area but compared to other Broncos its minor. The current owner has owned the truck since 1993 when he purchased it from the original owner’s estate. The main reason for not driving it home is the condition of the front suspension and steering, the bushings and steering components are original and worn causing the front end to shake making it scary to drive over 40MPH by the seller’s admission.

The interior looks original as well, floor coverings have been removed exposing some rust forming on the floors. The seats could use recovering but the dash looks great. The Custom was the entry trim level for 1979 so few options are present. This truck has an aftermarket radio and no A/C. The second-generation Bronco was based on the F series pickup, a view of the front passenger compartment makes it hard to tell the two apart. Behind the front seats is a different story with a rear seat and a removable hardtop. We can see shifters for the C6 Auto Transmission, and 4WD shifter for the NP205 transfer case, both are in good working order. Mileage is listed as 144K.

The original 351M was pulled at some point and replaced with a rebuilt 400M. Upgrades include a Carter AFB carb, Weiand intake manifold, and a GM style HEI distributor. A tuneup has recently been done and the 400 runs good with lots of power, in fact, the seller describes the truck as “exciting/scary to drive above 40 with new built engine and worn out front end”. Other items needing attention are a cracked windshield and rusted out exhaust system. This Bronco needs some work but not anything that cant be handled in the driveway or garage over a few weekends. I love the color combination, hopefully, this one will get sorted out mechanically by the new owner and kept original wherever possible.