Dodge Bighorn Revival History Design and Collector Restoration

[MikePhua]

The Rise and Fall of the Dodge Bighorn
The Dodge Bighorn was introduced in 1973 as Chrysler’s bold attempt to enter the Class 8 heavy-duty truck market. Designed to compete with industry giants like Kenworth, Peterbilt, and International, the Bighorn was built for long-haul durability and driver comfort. It featured a massive aluminum cab, a long nose for big-bore diesel engines, and a rugged frame capable of handling cross-country freight loads.
Despite its engineering strengths, the Bighorn faced stiff competition and limited dealer support. Only around 261 units were produced before the line was discontinued in 1975. Its short production run and distinctive styling made it one of the rarest and most sought-after American trucks among collectors.
Terminology Annotation:

• Class 8 Truck: A commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 33,000 pounds, typically used for long-haul freight.
  
• Big-Bore Diesel Engine: A high-displacement engine designed for torque-heavy applications, often exceeding 10 liters.
  
• Aluminum Cab: A lightweight, corrosion-resistant driver compartment, reducing overall vehicle weight.
  

In one trucking museum in Iowa, a fully restored Bighorn sits beside a 1970s Peterbilt 359, showcasing the contrast between Dodge’s bold styling and the industry’s more conservative designs.
Design Features and Powertrain Options
The Bighorn was available with multiple engine configurations, including:

• Cummins NTC-350
  
• Detroit Diesel 8V71
  
• Caterpillar 3406
  

These engines were paired with Fuller Roadranger transmissions, typically 13-speed or 15-speed, allowing precise control over torque and fuel economy. The cab featured wraparound glass, dual air horns, and a high-mounted grille with vertical bars—a visual signature that set it apart from its contemporaries.
Interior amenities included:

• Air-ride driver seat
  
• Tilt steering column
  
• Optional sleeper cab extension
  
• Analog gauges with chrome bezels
  

Terminology Annotation:

• Roadranger Transmission: A manual gearbox with multiple ranges and splits, used in heavy-duty trucks for optimal gear selection.
  
• Sleeper Cab: An extended cab section behind the driver’s seat, allowing rest during long hauls.
  
• Air-Ride Seat: A suspension seat that uses compressed air to absorb road shock, improving driver comfort.
  

In one restoration in Oregon, a collector rebuilt a Bighorn with a Caterpillar 3406B and a 15-speed Roadranger, using NOS (new old stock) parts sourced from three states.
The Orange Bighorn and Custom Restoration Culture
The orange Dodge Bighorn featured in recent photos is a prime example of custom restoration. Painted in a high-visibility industrial orange, the truck stands out not only for its rarity but for its attention to detail. Chrome stacks, polished aluminum tanks, and period-correct decals reflect a deep respect for the original design.
Restoration challenges include:

• Sourcing original cab trim and grille components
  
• Rebuilding obsolete electrical harnesses
  
• Matching paint codes from 1970s Dodge commercial palettes
  
• Replacing air brake valves and fittings with DOT-compliant upgrades
  

Recommendations for restorers:

• Join vintage truck associations for parts leads and technical support
  
• Use reverse engineering to replicate missing components
  
• Document all serial numbers and part codes for future reference
  
• Consider upgrading lighting and safety systems while preserving aesthetics
  

Terminology Annotation:

• NOS (New Old Stock): Original parts manufactured during the vehicle’s production era but never used.
  
• DOT-Compliant: Meeting safety standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
  
• Reverse Engineering: Reconstructing a part or system by analyzing its structure and function.
  

In one truck show in Pennsylvania, the orange Bighorn drew crowds for its pristine restoration and rare status, winning Best of Show in the vintage Class 8 category.
Collector Value and Historical Significance
Due to its limited production and unique design, the Dodge Bighorn commands high value among collectors. Restored examples have sold for over $100,000, depending on condition and originality. The truck represents a moment in American trucking history when manufacturers experimented with bold designs and high-performance configurations.
Preservation efforts include:

• Archiving factory service manuals and build sheets
  
• Digitizing wiring diagrams and cab schematics
  
• Creating registries of surviving units by VIN
  
• Hosting annual meetups for Bighorn owners and enthusiasts
  

In one historical article, the Bighorn was described as “the truck that could have changed Dodge’s fate in the heavy-duty market—if only it had arrived sooner.”
Conclusion
The Dodge Bighorn remains a symbol of ambition, engineering, and rarity in the world of American trucks. Whether painted orange or restored to factory spec, each surviving unit tells a story of innovation and perseverance. In the hands of dedicated restorers, the Bighorn roars again—not just as a machine, but as a legacy on wheels.