Xtreme 4x4 Season 2009 Episode 9 ?69 International Scout Part II
- February 28, 2009
In the ninth episode of the 2009 season of Xtreme 4x4, viewers are treated to the second part of a build devoted to a classic 1969 International Scout. The Scout is a longstanding American vehicle known for its off-road capabilities, but in this episode, the hosts work to take the vehicle to new heights with a range of modifications.
As the episode opens, viewers are brought up to speed on the work that was completed in part one of the build, which included stripping the vehicle down to the frame and upgrading the suspension system. From there, the hosts move into more specific tasks, beginning with the installation of a new Dana 44 front axle.
The importance of the front axle is underscored by the fact that it serves as the foundation for many of the other upgrades that will follow. To ensure that it’s up to the task, the hosts go through a detailed process in which they replace all the bushings and seals, as well as install new brakes and calipers.
Throughout the episode, the hosts pay close attention to how each modification affects the overall performance of the Scout. For instance, they discuss how the new Dana 44 axle improves ground clearance and allows for larger tires, which in turn boosts traction and provides a smoother ride off-road.
The episode also goes into detail about some of the challenges inherent to working on a vehicle as old as the 1969 Scout. One notable issue that arises is that of rust, which the hosts need to deal with on several occasions. They also need to get creative with certain processes that might have been simpler on newer vehicles. For example, because the Scout doesn’t have a bolt-on steering box, the hosts need to rig up their own bracket in order to install a new one.
Another major upgrade tackled in this episode is the installation of a new transfer case. Here, the hosts opt for an Atlas 2 transfer case, which offers a number of benefits over the vehicle’s original setup. Specifically, the Atlas 2 offers a lower gear ratio, which helps with rock crawling and other challenging off-road conditions. Additionally, it’s much more durable than the previous transfer case, which should give the Scout a longer lifespan overall.
As with many of the other modifications in the episode, the process of installing the new transfer case is thorough and detail-oriented. The hosts carefully remove the old transfer case and test-fit the new one before making any final installations. They also take the time to replace any worn or damaged parts, such as the driveshaft yoke, which brings the vehicle up to a higher standard of overall performance and reliability.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to plenty of insights into the mechanics behind each upgrade. The hosts discuss everything from gear ratios to bearing clearance, and they show viewers how they can test each new modification to ensure that it’s working properly. However, the episode also has its fair share of fun and humor, with the hosts occasionally taking a break to goof around or make a playful jab at each other.
Ultimately, the episode ends with the Scout in much better shape than it was at the beginning of the build. Though there’s still more work to be done in future episodes, the vehicle is now equipped with a number of upgrades that will make it even more capable off-road. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or simply a fan of classic vehicles, Xtreme 4x4 season 2009 episode 9 is an entertaining and informative watch.