building a 1965 scout 80

F

faslane

New member
Hey guys.

Thought id drop in and say hi. Ive got a 65' Scout 80 that my Dad bought brand new. Its been sitting in northern nv for the last 30 years or so. Body is completely rust free and straight. Just needs some tlc

I know this is going to be a fairly big undertaking to rebuild this bad boy, but I cant decide which way to go. Im thinking more of a resto mod (upgraded suspension and axles, v-8 or diesel) but id like to really know a few things. Id like this to be a weekend driver with the occasional trail ride...with a touch of mud thrown in on occasion. Nothing crazy

1. What are my options for engines? I see some guys going diesel. Id love to do that. But also wouldnt mind a mild sbc. Who makes conversion mounts? Conversion tranny mounts?

2. Do I need to beef the frame up if I go diesel?

3. How strong are the stock front and rear ends?

Any help is greatly appreciated

josh
 
An original 65? Nice and a Nevada one at that.
You do know that we looooove pictures.
I think just about every combination you could dream up has been tried. Some successfully and some not so. Just pick one you can follow through with and make a quality piece out of. I'm more of a keep it as close to original as possible guy. That is why I'm taking on the 152 stroker project that will yield a 191 inch 4 banger with more power and better efficiency that IH ever dreamed of. It will ultimately be turbo charged and make better than 200 street-able hp.
We would love to watch your build so keep us in your loop. When I get a chance I'll touch on your questions or some one else will jump in.
 
faslane said:
1. What are my options for engines?
anything you want. I see some guys going diesel. Id love to do that. But also wouldnt mind a mild sbc. Who makes conversion mounts? talk to Jeff/IH only or go custom.conversion tranny mounts? talk to Jeff/IH only or go custom.

2. Do I need to beef the frame up if I go diesel?
no, but the mounts should be beefy.

3. How strong are the stock front and rear ends?
they are super weak. You can blow them up with the stock 4 banger.

Any help is greatly appreciated

josh
Click to expand...

Good luck.
 
Last edited:
Just to expand on the axle comment above.

Check your rear axle to see if its a d27 or d44. Some 65's came stock with d44's (mine did). If you have a d44, your miles ahead over the d27 as far as reliability.
 
We do offer conversion mounts for motor and transmissions. Check our online store. If you don't see what you are looking for then call our sales office.
 
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