The 1977 International Harvester Super Scout II stands as a rugged and rare chapter in the evolution of the American SUV, with only approximately 780 units produced for that model year. This particular example has been transformed into a modern off-road powerhouse through an extensive custom build by the specialists at Anything Scout of Ames, Iowa. Completed in 2018, the project successfully merged the unmistakable utilitarian aesthetic of the SSII with contemporary powertrain and chassis technology. Now featuring a fuel-injected Vortec V8 and a heavy-duty six-speed transmission, this Scout offers a level of reliability and performance that far exceeds its original 1970s factory specifications.
Yellow Rallye Graphics and Rugged Off-Road Armoring
The visual character of this 1977 International Harvester Super Scout II is defined by its vibrant yellow finish accented by classic black Rallye-style graphics. The exterior is purpose-built for the trail, featuring steel front and rear bumpers, Anything Scout rock sliders, and black wheel arch fender flares. A Warn winch is integrated into the front end for recovery duties, while a removable hardtop provides versatility for varying climates. The truck rides on 17-inch Pacer alloy wheels wrapped in 33-inch Kenda Klever R/T tires, with the stance further enhanced by a combination of suspension and body lifts. These modifications ensure the vehicle maintains a formidable presence while providing the clearance necessary for technical terrain.
Corbeau Comfort and Modern Cabin Amenities
Inside the cabin, the environment has been upgraded for long-distance comfort without sacrificing its rugged mission. The cockpit features twin Corbeau front bucket seats trimmed in tan leather with cloth inserts, separated by a secure Tuffy locking center console. Modern technology is seamlessly integrated through a Pioneer head unit paired with Kicker audio speakers, while air conditioning and cruise control provide modern convenience. Safety and utility are prioritized by a bolt-in roll bar, three-point seatbelts, and a fire extinguisher. The driver interface is modernized with a flat-bottom Flaming River steering wheel and a custom Anything Scout instrument cluster that retains a period-correct feel while delivering precise mechanical data.
Vortec V8 Efficiency and Six-Speed 6L90 Gearing
The mechanical heart of this Scout is a 4.8-liter Vortec V8, which was retrofitted during the 2018 build to provide a significant upgrade in both horsepower and torque compared to the original AMC or IH powerplants. This modern V8 is equipped with tubular exhaust headers and an aluminum Wizard Cooling radiator to manage thermal loads during heavy use. Power is managed by a robust six-speed 6L90 automatic transmission, which offers a wide gear spread for both crawling and highway cruising. The drivetrain is further reinforced by a dual-range transfer case and custom Tom Wood’s driveshafts, ensuring that the V8’s output is delivered reliably to the ground through Superwinch manually locking front hubs.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.8L Vortec V8 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed 6L90 Automatic |
| Suspension | Lifted w/ Bilstein Shocks |
| Braking | Hydroboosted 4-Wheel Discs |
| Fuel System | 30-Gallon Tank w/ Skid Plate |
| Wheel/Tire | 17″ Pacer / 33″ Kenda Klever R/T |
A Rare Restomod Entry into the Vintage 4×4 Market
The market for International Harvester Scouts has seen a dramatic rise in value, often rivaling the Ford Bronco and Toyota FJ40 in terms of collector desirability. This 1977 International Harvester Super Scout II holds a unique advantage due to its rarity as a genuine SSII and the high quality of the “Anything Scout” build pedigree. While a stock Scout offers vintage charm, this restomod variant solves the common reliability and braking issues inherent in 1970s hardware. In the current market, vehicles that combine authentic heritage with modern GM-based powertrains are viewed as “turn-key” classics, appealing to buyers who want the iconic look of a Scout without the maintenance headaches of a 50-year-old carburetor.
Modern Reliability and Trail-Ready Stewardship
Ownership of this custom Super Scout II involves managing a vehicle that has been engineered for actual use rather than static display. The hydroboosted four-wheel disc brakes and power steering make it surprisingly manageable in modern traffic, while the 30-gallon fuel tank extends its range for overland adventures. Maintenance is simplified by the use of a modern Vortec engine, for which parts and diagnostic knowledge are readily available at any local service center. With only 16,000 miles shown since the build completion and a clean New Jersey title, this Scout is a sorted and refined machine ready for its next chapter, whether that involves beach cruising or mountain trail exploration.
The Ultimate Fusion of Heritage and Performance
This 1977 International Harvester Super Scout II is a masterclass in the art of the restomod, preserving the soul of a rare off-roader while injecting it with a modern heart. From its bold yellow Rallye aesthetics to the precision of its hydroboosted braking system, every modification serves to enhance the original mission of the Scout. It represents a time when off-roading was about pure mechanical connection, now updated with the convenience of a six-speed automatic and V8 efficiency. For the discerning enthusiast who demands exclusivity and capability, this Anything Scout build is a definitive statement in vintage 4×4 excellence that is ready to be driven and enjoyed.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
