Build 004: The 1978 "Skyline Blue" Heritage Edition
The Vision: The Ultimate Coastal Cruiser
This 1978 International Harvester Scout II is a masterclass in sympathetic refurbishment. Acquired in 2020, the goal was to preserve the “heavy-metal” soul of the late-70s Scout while elevating the aesthetics for a modern Bay Area lifestyle. Finished in a vibrant Skyline Blue with a contrasting white bikini top, this build is designed for open-air weekend escapes to Stinson Beach and the Marin Headlands.
Engineering & Powertrain: The Original IH 345ci V8
Unlike our “Modernist” LS swaps, Build 004 stays true to its roots with the legendary International Harvester 345ci V8. This “industrial-grade” engine was pulled and refreshed to ensure it met our strict standards for reliability and performance.
The Drivetrain: Power is delivered through a robust three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case, providing that classic, high-torque IH driving feel.
Suspension & Handling: We performed a complete suspension refresh, ensuring the truck handles the winding grades of Highway 1 with confidence while maintaining the rugged 4×4 capability the Scout is famous for.
● Drivetrain: Paired with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission and a JB Custom shifter for precise gear selection.
● Axles & Stance: To handle the increased torque, we utilized Dana 44 axles with 3.54 gears. A Rough Country 2″ lift provides the perfect stance for both city streets and Northern California trails, maintaining a comfortable ride quality without sacrificing the classic Scout silhouette.
Design & Interior: Retro-Chic "Blue Plaid"
The interior of this 1978 build is one of its most striking features, leaning heavily into the “Enjoy” pillar of the Scout Club SF brand.
The Upholstery: We paired crisp white vinyl with vintage-inspired blue plaid cloth inserts. This “period-correct” look provides a high-end, bespoke feel that aftermarket kits simply cannot replicate.
Open-Air Utility: The white bikini top offers the perfect balance of sun protection and open-air freedom, making it the ideal setup for the microclimates of the San Francisco Fog Belt.
Connectivity: While the aesthetic is 1978, the experience is 2026. We integrated a hidden Bluetooth stereo system, allowing for modern audio without disrupting the classic IH dash.
Build Specifications at a Glance
Component | Specification |
Year/Model | 1978 International Harvester Scout II |
Engine | Refreshed Original IH 345ci V8 |
Transmission | 3-Speed Automatic |
Transfer Case | IH Dual-Range |
Interior | White Vinyl & Blue Plaid Cloth |
Top | White Bikini Top (Open-Air Style) |
Lighting | LED-Integrated Heritage Housings |