“Ruth’s” Bronco II was one of the extreme Bronco II’s that has graced this site, and I didn’t want it to be lost and forgotten with time.
When Ruth bought the Bronco II, it was still stock. He lifted it with custom made suspension blocks and made his own body lift out of 2×2″ tubing and all-thread.
He got some 1/2 worn 36″ TSL’s, gutted the interior, built a rollbar, and eventually added a 4-inch suspension lift.
Like many off roaders, he wheeled it, broke it, fixed it, and continued to improve on it.
Over time, the Bronco II received a Dana 44 front axle with 5.38 gears. It was moved forward 11-inches and suspended by early Bronco lift coils and custom links. It’s steered by a Toyota IFS steering box, and a Trailgear Rockram setup.
The rear was upgraded to a Dana 60 with 5.38 gears and a Lincoln locker.
The fenders were cut to make room for the 42-inch tires. Ruth finished the job by creating new wheel wells.
The front was narrowed:
And the 2.9L engine was replaced with a 4.0L engine.
A custom front bumper was built and holds a Warn 8274 winch.
Ruth also used his fabrication skills to build a custom crossmember/skid plate, sliders, and a rear bumper. He also built his links and mounted the spring perches on the front axle. A fuel cell was mounted in the rear of the cab.
Overtime, the Bronco II was upgraded again with a doubler transfer case, a Dana 60 with 5.38’s, and a new link and ladder bar mount.
Photos:
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About The Author
Jim Oaks is a longtime Ford truck and SUV enthusiast and the founder of The Ranger Station and Bronco II Corral. With decades of hands-on experience, he writes both technical and non-technical articles covering the Ford Bronco II, including mechanical systems, factory engineering, common upgrades, and detailed feature vehicle write-ups.
In addition to technical content, Jim documents Bronco II history, rare factory and aftermarket models, production details, and original Ford marketing materials. His work is based on firsthand experience, original documentation, and long-term involvement in the Ford enthusiast community.
Through his sites, Jim has built comprehensive reference libraries that serve owners, builders, restorers, collectors, and historians, helping preserve the Bronco II’s technical knowledge and historical significance.
