The International Harvester Scout stands as one of the most historically significant pioneers of the modern SUV era. Clean surviving examples are increasingly prized by collectors who appreciate their rugged, no-nonsense construction. This 1975 International Harvester (IH) Scout II is located in the Seattle, Washington area and listed here on Craigslist for $14,999. For Pacific Northwest enthusiasts looking to enter classic utility ownership without the premium associated with restored early Ford Broncos, this local Scout II could be a practical acquisition. We appreciate Curvette for sending us this listing. While this example has some wiring needs and the top needs to be replaced, it is a running, driving example.
Mechanically, the 1975 Scout II offered exceptional drivetrain versatility to suit a range of commercial and consumer needs. The base engine was IH’s dependable 196-cubic-inch (3.2L) inline-four, valued primarily for its fuel efficiency and reliability. Buyers seeking smoother highway performance could opt for the AMC-sourced 258-cubic-inch (4.2L) inline-six. For those requiring towing and off-road capability, International offered two of its heavy-duty V8 engines: the 304-cubic-inch (5.0L) V8 and the 345-cubic-inch (5.6L) V8. This Scout II has the 304 cubic inch V8 backed by a three-speed automatic transmission. The seller has used this example for towing and states the Scout II is registered in Arizona.
Styling and personalization options were surprisingly diverse for a utility brand. The 1975 exterior palette featured several colors, including Terra Cotta, Glacier Blue, Copper Metallic, and Winter White. Inside, the Scout II defied its commercial heritage by offering packages ranging from stripped-down, “hose-out” vinyl interiors to highly appointed deluxe cabins. Buyers could configure their Scout with bucket seats finished in distinctive Camel Tartan plaid cloth, blue houndstooth, or heavy-duty vinyl in shades like Tanbark and Black. The seller has modified the dash for aftermarket gauges. However, the gauges don’t work and there is no radio. The listing states that the fuel sending unit and fuel tank have also been replaced.
Historically, 1975 was a transitional period for International Harvester’s light-line truck division. As the company struggled to compete with the massive distribution networks of Ford and Chevrolet, light-truck sales declined overall. However, the Scout II remained a bright spot, keeping the brand relevant to recreational buyers. While IH produced a total of 532,674 Scouts over its entire 1960–1980 run, individual model year production numbers for 1975 remained modest. Visually, the 1975 model is distinguished by its unique front grille, which carried over the 1974 design’s vertical bar trim overlays but introduced distinct chrome and black square trim rings around the headlights. While this Scout II has needs, it is a good starting place that looks pretty solid.
Correct color for an I-H 😉
The author is way too kind, but we all know, the truth for the demise of the IH light truck line was( leaning forward),, imports. IH was essentially resting on their laurels with mechanicals from the 50s, imports were dominating the truck market. What was required on IHs part, was a completely new platform, and I’m sure one was in the works, chose to pull the plug altogether, and concentrate on HD trucks, going great guns at the time. A big mistake, I feel, as look where SUVs went, unheard of at the time. A wonderful find, and remember the commercial, mom saying to Sonny before a ride, “why did you buy a truck, Sonny”? Sonny’s reply, “it’s not a truck, mom, it’s a Scout”,,,an image they could never shake.
$14,999 – at least you get relatively new tires.
With that hitch on the front bumper I must assume it has spent a lot of miles behind a “big bus” motor home????? I do not know how this affects a power train??? Before purchasing this great looking Scout I would need those questions answered.. And the answers would determine if the price is right, or if it needs a LOT of powertrain work..
The ad says he used to tow it behind a motorhome and has a braking system available for it, and since it’s registered in AZ I imagine he lived here and spent summers in WA or vice versa maybe and spent winters here. More to your point though I wonder about the drive train too, especially considering it’s an automatic. I assume you’d just put it in neutral and that would be it but I’d need that question answered as well.
I believe one needs to put the transfer case in neutral and unlock the front hubs as well, and bypasses the automatic.