At East Coast Gear Supply, we believe every build tells a story—and sometimes, that story deserves center stage. When Scott submitted his 1993 Wrangler project for our Customer Spotlight, we couldn’t resist sharing it. This isn’t just another Jeep; it’s a rolling tribute to racing legend Richard Petty and Scott’s late father, blending nostalgia, ingenuity, and flat-out horsepower.
Inspired by “The King”
Growing up, Scott and his family were—and remain—devoted fans of Richard Petty, the one-and-only “King of NASCAR.” When Scott combined that admiration with his love of Jeeps, the result was clear: a Petty Blue Wrangler that would honor both Petty’s racing spirit and the memory of Scott’s dad. Once he found a solid YJ with minimal rust, he knew he had the perfect canvas.
A Backyard Transformation
Scott began by prepping and painting the door jambs and engine compartment in his own driveway, then handed the Wrangler off to a friend’s body shop for the final Petty Blue finish. Next came the real heart of the project: swapping in a small block Chevy engine—bored out to 355 ci and paired with a six-speed transmission for some serious punch, now updated from a carburetor to fuel injection—ensuring no fuel starvation on steep hill climbs.
This project wasn’t just about parts, though. It was about craftsmanship. Scott hand-fabricated several components, including fan shrouds, heat shields, and custom brackets—personalizing this build down to its core.
Power Meets Precision
With all that power on tap, Scott knew he needed a strong foundation. He turned to East Coast Gear Supply for an upgraded rear axle set up with:
- ECGS-built rear axle featuring 4.11 gears
- TrueTrac limited-slip differential for reliable traction
- 3-inch lift for an aggressive, off-road-ready stance
- Line-lock for hill holding and driveway fun
- 17-inch wheels and 31-inch tires for capable all-terrain performance
Add in a winch, auxiliary lighting, dual exhaust, plus hard and soft tops, and you’ve got a Jeep built for both the asphalt and the trail.
Built to Be Part of the Family—Forever
For Scott, this Jeep is more than a stunning showpiece; it’s a rolling monument to his father’s memory and the heritage of “The King.” Countless hours in the driveway have forged an unbreakable bond. As Scott puts it, “I could never sell it. Many of my family members who want it are waiting for me to pass on so they can have it. I’ll let them fight over it after I’m gone!”
Check out some of the photos from Scott’s impressive Petty Blue Jeep build. Swipe or scroll horizontally to view all images.
What’s Your Story?
We love championing builds that go beyond horsepower and gear ratios. Scott’s Jeep is proof that, with the right parts (and a lot of elbow grease), you can create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Got a project that deserves the spotlight? Send your story and photos to [email protected] for a chance to become our next Customer Spotlight. Who knows—your dream project might just inspire someone else’s next adventure.
Ready to Tackle Your Own Project?
Whether you’re chasing speed, exploring backroads, or looking for a dependable weekend warrior, East Coast Gear Supply has the parts, expertise, and passion to help. Get in touch, gear up, and let’s build something remarkable—together.