1979 International Scout II Tires

A 1979 International Scout II uses three primary tire sizes: 225/75R15, H78-15, and HR78-15. Those sizes reflect two construction paths and three sizing formats, with 225/75R15 as a modern metric radial, H78-15 as a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply tire, and HR78-15 as an alphanumeric radial.

The practical next step is confirming which size is actually on the Scout II now, especially if the truck has been restored, modified, or converted from one construction type to another. All three sizes use a 15-inch rim diameter, but construction, sidewall style, and overall tire character can differ enough that matching the vehicle's current setup matters before choosing a replacement.

The covered 1979 International Scout II tire sizes all use a 15-inch rim diameter. That includes 225/75R15, H78-15, and HR78-15, so the wheel diameter remains consistent even though the tire sizing format and construction can change.

Diameter is only part of the fitment picture, so it is still worth checking wheel width before selecting a specific tire. Product options in these sizes show different rim-width ranges, and that matters if the Scout II has aftermarket wheels or a non-original wheel package. Confirming both the 15-inch diameter and the actual wheel width helps narrow the right tire choice.

The covered 1979 International Scout II sub-models share the same tire-size coverage. Terra, Traveler & SSII and Traveltop all use 225/75R15, H78-15, and HR78-15 as the applicable 15-inch fitment choices.

That makes sub-model selection simpler than on vehicles where trim level changes the tire size. Even so, the truck in front of you may have been changed over the years, especially on a vehicle often used for restoration, trail driving, or custom work. Looking at the current tire sidewall and measuring wheel width can prevent ordering a tire that suits the model range but not the actual vehicle setup.

H78-15 is the bias-ply fitment among the 1979 International Scout II tire choices. The Scout II also uses radial formats in 225/75R15 and HR78-15, so H78-15 stands apart as the vintage alphanumeric bias-ply option on the same 15-inch rim diameter.

That matters because choosing H78-15 is usually as much about presentation and construction preference as it is about size. A bias-ply tire gives the truck a more traditional look and feel, while the radial choices move in a different direction. Owners comparing them should confirm wheel width and think about whether the goal is restoration style, mixed road use, or a more utility-oriented setup.

Radial equivalents for H78-15 include 215R15, P225/75R15, P235/70R15, and 760R15. Those cover an 80-series metric radial, a 75-series P-metric radial, a 70-series P-metric radial, and a bias-look radial equivalent that keeps a more traditional visual character.

These options give a useful range of radial alternatives, but they should be treated as fitment choices that still need checking rather than automatic substitutes. The associated rim-width range is 6 to 8 inches, and the vehicle's actual wheel width, tire clearance, and intended use all deserve a look before moving away from H78-15 bias-ply construction.

Either can make sense on a 1979 International Scout II because this fitment includes both bias-ply and radial choices. H78-15 serves the traditional bias-ply role, while 225/75R15 and HR78-15 provide radial options in different sizing formats and visual styles.

The decision usually comes down to how the truck is being used and how authentic or vintage the finished look needs to feel. A restoration-minded owner may prefer the older construction style, while a driver-focused owner may lean toward a radial format. Matching the tire to the current wheel setup and the truck's stance is more useful than treating one construction as universally right.

Start with the exact size and construction that suits the truck: 225/75R15 radial, H78-15 bias-ply, or HR78-15 radial. From there, compare whether the goal is a modern metric radial, a vintage alphanumeric radial, or a traditional bias-ply tire, since each points the Scout II in a different visual and driving direction.

After size and construction, the useful comparisons are sidewall style, brand, tire series, rim-width compatibility, and load specifications. A whitewall radial creates a different presentation than a blackwall truck-style bias-ply. It also helps to look at how the vehicle is used, since a weekend cruiser, restoration project, and utility-focused Scout II may not call for the same tire character.

1979 International Scout II tire options include wide whitewall, narrow whitewall, and blackwall sidewall styles. The 225/75R15 radial offerings cover both wide and narrow whitewall looks, while H78-15 includes wide whitewall versions and a blackwall truck-style option.

Sidewall choice changes the truck's appearance more than many buyers expect, especially on a vehicle with upright body lines and exposed wheel openings like the Scout II. A broad whitewall leans toward a more traditional or restoration-oriented presentation, while a blackwall tire gives a more utilitarian look. The smartest choice is the one that matches the truck's existing trim, paint, and intended personality.

Available 1979 International Scout II tires come from BFGoodrich, Coker Classic, American Classic, Maxxis, Travelstar, and STA. Brand availability depends on the size and construction, with the broadest product spread appearing in 225/75R15 radial and a smaller but distinct set of choices in H78-15 bias-ply.

Brand names are most useful when paired with the details that actually affect selection, such as tire series, sidewall treatment, and rim-width range. One buyer may be looking for a whitewall radial in a familiar metric size, while another wants a blackwall bias-ply truck tire. Comparing the specifications within the correct size tells more than the brand name alone.

A period-style 1979 International Scout II usually starts with deciding whether the truck should present as a traditional bias-ply vehicle or as a radial-equipped truck with a vintage flavor. H78-15 supports that older alphanumeric bias-ply look, while HR78-15 keeps the vintage size language in a radial construction.

That choice shapes the truck's visual impression before sidewall style is even considered. Buyers who want the Scout II to feel closer to its late-1970s utility character often begin with the alphanumeric sizes, then choose between whitewall or blackwall presentation. When exact originality matters, historical vehicle documentation and marque-specific references are worth consulting before finalizing the tire style.

Tire construction changes the appearance of a restored 1979 International Scout II because the available sizes carry different visual cues. H78-15 gives the truck a classic bias-ply presentation, HR78-15 preserves an older-style radial designation, and 225/75R15 introduces a more modern metric radial look on the same 15-inch wheel diameter.

On a restoration-minded Scout II, those differences influence how authentic, updated, or utility-focused the finished truck appears. Construction choice also interacts with sidewall style, since a wide whitewall sends a different message than a narrow whitewall or blackwall. Looking at the vehicle as a whole, including wheel finish and trim level of detail, usually leads to the most convincing result.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1979 International Scout II even when the replacement tire is in one of the correct listed sizes. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, suspension alterations, body lifts, lowering, or steering-component changes can all alter how much room the tire has.

That is especially important when moving between bias-ply and radial constructions or when considering an equivalent radial size for H78-15. A Scout II that still uses its original-style wheel setup is one thing, but a modified truck may need closer attention to clearance at full steering lock and through suspension travel. A quick fitment check now can prevent rubbing and stance surprises later.

Before driving a 1979 International Scout II on new tires, inspect wheel condition, verify the wheel diameter and width, and make sure the tires are inflated to the appropriate pressure for the tire being used. It also helps to check valve stems, lug hardware, and basic clearance around the fenders and steering components.

A short test drive should be paired with another visual check for contact marks, uneven seating, or air loss, especially on an older vehicle that may have seen wheel swaps or suspension work. Collector trucks also benefit from a broader inspection of shocks, bushings, and steering parts, since worn chassis components can mask themselves as tire problems once fresh rubber is installed.

1979 International Scout II tires should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections for cracking, bulges, cuts, and uneven wear, and periodic review of how the truck is sitting after storage. Low-mileage collector vehicles can age tires slowly in tread but still develop condition issues in the sidewall and carcass.

Storage habits matter on a Scout II that is driven seasonally or kept indoors for long stretches. Keeping the truck away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the tires, and moving the vehicle occasionally can reduce flat-spot concerns. A pre-drive inspection becomes even more important before longer trips or after a long period parked.