January 23, 2025 3 min read

Welcome to our monthly Rigs We Dig series! Each month in 2025, we'll be celebrating the ingenuity of a featured DIY build—showcasing their smart design, practical functionality, and adventurous spirit.


We’re thrilled to introduce Cory and his 1999 Jeep Cherokee XJ, a rig that’s as inspiring as it is functional. Based out of Quaker City, Ohio, Cory’s build is a testament to determination, designed to push the boundaries of exploration. From a custom drawer and sleeping system to a solar setup that powers his adventures, Cory’s Jeep serves as both a rugged travel companion and a symbol of his unstoppable spirit. Let’s dive into what makes this rig—and the story behind it—so special.

Your Name: Cory

Location: Quaker City, Ohio

Make & Model: 1999 Jeep Cherokee XJ


HEST products: Seat Cushion & Foamy Short


What made you choose a (your vehicle make & model) as your base?

It was a budget friendly and very capable vehicle that was easy to work on with lots of support for. 


Can you give us a top highlight overview of your buildout and its key features? 

I would say it is my entire drawer and sleeping system. A lot of small but very useful details. 

 

What were your main goals or priorities when designing and building your rig? 

I wanted a rig that would simply allow me to go a little further into areas I wanted to see and explore all while being comfortable. I see this Jeep as a set of hiking boots for me as I use a wheelchair and can be limited to the terrain I'm on and this allows me to explore what I want much further.  


What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the build process?

Being confined to a wheelchair can have its limits when building a rig like this. But having good friends and family to help make the project even more special. 

How many dollar signs on a scale of 1 to  5 is your build (5 being the highest)? 

$$

  

What products, brands, or upgrades are you most excited about  in your rig? 

The HEST Foamy mattress and seat cushion have been game changer for me!! I would like to try more of the HEST products to make my travels that much more comfy!


How much time and effort did the entire process take, and was it worth it?

I have been working on this rig for over 5 years now and it has definitely been worth it!!



What’s one feature in your rig that you’ve learned you cannot live without?

The Solar system, along with a good sleep system!

Where is the coolest place you have taken your rig?

 I did a Solo trip from Ohio to California and back to watch the king of the hammers race a few years ago. I stopped at the grand canyon and did a helicopter tour along with seeing many landmarks I thought I'd never see in my life! It was a trip of a lifetime with experiences to match!

Do you have any advice for someone just starting their overland rig build?

 Just get out there, use what you have then decide what you actually need! Im glad i took the time to do it slow and as my budget allowed.

Want to submit your rig for our blog? Email us at info@hest.com to get started!