Elite Dealer

1979 Ford Bronco

$69,995

1979 Ford Bronco

Vehicle Details

Make

Ford

Model

Bronco

Year

1979

Mileage

76 miles

VIN

U15HLEJ7005

Body Type

SUV

Transmission

Automatic

Fuel Type

Gasoline

Engine

REBUILT 351M V8

Description

1979 Ford Bronco 4x4 For Sale
Frame-Off Restoration * Rebuilt 351M V8 * Automatic * Vintage Air * 4-Inch Lift * 74 Miles Since Restoration
Offered for sale is this beautifully restored 1979 Ford Bronco 4x4, finished in a striking combination of Medium Yellow and Corinthian White. The result of an extensive, approximately two-year restoration, this second-generation Bronco was completely disassembled, rebuilt, and thoughtfully upgraded with an emphasis on quality, reliability, and attention to detail. With just 74 miles reported since completion, this Bronco presents as a freshly finished restoration rather than an ordinary refurbished classic.

The builder approached the project as a personal vehicle, carefully addressing the body, chassis, drivetrain, suspension, electrical system, and interior. An extensive collection of more than 800 restoration photographs documents the work performed. Frame-Off Restoration & Bodywork
The body was completely removed from the frame, stripped, and professionally sandblasted, including the interior and underside.

The chassis was also sandblasted, inspected, and repaired where necessary, including replacement of compromised metal around certain body- mount locations. Both rear quarter panels were replaced, along with the tailgate and interior wheel-well components. Replacement steel was fully welded rather than simply spot-welded, and considerable attention was devoted to seam sealing and corrosion protection.

The fender flares were carefully fitted, removed for treatment of the mounting holes and metal filings, and then reinstalled after the necessary protective finishing work. The exterior is finished in attractive Medium Yellow with Corinthian White accents, complemented by a smooth-finished removable rear hardtop, contrasting fender flares, upgraded lighting, and a purposeful stance. Additional restoration details include:
New rear quarter panels and tailgate
Repaired and refinished body-mount areas
Extensive seam sealing and underbody protection
New window glass, including tempered rear glass
New weatherstripping, window felts, and seals throughout
Rebuilt or replaced window pivot components
Restored tailgate hardware, strikers, and support components
Retained tailgate torsion-assist mechanism
Custom-fitted side steps with fabricated mounting brackets
Extensive sound-deadening material throughout the body
Smooth-finished and refinished removable rear hardtop
Rebuilt 351M V8 & Automatic Transmission
Power comes from a Ford 351M V8, completely rebuilt during the restoration.

The engine block was machined 0.030 inch over, with the crankshaft reportedly machined 0.010 inch on the main and connecting-rod journals. The rebuild included new main and rod bearings, a new camshaft, timing components, and numerous additional internal and external parts. The original-style Motorcraft two-barrel carburetor was rebuilt and retained, preserving the traditional character of the engine while providing dependable operation.

Mechanical upgrades and improvements include:
Rebuilt 351M V8 engine
Rebuilt Motorcraft two-barrel carburetor with electric choke
Long-tube exhaust headers
New dual exhaust system
Upgraded high-energy ignition
150-amp internally regulated alternator
New starter, hoses, and belts
Seven-blade mechanical cooling fan
Auxiliary electric cooling fan with thermostatic control
Refreshed cooling system
Updated electrical protection with fuses and circuit breakers
The automatic transmission was also completely rebuilt, and the driveshaft U-joints and related driveline components were renewed. During the driving demonstration, the engine exhibited strong oil pressure, responsive acceleration, and cool operating temperatures. Four-Wheel Drive, Suspension & Brakes
The restoration extended well beyond the body and engine.

Both front and rear differentials were removed and serviced, including replacement of pinion bearings and seals. The front axle received new U-joints, while the braking system was extensively renewed with new front rotors, calipers, rear drums, brake lines, and parking-brake cables. The suspension features a 4-inch lift with 33-inch tires, giving the Bronco an aggressive but balanced appearance.

Additional chassis and suspension work includes:
Rebuilt front and rear differential components
Rebuilt steering gearbox
Power steering
Four-inch suspension lift
Dropped pitman arm and adjustable steering linkage
Retained front sway bar
New front wheel bearings
Renewed front disc and rear drum brakes
New brake lines and parking-brake cables
New fuel tank and fuel lines
New driveshaft U-joints and replacement driveline components
The result is a Bronco that combines its original rugged four-wheel-drive character with substantial mechanical refurbishment. Custom Interior & Modern Comforts
Inside, this Bronco features a beautifully finished cabin with new upholstery, carpeting, dashboard components, and carefully integrated modern conveniences. A pair of new Corbeau front bucket seats with headrests provides improved comfort and support, while the rear seat remains removable for additional cargo space.

Extensive sound insulation was installed throughout the cabin to help reduce road noise and vibration. Interior equipment and upgrades include:
New Corbeau front bucket seats
Refreshed rear seating with seat belts
New carpeting and interior trim
New dashboard
Updated instrument cluster with tachometer
Additional mechanical temperature gauge
Vintage Air air conditioning, heat, and defrost
R-134a air conditioning system
Upgraded audio system with four JBL speakers
Hidden radio installation
Interior LED courtesy lighting
Additional rear cargo-area LED lighting
Refurbished window mechanisms and new seals
Finished removable hardtop interior
The Vintage Air system provides a welcome improvement in comfort, while the additional lighting makes the cabin and cargo area more practical after dark. LED Lighting & Thoughtful Custom Details
The builder incorporated LED lighting throughout the Bronco, including exterior marker lights, interior courtesy lighting, rear cargo lighting, and an underhood work light.

Additional door-activated courtesy lights illuminate the cabin when entering or exiting. These upgrades were integrated with attention to wiring protection and reliability, using additional circuit breakers and fuses where appropriate. Extensive Restoration Documentation
One of the most appealing aspects of this Bronco is the depth of documentation accompanying the build.

The restoration reportedly took approximately two years and involved extensive hands-on work, careful parts selection, and numerous custom details. More than 800 photographs document the restoration, including the body-off process, metal repairs, chassis refurbishment, mechanical work, and final assembly. This documentation provides valuable insight into the quality and scope of the work, particularly in areas that are normally hidden once a vehicle is assembled.

The 1978-1979 Ford Bronco has become one of the most recognizable full-size classic SUVs, admired for its bold styling, removable rear roof, rugged four-wheel-drive capability, and unmistakable presence. This particular example stands apart thanks to its comprehensive frame-off restoration, rebuilt drivetrain, extensive mechanical upgrades, fresh interior, and remarkable restoration documentation. Finished in an eye-catching factory-style color combination and equipped with modern comforts while retaining its classic Ford character, this Bronco offers the appeal of a carefully restored vintage 4x4 without sacrificing the driving enjoyment that makes these trucks so desirable.

An exceptionally detailed 1979 Ford Bronco restoration with just 74 miles since completion, ready to be enjoyed, shown, and appreciated. For Sale By Owner Located In Smithtown, NY 11787
Take A L@@K At The Video On YouTube: 
Follow This Link To Over 300 High Resolution Photos:  eXx37
 
Trim: 4x4 For Sale
Options: Premium Sound System, Four Wheel Drive

Classic Ford Bronco Buyer's Guide

Full guide
T
Tom Ramirez
Corvette
1966–1996
~6 min read
Updated Apr 2026
Definitive buyer's guide for classic Ford Bronco 1966-1996. Early Bronco 1966-1977 and Big Bronco 1978-1996 generations, frame and tub rust, 289/302 V8 identification, current market pricing.
This guide covers
✓ 10-point inspection checklist
✓ Common issues & what to avoid
✓ In-person inspection guide
✓ Market pricing by year & condition
✓ 5 FAQs answered
✓ History & fun facts

Ford Bronco Market Overview

Based on 108 Ford Bronco listings currently on ClassicCarsArena.com

108
Listed Now
$63,993
Avg. Asking Price
1966–1996
Year Range
Price Position on Our Site - Average Range
This car: $69,995
Low: $5,000 High: $274,995
Transmission Distribution
Automatic 56% ◄
Manual 31%
Condition Distribution
Excellent 16%
Good 10%
Fair 2%
Data from ClassicCarsArena.com listings Browse all 108 listings →
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Classic Ford Bronco Buyer's Guide

The Ford Bronco has lived through five distinct platform generations across thirty years of production, but the classic Bronco market splits cleanly into two eras: the "Early Bronco" (1966-1977) and the "Big Bronco" (1978-1996). The first generation has become the single fastest-appreciating American collector vehicle of the past decade, with documented original examples now trading for sums that rival muscle-car territory. I've spent two decades chronicling Ford's SUV history, and the build sheet tells the real story on every Bronco, what was originally optional, what was dealer-installed, and what has been added during the car's lifetime. This guide covers what separates a documented original Early Bronco from a creative "restomod" build sold as factory-original.

What to Check Before Buying

✓
Order Marti Report for any 1967+ Bronco over $30K , Marti Auto Works $25. Confirms original engine, transmission, axle, paint, options, dealer destination.
✓
Cross-reference against Bronco Driver registry , Marque registry maintains records of known-original and known-restored cars. Identifies modifications.
✓
Inspect frame body mount points (Early Broncos) , Six per side. Probe with screwdriver. Solid steel resists; rotten metal flakes. Replacement = $8,000-$18,000.
✓
Examine rear frame cross-member , Common rust point on Early Broncos. Critical for trailer towing capacity and chassis integrity.
✓
Lift rubber mats and check floor pans , Both driver and passenger sides, front and rear. Universal rust point on Early Broncos.
✓
Verify uncut tub vs cut-and-modified , Original sheet metal has factory spot welds and seams. Modified sheet metal has hand-welded joints. Uncut tubs add 25-50% premium.
✓
Cross-reference VIN engine code with block casting , 8th digit of VIN (1968+) = engine code. Block casting numbers verify Windsor 289/302 originality.
✓
Verify Dana axle casting numbers , Dana 30 (1966-1971) and Dana 44 (1972-1977) front axles. Original units add value when verified factory-installed.
✓
Check rear cargo area floor (Early Broncos) , Lift rear seat or storage compartment. Common rust point invisible from outside.
✓
Test all electrical and 4WD engagement , Hubs, transfer case, and 4WD selector should engage cleanly. Failed components on Big Bronco era cost real money to repair.

Common Issues

Early Bronco rust is the structural killer for any 1966-1977 Bronco that lived in salt-belt climates. The frame rusts at the body mount points and the rear cross-member; the body tub rusts at the rocker panels, the floor pans (especially the rear cargo area floor), the lower fenders behind the front wheels, the tailgate hinges, and the cowl seam where the windshield base meets the firewall. Cars described as "uncut, rust-free" with original tubs are increasingly rare and command significant premium pricing. Mechanically, the Early Bronco's engine options are simple. The 170 inline-six (1966-1969), 200 inline-six (1970-1977), 289 V8 (1966-1968), and 302 V8 (1969-1977) are all bulletproof when maintained. The Dana 30 front axle (1966-1971) and Dana 44 front axle (1972-1977) are robust; the Ford 9-inch rear axle is essentially indestructible. The Toploader 3-speed manual transmission is durable; the C4 automatic (1973+) is similarly reliable. Common issues include worn kingpins on Dana 30 axles, leaking transfer case seals, and tired carburetor settings. Big Bronco (1978-1996) issues are different. The 1978-1979 Big Broncos used the Bronco-specific frame; 1980+ Big Broncos shared the F-150 platform. Rust patterns shifted to the rear quarter panels, the cab corners (lower section behind the rear doors), the rear wheel arches, and the tailgate. Mechanically, the 351M, 400, 460, 302, 351W, and 5.8L V8 engines are all robust. Common issues include failed fuel pumps (1980-1989 cars used in-tank pumps that fail expensively), TFI ignition modules, and worn front axle u-joints. Electrical issues vary by generation. Early Broncos have brittle 50+ year-old wiring; Big Broncos have more sophisticated electrical systems prone to module failures.

What to Look For

Marti Auto Works build sheets are the gold-standard documentation for any 1967-and-later Bronco. The build sheet ($25 for basic, more for elite reports) confirms the original equipment of the car: engine code, transmission code, axle ratio, paint code, options, and dealer destination. For any Early Bronco priced over $30,000, the Marti Report is mandatory, too many cars on the market wear emblems and equipment that wasn't original to the car. Frame inspection is the first non-negotiable for Early Broncos. The frame rusts at the body mount points (six per side on Early Broncos) and at the rear cross-member. Lift the body off the frame with a flashlight and probe rusty areas with a screwdriver. Solid steel resists; rotten metal flakes. Frame replacement is a serious undertaking, $8,000-$18,000 for proper professional work. Tub inspection is the second non-negotiable. The Early Bronco body tub is a single welded steel structure that becomes increasingly difficult to repair properly as rust progresses. Inspect the floor pans (lift the rubber mats), the rocker panels (under the doors), the rear cargo area floor (lift the rear seat or storage compartment), the cab corners, and the tailgate hinge area. Cars described as "uncut tubs" with original sheet metal are the gold standard. Engine and drivetrain verification: cross-reference the VIN engine code (eighth digit, on 1968+ cars) with the engine block casting number. The Early Bronco 289 (1966-1968) and 302 (1969-1977) Windsor V8s have specific casting numbers that verify originality. The 170 and 200 inline-sixes are similarly identifiable. Original Dana axles have specific casting numbers and stampings that verify factory installation. Document the build sheet against the car. Cross-reference against the marque registry, the Bronco Driver registry maintains records of known-original cars and known-restored cars. The build sheet tells the real story.

Price Guide

Early Bronco (1966-1977) values have appreciated dramatically over the past decade. Driver-quality 1966-1969 cars (the original 'short' Bronco) run $45,000-$80,000 today. 1970-1977 cars run $35,000-$70,000 in driver condition. Documented original-paint, low-mileage examples can reach $95,000-$150,000+. Documented uncut original tubs in survivor condition are the ultimate Early Bronco, these cars trade for $80,000-$220,000 depending on year, condition, and equipment. The 1966 launch year cars are the most desirable, with documented original 1966 cars approaching $200,000+ when fully verified. LS-swapped restomod Early Broncos (with modern drivetrains, modern brakes, modern interior) run $80,000-$220,000 depending on quality of build. Frame-up restomod builds from recognized specialists (Gateway, Velocity, Maxlider, Icon) run $200,000-$500,000+. Big Bronco (1978-1996) pricing is dramatically more affordable. Driver-quality 1978-1979 cars run $22,000-$42,000. 1980-1989 cars run $15,000-$32,000. 1990-1996 cars run $12,000-$28,000. The 1990s OJ Simpson-era white Broncos have appreciated due to pop-culture interest, clean white 1990-1996 Broncos run $22,000-$45,000. Project Early Broncos (running but rough) start around $15,000-$28,000. Stripped roller candidates can be had for $8,000-$20,000, but rust restoration on a Bronco typically runs $30,000-$70,000 in body and frame work alone before paint.

Did You Know?

The 1966 Ford Bronco was developed under chief engineer Paul Axelrad as a direct response to the original Jeep CJ. Ford Product Planning identified an unmet market for a compact, capable, on-road-and-off-road vehicle that would appeal to suburban families as well as serious off-roaders. The original concept was approved by Lee Iacocca (then Vice President of Ford Motor Company) in 1963, and the car launched in August 1965 as a 1966 model. Only 4,090 Roadster variants (Bronco model U13) were built in 1966, making them among the rarest Early Bronco variants. The U13 Roadster had no roof and no doors. The Half-Cab Pickup was a separate body style (model U14) with a fixed forward roof and open rear cargo bed. Documented Roadster examples in survivor condition trade for $80,000-$150,000+ today. The Bronco was discontinued in 1996 after 30 years of continuous production, replaced by the four-door Ford Expedition for the 1997 model year. Ford reintroduced the Bronco nameplate for the 2021 model year on an entirely new platform, but the 1966-1996 classic Broncos remain a separate market segment with no direct connection to the new vehicles. I've spent two decades chronicling Ford's SUV history, and the original Bronco's combination of compact dimensions, rugged engineering, and timeless styling explain why these cars have become the fastest-appreciating American collector vehicles of the past decade.

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