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Finding parts for older trucks can be a challenging task, particularly when dealing with well-established brands like International Harvester (IH). The company’s trucks were once a staple in the commercial and industrial sectors, and many of them remain in service today, often in specialized or niche applications. However, as time goes by and these trucks age, sourcing the correct parts becomes increasingly difficult. In this article, we’ll discuss strategies and tips for finding parts for older IH trucks, along with some helpful resources and advice on maintaining these classic machines.
Understanding the International Harvester Truck Legacy
International Harvester, a company founded in 1902, became one of the most iconic brands in the automotive industry, especially in the realm of heavy trucks, farming equipment, and commercial vehicles. They were known for producing rugged, reliable trucks that could withstand the demands of hard work in farming and industry.
Although International Harvester ceased producing trucks under that name in 1986, their legacy continues. The company’s truck models, like the 1700, 1800, 1900, and Loadstar series, are still found on worksites, farms, and in secondary markets. Finding parts for these trucks can be a challenge, but with some perseverance and the right resources, it’s possible to keep these machines running.
Challenges in Sourcing Parts for Older IH Trucks
Older trucks, particularly those from companies that no longer exist or have been absorbed by larger conglomerates, can be challenging to maintain. When dealing with an IH truck, the primary challenge is the age of the vehicle, the availability of specific parts, and the general lack of manufacturing support. Here are some of the difficulties you might encounter:
There are several strategies and resources that can help you track down parts for your IH truck, whether you’re looking for something common like an air filter or something specific like a steering pump or transmission component. Here’s a breakdown of the best places and methods to search for these hard-to-find parts:
1. Online Parts Marketplaces
A vast range of truck parts, including those for older IH models, can be found through online marketplaces. Some popular platforms to explore include:
Several companies specialize in parts for older trucks, particularly for classic and vintage models. These suppliers are often more likely to have hard-to-find components for your IH truck. Some specialized suppliers include:
One of the best ways to find rare or discontinued parts is by contacting local salvage yards or junkyards. Many salvage yards specialize in heavy trucks and equipment, and they may have old International Harvester trucks or parts available. It's a good idea to call around or even visit the yard in person to inspect the parts and ensure they’re in good working condition.
Joining online communities dedicated to truck enthusiasts can be invaluable when searching for parts for older models. These forums and groups often feature knowledgeable individuals who may have spare parts or who can guide you to reliable suppliers. They can also provide insight on the compatibility of parts between different models and offer troubleshooting tips.
Some local mechanics and dealerships still specialize in older vehicles and may have access to rare parts or know where to find them. It’s a good idea to visit shops that specialize in older trucks or farm equipment, as they may have access to suppliers who can order discontinued parts.
When you’re working with an older truck, it’s not just about finding parts – it’s about maintaining the vehicle properly to ensure it runs smoothly for years to come. Here are some tips for maintaining your IH truck:
Finding parts for older International Harvester trucks may seem daunting, but with the right resources and persistence, it's entirely possible to keep these iconic vehicles running. Whether you turn to online marketplaces, specialty suppliers, salvage yards, or truck forums, there are numerous avenues for obtaining hard-to-find parts. Combining these strategies with regular maintenance and record-keeping will ensure your IH truck continues to serve you well for years to come.
As more people recognize the value of preserving classic machinery, the market for these older parts continues to grow. With the right knowledge and approach, you can maintain your IH truck and make sure it remains a valuable asset to your fleet or collection.
Understanding the International Harvester Truck Legacy
International Harvester, a company founded in 1902, became one of the most iconic brands in the automotive industry, especially in the realm of heavy trucks, farming equipment, and commercial vehicles. They were known for producing rugged, reliable trucks that could withstand the demands of hard work in farming and industry.
Although International Harvester ceased producing trucks under that name in 1986, their legacy continues. The company’s truck models, like the 1700, 1800, 1900, and Loadstar series, are still found on worksites, farms, and in secondary markets. Finding parts for these trucks can be a challenge, but with some perseverance and the right resources, it’s possible to keep these machines running.
Challenges in Sourcing Parts for Older IH Trucks
Older trucks, particularly those from companies that no longer exist or have been absorbed by larger conglomerates, can be challenging to maintain. When dealing with an IH truck, the primary challenge is the age of the vehicle, the availability of specific parts, and the general lack of manufacturing support. Here are some of the difficulties you might encounter:
- Discontinued Parts: Many of the parts used in older IH trucks are no longer manufactured, making it hard to find replacements. Original equipment manufacturers (OEM) parts are especially rare.
- Changing Ownership: In 1986, International Harvester’s truck division was sold off and became the Navistar company, which focuses more on modern truck lines. This can complicate part sourcing, as many newer models may not be compatible with older ones.
- Aftermarket Limitations: While aftermarket parts can be a good alternative, they might not offer the same fit and quality as OEM parts, especially for older, specialized equipment.
- Age of Technology: IH trucks are equipped with older mechanical technology that may no longer be common in the modern market. This can make repairs more difficult and parts harder to find.
There are several strategies and resources that can help you track down parts for your IH truck, whether you’re looking for something common like an air filter or something specific like a steering pump or transmission component. Here’s a breakdown of the best places and methods to search for these hard-to-find parts:
1. Online Parts Marketplaces
A vast range of truck parts, including those for older IH models, can be found through online marketplaces. Some popular platforms to explore include:
- eBay: eBay is one of the best places to find both OEM and aftermarket parts for older vehicles. Many sellers offer refurbished or used parts that can be more affordable than new ones.
- RockAuto: While RockAuto is primarily known for modern vehicle parts, they sometimes carry parts for older models, including classic trucks. They also offer an extensive selection of aftermarket parts.
- Classifieds Websites: Websites like Craigslist, Autotrader, and other classified ad platforms can be useful for finding used truck parts, especially from other owners or mechanics who are parting out old vehicles.
Several companies specialize in parts for older trucks, particularly for classic and vintage models. These suppliers are often more likely to have hard-to-find components for your IH truck. Some specialized suppliers include:
- IH Parts America: This company is a go-to resource for parts and service for International Harvester vehicles. They specialize in IH trucks and have a large inventory of parts, both OEM and aftermarket.
- Navistar (for newer IH models): For models produced by International Harvester before 1986, Navistar, the company that absorbed IH’s truck division, can sometimes provide parts. However, the availability may be limited to specific models.
- Heavy Equipment Suppliers: Companies like NAPA, Cummins, and other heavy equipment parts dealers might have crossover parts, especially for engines, transmissions, and other critical systems that are common across brands.
One of the best ways to find rare or discontinued parts is by contacting local salvage yards or junkyards. Many salvage yards specialize in heavy trucks and equipment, and they may have old International Harvester trucks or parts available. It's a good idea to call around or even visit the yard in person to inspect the parts and ensure they’re in good working condition.
- How to Search:
- Call local salvage yards directly and inquire if they have any IH trucks in stock.
- If you’re looking for specific parts (such as a rear axle or steering column), ask if they can perform a part search for you.
- Some yards may allow you to pull parts yourself, which can be more affordable than having them removed by staff.
- Call local salvage yards directly and inquire if they have any IH trucks in stock.
Joining online communities dedicated to truck enthusiasts can be invaluable when searching for parts for older models. These forums and groups often feature knowledgeable individuals who may have spare parts or who can guide you to reliable suppliers. They can also provide insight on the compatibility of parts between different models and offer troubleshooting tips.
- Recommended Forums:
- The Diesel Page: A community focused on diesel trucks, including those built by IH, where members often discuss part sourcing and repairs.
- The International Harvester Collectors Club: This forum specializes in everything related to IH, including trucks, tractors, and heavy equipment. It’s a great place to network with fellow enthusiasts.
- Red Power Magazine: An online and print publication dedicated to IH, often featuring classifieds for used parts and expert advice.
- The Diesel Page: A community focused on diesel trucks, including those built by IH, where members often discuss part sourcing and repairs.
Some local mechanics and dealerships still specialize in older vehicles and may have access to rare parts or know where to find them. It’s a good idea to visit shops that specialize in older trucks or farm equipment, as they may have access to suppliers who can order discontinued parts.
- Why Mechanics Matter:
- Experienced mechanics who have worked with IH trucks for years may have accumulated a stockpile of parts from past repairs or could have connections with retired IH dealerships that still have unused parts.
- Some may also know of parts that can be cross-referenced from other brands, which is a useful trick when the exact IH part is unavailable.
- Experienced mechanics who have worked with IH trucks for years may have accumulated a stockpile of parts from past repairs or could have connections with retired IH dealerships that still have unused parts.
When you’re working with an older truck, it’s not just about finding parts – it’s about maintaining the vehicle properly to ensure it runs smoothly for years to come. Here are some tips for maintaining your IH truck:
- Regular Inspections: Because these trucks are older, it’s essential to regularly inspect key systems, including the engine, transmission, suspension, and hydraulic systems, to catch potential issues before they become expensive repairs.
- Stockpile Spare Parts: If you find a reliable source for parts, consider stocking up on frequently replaced items, such as belts, filters, and hoses. This ensures you won’t have to scramble when something fails.
- Keep Detailed Records: Maintain records of all maintenance, repairs, and part replacements. This will help you track wear and tear, and it can also be helpful if you ever decide to sell the truck.
- Use Quality Fluids and Lubricants: Ensure that the right fluids and lubricants are used for all systems. As these trucks age, proper maintenance becomes even more critical to avoid premature wear.
Finding parts for older International Harvester trucks may seem daunting, but with the right resources and persistence, it's entirely possible to keep these iconic vehicles running. Whether you turn to online marketplaces, specialty suppliers, salvage yards, or truck forums, there are numerous avenues for obtaining hard-to-find parts. Combining these strategies with regular maintenance and record-keeping will ensure your IH truck continues to serve you well for years to come.
As more people recognize the value of preserving classic machinery, the market for these older parts continues to grow. With the right knowledge and approach, you can maintain your IH truck and make sure it remains a valuable asset to your fleet or collection.
