"You're wheeling a what?!?!" Build Thread - 2005 Lexus GX470

A few months ago I traded my 2016 4Runner Trail in for this 2005 Lexus GX470 Sport. The 4Runner was a great rig but it really just didn't fit the bill anymore. It left a lot to be desired when it came to towing and acceleration so it was time to step up to a V8. Started looking at first generation Tundras and fourth generation 4Runners. Neither one quite caught my eye. People wanted too much money for too many miles. So I randomly came across the GX470 and after researching and realizing it was built on the same chassis as the fourth generation 4Runners and early FJ Cruiser, and that there was a rapidly growing aftermarket for them because of this, I bit the bullet. I have quite a build planned out for this rig and I wouldn't say I'm leaning more toward expo or crawling with it. I want a solid, reliable rig that can hold it's own wherever I wind up. The build will be well thought out and I'm not going to cut any corners on it. This is the first vehicle I've owned (and I've owned A LOT) that I can see myself hanging on to long term so I plan to build it with quality, reliable parts. It IS a Lexus after all. Only the best! Now, on to the good stuff. I'll try to keep up with stages of the build by marking mods as "had", "has", and "will have" so it's easy for you (and me) to keep up with the build plan.



Specs:
2005 Lexus GX470 Sport
115,xxx miles when bought (123,xxx currently)
KDSS
2UZ-FE VVTi 4.7L V8

Wheels and Tires:
265/65-17 Michelin LTX M/S2
265/70-17 BFG KO2
Stock Alloy Wheels
2017 4Runner TRD Pro Wheels

Front Suspension:
Toytec 2.5" Spacers
King Coilovers w/ Resis & Adjusters
Camburg 1.25" Uniball Upper Control Arms

Rear Suspension:
Rear Airbag "Trick"
King 2.5" Shocks with Resis & Adjusters
Toytec Superflex Coils
MetalTech4x4 Rear Airbag to Coil Conversion

Interior:
Wit's End Fire Extinguisher Mount
Drake Automatic Fire Extinguisher Quick Disconnect
H3R 2.5lb Fire Extinguisher
Scosche MagicMount Pro
Fold Down Table on Rear Door
New OEM Dash

Drivetrain:
Crown +4" Rear Brake Lines
Rear Differential Breather

Electrical:
Odyssey 34-PC1500 Battery
Dometic CFX-65DZUS Dual Zone Fridge/Freezer

Armor:
Hefty Fabworks Sliders
Hefty Fabworks Engine Skid

Normal = Currently Installed
Asterisk * = Bought But Not Installed
Strike = Replaced

Maintenance:
115k - BFG KO2s
120k - Air Filter, Cabin Filter, Oil Change (5W-30 Valvoline)
125k - Spark Plugs (OEM)

 

I'm working on it. Hunting for a signal good enough to upload more than one picture every few minutes.

 

If it works, it ain't stupid. I'm excited to see more!

 

Did you happen to purchase the truck from the Dodge dealer in Cleburne back in March?

 

Thanks guys. A lot of people don't know what these things are capable of. They're really just starting to gain popularity in the off-road world. I've already had this thing in Colorado and did Imogene Pass. And it performed flawlessly. Can't wait to build it up and push its limits even more.

 

Nope, I purchased it from First Car Automotive Group in Plano back in March or April. Where he got it from, I'm not sure. He only had it three days before I bought it and he loves selling these things so he very well could have got it from them.

 

Very nice build! The 2UZ-FE VVTi 4.7L V8 is a great engine.

I have a 2005 4Runner with the V8 and only 80K miles. I wish that engine would have been offered in the 2nd Gen. Tacoma.

 

My dad bought a 2005 Sequoia about two years ago with 55k on it. Right now it has just shy of 70k I believe. He had to put a new transmission in it about a month ago though.

 

Gotcha. There was one with same color, options and mileage for sale at the dealer in Cleburne that I was in line to buy. The salesman sold it out from under me while I was on my way there. :/

Anyway, great build! I ended up finding one w/o sport package that I'm building now. Kind of the same approach but with Dobinsons suspension. Can't wait to see what you do with it!

 

I almost went with the Dobinson MRR setup but I found a good deal on the Kings and Camburg setup with less than 10k on them. Dropping it off at the shop this Friday or Saturday to have it all installed. Should have it back sometime next week. Can't wait to get it done and start planning the next stage of the build.

 

I'd love to have the MRR,but will probably go with their rear long travel/progressive spring kit. How is the ride with the rear air bag trick?

 

It's not terrible. Definitely firmer than stock but in a good way. It has a "truck" feeling rather than the almost too plush factory ride. But I only tricked it to about 5/8" lift. I'm sure it would get worse with more than that.

 

I'm in!

 

I dig the Gx, there are few guys here in town doing GX builds. Sounds like you are on the right track with your choice of mods.

 

Yeah, I believe Jonathan is from your area. He just swapped in a 9.5" Diamond axle and 37s. I'm not going that crazy though. That's a bit ridiculous to me. But if it works for him, then I'll definitely watch the build haha.

 

This is gay af