Beautifully Updated International Travelall Is Ready For Anything
Trucks
SUV / CUV
Classics
American
Classic SUVs are hot, offering distinctive style to go along with the utility that has long made the category a favorite with buyers. But few stand out like the 1970 International Travelall recently available on eBay. Big, bold, and finished in period orange paint, this is one restomod SUV that’s sure to draw attention wherever it goes.
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A full-sized alternative to the Chevrolet Suburban - opens in new window or tab. and Jeep Wagoneer - opens in new window or tab. when new, the roomy and rugged Travelall sold in much smaller numbers back in the day. A tiny dealership network and a limited range of vehicles conspired to keep the truck-based Travelall off the radar of many buyers. Most of those that did sell saw hard use, so very few examples still exist. Fewer still are on the road, let alone in the turnkey condition of this example.
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This Travelall is from the final generation that ended production in 1975. It's the largest and most advanced version offered. Essentially a giant station wagon built on a pickup truck chassis, with dimensions similar to the Suburban, the Travelall offers plenty of room for passengers in two rows of seats. There’s also a huge cargo area for all their gear.
An Arizona vehicle, this International Travelall benefits from having been in a dry climate. It is free of the rust that plagued many examples of the era. Substantial upgrades make it a rugged and capable family getaway vehicle—one that stands out in a sea of cookie-cutter SUVs. The original powertrain is gone, replaced by a 140-horsepower, 3.5-liter four-cylinder Detroit Diesel engine, and a manual transmission. Known as a 4-53, these rugged and versatile engines have seen service in a variety of commercial and marine applications.
International Travelall: Modern Conveniences, Classic Style
Other custom modifications include an upgraded suspension and lift kit, Rock Slider running boards - opens in new window or tab., a custom grille with built-in lights, and oversize tires on ProComp wheels - opens in new window or tab.. The brilliant orange paint adds to the unique and purposeful look. This International Travelall stands out from the crowd. Currently set up with rear-wheel-drive, the Travelall includes the transfer case and other components to make it 4WD.
The basic and businesslike interior has been upgraded with added instrumentation, custom leather seats, and fresh black carpet. It has been brought into the 21st century with Dynamat insulation to help keep noise levels down. While an air conditioning system is installed, it’s not currently operational. The current owner has detailed the build with plenty of photographs and documentation. The sale includes all of these items. An assortment of spares will also go to the new owner.
Ready for the trail or car show, this exceptionally rare International Travelall needs only minor fixes. These can be taken care of even while the new owner is enjoying it. And at a fraction of the cost of a new SUV, it’s worth a long look.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.