Early Bronco Water Pump

Early Bronco Water Pump Buyer’s Guide | 1966-77 Ford Bronco

Choosing the right Early Bronco water pump starts with identifying your engine and front accessory drive setup. In a 1966-77 Ford Bronco cooling system, the water pump plays a critical role in circulating coolant efficiently through the engine and radiator. Selecting the correct pump ensures proper hose routing, correct outlet location, and dependable temperature control whether you're running a stock 289, a 302, or a 5.0L engine swap.

At WILD HORSES 4x4, we offer direct-fit water pumps designed specifically for Early Broncos and common 5.0L swap configurations.

Identify Your Engine & Front Drive Setup

Factory 289 or 302 V8 (Stock V-Belt Drive)

If you're running a factory-style 289 or 302 with the original V-belt front drive, the water pump outlet exits on the passenger side. This passenger-side outlet design is unique to the Early Bronco configuration, making it easy to identify the correct stock replacement water pump.

Choosing the proper 1966-77 Ford Bronco water pump ensures correct lower radiator hose alignment and proper coolant flow direction.

Serpentine Front Drive (5.0L Swap or Conversion)

If your Bronco is running a serpentine front drive system — either on a converted small block or a Ford 5.0L engine swap — the water pump outlet exits on the driver side.

Common swap engines include:

• 1984-93 Ford Mustang 5.0L

• 1996-01 Ford Explorer 5.0L

With these setups, you will need:

• A cross-over lower radiator hose, or

• A reverse-outlet radiator

Matching the correct 5.0L water pump for your Early Bronco is essential for proper cooling system function and hose routing.

Early Bronco Water Pump Options

Stock 289 or 302 V8 Applications

We offer two high-quality aluminum water pumps designed specifically for the 1966-77 Ford Bronco 289/302 engine:

#5024 Performance Aluminum Water Pump

• Most popular Early Bronco water pump option

• Excellent cooling performance at a strong value

• Ideal for daily drivers, cruisers, and most street-driven builds

This pump is a dependable upgrade over factory cast units and works well in the majority of Bronco applications.

FlowKooler Early Bronco Water Pump

• Designed for demanding cooling situations

• Unique impeller design improves coolant circulation

• Significantly increases flow at low RPM and idle

The FlowKooler design is especially effective for trail rigs, heavy traffic driving, hot climates, and Broncos that spend time idling or crawling where airflow is limited.

5.0L Engine Swap Applications (Mustang & Explorer)

If you’re running an 84-93 Mustang 5.0L or 96-01 Explorer 5.0L in your 1966-77 Ford Bronco, we offer FlowKooler water pumps built specifically for those applications.

These pumps feature the same advanced impeller technology used in our Early Bronco FlowKooler units, delivering improved coolant circulation and stronger cooling performance across a wide RPM range.

Choosing the Right Water Pump for Your 1966-77 Ford Bronco

Before ordering your Early Bronco water pump, confirm:

• Engine type (289, 302, Mustang 5.0L, Explorer 5.0L)

• V-belt or serpentine front drive

• Water outlet location (passenger side or driver side)

• Radiator outlet configuration

Installing the correct water pump ensures proper coolant flow, reliable temperature control, and long-term engine protection.

Whether you're maintaining a stock 302 or finishing a 5.0L swap, selecting the right 1966-77 Ford Bronco water pump is a key step in building a cooling system you can count on.