LS Drivability Conversions
We love Scouts! And more than we love Scouts, we love seeing them on the road. And the best way we've found to keep Scouts on the road is with our Drivability Conversion, the perfect way to preserve all the vintage aesthetics and character of your truck while adding up-to-date performance, reliability, and serviceability.
Thanks to our dedicated technicians, with years of experience exclusively converting International Scouts, we've mastered the Drivability Conversion process, and continue to raise the quality of our finished product with every new build – even after 250+ Conversions!
To get an idea of our process and the outcome either click the picture below or watch a couple of our Driver Series videos!
Project Rates:
Because no two Scouts are exactly alike, we operate on a Time & Materials basis rather than a fixed price for all our Drivability projects. This ensures you only pay for the work your specific truck needs and the features you want. The typical range is anywhere from $55,000 and go up from there! Our process looks like this: We’ll have an initial conversation discussing your aspirations for your Scout then have you send us photos. After we have reviewed the photos, an initial bid sheet will be created to give you an idea of the options and what pricing may look like for your Scout. Once we receive your Scout we’ll do an inspection then it’s off to the races! As your Scout goes through our different departments you can expect to receive photos and commentary of how the build is going as well as any issues we run into. If we find anything lacking or should be added we will have a conversation with you and decide if you want it. We’ll put on a few hundred test miles after which you can come pick up the Scout of your dreams!
Our process includes Standard Parts we insist on updating:
-
Conversion to a modern GM powertrain – engine, transmission, and transfer case.
-
All new wiring – Not just wiring for the new engine: A complete, headlights-to-taillights rewire!
-
New fuel system, including our custom 30-gallon tank, in-tank fuel pump, pressure regulator, filters, hoses, etc.
-
Completely new cooling system, with our LS-specific brass radiator and fan shroud, and a brand new OEM water pump and thermostat.
-
Brand new Magnaflow 3" exhaust system.
-
Comprehensive rebuild of the existing power brake and power steering systems, even including all new stainless brake hard lines.
-
Fresh paint for the engine bay, along with standard powder coating of steering knuckles, brake backing plates, heater box, battery tray, and several other components.
-
Heavy-duty Tom Wood's driveshafts, new ball joints, suspension bushings, bearings and seals at all four wheels, and thorough inspections of the front and rear differentials.
-
Integration of the factory gauges and stock shifters - Climb inside and you'll still see the Scout you know and love!
-
Time allotted to improve door and hood alignment, lubricate latch and roll-up window mechanisms, refresh dash knobs and controls, etc
We also offer Optional Upgrades:
-
6.0L, 360hp L96 crate motor from GM Performance
-
6.2L, 430hp LS3 crate motor from GM Performance
-
Brand new, extreme duty, Scout specific axles with properly engineered disc brakes for the front and rear
-
5-speed manual transmission
-
Vinyl or waxed canvas upholstery packages available with or without inserts
-
Carpet with heat insulation and sound deadener (headliners, too)
-
Blasted and powder coated frame
-
Locking Tuffy center console with USB charge port
-
4pt roll bar with modern 3pt seat belts front and rear
-
Suspension upgrades
-
Gear ratio change (3.73s are perfect for this new drivetrain)
-
New Vacuum or Hydraulic brake booster
-
Air conditioning
-
Bluetooth stereo system
-
LED headlights
-
Anything Scout Workman bumpers with options for a winch in the front and tire carrier in the rear
-
Combo sliders
-
Front Runner roof rack
-
Roof Top Tents from Freespirit Recreation
-
Wheel and tire packages
- And more!
Drivability Conversions DO NOT include:
- Paint: Please contact New Legend 4x4 to inquire about full restorations complete with body work, paint, and additional custom options.
- Freight / Shipping services
- Custom / One-off Drivetrain combinations

Estimated Timeline & Reservations:
Conversion Timeline: Our Drivability Conversions typically take 10-14 weeks, depending on the number of options, with another 2–3 weeks of test driving added at the end of the project. We put 400–500 miles on every truck before handing over the keys to ensure every kink is worked out and you can start enjoying your truck immediately and without worry once it's finished.
Reservations: We have a limited number of Drivability Conversion spots each year and are currently taking reservations. Please contact us for current timeframes. To begin the process of reserving a spot for your Scout, contact us to start a conversation with one of our Drivability Conversion experts. To expedite the process, please follow up with photos of your Scout – the more pictures, the better!

