So, I got an idea.

[Redneckryder]

This had to have been thought of/done before, but I searched this site and didn't see anything about it. I have the opportunity to buy a 68 bronco chassis. It comes with engine (289), tranny (3 speed manual) and t-case (dana 20), as well as the axles. I also have the chance to buy a ranger with a mint body, but blown engine.

How hard would it be to put the ranger body on the bronco frame? If anyone has done this, please get ahold of me.....

If this is in the wrong section, please tell me or have a moderator move it...

 

[PanamaExpat]

Why not look for a 68 Bronco body???????????????

Doing that to an original Bronco is sort of up there with burning the flag.

 

[Mac]

Way wrong wheel base I believe. Know a lot would rather have the Bronco rebuilt with a good body. Them suckers were stout.
Dave

 

[adsm08]

I have heard of it being done in the other direction with an 88 BII. Someone swapped the body of a shoebox Bronco onto an 88 BII chassis.

I assume this swap would be similar in nature to the ones where guys put Ranger short cabs and extreme-bob beds on BIIs to make a "truggy".

 

[Redneckryder]

Why not look for a 68 Bronco body???????????????

Because this is Michigan.....Rust is our master up here...

Way wrong wheel base I believe. Know a lot would rather have the Bronco rebuilt with a good body. Them suckers were stout.
Dave

I realize wrong wheelbase....I was planning on stretching the frame.

I have heard of it being done in the other direction with an 88 BII. Someone swapped the body of a shoebox Bronco onto an 88 BII chassis.

That is all I found with a search.....

 

[shane96ranger]

I'm convinced that any man that dismantles an old Bronco like that won't be getting into heaven.

 

[PanamaExpat]

So since we don't want to try you for treason nor see that you can't get into Heaven. Just how bad is the current body? Or maybe you could sell the chassis to a collector and buy a newer model to modify?

PICTURES PLEASE!!!!!

 

[Mark_88]

Deep pockets will get you anything you want...as long as they are filled with money...

I'd inspect the frame...measure the width and length..figure out the body mount positions...and invest in lottery tickets...

It would probably be easier and much less expensive to simply replace the Ranger engine (after doing a frame off restore on the Ranger)...and if it was mine I'd put the 289 into my Ranger...VARRROOOOOM!

I always liked that engine for some reason...

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

IMO it would be easier to swap the powertrain to the Ranger. The engine, trans, t-case and rear axle would be fairly easy swaps. The front would be probably the hardest part but it has been done many times.

But recently sighted at my local car show:

The wheel wells and tire/wheel combo look kind of goofy but it really looked like it could be done fairly cleanly.

 

[projectnitemare]

If the Bronco frame is ok and the body is shot; I would invest in a fiberglass tub for it. Granted they are a few bucks, you have to run positive and negative for pretty much everything and need a cage so you don't die it would be worth it. If you are up for swapping go with the bronco drivetrain under the ranger. The dana 20 is worth a few bucks anymore also. Just another tip, if you want to toss the 3 speed for a C4 you'll be in for a shock on the price of the bronco specific C4 tailhousing, output shaft and spud you will need to do it.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Just another tip, if you want to toss the 3 speed for a C4 you'll be in for a shock on the price of the bronco specific C4 tailhousing, output shaft and spud you will need to do it.

An RBV C5 tailhousing/output shaft with a RBV t-case would be a cheaper alternative if you swap the powertrain. Personally I wouldn't have another non-od trans anyway...

 

[Redneckryder]

Actually, I was thinking it would be easier to swap bodies, but this doesn't seem to be the truth according to you guys....

The frame is just that, a rolling chassis for sale. No body on it, nothing. Just engine, tranny, t-case, and axles on a frame. That's why I was gonna body swap. Please keep posting up opinions, I am taking everything you guys say to heart!

 

[03xlEdge]

Early Broncos are pretty nice!!! I'd say go find a Bronco body. I suppose you could cut the frame, extend it, and put a Ranger body on it.

 

[trail B2]

I got the idea that the wheel bases are the same 94".If you have the dana 30 it's a step down from the dana 35 TTB.It's going to be a little thirstier than your present drive train.

 

[Redneckryder]

The bronco wheelbase is 94", but I have an ex-cab ranger, which bumps the wheelbase out to 125.4"

I realize the dana 30 is a step down, but it would be easy to swap a 44 from a 70's bronco later down the road....Right now I wanna get this done and on the road.