Positioning:
A cornerstone of the SUV market in the early 90s, the Ford Bronco was known for its ruggedness and off-road capability. This manual caters to owners and technicians who value self-sufficiency and detailed technical knowledge.
Competitors:
Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Chevrolet K/Blazer, GMC K/Jimmy, Dodge Ramcharger
Vehicle Features:
Body-on-frame construction, available part-time 4WD, robust powertrain options, removable rear roof section (on some models).
Value:
Empowers users to perform all maintenance and repair tasks independently, saving significant costs and ensuring the highest quality of work. Provides in-depth understanding for emergency situations and long-term vehicle care.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Engine Coverage:
4.9L I6, 5.0L V8, 5.8L V8
Transmission Coverage:
4-Speed Automatic (AOD/4R70W), 5-Speed Manual (M5OD-R2)
Estimated Page Count:
2000+
Type:
Service & Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission, Drivetrain, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Audio System
Body:
Body & Frame, Interior Components, Exterior Components, HVAC System, Restraint System
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Common Faults, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Work, Electrical Component Repair
Calibration Adjustment:
Ignition Timing, Idle Speed, Wheel Alignment
Special Tools:
Identification and Usage of Specialized Service Tools
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance and troubleshooting to complete engine, transmission, and driveline overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and component-level repair.
Compatibility:
Windows and Mac OS
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for extraction)
Quality:
High-resolution, clear text and diagrams, suitable for printing.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine 1:
4.9L (300 cu in) I6 OHV (Pushrod)
Engine 1 Bore Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.98 in
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.8:1
Engine 1 Horsepower:
145 hp @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
265 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2:
5.0L (302 cu in) V8 OHV (Pushrod)
Engine 2 Bore Stroke:
3.80 in x 3.37 in
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
8.3:1
Engine 2 Horsepower:
185 hp @ 3800 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
270 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 3:
5.8L (351 cu in) V8 OHV (Pushrod) Windsor
Engine 3 Bore Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.50 in
Engine 3 Compression Ratio:
8.3:1
Engine 3 Horsepower:
210 hp @ 3800 rpm (approx.)
Engine 3 Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for all engines.
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on some models, or traditional distributor ignition.
Transmission 1:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (AOD)
Transmission 2:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (M5OD-R2)
Transmission 3:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4R70W) available late in the model year or for specific engines.
Overdrive:
Available on automatic transmissions for improved fuel economy.
Automatic Fluid:
Mercon V (or equivalent, refer to manual for exact specification)
Manual Fluid:
Mercon ATF (or equivalent, refer to manual for exact specification)
Length:
177.5 inches (Short Wheelbase), 197.7 inches (Long Wheelbase - Bronco II variant was phased out, this refers to full-size Bronco)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 5,500 - 6,000 lbs
NHTSA Ratings:
Not readily available in a standardized format for this era. Focus was on robust construction.
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum brakes standard. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels.
4Wd System:
Part-time four-wheel-drive system with manual or electronic transfer case engagement.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, shoulder belts in front.
Body Construction:
Reinforced chassis and body structure for durability.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, typically 4 speakers.
ABS:
Rear ABS was an option, not standard across all trims.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily manual controls for climate and audio.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH classification, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Ford Specification ESE-M97B44-A).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (refer to manual for specific type).
Common Issues Overview:
Rust on body panels (especially around wheel wells and rocker panels), aging rubber components (hoses, bushings), potential transmission issues (especially early AOD), electrical gremlins, exhaust manifold leaks on V8 engines.
Engine Specific Issues:
4.9L I6: Known for durability, but can experience timing chain wear. 5.0L V8: Can suffer from intake manifold gasket leaks. 5.8L V8: Potential for exhaust manifold cracking/leaks.
Ford Heritage:
Ford has a long history of producing rugged, capable vehicles, with the Bronco nameplate being synonymous with adventure and off-road prowess since its introduction in 1966.
Bronco Evolution To 1992:
The fourth generation, introduced in 1987, moved away from the compact Bronco II and adopted a more unified styling with the F-Series trucks. It featured improved aerodynamics and updated powertrains. The 1992 model year saw minor updates, including potential introduction of the 4R70W transmission.
Manufacturing Location:
Wayne, Michigan, USA
Production Years For Gen 4:
1987-1996
Off Road Recognition:
The Bronco has a long-standing reputation as a capable off-road vehicle, often lauded for its go-anywhere attitude and durability.
Consumer Guides Rating Era:
Often rated favorably for its utility and off-road capability in contemporary reviews, though comfort and refinement were secondary to ruggedness.