Key Takeaways:
- Know What You're Buying: Most 1979 Broncos arrive with a working history that shows up in predictable, diagnosable places.
- Common Fixes Come First: Axle seals, steering components, carburetors, and soft tops appear on nearly every 1979 restoration.
- Sequence the Build: Mechanical foundation before performance, performance before accessories. The order prevents expensive rework.
Most 1979 Ford Broncos that come into a restoration shop have a story. You can read it in the worn steering, the leaking axle seals, the gummed carburetor, and the soft top frame that gave up years ago. These trucks were built to be used, and they were.
TOMS OFFROAD has been sourcing and supplying parts for full-size Broncos since this generation was still new on the road. That history means knowing which fixes show up on nearly every 1979 build, and in what order they need to be addressed.
This guide is a practical walkthrough of a 1979 Ford Bronco restoration: what these trucks typically look like when they arrive, which common fixes to run through first, how to approach the Gen 2 suspension and drivetrain, and which finishing accessories complete the build.
What A 1979 Ford Bronco Usually Looks Like When It Shows Up
Most 1979 Broncos coming into a project have lived a working life. That history shows up in predictable places that experienced builders know to check immediately. TOMS OFFROAD has documented similar baseline condition patterns in its Bronco restoration guide and its early Bronco restoration hub, which breaks down how full-size Broncos typically arrive before restoration begins.
High-mileage Wear Patterns Specific To The 1979 Model
The 1979 Bronco shares its full-size platform with the F-Series truck line, which means it was often used as a working vehicle alongside recreational off-road duty. High-mileage wear concentrates in the steering system, drivetrain seals, fuel delivery components, and soft top hardware, all areas that see repeated use and environmental exposure over decades.
1979 Bronco Restoration: What Previous Modifications Usually Leave Behind
A significant number of 1979 Broncos have been modified before reaching a restoration builder. Previous lift kits installed with incorrect geometry, aftermarket carburetors fitted without proper tuning, and non-standard wiring additions are all common findings. Documenting these modifications early in the inspection prevents diagnostic confusion later in the build. More context on identifying inherited build issues and restoration sequencing can be found in the TOMS OFFROAD resource hub, which supports planning across different Bronco generations.
Assessing Whether A 1979 Bronco Is A Driver, Restorer, Or Parts Car
Not every 1979 Bronco is a restoration candidate. Frame damage, extensive rust-through, or a history of poor repairs can make a vehicle more valuable as a parts donor. Establishing this assessment early, before emotional attachment and parts investment accumulate, is one of the most important early decisions in any 1979 build.
How The Gen 2 Platform Ages Compared To Earlier Broncos
The full-size platform ages differently from the compact Classic body. The larger chassis resists body flex better, but the greater weight accelerates wear on steering, suspension, and drivetrain components. The emissions and fuel system complexity added in the late 1970s also introduced more potential failure points than the simpler Classic-era systems. For enthusiasts comparing the full-size platform to earlier compact Broncos, the 66-77 Bronco catalog highlights the key structural and mechanical differences between generations.
The Most Common Fixes On A 1979 Ford Bronco Project
These repairs appear on nearly every 1979 Bronco restoration, regardless of mileage, region, or build history.
- Rear Axle Seal Leaks: Leaking axle seals on the rear Dana axle are standard wear items on 1979 builds and should be addressed before fluid-sensitive components are installed nearby.
- Power Steering Pump and Box: Stiff or sloppy steering is common on 1979 models. The pump, steering box, and lines should be inspected and often replaced as a complete system.
- Carburettor Rebuilding Or Replacement: Gummed carburetors from years of sitting are near-universal on 1979 Broncos and immediately affect idle quality, fuel economy, and cold-start reliability.
- Soft Top Frames And Latches: Original soft top hardware fatigues and fails with age. Sourcing correct-fit replacements from TOMS OFFROAD restores proper weather protection for the build.
Working through these common fixes in sequence gives the 1979 build a reliable mechanical baseline before any performance or cosmetic work begins.
Suspension And Drivetrain Work On The 1979 Platform
The full-size Gen 2 suspension and drivetrain have specific characteristics every 1979 Bronco builder needs to understand before lifting, upgrading, or replacing related components. For builders considering drivetrain upgrades, the guide on modern engine swaps into an Early Bronco outlines common conversion paths.
1979 Bronco Build: Front Suspension Inspection And Upgrade Path
The TTB front end on the 1979 Bronco requires a complete inspection of radius arm bushings, ball joints, and alignment geometry before any lift or handling upgrade is addressed. Worn bushings cause an imprecise steering feel and premature tire wear. Replacing them is a prerequisite for any suspension upgrade work on the Gen 2 platform.
Dana Axle Condition And What To Look For
The Dana front and rear axles on the 1979 Bronco are robust but age-sensitive. Check for bearing play at the wheel ends, inspect differential seals for seepage, and evaluate the ring and pinion for noise or backlash. Serviceable axle components can often be refreshed with seal and bearing kits rather than requiring full axle replacement.
Transfer Case Function And Common Engagement Problems
The transfer case on a 1979 Bronco should engage smoothly in all four-wheel-drive modes. Difficulty engaging 4-Low or 4-High points to worn linkage, low fluid, or internal wear. Diagnose and resolve transfer case issues before any suspension lift work alters driveshaft angles.
Matching Suspension Upgrades To Intended Use
A 1979 Bronco built for trail use requires different suspension specifications than one used primarily on the street. Lift height, spring rate, shock valving, and wheel offset all change based on intended use. Deciding this before sourcing components from the 78–96 Bronco catalog prevents buying hardware that conflicts with the build's actual purpose.
Finishing The 1979 Bronco: Accessories And Final Upgrades
Once the mechanical foundation is solid, these final-stage additions bring the 1979 Bronco to a complete, trail-ready, road-worthy state.
- Interior Bars And Safety Accessories: Properly fitted interior bars from the TOMS OFFROAD catalog add structural support suited to the full-size Gen 2 body dimensions.
- Gen 2 Bronco Restoration Lighting Upgrades: Modern bulbs in factory-compatible housings from the 78–96 Bronco Lighting catalog improve nighttime visibility without requiring invasive electrical modifications.
- Offroad Recovery Gear: A complete recovery kit mounted to the full-size frame prepares the 1979 Bronco for trail situations the Gen 2 platform was built to handle.
- Wheels And All-Terrain Fitment: Selecting wheels with the correct bolt pattern and backspacing for the Gen 2 axles ensures proper clearance, load ratings, and handling geometry on the finished build.
Owners comparing Gen 2 platform parts across nearby years can also reference the 1978 Ford Bronco Parts catalog and 1980 Ford Bronco Parts catalog when sourcing compatible full-size components. A finished 1979 Bronco restored correctly is one of the most capable and satisfying builds in the classic off-road community.
Final Thoughts
A 1979 Ford Bronco restoration follows a predictable path when you know the platform. Common fixes first, suspension and drivetrain second, accessories last. That sequence keeps the build moving without waste.
TOMS OFFROAD supports the full-size Bronco generation with the same catalog depth it brings to the Classic lineup.
Fix what needs fixing. Build what deserves building.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1979 Ford Bronco Restoration
What generation is the 1979 Ford Bronco?
The 1979 Bronco is part of the second-generation full-size Bronco platform introduced in 1978.
What are the most common repairs on a 1979 Ford Bronco restoration?
Axle seal leaks, steering components, carburetor rebuilding, and soft top hardware are near-universal fixes.
What front axle does the 1979 Ford Bronco use?
The 1979 Bronco uses a Twin Traction Beam front suspension with Dana axle components.
Does TOMS OFFROAD carry suspension parts for the 1979 Ford Bronco?
Yes, the 78–96 Bronco Suspension Parts catalog covers the full-size platform, including the 1979 model.
Should I rebuild or replace the carburetor on a 1979 Bronco?
Either is valid. The choice depends on the condition, but addressing it early prevents fuel delivery issues throughout the build.
What is the correct bolt pattern for 1979 Ford Bronco wheels?
The 1979 Bronco uses a 5x5.5 inch bolt pattern. Verify backspacing based on your lift and axle configuration.
