Transforming the Ford Bronco: A Custom Off-Road Masterpiece
At Southern Off-Road Specialists (SORS), we take pride in pushing the envelope of off-road capability, and our latest project—a 2022 Ford Bronco—stands as a testament to this philosophy. This remarkable vehicle has undergone a comprehensive transformation, evolving from a stock SUV into a formidable off-road machine that has tackled the most demanding terrains, including the iconic Moab trails and the rugged Rubicon Trail.
Engineering Brilliance: Chassis and Suspension
The journey began with a focus on enhancing the Bronco’s chassis and suspension. We outfitted the vehicle with ’74 Weld Bronco 4 Gear Portals, elevating its ground clearance by 3.88” to improve approach and departure angles. The portals also lowered the gear ratio by 1.22 providing additional torque for crawling. This modification was complemented by the fully machined 6061 billet aluminum ’74 Weld STAGE 3 Steering Rack, which ensures precise handling and durability under extreme conditions. To further enhance steering performance, Fabtech Billet Tie Rod Ends were installed, providing added strength and resistance to wear. Suspension is key to off-road performance, and this Bronco now features ORI STX struts on both the front and rear, custom-mounted for superior articulation and ride quality. These are paired with Icon billet control arms, designed to withstand the rigors of off-road driving while maintaining precise suspension geometry.
Powerful Axles and Precision Gearing
The heart of any off-road vehicle is its axles, and this Bronco is equipped with high-performance components. The original Dana M210 front drive unit, CV axles, and Dana 44 rear axle assemblies were scrapped and replaced with the Dana 44 Advantek 32 Spline FDU with E-locker. This FDU offers a massive increase in strength with a solid steel casing and CV axles while the rear Dana Ultimate 60 Rear Axle with E-Locker ensures exceptional traction, improved strength and track width and reliability. To further optimize strength and performance, we installed 4.56 front and rear gears, balancing crawling capability with high-speed off-road dynamics along with the additional 1.22 gear reduction from the portal gears.
Tires and Wheels: Built for Tough Terrain
To handle the roughest trails, this Bronco is fitted with 40” Yokohama Mud-Terrain Tires, providing unmatched grip and durability. These tires are mounted on 17” KMC Forged Beadlock Wheels, engineered to handle extreme off-road conditions and provide a robust, stylish look.
Protective Upgrades and Custom Features
Protection is crucial for any off-road vehicle, and this Bronco is equipped with full underbody custom skid plates, safeguarding vital components from trail damage. A custom heavy-duty steel rear driveshaft ensures reliability and strength, while custom flared front & rear fenders from Advanced Fiberglass Concepts accommodate the larger tires and enhance the vehicle’s aggressive stance. Steel bumpers from Addictive Desert Design (front and rear) provide robust protection and utility, with integrated winch mounts and recovery points. For improved visibility and safety, a light bar, fog lights, ditch lights, and underbody rock lights from RIDGID Industries have been installed, ensuring that no obstacle goes unnoticed.
Comfort and Convenience: Interior and Accessories
Inside, the Bronco has been upgraded with Katzkin double diamond-stitched leather, combining luxury with durability. For added safety and documentation, Kenwood front and rear dash cams record every moment of your adventure. A custom rear cargo storage system with a refrigerator ensures that gear and provisions are well-organized and accessible.
Additional features include Rock Slide Engineering Slider Steps, which make entering and exiting the vehicle easier while protecting the sides from trail damage. The custom frame-mounted heavy-duty spare tire carrier securely supports the large spare tire, and the Zroadz roof rack and Rhino Rack Pioneer Platform provide ample storage options for all your gear.
A Trail-Ready Marvel
This 2021 Ford Bronco, meticulously customized by Southern Off-Road Specialists, represents the pinnacle of off-road engineering and design. From the wilds of Moab to the rugged challenges of the Rubicon Trail, this Bronco is more than just a vehicle; it’s a finely-tuned instrument of off-road mastery. At Southern Off-Road Specialists, we are proud to have played a part in this remarkable build. For those who seek to push the limits of off-road adventures, this Bronco stands as a premier example of what can be achieved with expert customization and a passion for excellence.
