This 1973 Ford Bronco Ranger has a rich history and has been meticulously cared for over the years. Originally utilized as a shop truck for 20 years starting in 1980, it remained under the ownership of a single family until its first appearance on Bring a Trailer (BaT) in November 2022. It was then acquired by the current owner, who has since performed multiple refreshes and upgrades.
Under the current ownership, the 302ci V8 engine, three-speed automatic transmission, and dual-range transfer case have been refreshed. The work also included a front disc brake conversion, rebuilding the rear drum brakes, repairing the power steering system, and replacing various fuel and heater components.
The Bronco is finished in a striking Bright Lime color, complemented by Avocado vinyl and cloth interior upholstery. The cabin was overhauled in January 2022, featuring front bucket seats and a rear bench re-covered in Avocado vinyl with patterned cloth inserts. Additional interior upgrades include Dynamat sound deadening installed in the front cabin, replacement carpeting, color-coordinated door panel inserts, lap belts, vent windows, a roll bar, and a Pioneer stereo linked to aftermarket speakers mounted in the wheel tubs.
This truck is equipped with a limited-slip rear differential (3.50:1 gears), eight-hole 15″ alloy wheels mounted with white-letter Goodyear Wrangler tires, manually locking front hubs, power steering, and a Rancho 3″ suspension lift. Other exterior features include a removable white hardtop (refinished in May 2022), a roof rack with a wind deflector, dual fuel tanks, rear fender flares, a receiver hitch, dual side mirrors, and chrome bumpers. The rear fenders have been modified to accommodate the flares.
Some cosmetic work has been performed recently, including paint touch-ups near the left taillight and on the front-right fender, as well as repair of the liftgate handle. However, there are signs of corrosion present on the front fender liners, tailgate, and the spare tire carrier.
The Bronco’s instrumentation cluster features a 100-mph speedometer surrounded by gauges for amperage, fuel level, coolant temperature, and oil pressure. The five-digit odometer reads 97,000 miles, with approximately 2,000 miles added under current ownership. Total lifetime mileage is unknown. Maintenance history includes wiring repairs to the horn and replacement of the turn signal switch assembly in January 2013.
The 302ci V8 engine was rebuilt about 25 years ago and has seen significant maintenance and refreshing recently. Tasks completed under current ownership include:
– Repairing fuel sender and vent lines
– Resealing the intake manifold and valve covers
– Replacing the thermostat, radiator hoses, intake gaskets and hoses, heater hoses, vacuum lines, battery terminal ends, and air cleaner ducting (January 2023)
– Installing a Pertronix ignition coil, distributor, front fuel tank, fuel hoses, fuel sender, non-return fuel line, and exhaust hanger strap (February 2023)
– Replacing the alternator drive belt and fuel switching valve (December 2023)
– Replacing the air-duct inlet (April 2024)
– Repainting valve covers and oil pan
The truck also features dual skid plates for added protection.
Decoding the trim tag reveals further details: this Bronco is a U15GLQ61472 model, built in November 1972 at the Michigan Truck assembly plant. It carries the Ranger package (G4 body), Bright Lime (color code 4), Avocado vinyl interior, a three-speed automatic transmission (C4), a limited-slip rear differential with 3.50:1 gears (B9J), power steering (J), and was originally ordered through the Seattle district (DSO 74). The Bronco boasts a 92″ wheelbase (W.B. 092) and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4,500 lbs.
This 1973 Ford Bronco Ranger is currently offered for sale by the seller on behalf of the current owner, complete with service records and a Washington State “Classic” branded title in the owner’s name.
For enthusiasts seeking a well-maintained, classic Ford Bronco with thoughtful upgrades and a distinct vintage appearance, this Bright Lime Ranger presents a fantastic opportunity.
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1973-ford-bronco-281/