Not far from me in the New England region is this 1979 International Harvester Scout Rallye edition, which the seller claims is a rare find. That may be the case, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you should be running out the door to buy a Rallye-spec Scout. Like so many other packages from the 60s and 70s, it’s more about cosmetics than equipment. Still, it’s worth checking out the Scout here on eBay, as the $5,000 Buy-It-Now seems reasonable.
A few quick Google verifications on various Scout message boards confirms the Rallye package was mostly cosmetic in nature, with the stripes and graphics you see here, along with some upgraded wheels. In some years, the shock absorbers were also beefed up, but nothing significant was ever done with the axles or diffs. As you can see, surface rust is prevalent throughout, and the seller notes that the fenders and rockers are rotted.
However, the frame is solid, so that’s good news. The interior isn’t too shabby, either. Perhaps this is due to the Scout being in storage for over 20 years – the sun and general wear-and-tear from passengers couldn’t do their worst to the cabin like they typically do. Carpets and dash look decent as well, and Northeastern cars tend to be rusty but at least have crack-free dashes thanks to the more forgiving sunshine.
The seller says despite the long hiatus from the road, a fresh battery was able to confirm the headlights, wipers, radio, and blower motor all still worked! While the rust is undoubtedly unfortunate, fenders and rockers are two of the more common repair spots so fixing the rot won’t be rocket science; however, there’s plenty of good Scouts to choose from for more money, so which way would you go?
5K, wow. Way too much work. BTW I never noticed how the grill on these trucks look similar to a 91 or so S-10 pick-up.
Sorry, not really seeing it…
I agree with both remarks. The Scout 80 and 800 from the 60s are much cooler looking than those from later in the 70s.
These trucks would unfortunately rust if you simply breathed on them, and judging from the visible cancer on this one, what’s hidden is likely much more extensive. This would be a nice project for someone with good welding and fabrication skills (assuming the frame isn’t shot), but otherwise, this could be an expensive restoration.
You are right on. I purchased a nearly new 1979 Scout Traveler in 81. It was already starting to rust in the grille fender area despite being garage kept. Took it to a high school buddy whose family owned a body shop. Dad said sell it! Rumors abounded that there was a labor strike and the body parts were sat around un coated. When it was time to assemble the Scouts only the outside was sanded and they were literally rusting when you purchased it new. Don’t know if this is true, but I heeded the advice and let it go.
With all the brown spots all over it it looka like Tontos paint horse (Scout)
You sure this isn’t a 1980? My dad had a 1979 with round headlights. My uncle had a 1980 with square headlights.
Yeah, something not right. While the Rallye package was no big deal, 1980 was the last year for Scouts and the only year with square headlights making that the rare part. Still think for the time, they were the nicest SUV’s. Sure rubbed IH’s nose in it, with how popular SUV’s became.
Definitely an ‘80 grill.
The price is laughable. That was a $500 truck just a few years ago… and may still be in reality.
At least if it was an ‘80 it would have the D300 transfer case.
Would be awesome for someone who is capable of frame off restoration. In my mind , I’d pay about $2000 and its definitely an 1980!!
Yup I was thinking 1980 as well.
Could be an ’80 model with a late 79 build date.
My family Scout growing up was a 79 model that was built in November 1978 but it had all of the color and interior options of a 79 model.