Big Red rises from the ashes and can be viewed at Allentown museum

by Truck News

ALLENTOWN, Penn. – It’s the piece of machinery Santa Claus has always been envious, and it can soon be found at Mack Trucks Historical Museum.

Evel Knievel’s 1974 Mack FS786LST model, better known as Big Red, will temporarily be on exhibit at the museum starting Dec. 5 from noon to 4 p.m.

“The Mack Trucks Historical Museum is where the history of Mack Trucks comes to life, and Evel’s show truck is no exception,” said John Walsh, Mack vice-president of marketing. “Seeing Big Red not only brings back memories for those who watched Evel’s incredible stunts, but also helps create new memories for those who didn’t.”

Also featured from Dec. 12-19, the exhibit will feature special activities for the Saturday opening, including face painting, refreshments and a vintage Evel Knievel video.

There is no admission fee, but donations are appreciated.

Big Red was custom built for Knievel for the hauling of his motorcycles, ramps and equipment and was featured in several of the daredevil’s stunts.

The truck was recently discovered in a Florida salvage yard and was fully restored by Lathan Mckay of Evel Knievel Enterprises and Historic Harley Davidson of Topeka, Kan., where it made its debut last July.

A future Evel Knievel museum will soon open in Topeka and will showcase memorabilia from motorcycles, leathers, helmets, medical X-rays and casts.

Since its debut, Big Red has been travelling around the U.S. thanks to two Mack Pinnacle trucks to help transport the vehicle.

Big Red will remain in Allentown until June 2016.

Big Red.
Big Red.


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