During his time as general manager of Astroworld, Crandall brought in two roller coasters, Texas Cyclone in 1976 and Greezed Lightnin' in 1978. But his name became known in 1980 when he introduced Thunder River, the world's first river rapids ride.

Crandall took over management at Frontier City in Oklahoma City after leaving Astroworld. He boosted attendance by bringing in a Schwarzkopf Looping Star, Silver Bullet, in 1986. While at Frontier City, he created waterslides that could be ridden in street clothes. He launched a company called New Wave Rides after leaving Frontier City.

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