I have the same Bronco, the doors have always sounded different than any vehicle I've ever owned, it's hard to describe, but it's not a satisfying thunk like other vehicles doors. They all sound the same though so I figure that's just the way they are.
It makes no sense to have that stud and attach terminals underneath the bolt head. The thread is probably M6x1.0. If you have 6x1.0 and 8x1.25 you will have nuts for most any fasteners in that size range on your vehicle.
I have bad news and good news for you. Your tires are two load ranges heavier than spec for a Bronco, you can expect a harsh ride and they're heavier than they need to be.
I have that tire in C load range on my Tacoma, apparently they have been discontinued, and they are crap! Flimsy and they...
I still don't know what tire he got because he hasn't revealed the load range yet. I may have some pertinent information for him since I have a set of those tires, in that size, on my old Tacoma.
Hopefully you investigated insurance coverag of the animal damage to your Bronco. My policy covered thousand dollar rodent damage the same as if I'd hit a Deer.
Have you found skinny 33s in a suitable load range for a Bronco? I use 255/85R16 on my F250 but I haven't seen them in lighter load ranges, I haven't looked very hard.
I had a similar problem with a Mercedes van warranty, I was able to buy it in another state. There's lots of weird state restrictions and varying dealer policies involved.
Not with Ford, but with other manufacturers, it's pretty standard. It's hard to find a place without access to Ford dealers these days. In my opinion they should pay for a competent technician when you can't find one at your local Ford (or other) dealer.
If Ford pays out of warranty claims to owners that chose not to buy their extended warranty they make fools out of their customers who did, and of course discourage owners from buying the extended warranty, that Ford sells, in the future.