In 1966, when Ford launched its first-generation Bronco, the other Detroit manufacturers didn't produce anything quite like it. The new little Bronco had utility and charm, and it was more refined than the Jeep of the era. Beginning in 1978, Bronco chassis mirrored the F-150 until 1996. At that time, market forces dictated a change to a vehicle that was more practical, such as the Ford Expedition, which replaced the Bronco.
In response to consumer demand and nostalgia, an entirely new generation of Bronco was launched in 2021. However, the planning process began several years later. Ford confirmed the return of the Bronco at the 2017 North American International Auto Show and spent the next four years building excitement for the vehicle's launch.
In New Ford Bronco: Performance Modifications, off-road veteran and expert Don Alexander assembled this guide, which includes options to make the new Bronco an even more capable vehicle. Covered are model histories, suspension, brakes, tires, electronics, tops, armor, recovery, drivelines, overlanding, and more. If you already have a Bronco that you want to modify or you are thinking about purchasing one in the future and want to know your options, this guide is vital.
Introduction
Chapter 1: Bronco Models
2023 Bronco G.O.A.T. Modes
Model Details
Sasquatch Package
Other Bronco Electronic Controls
Chapter 2: 2023 Bronco Wildtrak Two-Door Off-Road Test
2023 Ford Bronco Wildtrak Standard Equipment
Off-Road Testing
Questionable Features on an Off-Road-Capable Vehicle
Upgrades to Make Before Going Off-Road
Conclusion
Chapter 3: Tires and Wheels
Off-Road Tires
Tire Pressure
Sidewall Height Reduction
Wheels
Chapter 4: Suspension
Suspension Components
How Suspension Works
Shock Absorbers
OEM Shocks and Suspension
Coilovers
Solid Axles versus Independent Suspension
Chapter 5: Steering and Alignment
Steering System
Potential Problems
Aftermarket Upgrades
Alignment
Chapter 6: Brakes
Braking Elements
Rotors
Calipers
Pads
Kits
Fluid
Chapter 7: Driveline
Ring-and-Pinion Gear Upgrades
Axle Upgrades
Chapter 8: Engine and Transmission Upgrades
Engine Upgrades
Transmission Upgrades
Chapter 9: Electrical, Lighting, and Interior Upgrades
Auxiliary Switching Solutions
Auxiliary Lighting
Radio Communication
Messengers
Batteries and Jumper Batteries
Interior Upgrades and Storage
Chapter 10: Armor, Protection, and Bumpers
Skid Plates
Rock Sliders
Body Armor
Fenders
Bumpers
Winch Mounts
Tire Mounts
Other Mounts
Chapter 11: Getting Unstuck: Vehicle Recovery Tools, Winching, and Recovery Techniques
Recovery Tools
Recovery Techniques
Winching Rules
Winter Recovery
Towing a Disabled Vehicle
Dealing with a Broken Tie-Rod
Chapter 12: Overlanding
Tents
Off-Road Trailers
Coolers and Refrigerators
Security
Chapter 13: Tops
Factory Soft Top
Factory Hardtop
Aftermarket Tops
Chapter 14: Bronco Off-Roading Tips
Visual Fields
Steering Wheel Hand Placement
Place Tires for Ground Clearance
Look for Traction
Disconnect Sway Bars
Spotter
Learn Basic Navigation
Travel in Groups or File a Flight Plan
Bring a Tow Strap and Shackles
Carry a First-Aid Kit
Stay on Designated Routes
Pack out Trash
Angle through Ruts
Speed for Hill Climbs
Gear/Transfer-Case Ratio
Downhill Braking
Dropping Down Ledges
Steering
Left-Foot Braking
Fire Safety
Trail Difficulty
Sand Driving
Bronco Off-Roadeo
Source Guide