Looking for suggestions before buying a ScoutII

[Brooklyn]

I am selling my 1972 FJ40 and want to buy a Scout II. I had a 72 ScoutII when I was in San Francisco, but sold it when I moved East. Before I buy, I was wondering which year is considered the best overall. The FJ40 is heavily modified, but this time around I want to stay closer to stock. Thanks for any advice. Also, where should I start looking for listing of trucks. I don't mind traveling to pick one up from a non-rust region of the country.

[That Mick]

It all depends on what you're going to do w/ it.
a 1980 SII has a pre-cambered front 44, and a D300
(mostly). However, you also have smog sheit to worry about, and a couple '80 specific things like differnt style wiring.
I'd avoid the very early SII's. They've the weak front axle, 4 wheel drums, ect.
For my money, I'd look for a 74/75 XLC model. No emmisions sheit, strong axles, front discs.

[jdjanda]

Watch the 74's some have a disk Dana 30. About half of the 74's had a Dana 44 the other half 30's. Around 75 is when the T19 wide and standard started. I have a 75 XLC with a 345, no smog pump or convertors. The auto is heading out the door to be replaced with a T98 with granny low. Being an East coast Scout, your going to find rust, so you'll have to deal with that. You could buy a Scout with solid running gear and then get a fiberglass tub, or prepare for rust repair by replacing rusted out sheet metal. Repo sheet metal parts are available.

Joe

[That Mick]

My bad- forgot about that D30 stuff :(