09/04/2024
Meet Mark - and Mark's Bronco!
"My parents originally bought this Bronco for one of my older brothers, but he decided to pass on it, and I jumped at the chance to get it. I was 17 at the time, and although it needed a lot of work, it was my first vehicle, and from that day on, I became a Bronco person. I purchased it in 1988 from a guy my dad worked with, and it seemed like the perfect fit for my hobbies, which included four-wheeling, hunting, and fishing.
Over the years, I've made numerous modifications to modernize and enhance the Bronco's performance. Almost every aspect has been upgraded. I swapped out the original 320CI engine for a professionally built 408CI fuel-injected powerplant by Proformance Unlimited, paired with a Dakota Digital gauge cluster to monitor it. The original transmission and transfer case were replaced with a NP435 4-speed and NP205 transfer case from a 1978 Ford pickup. To strengthen the axles, I added a heavy-duty Ford 9-inch rear end and Dana 44 front end, both outfitted with Yukon lockers and four-wheel disk brakes. Dual long-travel shocks on all corners improved stability, and I added a power steering conversion and Hydro-boost for better drivability. I also customized the roll bar and installed five-point racing seat belts, along with replacing the old vacuum wiper motors with a newer electric system. The Bronco now has dual fuel tanks for a total of 35 gallons, and I used LizardSkin insulation and Raptor Liner to make it more durable and easier to clean. To top it off, the exterior is finished with Toyota's Inferno paint, applied by a good friend and fellow Bronco enthusiast.
What I love most about this Bronco is that I built it for myself—it’s entirely mine. Every time I drive it, I have memorable moments, especially seeing people's reactions on the road. While I'm always keeping an eye out for new ways to improve it, for now, my plan is to enjoy driving it as much as possible.
One of the best parts about participating in car shows like Wheels and Waves or Muscle & Chrome is the people you meet. Whether they're participants or spectators, we're all enthusiasts, and the shared passion is what makes these events special."
