Looking at things in a new way was standard operating procedure for Chapouris, so when Sean Devine, a writer in his mid-30s, wanted Pete and the SO-CAL crew to rework his recent purchase, it opened up yet another avenue for Chapouris to become immersed. Under Pete’s guidance, Sean’s 1972 Bronco would become a hybrid of both the off-road and hot rod worlds. The build would encompass every aspect of the Bronco, from the suspension and drivetrain to body modifications, custom paint, and one-off upholstery. After the bodywork was done, the Bronco was rolled next door to Mick’s Paint in Pomona, California, and several coats of PPG Mercedes Iridium Silver was applied. Once finished, a subtle goldenrod pinstripe was added by Murietta’s Dr. Design down the side just above the top reveal line, as well as some classic hot-rod lines added to the glovebox door. More hot rod influences can be found in the interior, with the aircraft gauges mounted on top of the dash’s face (rather than behind it), the light bar and Vintage Air AC controls hidden inside the glovebox, and nine more toggle switches mounted in three panels above the driver attached to the SO-CAL fab’d six-point roll cage. Gabe’s Custom Upholstery created the soft top for the Ford, though there is also a removable hardtop that you can use at your discretion. The Bronco also proved to be the last project Chapouris would complete, as he passed away shortly after.
Stats:
-Custom build by So-Cal Speed Shop
-Upholstery mastered by Gabe’s Custom Upholstery
-Robby Gordon XD Series 17×9 wheels wrapped in Toyo MP295/70R17
-5.0L V8 w/ Eagle crank, KB Pistons and Mahle rings
-Comp cams, ARP bolts, Edlebrock intake, MSD Atomic EFI, K&N filter, MSDD ignition and wires
-Custom fab exhaust
-C4 Transmission, Dana Transfer Case assembled by Remac Transmission
-Meticulous custom metalwork
-PPF Mercedes Iridium Silver by Mick’s Paint
-Full article found here https://www.automobilemag.com/news/socal-speed-shop-builds-1972-bronco/
