Transforming a 56 s120 into an Off-Road Monster: The 4x4 Garage Journey

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- Published on
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- By Dushyant
- (@dishs)
In this episode of 4x4 Garage, the team at IH Parts America's secret R&D facility is embarking on an audacious project. They've got their hands on a 56 s120, a vintage truck that's been sitting idle for nearly a decade. Their plan? To transform it into an off-road beast that will conquer the treacherous terrains of the Rubicon. But that's not all. They're also building an F350 tow rig to transport this monster to its ultimate destination. It's a bold undertaking, and the team is ready to unleash their expertise.
The s120, with its old six-cylinder engine, has seen better days. The body is worn, rusted, and far from perfect. But that's precisely what makes it the ideal candidate for an off-road project. The team decides to strip the body off the frame and salvage any usable parts for their customers. It's a win-win situation, preserving history while giving new life to this vintage truck.
However, they quickly realize that the original frame won't cut it for a rock crawler build. Its flat chassis and lack of up travel make it unsuitable for the task at hand. So, they opt for a scout frame, a decision that will provide the necessary strength and flexibility for the s120's transformation. With a 115in wheelbase and 3/4 ton 4-wheel drive, this truck is a rare gem, and the team is determined to make it shine on the trails.
As they dismantle the s120, they encounter the remnants of its past. Rust, spiders, and even a Delco battery from yesteryear. It's a journey through time, where every piece tells a story. But the team is focused on the future. They load the s120 onto a trailer, ready to transport it to Woods Offroad for the next phase of the project. And they're not alone. They've brought along an F350, Jeff's trusty workhorse, which will also receive some much-needed upgrades.
With parts in hand from IH Parts America, the team arrives at Woods Offroad, eager to get their hands dirty. The F350 is the first order of business, with a super lift lift, airbag setup, tono cover, headache rack, floor mats, and seat covers on the agenda. It's about making this truck more capable, comfortable, and ready for any challenge that comes its way.
But the real excitement lies in the s120. It's a blank canvas waiting to be transformed into an off-road masterpiece. The team dives into the project, cutting off old brackets, preparing the axles, and customizing components using S Cut Send Parts Builder. It's a labor of love, fueled by their passion for preserving history and pushing the limits of off-road performance.
As the episode comes to a close, the team is well on their way to turning their vision into reality. The s120 and the F350 are slowly but surely taking shape, ready to conquer the Rubicon and leave their mark on the off-road world. It's a thrilling journey, and we can't wait to see the final results. Stay tuned for the next episode of 4x4 Garage, where the adventure continues.

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube
Watch 4x4 Garage: '56 International & F-350 Build Part 1 | Motor Trend on Youtube
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