bullnose upgrades
This page will provide links to many of the upgrades that people have done on Bullnose trucks.
And, the definition is "An upgrade is a replacement for something that is already on the truck, or a different way of doing something that was already done on the truck."
And, the definition is "An upgrade is a replacement for something that is already on the truck, or a different way of doing something that was already done on the truck."
- 3G alternator: The original alternators on these trucks generated either 40 or 60 amps at full tilt, and while that works on a stock truck it isn't enough if you are adding things like electric fans or serious sound systems. And in 1986 Ford "upgraded" to the 2G alternator that has caused many trucks to catch fire. So one of the popular upgrades is to convert to Ford's 3G alternator which can easily crank out 130 amps.
- Delayed Wipers: One really nice feature on the windshield wipers is to be able to turn them to a delayed-wipe setting if the rain doesn't warrant continuous wiping. And that option is easily done by changing out the wiper switch and adding the delay module, as described on the Delay Wiper Upgrade tab on the page in the link
- Headlight Relay Harness: The original wiring for the headlights runs all of the current for them into the cab, through the headlight switch, and back out to each headlight. The wiring was marginal when new, and it is now far from new, and that combination means that the voltage at the headlights is usually several volts below battery voltage. But a headlight relay harness will give brighter lights and a prevent circuit meltdown.
- PMGR starter: In the early 90's Ford introduced a new type starter known as a Permanent Magnet Gear Reduction starter, or PMGR for short. This type starter is both much smaller as well as much stronger, and Ford changed all their vehicles over to it, so you can as well.
- Saginaw power steering pump: Ford's C-II power steering pump works, but is noisy and will belch power steering fluid if you turn the wheels with the engine off. However, Ford used a Saginaw pump on the E-series vans that is quiet and doesn't belch fluid. With the proper bracket and hoses those fit these trucks nicely. (At this time we only have info on a Saginaw swap for the IDI diesels with v-belts, but have plans to add others soon.)
- Seat Interchange: Some consider some of the seats that were offered in later years as being more comfortable than the Bullnose seats. Some want to install bucket seats or captain's chairs in their Bullnose. This page explains what seats are known to swap and what it takes to do it correctly.