1984 Ford Bronco II Base review from North America

My Bronco II was well used when I first got it. The 2.8 V6 was previously tuned up by someone who had no idea how solid lifters work and they did not have enough valve lash. Two exhaust valves were burnt out and this required head replacement (used $150cdn).

When I replaced the heads I also put a new gasket set in, here's a tip - throw out the cheap cardboard intake gasket you get with the kit and go buy a good one. The cardboard one only lasted 1 1/2 months on mine.

Had a spun cam bearing at about 170,000km and in turn lost oil pressure to the driver's side rocker shafts.

Carburater has problem of freezing up in cold weather if you don't add methyl hydrate to your gas. Fuel economy is severely compromised when this happens.

Although most of these problems were a result of lack of maintenance/abuse/neglect, I believe that Ford could have put a more durable and powerful engine in these vehicles.

Since I acquired this vehicle it has been quite dependable considering the severe off-highway driving I have subjected it to.

Other than the engine and anemic on-highway performance, the rest of the vehicle is great. It has excellent ride characteristics off-road and very comfortable seats and driving position.

I only wish that it was made like the full size Bronco - with a removable top.

On-highway, power inferiority complex.

Off-highway, go anywhere superiority.