interchangeable parts from a Bronco to an e150 van

1977 FORD E-SERIES VAN
130,000 MILES • 5.8L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MARKTHEICEMAN
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Have a 1977 ford e150 Econoline van and was wondering if i can use parts for a 1978-1979 Ford Bronco on my 1977 Ford e150 van. most looking for suspension parts and some engine parts. it is getting harder to find parts for the van. any info would help.
Thank you,
Mark
Nov 20, 2021 at 7:39 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Mark, it is possible that things will interchange, but chances are the Bronco was 4wd and the van isn't. So no to the front suspension. You may be able to use the rear shocks.

As far as the engine, if they are the same size, yes, there will be a lot that can be switched and used. In the 70's, things were much easier to deal with.

Here is what I suggest: If and when you need a specific part to cross, let me know. I'll compare part numbers between both vehicles for the same part to see if they match.

The easiest thing about these vehicles is the engines and transmissions are nearly identical. There will be a difference between 4wd and 2wd, but the engines will be the same.

Take care and let me know if I can help.

Joe
Nov 21, 2021 at 10:50 AM
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MARKTHEICEMAN
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Hi Joe. thank you for the information. I know what you are saying. I have 2 79 Bronco's and i love them. If i changed out the front axle on a newer 2-wheel drive with upper and lower control arms would that work to give my e150 a better front-end suspension? also, can i change the original rag joint to an intermediate shaft u-joint? I appreciate all your help. you have helped me through a lot of things. I have nine muscle cars and i stay busy.
thanks Joe.
mark
Nov 21, 2021 at 11:17 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
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Mark,

I would say no to the rag joint. Plus, that is one of those things that you really don't want to have an issue with if it's used. LOL

Now, help me better understand. When you indicated replacing the front axle on a newer 2wd, do you mean the parts are coming from a 2wd 1977 or 78 Bronco?

I have to be honest, Mark, I worry about making any modifications with steering and front suspension. Let me know. Hopefully, I will be able to find OEM part numbers and cross-reference them for you.

Take care,

Joe
Nov 22, 2021 at 10:59 AM
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MARKTHEICEMAN
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hi Joe, once again thank you for all your good info and concern. i agree with you that playing around with the steering is a scary situation. I will leave it alone but just put new original replacement parts on it. thank you for all your help.
Mark
Nov 22, 2021 at 7:14 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Mark,

I wish I had easier answers. LOL Regardless, if you give me the new parts that were purchased and the year and model they are on, and what you want to put them on, I'll try my best to cross-reference for you.

Let me know.

Joe
Nov 23, 2021 at 9:13 AM
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MARKTHEICEMAN
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Hi Joe. thank you for all your help. i am just going to replace the worn-out parts with new replacement parts. i appreciate all your help. i am sure i will need your help again soon since i have my other 9 muscle cars to keep up.
thank you,
Mark
Nov 23, 2021 at 9:48 AM
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