A True Labor of Love: The Watkins Family Build

Father’s Day has passed, but it’s never too late to celebrate the dads who inspire us. When Kelly Watkins (secretly) submitted her husband Steven’s 2000 Jeep Cherokee XJ for our Customer Spotlight, she highlighted more than metal and mechanics—she highlighted a father's passion for Jeeps and his sons. Steven has always loved off-roading and loves to go places that others can't. He has a love for all Jeeps (Wranglers, Grand Cherokees, ALL of them) but XJ is his favorite. When Steven started this project, he wanted to take his love of off-roading and be able to share it with his boys, and wrench with his kids as so many of us have done with our fathers and grandfathers. At East Coast Gear Supply (ECGS), we pride ourselves on delivering parts that fuel experiences and passion, and in the case of the Watkins family, brought a close family even closer - so we felt like this build was one worth sharing.

Kelly, Steven, and their sons—powered by ECGS parts and bound by family camaraderie.

Kelly reached out to ECGS not just to feature a build, but to share a story: a husband driven by a love for Jeeps, a wife supporting every bolt and weld, and two boys who grew up alongside the crawler they call “Big Girl” and the friendships they've built in the off-roading community. From our initial email exchange to final torque specs, we made sure every detail met the Watkins’ high standards.

"Not only has this build brought our family closer together it also introduced us to wonderful people who have become lifelong friends."—Kelly

Understanding the Customer’s Dream

When Kelly described Steven’s goal—“a Cherokee that can cruise highway speeds at 70 mph and still crawl boulders”—our team knew this build needed precision and versatility. Steven’s love for the classic XJ model, combined with his desire to introduce his boys to off-roading, formed the cornerstone of our collaboration.

"I wanted a Jeep that could take my family on unforgettable adventures, and East Coast Gear Supply made that vision a reality."—Steve

That vision drove our expert recommendations for the SD 60/10.5 axle build and the 5:38 Gears and front and rear spools.

"Big Girl" Upgrades

Steve's 2000 XJ was completely stock when he purchased over a decade ago back in 2014. Since then he has upgraded everything. Ryan called the XJ "The Big Girl" when he noted the small lift and wide tires. The just name stuck.

Here’s the upgrades on “The Big Girl”:

• Dana 60 Front / Ford 10.5 Rear Axles with ECGS 5:38 gears and front spool
• Custom 3 link front suspension
• 7” Rear Stretch
• LS/4L60E swap
• Hybrid Cage
• 40” Yokohama Geolander XMT Tires
• 17” DirtyLife Roadkill Wheels

Proven Performance & Durability

Kelly’s feedback speaks volumes: “Since installing ECGS parts, we’ve conquered Gulches, Uharrie, and Windrock!” Key benefits include:

• Zero slippage: Precision-cut gears maintain traction under heavy torque.
• Enhanced durability: No failures during extended, multi-day trail runs.
• Family confidence: Steven and his sons tackle tougher lines with peace of mind.

With ECGS as his trusted partner, Steven’s only limit is his imagination.

Partnership That Grows With You

Steven’s build is ongoing, and so is ECGS’s support. Next on his list: rear 4-link and four-corner coil-overs, ORI struts, or whatever idea may hit him next. When he’s ready, our team will be here and ready to provide:

• Customized parts lists matched to build goals and terrain preferences
• Technical guidance via phone, email, or in-person at our Louisburg, NC service center
• After-sales service for maintenance, rebuilds, and fresh upgrades

Full Photo Gallery

What’s Your Story?

We love championing builds that go beyond horsepower and gear ratios. “Big Girl” shows that—with the right parts and a lot of driveway grit—you can craft a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Think your project deserves a spotlight? Send photos and the scoop to spotlight@eastcoastgear.com and you could be featured next.

Ready to Tackle Your Own Project?

Whether you’re chasing big horsepower, bigger tires, or simply bigger memories with the family, East Coast Gear Supply has the parts, expertise, and passion to help. Let’s gear up and build something remarkable—together.