For many years, Americans have shown a keen interest in large trucks, with Bigfoot being one of the most iconic examples of this fascination. Known for its immense size and power, Bigfoot is a legendary monster truck that even inspired Ford to create a special edition of the F-Series named the Bigfoot Cruiser. These trucks featured impressive upgrades and distinctive graphics. However, the modifications were poorly executed, leading to a recall and the ultimate cancellation of the project.
Monster trucks are a captivating phenomenon in American culture. The thrill of watching a powerful truck crush cars is undeniable. Today’s monster trucks are highly specialized, featuring robust tubular frameworks, mid-mounted engines producing over 1,000 horsepower, tall suspensions, four-wheel steering, and numerous safety features. In their early days, however, monster trucks were mainly conventional vehicles that were heavily modified.
Bob Chandler is often credited with creating the first monster truck, Bigfoot. Back in 1974, he purchased a Ford F-250 for personal use and intended to enhance its off-road capabilities. Finding the aftermarket supply lacking, he and his wife Marilyn partnered with Jim Kramer to establish Midwest Four Wheel Drive, focusing on modifying trucks for off-road needs.
Chandler’s F-250 served not just as a work truck but as a promotional tool for his new business. The modifications made to endure off-roading helped showcase the quality of the products offered by Midwest Four Wheel Drive at various events, gaining popularity and putting the company on the map.
As Bigfoot’s reputation grew through tractor pulls and off-road events, it became synonymous with monster truck shows, especially after Chandler drove it over a line of junk cars in 1981, marking a historic moment for the genre. This led to a boom in the monster truck industry, with various companies trying to create their own versions.
In late 1986, Ford launched the Bigfoot Cruiser in collaboration with Scherer Truck Equipment and Bigfoot 4 x 4, Inc. Although a well-received concept, the excitement was short-lived, as numerous safety issues arose regarding the modifications made to the vehicles.
By October 1987, a recall was issued due to safety defects involving unapproved modifications, highlighting the potential for tire blowouts and loose wheels. The recall affected hundreds of trucks and caused major financial loss for the companies involved. Although many Bigfoot Cruisers are still around today, their value varies significantly based on whether they underwent the recall modifications.
