My first memory of a Scout was as a young boy, spotting one on the road and thinking how awesome it was. As a young man, I traded a four-wheeler for a Scout 800, and so the story began. With little mechanical knowledge, the Scout became my teacher. I spent hours in the garage figuring out how to take the truck apart, and put it back together again. My Dad shared an interest as well, and together, we breathed new life into this rugged piece of Americana. Over the next ten years, we bought, restored, and sold numerous Scouts in our spare time, and learned a little more with each project.
In the spring of 2017, I found myself at a crossroads, torn between what was comfortable and familiar, and the idea of pursuing a longtime passion. Unsettled, I set out on a trek through the woods to be alone with my thoughts, and determine if I was willing to risk everything to start my own business. That day, it was as if the Good Lord planted two strangers along the trail, who both happened to be entrepreneurs. Without knowing me, they shared their stories, which confirmed the restlessness I felt was my inspiration to become The Scoutman.
After years of working on Scouts as a hobby, I decided to take a risk. With a little savings in hand, and the offer of free shop space 70 miles from home, The Scoutman began to take shape. Several months later, I realized what I was saving in shop space, I was spending in fuel, and so I found a space close to home that would enable me to work more hours in a day and be closer to my family. With a larger workspace and increased workload, I began building a team of enthusiasts who have joined me on the journey.
I am inspired by each new project and refreshed by relationships with my customers. Unlike most business owners who begin with a complex plan, I started with the simple idea that I wanted to use my skills and passion to keep Scouts on the road while creating a work environment that is refreshingly different. As the son of a Vietnam Veteran who served in the USMC, I have a deep sense of gratitude for our military and leaders, and the freedom to create my own business. Restoring Scouts brings out a sense of pride and patriotism as they celebrate American craftsmanship.
This business has brought both joy and exhaustion. I’ve been pushed to my limits and down to my last dollar in the process of building The Scoutman. I am grateful to those that have entrusted me with the restoration of their Scout. It is humbling to work on them knowing that they will be passed down for future generations to enjoy. I am also thankful for those that have inspired, encouraged or helped me in some way on this journey. I look to the future with anticipation as The Scoutman story continues to be written.
-Dustin Reed
Mechanical Genius
Mike can swap engines and transmissions blindfolded and with one hand tied behind his back. He brings a tremendous depth of knowledge to The Scoutman, and as a bonus he can build the fastest dirt bike or hot rod as well! He keeps his ride or die close at hand to work that Fabio hair!
Body-Working Extraordinaire
Dave spends his day cutting out rust and finessing steel to bring back the straightest Scout bodies. He is a master at his craft and improves every little detail of the body as he goes. He is also a certified Skydiver and Scuba Diving Instructor...he can take our team-building experiences to the next level!
Operational Juggler
Beverly is the hub of Scoutman communications. She enjoys building relationships with our customers and works to keep everything organized behind-the-scenes. She's also learned a thing or two about Scouts and doesn't mind rolling up her sleeves to work alongside us.
Mr. Clean
Ethan's positive attitude and attention to detail shine as he tackles all parts of a build. While we love him over on the mechanical side, he's going to have to stop showing off his metal skills or Dave might sneak him over to the body work side of the shop. Ethan is versatile and can pivot from engine work to restoring parts t
Mr. Clean
Ethan's positive attitude and attention to detail shine as he tackles all parts of a build. While we love him over on the mechanical side, he's going to have to stop showing off his metal skills or Dave might sneak him over to the body work side of the shop. Ethan is versatile and can pivot from engine work to restoring parts to dissecting a donor Scout. Best of all, he's always smiling.
Lead Prankster
Nick came to us as "The Mopar Man." Thankfully, after our International Intervention, he is on the path to recovery. Well versed in classic cars, Nick brings a wealth of knowledge to the shop. Most importantly, he keeps us laughing through the day. Nick is responsible for nearly every inventive prank in the shop, as well as witty signage.
The Neighbor
One afternoon Mike was on a test drive and happened to pass Micah's house. Micah flagged him down to say that he and his wife had a Scout! After a visit to the shop, his curiosity was piqued, as was ours when we learned of his experience. In addition to his mechanical skills, Micah is quite the carpenter, and farmer! He al
The Neighbor
One afternoon Mike was on a test drive and happened to pass Micah's house. Micah flagged him down to say that he and his wife had a Scout! After a visit to the shop, his curiosity was piqued, as was ours when we learned of his experience. In addition to his mechanical skills, Micah is quite the carpenter, and farmer! He also has a commute short enough to make via tractor or horseback.
Master of Finishes
Johnny has the gift of making everything look brand new. He lays down a slick finish on bodies, dashes, axles, floors and undercarriages. He gives attention to every detail as he preps each Scout and its collection of components. Johnny smoothly pivots between projects to ensure each build is tracking efficiently through the shop.
Bronco Owner
Parker developed an appetite for the classics working with his Papa on the Bronco he now drives. With a strong work ethic and positive attitude, he is a welcome addition to the crew. In addition to his versatility in the shop, he is also a very talented photographer. We look forward to viewing our builds through his lens, as he helps us to better communicate visually.
Hospitality Coordinator
Comet works private security for The Scoutman. He alerts us when he sees his shadow, when packages or parts arrive, or when a butterfly flutters by. He provides leftover prevention services during lunch, and enjoys Scout rides without a hard top.
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