This Turbo-Diesel 1980 International Harvester Scout II Is Loaded With Personality
SUV / CUV
Classics
American
The International Harvester Scout played a pivotal role in the evolution of the American SUV. It was created in the 1950s in reaction to the original Jeep CJ. In turn, the Scout inspired the Ford Bronco in the early 1960s. Between 1961 and 1980, IH built over 520,000 Scouts with many unique variations.
But this fiery red 1980 Scout II turbo-diesel recently listed on eBay with quirky plaid seats is a rare standout. IH produced only 6,400 turbo-diesels.
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Turbo-diesels were unique back in the day. Over the years, IH offered the Scout with inline-four, straight-six, and V-8 gasoline engines. The inline six-cylinder Nissan SD33 - opens in new window or tab. diesel engine was available from 1976 through 1979. In 1980, its final year, the Scout II got Nissan’s SD33T turbo diesel.
It Ain’t the Heat, It’s the Humidity
This Scout II turbo-diesel spent its life in California, where low humidity allowed it to escape the rusty fate that turned so many into dust. There’s rust, to be sure, but it’s workable. Much of the recent work addressed maintenance and mechanical issues. The Scout is, above all, a survivor.
Restoring a weathered icon requires vision, patience, and a healthy checkbook. The key to success is determining what to do first and what can wait. Documenting the work is a huge plus when it’s time to sell.
In this case, before and after photos show the dramatic results of the Scout II turbo-diesel’s refresh process. Buffing out the factory Tahitian Red paint brought out a deep shine, highlighting homespun DIY graphics and flaws in the Scout’s sheet metal.
Updated Interior
Opening the cabin doors reveals the magic. If you love plaid upholstery, you’ve come to the right place. The thoughtfully refurbished interior features the original Russet Plaid fabric, accented by new marine-grade red vinyl upholstery.
- An OEM IH air-conditioning system brings creature comfort.
- The audio system consists of a modern Bluetooth Retro Manufacturing radio - opens in new window or tab., amplifier, and subwoofer, with Kicker - opens in new window or tab. and Pioneer speakers - opens in new window or tab..
Upgraded Suspension
The seller updated the Scout II turbo-diesel's suspension to handle the rigors of the trail. The truck sits on a four-inch lift and rides on Skyjacker Black MAX shock absorbers - opens in new window or tab. fore and aft, with Rough Country leaf springs - opens in new window or tab.. Thirty-three-inch Nitto Trail Grapplers - opens in new window or tab. wrap the 17-inch Pro Comp Classic 69 Series - opens in new window or tab. polished aluminum wheels.
While $32,500 looks high for a driver-level truck, it might be worth every penny for a buyer ready to take on the restoration. The truck needs metalwork and paint. Frame off is the way to go when you have the time and money. Then again, a buyer might leave it as-is and enjoy it.
The Jeep Wrangler - opens in new window or tab. continues to thrive, and the modern Ford Bronco - opens in new window or tab. is a success. Meanwhile, patient IH enthusiasts can look forward to 2026 when the Scout returns as an electric vehicle supplied by Volkswagen - opens in new window or tab..
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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.