'Bought an '86 Bronco. I'm not quite into it 10 times what I paid for it, but I can see it from here. Rebuilt short block, rebuilt carb (that probably still needs to be replaced), brakes, shocks, tires. I still need an air pump put back on the fuel system, probably an Edelbrock carb to replace the crap Holley that's on it, all the window molding replaced (except the windshield), and a passenger door electric window motor (it died today, with the wife operating). And if someone can figure out where the top is squeaking, I'll consider selling one of the kids.

Does anyone have a recommendation for a reasonable place that knows what the hell they're doing in the Central Texas area? (San Antonio, to Kerrville, to Austin and back)? I'm done with the place by my house. Every time I take it back, they've "moved" people to other locations. The last time I had it there, I finally talked to the mechanic and he told me all sorts of stuff that should have been communicated to me on trip #1.

I'm not a mechanic. My father restored antique cars. I just want to hunt in the dam thing next season. If I could sell it I would, but I'm way past the point of no return.

All suggestions appreciated.

Insure it and burn it.

Better buy a Haynes manual and become mechanical. That or have really deep pockets.

The 80's model ford trucks are a snap to work on and really built like tanks.

If it has the Variable Venturi carb on it, throw it away and replace it.

Yeah, the Venturi was pitched way before me. There's a Holley on it now.

Can't help with a local mechanic, but take the top loose and lube the seal between the top and cab. Or, put a new seal there if there's not one. Probably take care of your squeak. You can take the top loose, pull it back from the cab, and set a couple of 2x4s in between the bed and top to get some room to work.

You might call BC broncos in Ingram, Tx. I know they work on early broncos, not sure about the newer ones.

CR, you don't have to be a mech to work on that old truck. It's actually pretty easy and simple. Find a buddy to help out and dig in. If I was closer I'd stupidvise you.

Thanks guys. Cast, I appreciate the offer, but you wouldn't want to watch a guy act like a Tasmanian devil every time something doesn't work out perfectly. My "chi" gets messed up at the drop of a hat. I will do what I can myself, however. (Haynes manual ordered.)

Eastwood - Thanks, I might give them a call. I'd found them on the web and realized my brother has talked for years about them. He's letting my father's perfect (when he passed) '67 rot in the barn. I'd like to flog him for it, but it wouldn't help family relations.

That's a shame about the 67. I've got a 77 that needs some attention. My plan is to take it to bc Broncos when I get some bills paid off. I could do it all myself but it's easier to pay a professional to do it.

Taking it places us gonna keep the cost rising. All that you mentioned doesn't need a mechanic so much as a parts swapper! You got this bud, plus if stuff messes up in the future you will have a better idea what to fix or have fixed than just throwing parts at it. Good luck.

I had a 1990 Bronco. It had many of the same components, but that motor was fuel injected. Be glad you are carbuerated.

MY experience: You will chase those electric window motors. I replaced all 3 in the short time I owned it. As to the top, pull it, clean and lube the seal real good, should fix it. If not, check the torque across the mounting bolts to make sure you don't have an uneven "press" on the top.

As to the mechanical issues, I agree with the other guys. Those trucks aren't complicated. Take pics, pull it apart, fix what's broken, put it back so it looks like the picture. Remember it's not your daily driver so there is no pressure if it takes you a few days. Crack a cold one if you need to to help with your patience, and look at it as fun!

Any old school mechanic worth $.02 should be able to tune that carb if you don't feel confident there. If it's freshly rebuilt right, should be reliable.

Sounds like you are real close to having a solid truck! Don't give up now!

Good post TxAg

you can find how to videos on you tube that will walk you thru just about anything

Combined with the fact that I'm just a PM/ phone call away, you could tackle just about any repiar on it.

Keep after it, you'll have a decent vehicle soon. 302 or 351?

I had an '85 351 HO (bought new back in the day) drove it quite a few years. Still have '90 model for a ranch vehicle and a '70 model half cab.

They aren't that difficult to work on. Lots of reasons for one to 'die', but start with determining whether it is fuel or spark related.

Control module on earlier Broncos were famous for causing intermittent failures (die on you, only to start back up).

Good luck with it, have patience.

Flint.

I have a blazer, 1992, guy here(in Temple) rebuilt the engine and fixed whatever I wanted on it ------ charges $25 an hour,,,, he is a certified Ford mechanic. my office # is 254 773 8010 if you want more info. Here is a pic of the truck,,, since it has a light bar we will probably use it for deer hunting at night.

That generation ford window motor is notorious for the plastic parts in the gears failing. Pull the motor, pop off the cover, and replace the black stuff floating around in there with 6 1/4" nuts.

As far as your air pump goes, you don't need that, or any other emission control parts to pass inspection in Texas. Vehicles older than 25 years are safety inspection only.

'Appreciate all the comments gentlemen. I've been off of here for a while. She's still running. I haven't given up on her yet. I think she started listening to me a little bit.