When you think of Dodge, the trucks that defined history as the memorable Power Wagon pickup which was America’s first 4-wheel drive truckTHE special truck Dodge Li’l Red Expressand the 2004 Ram SRT-10 may immediately come to mind. But there was a brief period in the auto industry, in the 1970s, when Dodge was also on the cusp of making a name for itself in the semi-trailer business. The automaker has been making tough, reliable pickup trucks since 1914 with the release of the 30-35, and has built a formidable reputation for its rugged vehicles used by the military, so why not try your hand at larger vehicles?

Advertisement

In 1973, Dodge introduced the Big Horn semi-truck, featuring a muscular front end, dramatic swooping lines and sturdy fenders. However, this large vehicle had underlying problems with its design that made it uncomfortable, noisy, and difficult to drive for anyone but seasoned truckers. Receiving significant backlash from the trucking industry, only 261 Big Horn semi-trailers were manufactured in the two years ending in 1975, according to TruckingInfo.com.

Life on the road, especially for a long-haul trucker, is not easy due to irregular work schedules, stress, and extended hours behind the wheel, unable to physically move around. It is therefore essential that a semi-trailer offers a cabin that is as ergonomic and modern as possible. Unfortunately, drivers quickly realized that the Big Horn’s interior appeared to have been raised compared to the previous decade and was deceptively narrow inside, especially given the extra-wide front end. Not surprisingly, given the choice, many truckers preferred alternative semi-trailer models that offered them more space.

Advertisement

Not only was the cabin comfortable, it lacked a few features that many consider mandatory: a heat shield and power steering.. A modern diesel engine typically operates at around 200 degrees, and without protection against high temperatures coming from under the hood, the driver could quickly get uncomfortable heat inside the cabin.

Additionally, a trucker had to struggle with the Big Horn’s steering wheel without receiving any electrical assistance, creating more work to maneuver the large vehicle. This was particularly problematic when cruising at slow speeds, requiring considerable effort from the driver.

While Dodge ultimately decided to shelve its semi-truck attempt, the Big Horn is remembered fondly by some, with several models still on the road today. Trucking industry connoisseurs, Jim and Alice Sercombe, have completely restored and customized a classic 1975 Dodge Big Hornwhich attracts attention at major shows like the Mid-America Trucking Show located in Louisville.

Advertisement

For those who collect historic automobiles, there are still a few Big Horn trucks for sale, but be prepared for sticker shock due to their rarity. For example, a 1975 Dodge Big Horn was listed in late 2023 on Allstar-Auctions.com and sold for $100,941.90.

Dodge’s brief attempt more than 50 years ago to make a semi-truck may not have been successful in the short term; However, looking back and past some of the Big Horn’s flaws, it has earned a place in trucking past and remains a memorable entry into the halls of automotive history.. Today, the most popular semi-trailer brands in America offer more comfortable and fashion-forward features than models of the past, but some might argue that they lack the unique character and spirit of the classic Big Horn.

Advertisement