If You Could Do it Over....

I have never built a Bronco before....BUT I have built a number of Jeeps and trucks in my lifetime.... I am old so I wanted to do this correctly without regrets from the start.... (Rather than the "I tried this but I am replacing it"). I have studied and knew exactly what I wanted before I ever purchased. My top 5:

1) 74 Weld Steering rack with RPG tie rods in double shear. (confidence to go with larger tires)...
the steering rack is the weak link in an IFS
2) Portals (clearance and regear are second to none.)
3) custom tuned coil overs.... (probably the biggest bang for my buck)
4) Tires.... Nothing works if you can not get it to the ground. I chose based on the trails I run. Nitto Trail grapplers.
5) Hammer Built hidden winch mount with a Mile Marker comp. series short drum. (confidence for solo runs)

I have a whole long list of other things that I really enjoy.... Very very few that I do not use....

I would not get mud flaps again. Just get better tires from the get go. Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T are superb.

DragoBiscuit

WOW! Not sure I would survive that two year wait but those pics make it look like it was worth it! A couple of those are magazine cover shots! Just awesome!

I was in the same boat. I placed my order the second day they opened for order in July of 2020 (I tried the first day, but it was impossible to "get through"). I took delivery of my Velocity Blue Badlands, LUX, SAS, 2.7 in Jan. of 2022. Yup, it was a LONG wait, but in the end it was worth it. I personally don't get wrapped around the axle about small things like Nav issues, etc. But like other's on here I bought it to use it off-road. She's definitely not a pavement princess, and has the battle scares to prove it. If you're looking for a mall crawling, kid hauling, SUV, then I would suggest that the Bronco might not be fore you. Some of those issues with the electronics, etc. might become a b ig deal for you.

I get asked the question from new Bronco owners all the time "what mods should I make to my Bronco"? My answer is always the same "I have no idea" (BTW, I have a similar answer for "do yo think I can tackle obstacle "X"). The reason I say "I have no idea" is that I have no idea how you're going to use your Bronco, what kind of trails you're going to want to run, and what your off-road driving experience/skill level is. AND those things will likely change over time as well.

So, as for convenience items, like changing the door pockets, updating the interior lighting (boy does the stock lighting stink), Molle panels. etc. sure, go for those. But for anything "major", I would wait, take the Bronco out and start running some trails, going on group runs, etc. and see where you "come up short". Then address those things when you get back. BTW, your "stock" Badlands with SAS is REALLY capable, so I wouldn't invest in any lifts, tires, etc. right out of the box for sure. Build your Bronco slowly over time so it meets YOUR specific needs for the kinds of trails you run.

Having said all of the above, I will say that there is some equipment that *I* think everyone should have with them on trail runs. Generically speaking, here's a short list of the kinds of things I would invest in:

🧭 Must-Have Gear for New Bronco Owners

📻 COMMUNICATION

• GMRS Radio (preferred for group runs)
  • Midland MXT275 or Wouxun KG-1000G (mobile)
  • Rocky Talkie or Baofeng GMRS (handheld)
• Antenna + Mount (if using mobile radio)
  • Hood/fender bracket (Bulletproof, Rugged, Laird)
  • 6dB gain antenna for range
• FCC GMRS license (required but no test)

🧰 RECOVERY GEAR

• Recovery Boards
  • Maxtrax, X-Bull, or ActionTrax (especially if you are planning on any beach or dune runs)
• Tow Straps
  • 20’–30’, 30,000+ lb capacity (e.g., Bubba Rope, Factor 55, Rhino USA)
• Soft Shackles
  • Safer than steel D-rings; rated 30k+ lbs
• Tree Saver Strap
  • For anchoring winch to trees without damage
• Snatch Block
  • Doubles winch pulling power and changes direction
• Shovel
  • Collapsible or military-style entrenching tool
• Gloves
  • Leather or synthetic with good grip and protection

🧯 SAFETY & SURVIVAL

• First Aid Kit (not just the kit, but the training that goes with it!)
  • Trail-ready with trauma supplies (e.g., MyMedic or Adventure Medical)
• Fire Extinguisher
  • 2.5 lb or larger (ABC-rated) with mount
• Emergency Blanket or bivvy
• Headlamp and Flashlight (with extra batteries)

🛠️ TIRE & TRACTION

• Tire Deflator Kit
  • ARB EZ Deflator or Staun valve deflators
• Portable Air Compressor
  • MorreFlate, Viair 400P, ARB Twin, or Smittybilt 2781
• Tire Patch Kit
  • For punctures mid-trail
• Digital Tire Gauge
• Full-size Spare (check if mounted securely)

🗺️ NAVIGATION

• OnX Offroad or Gaia GPS (mobile + offline maps)
• Phone Mount
  • Trackform, Bulletproof, 67 Designs, or Mob Armor
• Charging Setup
  • Dual USB-C PD outlet or hardwired charger

🔧 BASIC TOOLS

• Tool Roll or Box
  • Wrenches, sockets, pliers, screwdrivers
• Jack + Base Plate
  • OEM jack with off-road base or Hi-Lift Jack (with training!)
• Multitool or Knife
  • Leatherman or Gerber

JoergH

I was in the same boat. I placed my order the second day they opened for order in July of 2020 (I tried the first day, but it was impossible to "get through"). I took delivery of my Velocity Blue Badlands, LUX, SAS, 2.7 in Jan. of 2022. Yup, it was a LONG wait, but in the end it was worth it. I personally don't get wrapped around the axle about small things like Nav issues, etc. But like other's on here I bought it to use it off-road. She's definitely not a pavement princess, and has the battle scares to prove it. If you're looking for a mall crawling, kid hauling, SUV, then I would suggest that the Bronco might not be fore you. Some of those issues with the electronics, etc. might become a b ig deal for you.

I get asked the question from new Bronco owners all the time "what mods should I make to my Bronco"? My answer is always the same "I have no idea" (BTW, I have a similar answer for "do yo think I can tackle obstacle "X"). The reason I say "I have no idea" is that I have no idea how you're going to use your Bronco, what kind of trails you're going to want to run, and what your off-road driving experience/skill level is. AND those things will likely change over time as well.

So, as for convenience items, like changing the door pockets, updating the interior lighting (boy does the stock lighting stink), Molle panels. etc. sure, go for those. But for anything "major", I would wait, take the Bronco out and start running some trails, going on group runs, etc. and see where you "come up short". Then address those things when you get back. BTW, your "stock" Badlands with SAS is REALLY capable, so I wouldn't invest in any lifts, tires, etc. right out of the box for sure. Build your Bronco slowly over time so it meets YOUR specific needs for the kinds of trails you run.

Having said all of the above, I will say that there is some equipment that *I* think everyone should have with them on trail runs. Generically speaking, here's a short list of the kinds of things I would invest in:

🧭 Must-Have Gear for New Bronco Owners

📻 COMMUNICATION

• GMRS Radio (preferred for group runs)
  • Midland MXT275 or Wouxun KG-1000G (mobile)
  • Rocky Talkie or Baofeng GMRS (handheld)
• Antenna + Mount (if using mobile radio)
  • Hood/fender bracket (Bulletproof, Rugged, Laird)
  • 6dB gain antenna for range
• FCC GMRS license (required but no test)

🧰 RECOVERY GEAR

• Recovery Boards
  • Maxtrax, X-Bull, or ActionTrax (especially if you are planning on any beach or dune runs)
• Tow Straps
  • 20’–30’, 30,000+ lb capacity (e.g., Bubba Rope, Factor 55, Rhino USA)
• Soft Shackles
  • Safer than steel D-rings; rated 30k+ lbs
• Tree Saver Strap
  • For anchoring winch to trees without damage
• Snatch Block
  • Doubles winch pulling power and changes direction
• Shovel
  • Collapsible or military-style entrenching tool
• Gloves
  • Leather or synthetic with good grip and protection

🧯 SAFETY & SURVIVAL

• First Aid Kit (not just the kit, but the training that goes with it!)
  • Trail-ready with trauma supplies (e.g., MyMedic or Adventure Medical)
• Fire Extinguisher
  • 2.5 lb or larger (ABC-rated) with mount
• Emergency Blanket or bivvy
• Headlamp and Flashlight (with extra batteries)

🛠️ TIRE & TRACTION

• Tire Deflator Kit
  • ARB EZ Deflator or Staun valve deflators
• Portable Air Compressor
  • MorreFlate, Viair 400P, ARB Twin, or Smittybilt 2781
• Tire Patch Kit
  • For punctures mid-trail
• Digital Tire Gauge
• Full-size Spare (check if mounted securely)

🗺️ NAVIGATION

• OnX Offroad or Gaia GPS (mobile + offline maps)
• Phone Mount
  • Trackform, Bulletproof, 67 Designs, or Mob Armor
• Charging Setup
  • Dual USB-C PD outlet or hardwired charger

🔧 BASIC TOOLS

• Tool Roll or Box
  • Wrenches, sockets, pliers, screwdrivers
• Jack + Base Plate
  • OEM jack with off-road base or Hi-Lift Jack (with training!)
• Multitool or Knife
  • Leatherman or Gerber

Now this is a good answer! better than your top 5 because how each person uses is is different and will benefit from different mods..... I built mine for the trails I run.... If I were just running the desert I would have made very different decisions. If I were back east running in the mud.... I would have to move west first... LOL...

TechnicalDisaster

I would not get mud flaps again. Just get better tires from the get go. Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T are superb.

If you don't want rock chunkers stay away from the BFG KO3s those could teach the Goodyears a class on how to throw rocks. the GY calmed way down after 25K miles or so, we will see what the BFGs do as I get some miles on them.

Unicorn

Now this is a good answer! better than your top 5 because how each person uses is is different and will benefit from different mods..... I built mine for the trails I run.... If I were just running the desert I would have made very different decisions. If I were back east running in the mud.... I would have to move west first... LOL...

BTW, I love your build @Unicorn! You definitely had an advantage of a lot of experience off-road, and you knew what trails you wanted to be able to run. Experience has its advantages! (nope, we aren't OLD, we are EXPERIENCED!) LOL

Would have gotten one from day one instead of waiting 2 years. I sell them for a living and waited to buy myself a 60th birthday present. Love my wildtrak but should have gotten an OBX for no other reason than that's where 90% of my offroad driving is done.

BEACHBRONCO

Would have gotten one from day one instead of waiting 2 years. I sell them for a living and waited to buy myself a 60th birthday present. Love my wildtrak but should have gotten an OBX for no other reason than that's where 90% of my offroad driving is done.

Sweet setup!

Steel Dragon

For me it's the Best Top Bimini sun shade. I love the open air feel but the summer sun her in TN can be a bit too much mid day. The sun shade at least gives some relief. Also the IAG steps that mount to the rock sliders. Work great to get in daily but I can take them off in a few min when it's time to hit the trail.

A Bimini is on my list for a lot of the same reasons.

RNC

First I'll start by describing my build; 2022, 2 door Base with Sasquatch, Eruption Green. 2.7, 10 speed (enhanced 4x4), Modular front bumper, Aux switches, engine block heater, all weather floor mats and cargo area mat, doors and top storage bags, tailgate table.
In hindsight, I would have purchased after market floor mats and cargo liner (Fords are garbage). I would have purchased an after market tailgate table. several better and no drill options exist.
What I have added; front mud flaps (Broflaps are awesome). molded door packet storage (the nets are junk), dash mounted power/data ports, dash mount accessory rail, tailgate/spare tire carrier reinforcement. OEM rock rails (not a Base option), OEM 4/7 pin tow harness and hitch receiver (not a Base option). 2nd OEM recovery ring on the rear. Recovery rings on the front bumper.
Short term plan; window tint, transmission and transfer case skid plates.
Pending build wish list; winch, on board air, roof rack with side storage mounts, roof rack light bar, front bumper pocket/fog lights, ditch lights, GMRS/CB radio.

The tailgate table, winch are both on my list as must do!

Jakob1972

Since my Bronco is mostly stock I’ll tell you what we have added. Door pockets we got the plastic Amazon ones they work well, Bartac paracord grab bars. Don’t use them all the time but are a nice place to hold on when things get spicy. We had the saddle storage over the consul but I like to push my leg against the consul and that thing would dig into my shin, I don’t use cruise so your experience my differ. A shorty antenna, good floor mats even with the wash out interior, molle panels for the rear cargo, a tailgate table, and my homemade storage/security shelf. Diode dynamics fog lights, Something for the house a top removal system. A national parks pass to go on adventures.

Edit:
A portable air compressor I have a trickflate. And a 4-way inflator hose setup mine is from MORRFLATE.

Yes !!! Air Compressor is a must do!

JoergH

I was in the same boat. I placed my order the second day they opened for order in July of 2020 (I tried the first day, but it was impossible to "get through"). I took delivery of my Velocity Blue Badlands, LUX, SAS, 2.7 in Jan. of 2022. Yup, it was a LONG wait, but in the end it was worth it. I personally don't get wrapped around the axle about small things like Nav issues, etc. But like other's on here I bought it to use it off-road. She's definitely not a pavement princess, and has the battle scares to prove it. If you're looking for a mall crawling, kid hauling, SUV, then I would suggest that the Bronco might not be fore you. Some of those issues with the electronics, etc. might become a b ig deal for you.

I get asked the question from new Bronco owners all the time "what mods should I make to my Bronco"? My answer is always the same "I have no idea" (BTW, I have a similar answer for "do yo think I can tackle obstacle "X"). The reason I say "I have no idea" is that I have no idea how you're going to use your Bronco, what kind of trails you're going to want to run, and what your off-road driving experience/skill level is. AND those things will likely change over time as well.

So, as for convenience items, like changing the door pockets, updating the interior lighting (boy does the stock lighting stink), Molle panels. etc. sure, go for those. But for anything "major", I would wait, take the Bronco out and start running some trails, going on group runs, etc. and see where you "come up short". Then address those things when you get back. BTW, your "stock" Badlands with SAS is REALLY capable, so I wouldn't invest in any lifts, tires, etc. right out of the box for sure. Build your Bronco slowly over time so it meets YOUR specific needs for the kinds of trails you run.

Having said all of the above, I will say that there is some equipment that *I* think everyone should have with them on trail runs. Generically speaking, here's a short list of the kinds of things I would invest in:

🧭 Must-Have Gear for New Bronco Owners

📻 COMMUNICATION

• GMRS Radio (preferred for group runs)
  • Midland MXT275 or Wouxun KG-1000G (mobile)
  • Rocky Talkie or Baofeng GMRS (handheld)
• Antenna + Mount (if using mobile radio)
  • Hood/fender bracket (Bulletproof, Rugged, Laird)
  • 6dB gain antenna for range
• FCC GMRS license (required but no test)

🧰 RECOVERY GEAR

• Recovery Boards
  • Maxtrax, X-Bull, or ActionTrax (especially if you are planning on any beach or dune runs)
• Tow Straps
  • 20’–30’, 30,000+ lb capacity (e.g., Bubba Rope, Factor 55, Rhino USA)
• Soft Shackles
  • Safer than steel D-rings; rated 30k+ lbs
• Tree Saver Strap
  • For anchoring winch to trees without damage
• Snatch Block
  • Doubles winch pulling power and changes direction
• Shovel
  • Collapsible or military-style entrenching tool
• Gloves
  • Leather or synthetic with good grip and protection

🧯 SAFETY & SURVIVAL

• First Aid Kit (not just the kit, but the training that goes with it!)
  • Trail-ready with trauma supplies (e.g., MyMedic or Adventure Medical)
• Fire Extinguisher
  • 2.5 lb or larger (ABC-rated) with mount
• Emergency Blanket or bivvy
• Headlamp and Flashlight (with extra batteries)

🛠️ TIRE & TRACTION

• Tire Deflator Kit
  • ARB EZ Deflator or Staun valve deflators
• Portable Air Compressor
  • MorreFlate, Viair 400P, ARB Twin, or Smittybilt 2781
• Tire Patch Kit
  • For punctures mid-trail
• Digital Tire Gauge
• Full-size Spare (check if mounted securely)

🗺️ NAVIGATION

• OnX Offroad or Gaia GPS (mobile + offline maps)
• Phone Mount
  • Trackform, Bulletproof, 67 Designs, or Mob Armor
• Charging Setup
  • Dual USB-C PD outlet or hardwired charger

🔧 BASIC TOOLS

• Tool Roll or Box
  • Wrenches, sockets, pliers, screwdrivers
• Jack + Base Plate
  • OEM jack with off-road base or Hi-Lift Jack (with training!)
• Multitool or Knife
  • Leatherman or Gerber

To old for the kid hauler idea, been there done that. Nope this Bronco is for me and the dog! I just got the dog and told my wife and kids they were being replaced by my Rhodesian Ridgeback pup, now when the Bronco comes it will be long trips, camping and living the good life with my pup. In short the Bronco is my midlife crisis excuse to run off and have some real fun!

Love the list you laidout. Lots of great info and I will be taking from that list for sure. Thank you!

BEACHBRONCO

Would have gotten one from day one instead of waiting 2 years. I sell them for a living and waited to buy myself a 60th birthday present. Love my wildtrak but should have gotten an OBX for no other reason than that's where 90% of my offroad driving is done.

Now that is the living I am talking about! YES!

The only thing I can add is to be sure to order exactly what you want, not allowing supply issues to make you sway from that. It's worth the wait.

DrLove

The only thing I can add is to be sure to order exactly what you want, not allowing supply issues to make you sway from that. It's worth the wait.

You’re correct. There’s a bunch of folks out there that compromised their initial orders, folding to the whimsical speculation of constraints. Silly.
Things like hardtop, tow package, Mod bumper, 2dr, Sasquatch were passed up without any promise of earlier delivery. Silly.

extra toasty

You’re correct. There’s a bunch of folks out there that compromised their initial orders, folding to the whimsical speculation of constraints. Silly.
Things like hardtop, tow package, Mod bumper, 2dr, Sasquatch were passed up without any promise of earlier delivery. Silly.

Geez. I don't know why you needed to attack me today, but here we are. ;)

DrLove

The only thing I can add is to be sure to order exactly what you want, not allowing supply issues to make you sway from that. It's worth the wait.

You nailed it and that’s what I did. I’m finally in a spot in life where the kids are out of the house with lives of there own and after helping them get started in life I am finally in a spot to get the Bronco I want! It’s me time now!

The only thing I would change is to a 12" screen

DragoBiscuit

A Bimini is on my list for a lot of the same reasons.

Do it. You won't regret it. I just leave mine on under the hard top.

I echo @Deano Bronc. if you are going to take it off road in any capacity, put on additional skid plates to protect the low hanging fruit. Rear lower trailing arms, rear shock skids, rear differential skid and cross member skids are all a must have. An seriously consider a skid for the transmission. The stock skid plates are good quality and should hold up very well to abuse. And if you have leather and carpets switch to wash out flooring and MGV for the seats.