Early Bronco Custom Steering Linkage

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Custom Early Bronco Steering Linkage: Strength and Adjustability Where Stock Falls Short

Factory Early Bronco steering linkage works fine for general use, but once you add bigger tires, suspension lift, or disc brake conversions, its limitations show quickly. Just ask our founder, Jim creel:

"Some time ago on the Rubicon, I managed to run my 76-77 Bronco Y-style tie rod and drag link into a twisted mess. After taht experience, I decided to use the earlier 66-75 Bronco T-style steering. The problem was that it wasn't long enough and the tapers in the steering knuckles and pitman arm are not the same as the 76-77. So I got to work developing an updated system that solved these issues." -Jim Creel

That’s where our custom Early Bronco tie rods and drag links got their start.

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Why Upgrade to Custom T-Style Steering

Wild Horses custom T-style steering linkage is designed to correct fitment issues while adding strength and adjustability. These systems use multiple adjustment points, making it easier to properly align lifted Broncos or builds with non-stock front-end components.

Adjustment Options Explained
Three-way adjustable systems include both the tie rod and drag link, allowing full control over toe and steering wheel centering. Two-way adjustable systems include the tie rod only and are ideal when the drag link does not need correction.

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Common Applications for Custom Steering Linkage

Custom adjustable steering linkage is commonly used for:

• Converting 76-77 Y-style steering to a stronger T-style setup

• Installing a 76-77 Bronco or F150 disc brake front end under earlier Broncos

• Improving alignment capability on lifted or modified rigs

Choosing the Correct Kit
For Y-style conversions, the #2390 Three-Way Adjustable Steering Linkage provides the proper length and tapers. When installing a later-model front end under a 66-75 Bronco, the #2403 is often sufficient.

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Disc Brake & F150 Knuckle Compatibility

Many disc brake conversions use 76-79 F150 or 78-79 Bronco knuckles, which have larger tie rod end tapers than Early Bronco components. When this happens, stock tie rods will not seat correctly.

Solutions for Larger Tapers
Tapered sleeves allow existing 66-75 tie rods to be reused, or use our two-way adjustable tie rod for added strength that bolts directly into F150 knuckles without adapters. Both options maintain proper fitment and steering safety.

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Tie Rod Over Conversions: Clearance vs Geometry

Moving the tie rod to the top of the steering knuckles is popular for gaining clearance and reducing trail damage, but it also changes steering geometry.

What Changes with Tie Rod Over
The tie rod moves up roughly 3 inches, which affects drag link and track bar angles. This can cause handling issues if not addressed correctly.

On lifts up to about 3 1/2 inches, a tie rod over conversion often eliminates the need for a drop pitman arm. In many cases, returning to a stock pitman arm restores proper handling. Track bar height and angle must be evaluated to maintain good street manners.

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When to Step Up to the Clydesdale Steering Linkage

Custom adjustable steering linkage covers most builds, but some Broncos demand more strength.

Clydesdale Extreme Steering Linkage
The aptly named Clydesdale steering linkage system is built for aggressive trail use, large tires, and high steering loads. It uses oversized DOM center links and replaceable tie rod cartridges to deliver maximum strength and long-term serviceability. This system is ideal for Broncos that see hard use and need steering components that won’t bend or become disposable after one bad hit.

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Choosing the Right Steering Linkage for Your Early Bronco

Custom adjustable tie rods and drag links solve real-world fitment and alignment problems caused by lifts and front-end swaps. For extreme use and maximum durability, the Clydesdale linkage provides the confidence needed for demanding terrain.

Upgrading worn or undersized factory steering linkage is one of the most noticeable improvements you can make in how your Early Bronco drives, steers, and holds an alignment—on the road and on the trail.