Early Bronco Hard Top

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Early Bronco Hard Tops: 1966-68 vs. 1969-77

At first glance, the 1966-77 Ford Bronco hard tops look nearly identical. Used on the U15 Bronco wagon—the most common Early Bronco model—these full cab tops were one of the defining features of the first-generation Bronco. But while they share the same overall profile, there are several important differences between the early (1966-68) and later (1969-77) versions that restorers and owners need to know.

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Windshield Frame Bolt Pattern

One of the primary differences lies where the hard top meets the windshield frame.

• 1966-68 Broncos with vacuum-operated wipers had a unique bolt pattern at the top of the windshield frame.

• 1969-77 Broncos switched to electric wipers, necessitating a change in the bolt pattern at the top of the frame.

This means tops are not directly interchangeable without modification. Owners fitting a later top on an early Bronco must drill the correct holes to match the windshield frame.

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Rear Liftgate Opening & Seal

The rear opening and how the liftgate sealed also evolved:

• 1966-68 Broncos featured a squared-off liftgate opening. The seal used squared corners and mounted only to the hard top, without extending down the tailgate sides.

• 1969-77 Broncos had corner braces at the upper corners of the liftgate opening. These allowed the use of a rounded seal, eliminating the need for moulded 90-degree corners. The later design also extended the seal past the bottom of the liftgate to cover the sides of the tailgate, providing a more reliable seal where the top meets the body.

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Liftgate Latch Assemblies

The latch assembly itself saw an upgrade over time:

• 1966-68 Broncos used a simple latch design with a U-shaped bracket holding the spring and plunger.

• 1969-77 Broncos improved the design with a stamped housing that better retained the spring and plunger, offering increased durability and smoother operation.

Different plunger sizes were used between these versions, which meant different strikers and trim plates were required.

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1966-Only Liftgate Variations

The very first year of the Bronco also had some unique liftgate details only seen in this one year model:

• The 1966 liftgate handle had a separate key cylinder for locking.

• In 1967-77 Broncos, Ford switched to a handle with an integrated key cylinder.

• On the 1966 tailgate, two small posts were mounted at the top—one on each end—to prevent opening when the liftgate was shut.

• From 1967-77, a single center anti-theft post was used instead. The liftgate was modified with a cutout for this post, along with a bolt-in striker and trim plate.

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Modern Replacement Hard Tops

The replacement hard tops available today are built using the 1969-77 Bronco design. They can be installed on any 1966-77 Ford Bronco, but early models require additional parts:

• For 1966-68 Broncos: You’ll need matching liftgate latches, strikers, and trim plates.

• For 1966 Broncos specifically: You’ll also need the correct liftgate handle, latch cam, and latch rods to finish out the installation.

• Windshield Mounting: Since the bolt pattern differs, owners of 1966-68 Broncos must drill the appropriate holes in the windshield frame to secure the later-style top.

The good news? All of the necessary hardware, seals, and latch components are available brand new, so you can complete a proper installation without relying on worn-out original parts.

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While the Early Bronco hard tops may look alike at a glance, the differences between the 1966-68 and 1969-77 versions are significant for restorers, builders, and daily drivers alike. Understanding these distinctions ensures the right parts are used, keeping your classic Bronco both functional and true to its heritage.