Newb needs info on scouts (WTB one)

[BYOB]

Hi, new to forum and to scouts. Looking to buy a scout but had a few questions to aid me on my decision on which scout to purchase. I am looking for a daily driver due to me having to sell my GMC truck do to many layoff's at work, need the money. I like the 80/800 style over the II only because of the top design. The half cab and the boxy look is more my style but the 4 cyl kind of throws me for a loop.
So first question is how do these 4 cyl stack up? Is there sufficent power to move these things on and off road? Aftermarket upgrades for the 4 cyl? I know the later models have the 6 and 8 options and could probably find one which would be great but as stated money is tight and will probably be lookin at a project type.

Second question is top options on the II. Is there a half cab for the II? I have seen I believe it was a "rally" top and a "sport" top and a replacement bulkhead at one of the vendors site but not sure if there is a half cab.

I also am weary of the 4cyl due to towing capacity. We do like to go to the desert and moutains, we have a small tent trailer probably around 2000#. We do have a dodge quad cab (wifes truck no sell'n that if you know what I mean) but not 4x4 not good in the sand and trails.

Third question for now, any links for replacement body parts would be great. found a few seems there is a decent selection for the II but not so much for the 80/800 i.e. fenders, quarters etc. I am sure for the price range im looking at that I will be doing some rust repair but would like to know what is available to help me decide if it is repairable.

Any pictures links and info will be appreciated and look forward to become a productive member of this site. Any questions and comments good or bad are always welcome, bring it on!

[Allan E.]

The 4 cylinder is not good for towing on hills. On the flat, no problem as long as there isn't a lot of wind. They are made to run continuous at about 3600 for the 196, 3900 for the 152. You don't have to baby them as long as you don't keep the rpm over the continuous duty rating. Believe me, you don't want to try to accellerate up the grapevine. Not gonna happen, towing or not. If you're really wound up, the 196 will get you there, but don't slow down or else forget it. It will take a while to get back up to speed.

The body panels are available from the light line dealers, like superscoutspecialists.com, etc. There are other sources as well.

There are half cabs for the scout II. You can also use a terra top, but you need to swap the doors, because the corners are rounded. I like that option best, but it's a personal preference, no question.

Off road, the 800 is as good as any stock rig you will find. When you get past the point where a stock rig is adequate, there are upgrade paths. You just have to pick your poison, because it's not exactly the stuff sold at NAPA or Summit or whatever. You have to set a goal and get there for a reason.

Welcome to the binder community. There are lots of good folks all over the country, and many of them in socal that are very knowledgeable.

[BYOB]

Thanks Alle E for the info I kinda thought the 4 would be on the weak side for towing. Not ruleing out the 4 but will probably look for a six or eight prefer to be able to do some light towing when necessary. As far as upgradeing it sounds like you just have to be creative... sounds like fun!!! I guess I will continue to research a little more but the info you have provided is a help and I thank you for it. Anyone else please feel free to chime in and give your .02 cents as well, looking forward to it.