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Early Bronco Ford C6 Automatic Transmission Swap
The Ford C6 is a heavy-duty automatic transmission manufactured from about 1964 to 1996.
The C6 was used in trucks and cars with larger engines. Five different bell housing varieties exist for use with various Ford engine families:
The Windsor pattern was used on the 300 I6, the Ford Windsor engines 289, 302, 351W and the 351 Cleveland.
The 460 pattern was used on the 351M and 400 and all of the Ford "385" engines.
The FE pattern was used on the FE engines
The rare 66 - 68 Lincoln MEL 462 pattern which was used on 66 - 68 Lincoln Continentals with the 462 engine and also on 68 - 69 Lincoln Continentals with the 460. This pattern rounds off on the passenger side to clear the heat/AC box on the 66 - 69 Lincoln firewall.
Diesel pattern. This was similar to the FE/"385" pattern but the two are not interchangeable.
The transmission is very popular in off-road applications due to its reputation of being nearly indestructible. It does, however, have a reputation of greatly reducing performance as well as fuel mileage, due to the amount of power it requires to operate.
If you are choosing a C6 for your Early Bronco application a 4x4 trans from the 1978-1991 Bronco or 1967-1996 Ford F-Series will be where you want to start.
The C6 was used in trucks and cars with larger engines. Five different bell housing varieties exist for use with various Ford engine families:
The Windsor pattern was used on the 300 I6, the Ford Windsor engines 289, 302, 351W and the 351 Cleveland.
The 460 pattern was used on the 351M and 400 and all of the Ford "385" engines.
The FE pattern was used on the FE engines
The rare 66 - 68 Lincoln MEL 462 pattern which was used on 66 - 68 Lincoln Continentals with the 462 engine and also on 68 - 69 Lincoln Continentals with the 460. This pattern rounds off on the passenger side to clear the heat/AC box on the 66 - 69 Lincoln firewall.
Diesel pattern. This was similar to the FE/"385" pattern but the two are not interchangeable.
The transmission is very popular in off-road applications due to its reputation of being nearly indestructible. It does, however, have a reputation of greatly reducing performance as well as fuel mileage, due to the amount of power it requires to operate.
If you are choosing a C6 for your Early Bronco application a 4x4 trans from the 1978-1991 Bronco or 1967-1996 Ford F-Series will be where you want to start.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are WILD HORSES 4x4 parts compatible with my 66–77 Ford Bronco?
Yes. WILD HORSES 4x4 carries every part you need to completely build or restore your 1966–77 Ford Bronco. Each component is carefully tested for fitment and quality to ensure proper compatibility across all early Bronco models.
Does WILD HORSES 4x4 specialize in Bronco restorations?
Absolutely. We specialize in full Bronco restorations and upgrades, offering premium-quality parts, assemblies, and technical support to help you build or restore your classic Ford Bronco with confidence.
What makes WILD HORSES 4x4 the Bronco off-road experts?
Our team lives and breathes Broncos. With decades of experience in early Bronco restoration, customization, and trail performance, WILD HORSES 4x4 is recognized as the Bronco off-road authority—trusted by enthusiasts across the country.
Can I return a Bronco part if it doesn’t fit or I change my mind?
Yes. If your part doesn’t fit or you need to make a return, we make the process simple. Returns are accepted within 30 days when items are in their original condition. Please review our complete policy on our Returned Merchandise & Refund Policy.
Does WILD HORSES 4x4 offer technical support for installations?
Yes. Our in-house tech team provides expert installation and troubleshooting support for every product we sell. Whether you’re working on a full restoration or a weekend upgrade, we’re here to help get your Bronco back on the road or trail fast.