Searching for International Harvester (IH) Parts for Trucks: Experience and Tips

[MikePhua]

A user recently shared their experience of searching for International Harvester (IH) truck parts. As this model gradually faded from the mainstream market, finding replacement parts has become a significant challenge. Below is a summary of their experience and some helpful tips for other truck owners facing similar issues.
Challenges in Finding Parts
As time has passed, International Harvester (IH) trucks have become less common, which has made their parts increasingly difficult to find, especially for older models. The user mentioned that while some generic parts are still available from suppliers, finding specific parts, such as engine components or transmission parts, can be especially difficult.
Ways to Find Parts

1. Local Dealers and Parts Suppliers
   Some local IH dealers and parts suppliers still offer a limited selection of parts. The user suggests contacting these dealers first to inquire if they have parts in stock or can place custom orders. In some cases, old stock parts are either remanufactured or found through special channels.
   
2. Online Marketplaces and Forums
   On certain specialized online marketplaces and forums, users can find second-hand parts being sold by other truck owners. Often, other IH truck enthusiasts will offer rare parts that they no longer need. The user found that engaging with other owners through forums or online marketplaces often provided valuable buying tips or recommendations.
   
3. Auto Salvage Yards and Recycling Centers
   Another route for finding parts is through auto salvage yards and recycling centers. These places often have scrapped or decommissioned trucks that still contain usable IH parts. By contacting local salvage yards, users sometimes find the specific parts they need, especially for hard-to-find components.
   
4. Custom Manufacturing
   For particularly rare parts, users may need to consider custom manufacturing. Although this can be more expensive, it may offer a viable solution for critical parts that are no longer available through traditional channels.
   

Things to Keep in Mind

1. Part Quality and Source
   When purchasing IH parts, users should ensure that the source is reliable, especially for second-hand parts or those from salvage yards. Quality issues could affect the truck's performance, so it's important to carefully check the condition of the parts.
   
2. Cost Considerations
   Due to the scarcity of International Harvester (IH) truck parts, prices can be higher than those for parts from more mainstream brands. Users should plan their budgets accordingly and compare prices from multiple suppliers to get the best deal.
   
3. Professional Assistance
   If parts are hard to find or if there’s uncertainty about installing specific components, seeking professional help is recommended. Skilled technicians often have additional resources or networks to help locate the required parts or may offer alternative solutions.
   

Conclusion
Finding parts for International Harvester (IH) trucks, especially older models, can be difficult. However, by reaching out to local dealers, browsing online marketplaces and forums, visiting salvage yards, and considering custom manufacturing, truck owners can usually track down some replacement or second-hand parts. It's important to pay attention to the quality and reliability of the parts, especially for second-hand or rare components, and to account for the potentially higher costs involved. With these strategies, owners can extend the life of their IH trucks and keep them running in good condition.