By 1971, competition within the off-roader market was heating up. Ford’s Bronco, the new Chevy Blazer, and Jeep’s CJ and Wagoneer were all vying for buyers in the fast-growing segment. International Harvester, playing the role of underdog, responded with its new Scout II. The Scout II was larger than the Scout 800 it replaced, with fresh new styling that was more modern yet still retained the Scout’s basic, rugged appeal. But perhaps the most successful of the Scout specials had to be the purposeful, stripped out, bare-bones Super Scout II.

The SS II was built for sheer off-road enjoyment. Standard steel doors were eschewed in favor of Bronco roadster-inspired fiberglass inserts and removable, soft-sided doors. The fiberglass top was replaced by a simple, removable soft vinyl canopy on a light frame, and a roll bar was mounted behind the front seats. Outside, distinct ABS plastic inserts are fitted to the grille and tailgate along with a graphics applique package and white painted “wagon wheel” rims, with raised white letter off-road tires.

The outstanding 1978 Scout on offer has been impeccably restored. During restoration, a standard Scout II was upgraded to factory-correct SS II specification. It was expertly prepped and painted inside and out in the factory-correct shade of Omaha Orange. Original-style door inserts were then fitted – correctly presented in bare satin black with exposed hardware. Original graphics were reproduced and applied to the quarters and front fenders, and other correct SS II parts such as the flares, ABS plastic grille and tailgate inserts, and complete soft top and door set were sourced from noted IH Scout experts. Bare painted floors, correct for the SS II, are protected by correct IH branded rubber floor mats. The bucket seats, center console, and tilt steering column are also part of the SS II package. The only deviation from standard is the plain black seat upholstery; a correct material and pattern for standard Scouts, and a more attractive option.

The frame has been fully media blasted and refinished in correct satin black powder coat for a long lasting and durable finish. Under the hood is the International’s 345-cu. in. V-8, which is fully detailed; it is backed by a freshly refurbished Torqueflite automatic transmission and integrated transfer case. Power disc brakes and power steering help make it an easy and enjoyable drive while, for safety and usability, a poly fuel tank replaces the original steel tank.

This is an audacious period piece that is a great alternative to more commonplace classic off-roaders, and a fabulous expression of late 1970s style. Few International Harvester Scouts have been restored with such attention to detail, and this outstanding truck is ready for show or enjoyment, on and off the road.