Everything You Need To Know About Upgrading The Suspension of Your 1966-1977 Ford Bronco for a Smoother Ride

The early Bronco (1966-1977) is a classic off-road icon, loved for its rugged design and timeless appeal. However, the factory suspension on these vintage vehicles often leaves room for improvement. Whether you're restoring your Bronco to its former glory or upgrading it for serious off-road capability, modern suspension components can significantly enhance your driving experience.

Why Upgrade Your Early Bronco Suspension?

The suspension system is the backbone of your Bronco’s drivability, directly impacting ride quality, handling, and off-road capability. Over the decades, factory suspension components can wear out or become outdated, resulting in a harsh ride and compromised handling. Here's why upgrading your early Bronco’s suspension is worth it:

• Restored Ride Comfort: Replacing worn-out parts with high-quality modern components ensures your Bronco handles like it did when it rolled off the assembly line—or better.

• Improved Handling: A well-tuned suspension system improves vehicle stability, reducing body roll and enhancing steering response.

• Enhanced Off-Road Capability: Upgraded suspension increases ground clearance, articulation, and overall durability, enabling your Bronco to tackle rugged trails with ease.

Suspension Upgrades Specific to 1966-1977 Broncos

When upgrading the suspension of an early Bronco, consider these key components:

1. Lift Kits

A suspension lift kit increases ground clearance and allows for larger tires, boosting off-road capability and adding to the Bronco’s aggressive stance. For the early Bronco, lift options range from 2.5" to 5.5", depending on your goals. A moderate lift of 2.5" to 3.5" is ideal for mixed on-road and off-road use.

2. Coil and Leaf Springs

Early Broncos feature coil springs in the front and leaf springs in the rear. Upgrading to progressive-rate springs improves ride quality by providing a softer ride on small bumps and increased support for larger impacts. Leaf springs with higher weight ratings are great for towing or carrying heavy loads.

3. Shocks and Struts

High-performance shocks like Bilstein 5100 or Fox 2.0 series provide excellent damping control for both on-road and off-road adventures. These shocks improve handling and ride comfort, especially when paired with a lift kit.

4. C-Bushings and Radius Arm Bushings

The C-bushings and radius arm bushings on early Broncos are critical for proper suspension geometry. Upgrading to polyurethane bushings improves durability and helps maintain alignment, especially after a lift.

5. Adjustable Track Bars

An adjustable track bar ensures the front and rear axles remain centered after lifting the vehicle. This is essential for maintaining proper alignment and avoiding tire rubbing.

6. Extended Brake Lines and Driveshafts

Lifting your Bronco often requires longer brake lines and driveshafts to accommodate the increased suspension travel. Skipping these upgrades can lead to premature wear or failure of critical components.

TOMS OFFROAD: Your Source for Early Bronco Suspension Parts

At TOMS OFFROAD, we specialize in providing top-quality suspension components designed specifically for 1966-1977 Ford Broncos. From complete lift kits to individual parts like shocks, coil springs, and C-bushings, we have everything you need to revamp your suspension.

Popular Suspension Products:

• Coil Springs and Leaf Springs

• Shocks and Struts

• Adjustable Track Bars

• Polyurethane Bushings

• Complete Suspension Lift Kits

Tips for Upgrading Your Early Bronco Suspension

1. Choose the Right Lift Height (If you’re lifting it): A 2.5" to 3.5" lift is ideal for a balance of daily driving and off-road use. Opt for a higher lift only if you're building a dedicated off-road machine.

2. Match Components: Ensure all suspension components—springs, shocks, track bars, and bushings—are compatible with your chosen lift height.

3. Consider Professional Installation: While many suspension upgrades are DIY-friendly, professional installation ensures proper alignment and performance, especially for more complex lifts.

FAQs About Early Bronco Suspension Upgrades

1. What size tires can I run with a 2.5" lift?
You can typically fit up to 33-inch tires with a 2.5" lift on a 1966-1977 Bronco without significant modifications.

2. How do I know if my suspension needs replacing?
Signs include a rough ride, sagging suspension, uneven tire wear, or difficulty handling. Inspect bushings, springs, and shocks for wear or damage.

3. Can I use my stock driveshafts with a lift kit?
For lifts under 3.5", your stock driveshafts may work, but extended driveshafts are recommended for optimal performance and reliability.

4. What is the difference between progressive and linear-rate springs?
Progressive-rate springs offer a smoother ride on small bumps while providing increased support for larger impacts, making them ideal for mixed-use Broncos.

5. Why are polyurethane bushings better than rubber?
Polyurethane bushings last longer and provide better durability and resistance to harsh conditions, making them a superior choice for off-road vehicles.

Revamping your early Bronco’s suspension is a rewarding project that enhances performance, comfort, and safety. Explore TOMS OFFROAD's selection of high-quality suspension parts to start your upgrade journey today!