Why this vehicle matters
The Scout invented the SUV. International Harvester, a farm equipment company, created a vehicle for farmers and ranchers who needed something between a pickup and a car. The Bronco and Blazer followed, but the Scout got there first. The Scout II refined the formula with more power and better on-road manners. These were genuinely capable off-road vehicles built by a company that knew heavy equipment. The Scout is the grandfather of every crossover on the road today.
Patina notes
Scouts were working vehicles. They should look like they worked. The frame rails rust in predictable places. The body panels dent from ranch work. The interior shows evidence of muddy boots and tool boxes. A Scout with honest wear has credibility that mall-crawlered posers can't match. Don't over-restore the character away.
Ownership reality
International Harvester went bankrupt in the '80s, which affects parts availability. The engines are unique to IH, but the community has found solutions. The aftermarket is smaller than Bronco/Blazer but dedicated. Rust is the enemy, especially in the frame. Find a good Scout shop or become your own expert. Once sorted, these are seriously capable off-road vehicles that also work on road.
The verdict
Buy if
You want to own the original SUV. You appreciate farm equipment heritage. You're ready for orphan-brand ownership challenges.
Skip if
You need easy parts availability. You can't find a good Scout specialist. You want something people recognize.
What to look for
- → Frame rust (especially behind front axle mounts)
- → Floor pan rust
- → Transfer case condition
- → Engine condition (V8 preferred)
- → Body mount rust
- → Brake system condition
Common problems
- ⚠ Frame rust (most common killer)
- ⚠ Transfer case issues
- ⚠ Carburetor complexity
- ⚠ Electrical issues
- ⚠ Steering box wear
- ⚠ Cooling system adequacy
Parts & community
Parts sources
- IH Parts America
- Super Scout Specialists
- Binding Energy Scout Parts
- eBay (used and NOS)
- Scout Swap meets
Forums & communities
- BinderPlanet.com
- InternationalScoutConnection
- IH8MUD.com
- Facebook Scout groups
Sources
- Hagerty Valuation Tools · 2026-02-02
Specifications
| Engine | 304ci V8 / 345ci V8 / 196ci inline-4 |
| Power | 133-193 hp depending on engine |
| Torque | 265-295 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual / 4-speed manual / 3-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | Part-time 4WD |
| Weight | 3,400-4,500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 100-118 inches (standard/Traveler) |
| Production | Scout II ran 1971-1980 (216,185 total) |
Notable Features
- • The original SUV (predates Bronco/Blazer)
- • Available as short Scout II or long Traveler
- • Solid axles front and rear
- • International V8 power options
About International Harvester
The farm equipment giant that built the original American SUV. International Harvester was making trucks tough before tough was a marketing slogan.
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