1981 Bronco Trouble Spots

[Bear76]

This weekend I am going to go check out a 1981 Bronco. I am more knowledgeable about F-150's. I was wondering if someone can give me a few pointers about common things to look for on this year Bronco ie: rust areas, frame rot, bad parts. I know on the F-150 from this model year is one to stay away from if your planning to do a lift and other things because the frames are real inconsistent. I am mainly looking for a few suggestions so I can try to avoid a bad buy. Also, what would be the going price for a decent running mostly rust free Bronco of this vintage these days? Thanks for your time. I am open to any and all useful and helpful information.

 

[Bear76]

Does nobody replying mean that all is fine with the 81's and my question was a dumb one? I hope so. Maybe it is because the Bronco guys do not want to help one of the F-150 boys out...lol. I guess I will go this weekend and see what happens. How bad can it get, right? Thanks for reading this post.

 

[2NDTOUR89]

I had an 81 F150 and it was arguably the best truck I ever owned. I had a lift on it with 35" tires, lockers etc and it outwheeled alot of rigs that I ran around with. Wish I still had it. Anyways, as for Broncos, I would say that the tailgait area is probably the easiest place to get rust but look in all the places you would on a truck and you should be good. The best thing about the 81's is they had the optional 9" rear which if this one has it, you are steps ahead of the game for durability. What I have found is if it has the 9" and double shocks in the front, c6 trans etc, it was as a heavy duty (atleast in my opinion). The f150 and Bronco are really similar so if you have knowledge of the trucks, the you should have a good idea about Bronco's as well.

hope this helps..

 

[Bear76]

That helps a lot. Now as long as this Bronco does not end up being a total POS, I think things will be great. Thanks for your time and your reply. Happy Motoring.