Path: senator-bedfellow.mit.edu!faqserv
From: jhawkin@visuallink.com (Jeff Hawkins)
Newsgroups: alt.autos.macho-trucks,alt.answers,news.answers
Subject: The Monster Truck FAQ
Supersedes: <autos/sport/monster-trucks_884693131@rtfm.mit.edu>
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Date: 13 Feb 1998 11:49:05 GMT
Organization: The Information MONSTER HIGHWAY
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Approved: news-answers-request@MIT.EDU
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Message-ID: <autos/sport/monster-trucks_887370403@rtfm.mit.edu>
NNTP-Posting-Host: penguin-lust.mit.edu
Summary: This FAQ attempts to answer some of the most frequently asked questions         about the sport of Monster Truck Racing, The Vehicles, and pointers for         more info.
X-Everything: Net-Tamer V 1.08X
X-Last-Updated: 1998/02/11
Originator: faqserv@penguin-lust.MIT.EDU
Xref: senator-bedfellow.mit.edu alt.autos.macho-trucks:11987 alt.answers:32102 news.answers:123125

Archive-name: autos/sport/monster-trucks
Posting-Frequency: monthly
Last-modified: 1998/02/11
Version: 1.09
Maintainer: Jeff Hawkins <jhawkin@visuallink.com>
Copyright: (C) 1997, 1998 J. A. Hawkins

Recent Changes To This Document
-------------------------------
02/11/98 This is Version 1.09! Changes marked with the `*'character! David
         Weihe reminded me the old Gravedigger site is down and gone! And
         Andrew Palochka contributed a bunch of info this for this months
         issue!

         New URLs we now list 83 trucks with URLs and 56 without. Started
         that calender section! Hardly anyone noticed I messed up the date
         in last months changes section (01/01/97 Hee Hee)! And not even a
         `Roman' noticed my sections were numbered improperly!

         Someone asked about the starter's lights and `Stop Motion' video
         systems. Do we have a new promoter coming into the business? I
         have answered their questions with what I know!

         Also, is there a official MTRA site? I've heard rumors but can't
         find one?

01/01/98 Version 1.08! The truck URLs list has been updated extensively and
         reformatted! Andrew Fielder sent URLs for every truck he has on his
         pages! I also added his site to my Web sites list! Thanks to these
         new URLs we now list 79 trucks with URLs and 55 without.

12/10/97 Version 1.07! Changes marked with a `#'! Added the mailing address
         for USA Motorsports! Found a promoter in FL. added their Info!
         Question about E-mail Addresses came up again in a discussion! See
         my Answer here! Also had a question about Pit Passes! In the Truck
         List You'll Find 40 truck URLs and 71 trucks without URLs = 111
         Trucks Total!

----------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------
| Disclaimer |
--------------

The author makes no claims as to fitness for any purpose or absence of
any errors, and offers no warranty. Read at your own risk.

jhawkin@visuallink.com (Jeff Hawkins)


---------------------------
|  The Monster Truck FAQ  |
---------------------------

        Table of Contents

        I.    GENERAL and INTRO
        II.   Frequently Asked Questions
        III.  Reading List
        IV.   Promoters list
        V.    Suppliers list
        VI.   The Trucks
        VII.  Major WEB SITES
        VIII. The Events Calender List
        IX.   Previous Changes


If you own a Monster Truck, Promote shows or are a supplier of parts I will
be glad to list your company name here as space allows. If you have a WEB
Page with Monster Truck Info I'll check it and add a pointer to it after
deciding where it should go. If your page answers a specific question, write
the question out and send it to me with your URL as a answer. You may include
a short textual answer also.

* Since there seems to be a lot of sites with event calendars now I'm
* working on a section for those site URLs! If you have a separate page with
* a event list, send the exact URL (with page name) to me and I'll include
* it! You should then have a `back button' referencing your main (index.htm)
* page on the events page incase the reader wants to further explore your
* site!

BTW, if you have a Monster Truck or Pulling Truck/Tractor I can create a WEB
Page for you. I will also locate servers to host your page, setup E-mail
systems for you and can even handle your day-to-day mail referring all
important E-mail on for action. Mail can be received while home, in shop
or on the road. Low Fees and solutions that fit your circumstances.


I.  GENERAL and INTRO
---------------------

--------------------------
Finding the Latest Version
--------------------------

The latest version of this FAQ will be sent once a month to the
relevant usenet groups.

You can also get the file by anonymous FTP at one of these sites:


    ftp://rtfm.mit.edu/pub/usenet/news.answers/autos/sport/monster-trucks

    ftp://ftp.faqs.org/faqs/autos/sport/monster-trucks


Request this FAQ via e-mail by sending a message to:

    mail-server@rtfm.mit.edu

Enter only the line below in body of message.

    send usenet/news.answers/autos/sport/monster-trucks


A HTMLized version is available at:

    http://www.landfield.com/faqs/autos/sport/monster-trucks


Before You Write...
-------------------

Please make sure you have read the latest version of this FAQ (because
it's faster) before writing to the FAQ author with questions. If your
question isn't answered here or you just don't understand then ASK.


Acknowledgements
----------------

Thanks to the many people who have `bent my ear' asking questions at
various motorsport events. Your questions make up the bulk of this FAQ!
If you find this document useful, please let your friends know and tell
everybody "I read it in the Monster Truck Frequently Asked Questions"!

Special Thanks to Penny Chandler of BIGFOOT (R) 4X4, Inc. for allowing
me to use material from The BIGFOOT4X4 WEB page and the many helpful
suggestions.

        http://www.bigfoot4x4.com

Thanks to Andrew Palochko of `The World of Monster Trucks' for the added
info and for checking over some of my facts.

        http://www.truckzone.com

John Seasock (Sudden Impact M/T) pointed out I forgot the main question,
"How do ya' get in them things?" Thanks John!

        http://www.suddenimpact.com

Andrew Fielder sent URLs for every truck he has on his pages! Thanks Andrew!

        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com

% David Weihe sent a bunch of notes about his site and a slew of general
% `updates/notes'! Thanks David!

%       http://www.monstermania.com


SAMSON (R) is a Registered Trade Mark of Patrick Enterprises, Inc.
Laurelville, Ohio USA

BIGFOOT (R) is a Registered Trade Mark of Bigfoot 4x4, Inc.
St. Louis, Missouri USA



II. Frequently Asked Questions
------------------------------

Q.  What is a Monster Truck?
    ------------------------

A.  For the purposes of this FAQ we'll call a Monster Truck a highly
    modified four wheel drive vehicle. The most distinguishing
    characteristic is the extreme oversize tires.

    Most monster trucks are speed and handling enhanced in order to
    race similar trucks over obstacle courses usually set up with cars
    to run over (crush), dirt ramps to jump, possibly a little water
    puddle, and a drag racing style timing system.


Q.  What is the MTRA?
    -----------------

A.  The MTRA or Monster Truck Racing Association is the organization
    of Monster Truck owners, drivers, sponsors, promoters, officials
    and Fans. This group exists to promote the sport and to provide
    safety guidelines for conducting events.


        MTRA
        6311 N. Lindbergh
        Hazelwood, Mo. 63042


Q.  Why would someone build a Monster Truck?
    ----------------------------------------

A.  It's a business! Maybe the owner/driver started to build a truck
    because the sport seems exciting. Or maybe they own a 4 wheel
    drive or performance shop and realize the advertising potential.
    The costs involved are just too high for most individuals without
    a sponsor or a business purpose.


Q.  How many Monster Trucks are there?
    ----------------------------------

A.  There are currently 14 trucks in the BIGFOOT fleet alone. You can
    see a list of these trucks along with their specifications in the
    Team BIGFOOT Section of the Bigfoot home page:

        http://www.bigfoot4x4.com

    Around the world there are over 500 monster trucks, only 100 or so
    of which are full blown racing trucks.  Others are exhibition, car
    crushers, ride trucks, or promotions vehicles.  This includes the
    majority in the US.  There are several in Canada, England, 
    Australia, and New Zealand.


Q.  How big are those tires?
    ------------------------

A.  66 inches tall by 43 inches wide with about 10 psi of air. They
    weigh about 900 lbs. with rims and (sometimes) tubes. Most of
    these tires are run tubeless unless a puncture or other problems
    forces a tube to be installed.

%   There is a smaller tire class but I don't have a lot info on that yet.


Q.  Where does BIGFOOT get their tires?
    -----------------------------------

A.  FIRESTONE makes a 66X43X25 Flotation Tire.

        http://www.firestone.com

    Goodyear is another manufacturer of these tires!

        http://www.goodyear.com


Q.  About those tires, I noticed some have the treads cut! How do they
#   cut those treads?
#   -----------------

A.  Most of the crews have found a `Ginsu' knife blade mounted in a
#   `Sawzall' cuts the fastest and easiest. It's still a lot of work!


Q.  How big are those engines?
    --------------------------

A.  The engine in a MTRA certified truck must be no larger than 575 cubic
    inches! This refers to the bore or barrel size x the stroke or travel
    length!

        The actual engine displacement calculation formula is:

                Bore in inches (Cylinder Diameter)
                Bore Again
                X Stroke in inches
                --------
                result
              X 0.7854 (Factor to account for the cylindrical shape)
                --------
                result
                X number of cylinders
                --------
                result Engine displacement in cubic Inches


Q.  How fast can a Monster Truck go?
    --------------------------------

A.  BIGFOOT has been driven at over 80 miles per hour. On the quickest
    courses, drivers usually can get the truck up to 65-70 mph in a
    300-foot span.  Typically indoors, drivers max out at 25-30 mph.


Q.  How heavy are most Monster Trucks?
    ----------------------------------

A.  Somewhere in the range of 10,000 lbs. For Racing, the bare minimum
    is 10,000 lbs, and most trucks will come across the scales at just
    about that weight.

    Older trucks from the early 80's weighed nearly 20,000 lbs. and
    added weight simply because they would look better crushing cars.
    However as time evolved and monster truck racing was introduced,
    most started using aluminum to replace steel, tubular chassis and
    fiberglass bodies to reduce the weight.

    There is a proposal to reduce this minimum weight to 9,500 lbs.
    in 1998!


Q.  Who makes these fancy shocks?
    -----------------------------

A.  One company is Kuster out of California.  Also, Knight Stalker's
    Steve Combs has built many shocks for the high tech trucks, such
    as Carolina Crusher and Grave Digger.


Q.  Who makes those four link frames?
    ---------------------------------

A.  Dan Patrick, of Patrick Racing Enterprises, Inc., specializes in
    Monster Truck frames and chassis components.  Patrick, who also
    owns the SAMSON Monster Truck, was instrumental in designing and
    building the first ever tubular chassis on Bigfoot 8 back in 1989.

        http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/samson.htm

    At a recent event I attended, every truck there but one sported a
    Dan Patrick frame. One of the trucks was completely built by Dan
    for a owner/driver client.


Q.  How do they move a Monster Truck from one place to another?
    -----------------------------------------------------------

A.  Most often these are hauled in a semi-trailer with all the tools
    and spare parts needed to move and repair the Monster Truck. On a
    real short run the truck may be `Wide Loaded' on a flat bed trailer.


Q.  How do they get a Monster Truck into the semi-trailer?
    ------------------------------------------------------

A.  The crew members remove the big tires and install small tires that
    will clear the sides of the enclosed trailers and reduce the
    height of the truck to where it will clear the ceiling during
    loading and transportation.


Q.  HOW DO YOU GET IN THEM THINGS?
    ------------------------------

A.  In most of the new fiberglass body trucks, there is a hatch in the
    floor for the drivers to climb up through.

    On a older truck, the driver would open the door, grab hold of the
    seat and door, push off the front tire and pull himself into the
    truck. The hatch is definitely easier.


Q.  How does the driver steer the rear wheels? Are they hooked to the
    steering wheel also?
    --------------------

A.  No, the rear wheels are not hooked to the steering wheel. On most
    Monster Trucks there is a toggle switch mounted where the driver 
    can operate it with his free hand. The center is off and moving 
    the toggle in either direction cause the rear wheels to steer more 
    left or right.

    Many of these steering systems also have a second switch to select 
    a automatic centering capability. When the driver removes pressure
    on the steering toggle the wheels will return to a centered
    (straight ahead) position.

    Finally, when racing most drivers mechanically lock the rear
    steering at center position by bolting on a locking bar or
    aligning a hole in a locking tab on the steering tie rod with a
    corresponding hole on the rear housing.


Q.  What kind of fuel do they run in a Monster Truck? Do they run
    Nitrous Oxide, too?
    --------------------

A.  Racing Alcohol is the fuel of choice for most monster trucks. It
    runs cooler while producing more horsepower. Nitrous oxide is NOT
    allowed by the Monster Truck Racing Association and a monster
    truck won't pass Tech. Inspection and will not be certified to
    race with an engine injected on it.

    Most of these trucks use a little gasoline to start the engine,
    either squirting it in by hand through the Blower air intake or
    using a auxiliary fuel pump to inject a small amount to the intake
    area.


Q.  How can I get a ride in a Monster Truck?
    ----------------------------------------

A.  The Virginia Giant, Bigfoot 4x4, and Grave Digger all have trucks
    that have been converted to multi-passenger ride trucks. BIGFOOT #2
    has a BIGFOOT Body while BIGFOOT #3 appears as the SNAKEBITE! The
    Grave Digger Ride-on is a old Ambulance body!

    Other monster trucks which have sister ride trucks include
    Excaliber, Pure Pride, Eradicator, Shake-A-Paw, and Small Change.

    You can take a ride in one of these enormous trucks at various
    events like Street Machine Nationals, Fairs, and of course Monster
    Truck Races. Performance Motorsports almost always brings the
    Virginia Giant to their shows. There is usually a small charge per
    person to ride (or is included as part of general admission).

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    To see if a "SAFARIFOOT" Truck (Bigfoot or Snakebite) will be in
    your area, check out the Appearance Schedule in the Tire Tracks
    section of:

        http://www.bigfoot4x4.com

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    The Grave Digger Ride Truck has its own race course located at
    Grave Digger headquarters. Beginning after April 1 of each year,
    the Ride Truck is available for rides from dawn till dusk. The
    last price I heard was $5.00 per person. Call ahead to be sure.

    The Grave Digger Ride Truck can be reserved for birthday parties,
    graduations, weddings - you name the celebration, and Grave Digger
    will make it a "Monster of a good time!"  All reservations are
    subject to prior approval, and must be made at least one week in
    advance for birthdays, and two weeks in advance for other events.

        http://www.webcom.com/shownet/gravedig/ride.html

%   Note: David Weihe reminded me this site is down and gone! But the new
%   site is now running and has contact info there!

        http://www.gravedigger.com

    -----------------------------------------------------------------


Q.  Have you ever rode in a Monster Truck??
    ---------------------------------------

A.  Yes! I rode out for a parade lap and intro in the Equalizer Monster
#   Trax vehicle! And The Virginia Giant Racer! Plus, I've spent so much
#   time riding with passengers on The Virginia Giant Ride-On Truck I've
#   completely lost count!


Q.  Have you ever driven a Monster Truck?
%   -------------------------------------

A.  Gee, I just knew that would be the next Question!
%


Q.  How can I get a Pit Pass??
#   --------------------------

A.  First you need to find out, "Do I need a pit pass?" Pit Passes are given
#   to Media Representatives and people who are required to be in the Pit
#   Area during the show! If the event includes a `Pit Party' you won't need
#   a Pass for that!

#   If you really need a pass, then call the show promoter, tell them EXACTLY
#   why you need a pit pass and request one!


Q.  What is the killer box?
    -----------------------

A.  Let's call these by their official name, "Remote Ignition Interrupter"
    or `RII'. This is a specialized radio receiver mounted in the truck
    and a hand held transmitter tuned to the frequency of the RII. The
    transmitter looks like any other `Walkie Talkie' but has the ability
    to signal the Receiver with a special code!

    The Remote Ignition Interrupter can be used to `interrupt' the
    ignition by radio should the truck veer off the track and/or the
    driver become incapacitated.

    This `RII' attempts to shut off the engine but it doesn't stop or
    "brake the truck".


Q.  What are the lights in the Windshield for?
    ------------------------------------------

A.  There are two or three lights mounted in the windshield of most
    monster Trucks. One tells the track crew and starters when the
    engine is actually running. The other two lights tell the track
    official(s) who run the Remote Ignition Interrupters which side
    the driver has chosen to run his `RII' receiver box on.

    You will see a 2" X 2" sticker in the windshield with a number on
    it from 1 to 10. This number is the radio channel number. A letter
    also may indicate right or left for use during single performances.


Q.  I saw the starter's lights on TV. Where can I get info on building a
*   set of those for our club?
    --------------------------

A.  Send me a private E-mail and I'll fix up a wiring diagram and E-mail
*   it back to you! The lights are just tractor clearance lamps with green
*   and yellow lens! The battery is a 12 car batt. and the switch is a
*   `SPDT' (single pole - double throw switch) with center off!


Q.  Where can I rent a set of `Stop Motion Video Cameras' and Recorder
*   system?
    -------

A.  Find a `Surveillance Equipment' dealer and ask them for prices. Or
*   work a deal with them! Them things are pricey! And be very selective
*   where you set it up! You don't need a color system!

*   I own a B/W betamax system but have not considered renting it! Too much
*   custom setup work and cabling to get it positioned!


Q.  What do they do at the drivers meetings?
    ----------------------------------------

A.  Usually, there is a drivers meeting before the show, to discuss
    the format of the show, any safety issues, and who gives the
    signals to move a truck and when. So everybody involved with the
    the show knows what is supposed to happen and when.


Q.  I know the drivers wear seat belts, helmets and special suits. Can
    you elaborate a little on what they have in the truck?
    ------------------------------------------------------

A.  The drivers wear fire resistant suits, gloves, a helmet liner and
    shoes. They are held into the seat by a standard 5 way racing harness.

    The helmets are racing quality Snell Foundation approved (Minimum
    rating is Snell 90). Most drivers also wear Helmet Restraints (Straps
    running from underarm to clips on sides of helmet)!

    Drivers must wear a neck collar and some drivers wear a `kidney belt'
    to help absorb the impact compression forces on the spine and neck.

    All MTRA certified race trucks must be equipped with a approved
    onboard fire retardant system. The vehicle must also have a Halon
    or ABC type 2-1/2 lb. (min.) fire extinguisher within the driver's
    reach!


Q.  How much does a Monster Truck cost?
    -----------------------------------

A.  Roughly, around $100,000 (not including the engine)! A engine can
    cost $40,000 by itself. After that, you have to figure in how much
    it costs to maintain the truck throughout the year. The cost of a
    vehicle to move the Monster Truck is also a great initial expense.


Q.  How long does it take to build a Monster truck?
    -----------------------------------------------

A.  It can take anywhere from 3 months to a year to build a monster
    truck. This varies depending on how much time is put into detail
    work and how many people are working on the project.


Q.  When will BIGFOOT be appearing in my town?
    ------------------------------------------

A.  For a listing of the most up-to-date BIGFOOT events, check out the
    Appearance Schedule in the Tire Tracks section at The BIGFOOT WEB
    PAGE:

        http://www.bigfoot4x4.com

    This schedule is updated every week & has at least one month's
    worth of information so that you only get the most accurate
    information available. Along with the schedule, you can view
    information about the event & get the telephone number of the
    promoter putting on the event.

%   See also the calendar section of this FAQ!

Q.  How can I get the autograph of my favorite BIGFOOT driver?
    ----------------------------------------------------------

A.  There are a few different ways to accomplish this. One way is to
    attend an event. A lot of times, there is a pit party before the
    races where you can meet the drivers & get their autographs. There
    is also a autograph table at many events either during intermission
    or immediately after the event.


Q.  How can I get a Tee-Shirt of my favorite truck(s)?
    --------------------------------------------------

A.  Check some of the Web pages! Sometimes you can use a Credit Card
    over the Web but you might want to fax the card number or use the
    telephone instead!

    You may order a BIGFOOT picture or t-shirt from the BIGFOOT online
    catalog found in the Merchandise section of The Bigfoot WEB Page.
    If you want your item autographed, just request that the driver of
    your choice sign the item, when placing the order.

        http://www.bigfoot4x4.com/merch.htm

    Grave Digger has a excellent selection of merchandise. Shirts,
    shoestrings, jewelry, and hats. They even have a deck of playing
    cards last time I looked.

        http://www.webcom.com/shownet/gravedig/order1.htm

% Note: David Weihe reminded me this site is down and gone! But the new site
% is running and plans a merchandise section `Real Soon Now'!

%       http://www.gravedigger.com

    Most of the shows have a concession area, and sell all kinds of
    mementoes including apparel items. And most trucks have a home
    shop and are receptive to fan requests.


Q.  Where can I find a large group of pictures and Info in one place on
    the Internet?
    -------------

A.  Try this site. The World's Largest Monster Truck Home Page:

        http://www.designcraft.com/monster/trucks


%   or Monster Mania with over 1000 pictures and growing:

%       http://www.monstermania.com


    View this FAQ in HTML with your browser from FAQS.org! See the Major
    Web Sites section and the individual truck pages listings here!

        http://www.landfield.com/faqs/autos/sport/monster-trucks


Q.  Isn't there a computer game? Know any Urls?
    -------------------------------------------

A.  Check out "Monster Truck Madness" then you can be the driver of
    your favorite Monster Truck!

        http://www.windows.com/games/monster/default.htm
        http://www.microsoft.com/games/monster/downloads.htm

    I haven't tried this out but there is some kind of online game
    (over the internet) called `the zone' or something like that. You
    need a Active X enhanced browser like MSIE 2.0 and Windows 95, or
    Windows NT!

        http://beta.zone.com

    And the games home page will even let you download MSIE.


Q.  How do I become a BIGFOOT Driver?
    ---------------------------------

A.  To become a BIGFOOT Driver, you must be 25 years of age & have a
    current CDL (commercial drivers license). You need to be in good
    physical shape, have knowledge of mechanics, electrical & metal
    fabrication before you are even considered for the crew. If you
    make the crew, you would most likely serve 2 years apprenticeship
    to learn to drive.


Q.  I need to find out exactly how to get to a show! How can I get a
    Map or directions?
    ------------------

A.  Ask the promoter or venue first! If you have or can get the Street
    Address (with number) try Yahoo:

        http://www.yahoo.com

    Navigate to the maps section and fill in the form to search for a
    Map, expand the map if needed and print it out if your printer allows
    that (most do now-a-days)!


Q.  Is there a mailing list?
    ------------------------

A.  Yes, TRUCKZONE PRESS! To subscribe send a e-mail to:

        truckzone@juno.com

    In the message body enter the command:

        "subscribe truckzone" followed by your e-mail address.


%   There's also the Monster Mania newsletter....

%       newsletter@monstermania.com

%       topic SUBSCRIBE


    I also run a low volume list from here (Monster Highway BBS) and I'll
    be glad to put your name on it. My list is mostly late breaking news
    and info I think the Monster Truck (Insiders) community should have!
    To post something to it send the message to:

        jhawkin@usa.net


    To subscribe to the list use the same address but use the Subject:

        "Subscribe your.email.address@your.ISP.TLD"

    P.S.: If you want to start a mailing list, do let me know! If I can
    help you accomplish this, just ask!


Q.  I want to know when there is a change to my favorite Web Pages!
%   ---------------------------------------------------------------

A.  Many Web Pages have made arrangements with URL minder services!
%   Truckzone is one of them and the service they use will send you a
%   set of instructions on how to add pages to the `minder list'!


Q.  How do I `grep' a usenet group?
    -------------------------------

A.  Wrong FAQ, buddy! But if you want to mail out adverts to `qualified'
    leads, then check out the FAQ about advertising on Usenet!

        http://www.landfield.com/faqs/usenet/advertising/howto/part1

    Also if you participate actively in a Usenet Newsgroup, the people
    there may be very interested in a `venture' or a product/service you
    offer. In most business circles it's called networking, right!


Q.  How can I find a drivers E-mail address?
    ----------------------------------------

A.  Try the associated Web Pages! Ask others! Check four11.com!

        http://www.Four11.com

    There is also a E-mail addressing FAQ that might help! No, I'm not
    going to give e-mail addresses out!

%   Many of the official truck home sites (Web Pages) are adding E-mail
%   forms now and Mail-to: addresses! You may use those forms to E-mail
%   and addresses to contact drivers and crews!


Q.  I really need to ask a question of some driver! How can I!
%   ----------------------------------------------------------

%   A.  See the answers above and below here for more ideas!


Q.  Is their someplace I can chat or e-mail to other people interested in
#   Monster Trucks?
    ---------------

A.  Try posting to the Web Board at USA Kids Club:

#       http://www.usakidsclub.com


Q.  How can our drivers publish a E-mail address, without clogging their
    personal Internet accounts?
    ---------------------------

A.  Rocketmail, Hotmail, Juno, Netaddress, and Cybermail all offer free
    or cheap E-mail addresses! If you have a Web Page, your ISP can often
    give you more addresses on a server and `MX' the addresses to your
*   Domain Name or Machine Name at Domain Name! Cybermail, Netaddress and
*   others will even forward the mail to another account if needed!

#   NetAddress and Cybermail can be retrieved via POP3 also - much better
#   than WEB only In my Humble Opinion!


Q.  How can our drivers get Internet E-mail while on the road?
    ----------------------------------------------------------

A.  A client package like Net-Tamer can be run on a cheap computer and
    call the home base ISP long distance, grab the mail, and log off in
    a couple minutes. Usually under three! Some ISPs have local numbers
    in the larger cities nationwide also.

    These packages read and answer E-mail offline and can be setup with
    Fax software and Fax modems to send/receive faxes in the field also!
                     ^^^
#       http://www.nettamer.net

    Also, check with Juno! They have local phone numbers all over the
    country. And the National ISPs - Worldnet, AOL, CIS, Maranatha, delphi
    and smaller ISPs with national agreements!


III.  Reading List
------------------

    I could really use some book titles, magazines and always more URLs
    for this section!
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

      10 Copyright myths FAQ
      http://www.landfield.com/faqs/law/copyright/myths/part1

      Discusses some common mis-conceptions about copyright matters!
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

      Recreation Pyrotechnics FAQ
      http://www.landfield.com/faqs/pyrotechnics-faq

      I include this FAQ here because of the safety information contained
      but I DO NOT encourage experimentation with Pyrotechnics!
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

      Stagecraft FAQ
      http://www.landfield.com/faqs/theatre/stagecraft/faq

      A lot of simple special effects info and pointers to other documents
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

      Usenet Advertising howto FAQ
      http://www.landfield.com/faqs/usenet/advertising/howto/part1

      Some of you will want to advertise over Usenet in some manner from
      time to time! Here is a great reference about doing it right while
      NOT alienating the very people you want to reach!
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

      Emily Post news
      http://www.landfield.com/faqs/usenet/emily_postnews/part1

      A `Tongue in Cheek' look at Usenet mis-behavior I feel is a
      excellent companion to the Usenet Advertising FAQ!
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

      Joel Furr FAQ
      http://www.landfield.com/faqs/joel_furr/faq

      This FAQ is about Joel Furr and is included here because Joel seems
      to represent the zany side of Internet life (IMHO)! He also writes
      a lot of the more enlightened FAQ info and contributes to all of
      Usenet and the internet!
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

      The Net-Tamer FAQ
      http://www.landfield.com/faqs/off-line-readers/net-tamer

      This is my (Jeff Hawkins) first FAQ and covers the DOS based Internet
      client software called Net-Tamer! Net-Tamer can be run on a cheap
      laptop, portable computer, or most any PC to handle Internet duties
      while on the road or at home! Makes a excellent mail client for the
      crews transporter PC and will grab e-mail for offline reading then
      log off to save long distance charges!
    -----------------------------------------------------------------


IV.   Promoters list
--------------------

    Pace Motorsports

        http://www.ushra.com

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Performance Motorsports Inc.
    121 Mercedes Ct.
#   Winchester, Va. 22603

#   Voice: (540)-662-5202 Fax: (540)-662-4332

%   This is Diehl (The Virginia Giant) Wilson's Company and my Weekend
%   Employer! Specializes in Monster Truck Races, Rodeo and Tractor Pulls!

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Special Events, Inc.
    804 N. Delaware St.
    Indianapolis, IN. 46204-1196

    Voice: (317)-236-6522 Fax: (317)-236-6519

    THE PROMOTION COMPANY / SPECIAL EVENTS

    Specializes in "automotive events that are fun for the whole
    family".  Automotive and truck events like the 4-Wheel Jamboree
    Nationals and the Street Machine Nationals! Also country concerts
    and a circus!

        http://www.familyevents.com

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

#   USA Motorsports
#   United Sports of America
#   2310 West 75th Street
#   Prairie Village, KS. 66208

#   Voice: (913)-384-8930 Fax: (913)-384-8931

#       http://www.usakidsclub.com

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

#   MotorSport Attractions Agency
#   P.O. Box 152167
#   Cape Coral, Fl. 33915-2167

#   Voice: (941)-458-1777 Fax: (941)-772-3589

#       http://www.motorsportattractions.com

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

%   Logan Motorsports
%   Rt 2 Box 918
%   Cresent City, Fl. 32212

%   Voice: (904) 698-1678 Fax: (904) 696-6022

%       http://jaxadnet.com/monster.trucks/

    -----------------------------------------------------------------


VI.  Suppliers list
-------------------

    Videos

    Diamond P Sports
    http://www.truckworld.com/DIAMONDP

    Simitar Entertainment
    http://www.simitar.com

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Games

    Microsoft

    http://www.microsoft.com/games/monster/downloads.htm
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Frames and Running Gear

    Patrick Enterprises Inc.
    28358 Tarlton-Adelphi Rd.
    Laurelville, Ohio 43135

    Voice: (614)-477-1006 Fax: (614)-332-1157
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Remote Ignition Interrupter

    Audiax                (216)-392-6800

    Total Communication   (314)-432-2552

    Birch Communication   (609)-625-3481
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Tachometers, Meters and  Gauges

    Autometer
    http://www.autometer.com
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Fiberglass Bodies and Body Parts

    GTS
    http://www.gtsfiberglass.com
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Internet Web Page Hosting and E-mail services

    Cybermail.net
    http://www.cybermail.net
    jack@cybermail.net
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Internet Web Page Creation and E-mail services

    Jeff Hawkins
    http://www.cybermail.net/~jhawkin
    jhawkin@cybermail.net
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    Net-Tamer  -  "Internet in a Thimble"
    Integrated Internet Software for Small Laptops upto full Pc systems

    David Colston
    http://www.nettamer.net
    nettamer@nettamer.net
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

#    Freelance Motorsports Announcers

#    Ken Dickinson
#    Lyndhurst, Va. 22952

#    Voice: (540)-943-2104 Fax: (540)-943-8308
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

#    Outlaw Super Trucks

#    Wild West Racing (owner Mike West)
#    22679 Alden Ave.
#    Alliance, Ohio 44601

#    Voice: (330)-821-3084
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

     Robosaurus

     Monster Robots, Inc.
     72 Jamestown Beach Lane
     Sequim, Wa. 98382

     http://www.coolbiz.com/robo/robo_new.htm
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

     Used Audio Equipment, speaker reconing, warranty repairs

     Daddy's Junky Music Stores
     4 Raymond Avenue
     Salem, New Hampshire 03079

     Voice: (603) 894-6492

     E-Mail: usedbymail@aol.com

     Reported to be the World's largest dealer in used musical instruments
     with over 7000 items in stock. Monthly catalog available.
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

     Microphones

     Electro-Voice
     600 Cecil St.
     Buchanan, MI  49107

     Voice: (616) 695-6831 Fax: (616) 695-1304
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

     Amplifiers, speakers

     JBL Professional
     8500 Balboa Boulevard
     Northridge, California 91329

     Voice: (818) 893-8411 Fax: (818) 893-3639
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

     Amplifiers, speakers

     Peavey Electronics Corp.
     711 A Street
     Meridian, Mississippi 39301

     Voice: (601) 483-5365 Fax: (601) 484-4278
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

     Padded and unpadded heavy Cordura equipment covers

     Tuki Covers
     P.O. Box 2545
     Summerville, South Carolina 29484

     Voice: (800) 344-8854
    -----------------------------------------------------------------

     Discount items for retail, promotion and/or Give-away

     Oriental Trading Co.
     P.O. Box 2308
     Omaha, Nebraska 68103-2308

     http://www.oriental.com
    -----------------------------------------------------------------


V.  The Trucks
--------------
% Trucks are listed with Web Sites when available! I want this section to
% list trucks by three or four geographic areas! If you have area Info or
% want to change or update a link here please write to me.

% I also want to list MTRA Member trucks first and would like to list older
% retired trucks separately! What do you think?


-------------------
| East Coast Area |
-------------------

    Black Stallion 2000
                        http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/stallion.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/blackst.htm

    Boogey Van          http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/boogey.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/boogey.html

    Carolina Crusher    http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/crusher.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/carolinacrush.html

    Grave Digger        http://www.webcom.com/shownet/gravedig
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/gravedig.html
                        http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/digger/digger.htm

    West Virginia Mountaineer
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/mountaineer.html

    UFO                 http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/ufotech.htm

    Virginia Giant      http://giant.home.ml.org
    
    Virginia Beast      http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/vabeast.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/vbeast.html

    Samson              http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/samson.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/samson.htm

    Sudden Impact       http://www.suddenimpact.com

    Liquidator          http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/liquid.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/liquidator.html

    Ground Pounder      http://www.groundpounder.com

    Mopar Magic         http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/mopar.htm

    Thunder Dog


-------------------
| Mid West Region |
-------------------

    Bearfoot            http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/bearfoot.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/bearfoot.html

    Bigfoot             http://www.bigfoot4x4.com

    Peacekeeper         http://members.aol.com/rrpd10/
                        http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/peace.htm

    Snake Bite          http://www.bigfoot4x4.com
                        http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/snakebite/snakbite.htm

#   Thunder Beast       http://www.monstermania.com/tbeast

    Wild Foot           http://www.bigfoot4x4.com

    Firestone Wilderness
                        http://www.bigfoot4x4.com


---------------------
| West Coast Region |
---------------------

    High Roller         http://www.richtire.com/mstr.htm


------------------
| Western Canada |
------------------

    Maniac              http://www.jurassicattack.com

    Young Gun           http://www.jurassicattack.com

    Jurassic Attack     http://www.jurassicattack.com


---------------------------
| Unknown or unsorted Yet |
---------------------------

    Above & Beyond      http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/above/abarchve.htm

    AM/PM Rocket        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/ampmrocket.html

    Awesome Kong/ King Kong
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/awesomekong.html

    Bad Medicine        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/badme.html

    Blown Thunder       http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/blownthunder.html

    Bulldozer           http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/bulldozer.html

    Clydesdale          http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/clydesdale.html

    Devastator          http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/devastator.html

    Devil's Dodge       http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/ddodge.htm

    Dragon Slayer       http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/dslayer.htm

    Equalizer           http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/equalize.htm

    Excaliber           http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/excaliber.html

    Executioner         http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/execute.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/executioner.htm

    Extreme Overkill    http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/overkill.htm

    First Blood         http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/first.htm

    Four Wheel Crazy    http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/4whcraz.htm

    Gun Slinger         http://www.gunslinger4x4.com

    Heartbeat           http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/hartbeat.htm

    Heartland Express   http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/hartland.htm

    Heavy Metal         http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/heavymetal.html

    Hercules(Original Version)
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/hercules.html

    Hercules            Http://www.truckzone.com/hercules

    Kimosabe            http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/kimotech.htm

    King Krunch         http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/kingkrunch.html

    Kodiak              http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/kodiak/kodiak.htm

    Krimson Krusher     http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/krimsonkrusher.html

    Mad Dog             http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/maddog.html

    Miami Thunder       http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/miamithun.html

    Micro Machines      http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/micromachine.html

    Monster Patrol      http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/monstpat.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/mpatrol.htm
                        http://www.nwimarket.com/mpatrol/

    Moving Violations   http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/moving.htm
                        http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/mviolate/mviolate.htm

    Nitemare            http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/nitemare.html

    No Problem          http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/noproblem.html
                        http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/nproblem/nproblem.htm

    Orange Krate        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/orangekrate.html

    Overkill            http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/overkill.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/ovekill1.html

    Predator            http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/pred.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/predator.html

    Playin' for Keeps   http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/playkeep.htm

    Rampage             http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/rampage.htm

    Raptor              http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/raptor.html
                        http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/2419/

    Rocky Mountain Thunder
                        http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/rockymtn.htm

    Spellbound          http://www.icontech.com/spellbound

    Sixfoot             http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/sixfoot.html

    Stomper             http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/stomper.html

    Stomper Bully       http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/stomperbully.html

    Taurus              http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/taurus.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/taurus.html

    Towasaurus Wrex     http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/towasaurus.html
                        http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Downs/2943

    Thrasher            http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/thrasher.html

    Tropical Thunder    http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/tthunder/tthunder.htm

    USA-1               http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/usa-1.html

    Unnamed Untamed     http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/unameduntamed.html

    War Wagon           http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/warwagon.html
                        http://204.120.67.164:80/warwagon

    Weapon              http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/wepon1.html

    Whiskey Business    http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/whiskey.htm

    Wildfire            http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/wildfire.htm

    Wild Hair           http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/wildhair.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/wildhair.html

    Wild Thang          http://www.truckzone.com/trucks/thang.htm
                        http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com/wildthang.html

    American Guardian   http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/guardian/agarchve.htm

    Undertaker          http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/undertaker/undrtakr.htm

    War Wagon           http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/misc/wwag150.jpg
                        http://www.truckzone.com/warwagon

    Warrior             http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/misc/war150.jpg

    Wildfire            http://www.truckzone.com/pictures/misc/wfire150.jpg

    Unnamed & Untamed   http://www.angelfire.com/az/unnamed4x4/

    Airborne Ranger                    American Made 1

    AM/PM Boss                         Big Dare

    Blue Max                           Bustin' Loose

    Black Widow                        California Kid Crusher
    
    Cyborg                             Cyclops
    
    Danger Zone

    Dangerous Toy                      Deep Fear

    Dirty Dancing

    Dueces Wild                        Ecology Eliminator

    Invader                            Little Tiger
    
    Phantom Krusher                    Woman Warrior
    
    Goliath                            Misbehavin'

    Wild Thing                         Flyin' High

    High Anxiety                       High Voltage

    Hot Stuff                          Little Tiger

    Mistress

    Monster Mash                       Muscle Beach

    Obsession                          Orange Krate

    Outlaw                             Pirate Pete

    Primetime

    Rap Attack                         Reptoid
    
    Roboshark                          Savage Beast

    Shocker                            Shotgun

    Shredder                           Skoal Bandit

    Smoke Craft Jerky Maker            Super Bus

    Survivor                           Terminator

    Thrasher                           Trouble Maker

    Under Pressure
    
    Valvoline Racer                    Witch Doctor


VII.  MAJOR WEB SITES
---------------------

%   Andrew's Monster Truck Website
%   http://www.monstertrucks-uk.com

%   John Eastwood's Monster Truck Emporium
%   http://www.monster-trucks.com

#   The World of Monster Trucks
#   http://www.truckzone.com

#   Mother-in-Laws Garage
#   http://www.milgarage.com

    Motorsports Photography Unlimited
    The World's Largest Monster Truck Home Page
    http://www.designcraft.com/monster/trucks

*   Monster Mania
*   http://www.monstermania.com

%   Purdue University's Monster Truck Information
%   http://expert.cc.purdue.edu/~alsheets/trucks5.html

%   Dane's Monster Truck Madness
%   http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/8754

%   Monster Truck Photos
%   http://www.cbu.edu/~itemplet/monstrk.html

%   Justin Zint's Monster Truck Photo Page
%   http://207.17.188.201/jenn/monster.htm



VIII. The Event Calendar List
-----------------------------

Truckzone has a excellant Calender Section

        http://www.truckzone.com


Monster Mania

        http://www.monstermania.com/calendar.htm


Monster Mania will soon host a complete Event Database at

        http://www.monstermania.com/calendar.asp


Many trucks have a schedule section on their web pages:

        http://www.bigfoot4x4.com

        http://giant.home.ml.org


IX.  Previous Changes
---------------------
11/10/97 Version 1.06! Couple new truck URLs, some slight reformatting! I
         think I found a URL for Simitar (the video Company)! Added Monster
         Mania to the major Web sites list! Took out the Truckzone Press
         Awards Announcement! I Really appreciate the recognition they've
         given this FAQ and all their efforts to promote Monster Truck
         Racing!

10/10/97 Skipped a month here!

09/09/97 Version 1.05 Audio Month I guess! 8-) I found some `good' info
         about audio equipment so I checked what I could and inserted
         in the suppliers area! I also added some reading list info into
         a new section! This is mostly for the promoters/performers but
         you fans might find it interesting background info too! I think
         all the truck URLs should be right as of today! Still need more
         URLs! There is some info about internet Services for Monster Truck
         Professionals!

08/19/97 We won a award! Along with many other sites! I included a special
         Section Excerpt from Truckzone Press as an announcement at the end
         of this section! (Kudos now removed!)

O8/10/97 Version 1.04 Added a reference for our first freelance motorsport
         announcer! This will probably become a section on its own! Someone
         asked about how the teams cut tires so I added that info! Mike West's
         Outlaw Super Trucks appeared with us at three shows this week so I
         added contact info!

07/06/97 Added some info about Dan Patrick and some odds and ends.

06/10/97 Found Grave Digger's New URL. And updated same! Changed URL for
         The Virginia Giant.

05/31/97 Received a MTRA rule book and Newsletter, made some changes to
         reflect information found there. I added a lot of truck names,
         need URL's for them!

04/26/97 fixed a few errors found in the htmlized version

04/13/97 just a little more info and final proof reading

04/06/97 A little added polish

03/02/97 The crude beginnings



                        CONTACTING THE AUTHOR
                        ---------------------

For FAQ related Questions or help:
Jeff Hawkins
jhawkin@visuallink.com ---------- Middletown, Va. U.S.A.
Internet solutions for The Monster Truck Racing Industry

