I have decided to let my 1971 Scout 800B 304 V8 4 speed 4-wheel drive go to a new home. I purchased it in southern California and had it shipped to Michigan several years ago. It has remained garaged ever since, never seeing rain or snow. I have started it and only driven it around the block on occasion to keep it from deteriorating. I never licensed it, so it has not been driven any distance.

I bought it because my intention was to do a frame off restoration. The body is in great shape, with mainly surface rust in a few places. There is one area of rust that is starting to need attention on the passenger side near the bottom of the gas tank. It has been a west coast vehicle its entire life. It was undercoated at some point, and that is starting to peel off in places. The floors and body panels are solid. There are a few dents and dings, but the paint is original, other than various touch-ups over the years. Because the paint is old, it’s easy to see the body for what it is. I have found no bondo. The windows roll up and down, however they need help. The doors open, close, and latch like a 45 year old vehicle, but the hinges are not sagging. The tailgate and lift gate work and latch as they should. I have not removed the top.

The Scout starts, runs, and drives great. The brakes work really well too. The 4-speed transmission shifts great, the clutch works great, and the 4-wheel drive works. Everything works except for the wipers, radio, and one reverse light is missing. I’m not sure what it would take to fix those items. The interior is in good condition too with what looks like original seats and rubber floor mat. The dash pad looks good. The windshield has a few cracks on the passenger side. The odometer shows 38,423 however it may have rolled over.

The tires are newer and in great shape. There was a third gas tank installed between the frame rails at some point. I am not sure of the condition of this tank, nor the passenger side original tank. I am currently only using the driver side gas tank. The original fuel tank valve is present on the driver’s side floor and seems to work. All weather stripping needs to be replaced since its cracked from the dry southern California weather.

Overall, the Scout is in very good condition for its age. I have tried to be open and honest about it. It is a 45 year old Scout that has not been restored, so it will need attention. It really deserves to be restored, and is an excellent candidate for that. Although you could just drive it as is. Everything needs to be gone over before driving it any distance. While it runs and drives great, I cannot recommend driving it home. It should be hauled for safety until everything can be gone through. I can assist in getting it loaded and working with your transport company. I can store the Scout for a few weeks if needed, but full payment is required within 7 days of auction end. Cash in person, or certified funds and it must clear my bank before the Scout leaves. So if you’re paying with a cashier’s check, make sure I have it at least 3 days before you plan to pick up the Scout. I have a clear Michigan title for it in my name. Scout is being sold in as-is condition. Please ask all questions prior to bidding.