1979 International Scout II, 345 V8, automatic and A/C, project

Why we picked it

Why we picked it: B & B Auto Sales is asking $5,950 for this 1979 Scout II with the 345 V8, automatic and factory A/C. Project Scouts have been selling for about $11,100 to $17,000, so even after allowing for its rougher body, the asking price leaves room for repairs.

The seller calls it a high-optioned Scout that will make a good project. They say it runs and drives but the engine smokes, the body is rusty and will need floor work, and the frame is good. The listing does not state the title, so confirm that first. The dealer offers a like-it-or-return-it policy with a restocking fee on its other trucks, so ask whether that applies here.

The value check

The seller is asking $5,950. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $11,100–$17,000, so the middle of the market is about $14,050. That put this car 58% under.

Project and rough-driver Scout IIs sold between $11,100 and $17,000 in 2026. This one has rusty floors and a smoking engine, so it is rougher than those, but it still looks well under the market.

Where the numbers come from:

• 1972 Scout II running project, BaT $17,000 (Oct 2026)
• 1976 Scout II project, private $15,500 (Jun 2026)
• 1974 Scout II, BaT $12,000 (Jul 2026)
• 1978 Scout II Traveler, BaT $11,100 (Jun 2026)

What to check

• The seller says the body is rusty and needs floors. Also check rocker panels, the rear quarters, the tailgate area and the windshield frame base.
• Check the frame rear section and spring hangers despite the seller calling the frame good.
• The 345 smokes per the seller. Expect valve seals at best, a rebuild at worst.
• Mileage is listed as TMU, and the title is not stated.
• Check the Dana 44 axles and the Dana 20 transfer case for leaks and play.

Making it drive like new

Scouts take modern drivetrains well. Common builds use a Cummins 4BT or an LS with a 4L60E, a modern radiator and Vintage Air. Replace floors and rockers with reproduction panels, add disc brakes and a dual master cylinder, power steering, and a modest suspension lift with modern shocks.