Early Bronco Interior - Whatsinterior

Restoring and Modifying the Early Bronco Interior

The Early Bronco, produced by Ford from 1966 to 1977, holds a significant place in automotive history as one of the original sport utility vehicles (SUVs). Its rugged construction and simple design made it popular for both on and off-road use. A significant aspect of owning or restoring an Early Bronco revolves around its interior. Whether aiming for a factory-correct restoration or a customized modern upgrade, understanding the components and options available is essential.

The interior of the Early Bronco was characterized by its utilitarian nature. Functionality was prioritized over luxury, reflecting the vehicle’s intended use. Over time, wear and tear, exposure to the elements, and modifications by previous owners often necessitate restoration or replacement of interior components. This article explores the key aspects of the Early Bronco interior, focusing on restoration considerations and popular modification options.

Original Interior Components and Considerations

The original interior of the Early Bronco comprised several key elements. These include the seats, dashboard, door panels, floor coverings, and headliner (if equipped). Each of these components possesses unique characteristics and challenges when it comes to restoration.

Seats in early Broncos were typically offered in vinyl upholstery, reflecting the vehicle's practical design. Original seat frames are often durable, but the upholstery and foam padding are susceptible to wear and degradation. Restoring seats often involves stripping the old upholstery, repairing any damage to the frame, replacing the foam padding, and installing new upholstery that matches the original color and pattern. Reproduction upholstery kits are readily available, allowing restorers to maintain a factory-correct appearance.

The dashboard in the Early Bronco was relatively simple, typically made of painted steel. The dashboard houses the instrument cluster, which includes gauges for speed, fuel level, temperature, and oil pressure. Over time, the dashboard can suffer from rust, dents, and fading. Restoration usually involves removing the dashboard, repairing any damage, and repainting it in the original color. Replacement dashboards are also available, offering a more straightforward solution for severely damaged units. The instrument cluster itself often requires refurbishment, including cleaning the gauges, replacing bulbs, and repairing any malfunctioning mechanisms. Modern electronic gauges can be integrated while maintaining the classic look.

Door panels in the Early Bronco are typically constructed from cardboard or fiberboard covered in vinyl. They are prone to water damage, warping, and tearing. Restoration involves repairing or replacing the backing board and installing new vinyl upholstery. Reproduction door panels are commonly available and provide an easy way to restore the original look of the interior. Original door handles and window cranks can often be restored with cleaning and lubrication.

Floor coverings in the Early Bronco originally consisted of a rubber mat. This mat provided basic protection for the floor pan and was easy to clean. Over time, these mats can become brittle and cracked, requiring replacement. Reproduction rubber mats are available, offering a direct replacement for the original. As an alternative, some owners opt for carpet, which provides a more comfortable and luxurious feel. However, carpet is less resistant to water and dirt than the original rubber mat.

Headliners were not standard on all Early Broncos, but were available as an option, typically on upper trim levels. These headliners were usually made of vinyl or cloth. Restoring a headliner often involves removing the old material, repairing any damage to the headliner board, and installing new material. Reproduction headliners are available, making it easier to restore the original look.

Popular Interior Modifications

While preserving the original character of the Early Bronco is a common goal for many enthusiasts, incorporating modern upgrades and customizations is also a popular trend. These modifications can improve comfort, functionality, and aesthetics.

One common modification is upgrading the seats. Modern bucket seats or bench seats can provide improved support and comfort compared to the original seats. These seats can be upholstered in a variety of materials, including leather, vinyl, and cloth, allowing owners to customize the look of their interior. Heated seats are another popular upgrade, particularly for those who use their Early Bronco in colder climates. Suspension seats are also used to improve comfort while off-roading.

Another popular modification is upgrading the sound system. The original Early Bronco was equipped with a basic AM radio. Many owners choose to replace this with a modern stereo system that includes features such as Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and satellite radio. New speakers can also be installed to improve sound quality. When installing a modern stereo system, it is important to consider the available space and the need to maintain the original look of the dashboard. Some owners opt for hidden stereo systems that can be controlled via a smartphone or tablet.

Another frequent modification involves enhancing the instrument cluster. Replacing the original gauges with modern electronic gauges offers improved accuracy and reliability. Digital displays can also be incorporated to provide additional information, such as engine temperature, oil pressure, and battery voltage. Some owners choose to retain the original gauge housings while installing new gauge internals, allowing them to maintain the classic look of the dashboard while benefiting from modern technology. Aftermarket gauge clusters can be installed in a way that complements the original look of the interior.

Selecting Materials and Finishes

The choice of materials and finishes plays a crucial role in the overall look and feel of the Early Bronco interior. Whether aiming for a factory-correct restoration or a customized upgrade, carefully selecting the appropriate materials and finishes is essential.

For factory-correct restorations, it is important to use materials that closely match the original specifications. This includes vinyl upholstery with the correct grain pattern, paint colors that match the original factory hues, and rubber mats that replicate the original design. Reproduction parts are often available that are specifically designed to meet these requirements. Consulting with Early Bronco experts and referring to original factory documentation can help ensure accuracy.

For customized interiors, the options are virtually limitless. Leather upholstery offers a luxurious and durable option. Different types of carpets can be used to create a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing interior. Custom paint colors and finishes allow owners to personalize the look of their dashboard and other interior components. Modern materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum can be incorporated to add a contemporary touch. When selecting materials and finishes for a customized interior, it is important to consider the overall style and theme of the vehicle. A cohesive design will result in a more visually appealing and functional interior.

The quality of materials is also a crucial consideration. Using high-quality materials will ensure that the interior components are durable and long-lasting. While cheaper alternatives may be tempting, they often lack the durability and longevity of higher-quality materials. Investing in high-quality materials will ultimately save money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

The Early Bronco interior presents a unique opportunity for restoration enthusiasts and customizers alike. Whether striving for historical accuracy or modern functionality, careful planning and execution are essential. Understanding the original design elements and exploring available modification options allows for the creation of an interior that reflects both the heritage and the individual style of the owner.