Black Diamond Builds

[sanford]

The signature lighting is the most undesirable option on the new Bronco. That’s why I’m sticking with BD.

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[dingle87]

BD charges for the trans...

Base does not....

thanks! Seems like a quirk since they both start as manuals in b&p. Thanks for catching that.

 

[Brian s]

I was leaning BD, 2.7, mid, squatch....but the base squatch with a 2.7 keeps calling me and saying things like, 9 grand is a lot of mods, Katskins are only 2k, or get some good Okoles you cheap bastard, go custom bumper, it will be better, you're going to replace the rock rails with steps anyway, carpet will reduce the road noise and get some weathertechs, oh you want heated seat? whimp, remote start? just use the app princess, you need BLIS? maybe you shouldnt drive anymore grandpa.

These are the exact thoughts I am having right now between the two models. I will add that I am also leaning towards building my base because the MGV options are very dark and I feel in Florida I am going to sweat my ass off on those seats, although they look great. Too many decisions!

 

[PhoenixM3]

Am I the only one who wants a BD w/ manual? I know I can’t get it until ‘22.....

 

[centra28]

So those additionals: Upgraded Suspension, 4.7 final gear ratio and front lockers I presume are for better off-roading. Seeing that 95%+ of the time I don't plan on off-roading, but I do just want a "meatier" look to my Bronco, do you think someone like me would be better suited for just the lift and add bigger tires and wheels aftermarket?

I think it depends on pricing IMO. For 5k you get the bigger wheels, tires, calibration, suspension lift, and as a bonus front lockers to go w/ already rear lockers (+1 hero switch!), and possible option of warranty since it is from the factory this way. Doing all of those things on your own would likely cost more, if not just as much, and would be a lot of hassle. You could go a cheaper route and skip calibrating your vehicle to the bigger wheels/tires but that would not be recommended.

 

[Efthreeoh]

Am I the only one who wants a BD w/ manual? I know I can’t get it until ‘22.....

I'm getting a manual. You must mean with the 'Squatch package...

 

[Texas Sunshine]

Really like your color choice here probably because it exactly like mine.... any idea how much space with back seat out? I really think 2 door looks better than the 4.

There was a video that was posted a few weeks back and the guy in the video is 6' 4". He got in the back seat of a two door and his knees barely brushed up against the front seat.

 

[calgecko]

Not having the Hi trim package available is a deal breaker for me, unfortunately. Badlands it is.

 

[PowPow]

Am I like the only one going with the 2.3L? lol

Man, I feel like every post I read here is going 2.7. Making me feel like I'm missing something.

 

[Efthreeoh]

Am I like the only one going with the 2.3L? lol

Man, I feel like every post I read here is going 2.7. Making me feel like I'm missing something.

Nah. 270 HP and 310 pd-ft of torque will be plenty if the Bronco weighs in at 4,500 lbs or less; especially mated to a manual transmission and 4.46 diffs.

If you are going to tow the max 3,500 pounds a lot, then maybe consider the 2.7 and automatic.

 

[Mattwings]

I think it depends on pricing IMO. For 5k you get the bigger wheels, tires, calibration, suspension lift, and as a bonus front lockers to go w/ already rear lockers (+1 hero switch!), and possible option of warranty since it is from the factory this way. Doing all of those things on your own would likely cost more, if not just as much, and would be a lot of hassle. You could go a cheaper route and skip calibrating your vehicle to the bigger wheels/tires but that would not be recommended.

I don't think you mentioned the heavier front axle and "advanced" transfer case. It is really hard to not go SQ or move up to BL for me. I just wouldn't ever do those upgrade piecemeal and I would never bother to replace the front axle (at that point, why not buy an older TJ and do a custom front dana 44). If I don't wheel often, the BD is (rear locker and GOAT modes) really capable. If the upgrade to 285/75/17 tires and factory aluminum wheels (my favorite) wasn't $2,500, it would be an easy decision. Once I make those changes, SQ or BL is only about $2k, it becomes impossible to save money at that point in my lizard brain.

 

[RG7]

I’m newly considering BD. Was Base/2.7/SQ all the way, but the only color I actually like is A51 and the MGV and rubber floor would be nice to have as well. The way I’d build them, Badlands/2.7 would only be $800 more than a BD/2.7/Sq, but I’d be losing sport mode, beadlock capability, whatever the magic sauce is that lifts SQ more than normal badlands suspension, all for a SBD that is only a convenience feature, not an added capability.

 

[PowPow]

Nah. 270 HP and 310 pd-ft of torque will be plenty if the Bronco weighs in at 4,500 lbs or less; especially mated to a manual transmission and 4.46 diffs.

If you are going to tow the max 3,500 pounds a lot, then maybe consider the 2.7 and automatic.

yeah, that's exactly what I was thinking. Although I am going auto trans.

and nope, don't ever plan on towing anything. Only thing I'll use the hitch for is bike racks. which is unfortunate that it costs so much to add...

 

[pan-y-cerveza]

yeah, that's exactly what I was thinking. Although I am going auto trans.

and nope, don't ever plan on towing anything. Only thing I'll use the hitch for is bike racks. which is unfortunate that it costs so much to add...

If you aren't using it to tow than forgo the wiring and just purchase one after the fact. You'll save hundreds.

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