The 1978 Ford Bronco Custom XLT is an exceptional blend of rugged off-road capability and vintage charm, combined with the performance upgrades necessary for today’s driving demands. Originally delivered to Skyline Sales in Salem, Oregon, this Bronco is a perfect example of the iconic 4×4 SUV that has captured the hearts of collectors and off-road enthusiasts. Acquired by the selling dealer in March 2023, it has undergone significant modifications and restorations, making it a remarkable example of a second-generation Bronco.
Exterior and Design
Finished in the striking Raven Black, the Bronco retains its factory color, which was reportedly repainted around 1998, adding to its timeless appeal. The truck’s exterior features include a removable black fiberglass hardtop with sliding side windows, providing an open-air driving experience. The body is complemented by chrome lower body trim, dual mirrors, and a bright grille, giving the truck a clean yet rugged look.
Notable exterior upgrades include an aftermarket diamond-plate front bumper with a Warn M8274 winch and halogen off-road lights, enhancing its utility and off-road readiness. A chrome rear bumper and a receiver hitch complete the back end, while the truck’s body exhibits some wear, including scratches and dents, particularly on the tailgate and doors. Despite the imperfections, these signs of age only add character to the vehicle, which still commands attention with its bold presence.
The Bronco is also fitted with slotted 15″ polished-aluminum wheels wrapped in 35×12.5″ Maxxis Razr MT tires, which, with 2022 date codes, provide ample traction for off-road excursions. The truck’s suspension has been lifted, featuring dual Rancho RS5000 shocks with red coil springs, along with Rancho steering stabilizers and sway bars for enhanced stability and performance on challenging terrain.
Interior Features
Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that balances vintage style with modern upgrades. The front bucket seats and rear folding bench have been reupholstered in black vinyl with gray inserts, harking back to the 1980s. The interior has been refinished with black bedliner material on the floor in 2022, making it both practical and durable for rugged use.
The dashboard is accented with woodgrain trim, adding a touch of refinement to the otherwise functional interior. The truck is equipped with essential features like a GT roll bar behind the front seats, a center console, and a twin-stick shifter, further emphasizing the Bronco’s off-road pedigree. For entertainment, the truck includes a RetroSound stereo with Bluetooth capability and 6″ rear speakers, while a Cobra CB radio offers a vintage touch.
However, like many classic vehicles, the Bronco shows signs of age. The lower dashboard exhibits scratches and wear, and the headliner edges are warped and shrinking. The driver’s seat has some cracks and a hole in the lower portion, and the courtesy lights are inoperable. Nonetheless, these minor imperfections are typical of a vintage vehicle and do little to detract from the overall appeal.
Mechanical Performance
At the heart of this Bronco is a 400ci V8 engine, which has been upgraded with an Edelbrock aluminum intake manifold, a Holley 600-cfm double-pumper four-barrel carburetor, and dual batteries, providing both power and reliability. The engine is also fitted with aluminum valve covers and a chrome Edelbrock air cleaner, further enhancing its performance and aesthetics.
Power is transmitted to all four wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission and an NP205 dual-range transfer case. This drivetrain is complemented by a 3.50:1 rear axle ratio, ensuring a capable and reliable setup for off-road use. Significant work has been done in 2022 to ensure the engine and drivetrain are in top shape, including replacing the valley-pan gasket, starter, distributor, fuel system components, and installing a new 3″ exhaust system.
The NP205 Twin Stick Transfer Case
There are some common misconceptions about the way the shifters on a NP205 work. The biggest is that there is a “4wd lever” and a “hi-lo” lever. This is false. The 205 has one shift rail that controls the front output shaft and one that controls the rear output shaft. With ORD shifters, you have 3 positions on each shifter stick as illustrated above.
Another common misconception is that twin sticking the NP205 will give you front wheel drive only capability, this is also false. To get front wheel drive in the NP205, you also have to modify the shift rails internally, this is a modification that we do here at ORD.
The NP205 in stock, unmodified condition will allow you to run in:
- Rear-wheel drive HI
- Rear-wheel drive LO
- Four-wheel drive HI
- Four-wheel drive LO
- Neutral
To run in rear wheel HI, you’ll place the rear output lever in the HI position and the front output lever in the “N” position.
For rear wheel LO, put the rear shifter in LO and the front in N.
For four-wheel drive HI or LO, simply place both levers in either HI or LO.
Since the stock NP205 blocks you out of front wheel drive, there is a specific sequence you must use when shifting into and out of 4wd. If you are in 4wd, you must shift the front output lever to “N” before you can move the rear output lever. This will prevent you from trying to leave the 205 in front wheel drive, which is blocked out internally. If you are in “N” and wish to shift to 4wd, you must shift the rear output into either HI or LO, then follow with the front output shifter. Basically, the front output is the last to go in gear and the first to come out of gear.
You should also be aware that the 205 does have some shift on the fly capability. If your front hubs are engaged, you can shift into 4wd while moving as long as the front tires and rear tires are rolling at the same speed. Trying to shift the 205 into 4wd while the rear tires are spinning faster than the fronts will result in grinding gears.
Recent Work and Upgrades
Throughout 2022, the Bronco underwent extensive mechanical attention, ensuring that it’s ready for both show and go. Among the improvements were the replacement of the driver- and passenger-side floorboards, the installation of a new fuel-level sending unit and fuel-filler neck, and the updating of rear brake components. The truck also received a fresh exhaust system, along with new shocks and tires. While corrosion is visible on some of the underbody components, the vehicle remains in solid mechanical condition with many new parts contributing to its overall reliability.
Performance and Off-Road Capabilities
This Bronco is built for adventure. With a lifted suspension, locking Warn hubs, and the addition of Rancho RS5000 shocks, it is equipped to tackle rough trails, deep mud, and steep inclines. The Warn winch at the front ensures that this Bronco can handle recovery situations, making it more than just a showpiece but a ready companion for serious off-roading.
Documentation and Ownership
The truck comes with extensive documentation, including a Deluxe Marti report, service manual, and partial service records. The truck’s odometer reads approximately 8,000 miles, though the true mileage is unknown due to its age. With a clean Oregon title and a series of upgrades, this 1978 Ford Bronco Custom XLT is a rare find in the vintage off-road market.
Conclusion
The 1978 Ford Bronco Custom XLT is a perfect example of a classic 4×4 vehicle that has been thoughtfully modified for modern use. Whether you’re looking for a dependable off-road machine or a vintage icon to add to your collection, this Bronco offers a blend of nostalgia, ruggedness, and performance upgrades that make it stand out. With no reserve in its auction, this is a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history with the added benefit of modern enhancements designed to take it to the next level.
