Cam's Garage

June 24, 2024 In case you weren't aware, I purchased a new (to me) 2005 Lexus GX470 about 2 months ago (see my full post here ). Over that period of time, I've been doing a LOT of maintenance and livability improvements to better enjoy my 20-year old car. GX470 Modification Breakdown at Purchase As you can probably tell, my GX470 was not quite "factory" when I bought it. There were a number of modifications that had been completed; albeit these modifications were relatively tame with nothing too crazy. Suspension ( before you ask, no I do not understand why the previous owner installed suspension that didn't match on front and rear and I did not ask at time of purchase ) Front - Old Man Emu (OME) 3" lift with comfort springs - link Rear - Dobinsons Nitro 3" lift with heavy springs - link Freedom Offroad Upper Control Arms (UCA) - link I ran these on my LX570 that I lifted, but that was due to a limited market for the 200-Series platform Ideally, I will n...

May 14, 2024 Toyota Life Recap If you either know me or have kept up with my blog for some time, you will be well aware that my favorite vehicle is the fourth generation of the Toyota 4Runner  (4th Gen) specifically with the 4.7L V8 and 4-wheel drive. I have loved the 4th Gen since I was a little kid when my father had one that he bought new in 2007. I purchased my first Toyota SUV in 2018, which was a 2004 Lexus GX470. The Lexus GX470 was built on the 4Runner chassis (technically the 4Runner was built on the Land Cruiser Prado 120 chassis), giving it the same 4.7L and 4-wheel drive system in a nicer package than the 4Runner counterpart. I wrote another post regarding My Introduction to Overlanding here  where I explored the purchase and history with my GX470. Generally speaking, GX470's are in better condition as well because the original owners were families not looking to destroy an off-road capable vehicle but safely get their kids to soccer practice. Below is a pictu...

May 11, 2023 First and foremost, I think it is important to understand the differences between "off-roading" and "overlanding."  The objective of off-roading is tackling the most extreme terrain possible. The common result of a true off-road build is the absolute most capable vehicles with little-to-no regard for creature comforts and using the vehicle day-to-day The objective of overlanding is a balance of off-road capability with overall reliability. The common result of an overland build is a vehicle capable of being used for daily use, but is capable of going most places reliably and more comfortably than a true off-roader would. For me personally, the concept of an overland build is more appealing because reliability and capability are emphasized as much as daily usability. In most circumstances, a true vehicle built for dedicated off-road use is a poor daily driver and does not serve many purposes outside of off-roading. For example, a vehicle with a 6" l...