Your name: Jordan - @maverick_cogx
Location: Colorado
Nickname: Maverick (Mav)
Make & Model: 2007 Automatic Lexus GX470
HEST products: HEST Dually Long & Camp Pillow
Critical dimensions for your bed platform: 23Zero Kabari RTT
Length: 7'2"
Width (at narrowest point): 4’3.5”
Height: 5’1.5” (at high point)
Is this your daily driver or getaway car?
This is my daily driver and adventure getaway rig.
What do you like most about your rig?
The capability and reliability of my rig since it’s a Toyota at heart.
On your average weekend adventure, what is the gear set up you bring with you?
If I'm not camping, it’s basically just recovery gear, food, and water that I take. If camping is involved, then a cooler, a storage box with my dry goods, and my Coleman cooker are added to the back. I always have my sleeping bag in the tent and other camping items like flashlights and fire starters in my truck 24/7.
How did you navigate gear storage needs into your rig set up?
I have a set of wooden drawers I purchased first on my truck when I got it to hold my key gear. My key gear that I always have with me is: recovery (kinetic rope, shackles, tow strap, tree saver), basic tools, air compressor, first aid kit for me and the dogs, emergency water bottles, change of clothes, etc. Then I add what I need on a scenario by scenario basis on whether it’s a trail and day trip or a weekend camping trip.
Any cool custom details you’re proud of?
I’ve set up my build to meet my purposes and taste. There are a lot of different nuances I have compared to most other GXs out there, but I would say one of my favorites would be my Garage Alpha TRD style front grille, so far.
Coolest place you’ve taken your rig to?
From a pure beauty aspect, Crested Butte, Colorado and Moab, Utah are the two right now that top my list
Any projects in the pipeline to get your rig even more adventure ready?
For this year, I’m aiming to get an onboard air set up in the engine bay and a high clearance exhaust. I’m also hoping a fridge will be in my future. Next year I will be focusing on my rear bumper and a swing-out for my spare tire.
Biggest challenge in your build out?
Right now, it’s not being able to bring a full-size spare tire with me due to the compact area where my current spare is located.
Tips for others looking to do the same to their vehicle?
Know that the Lexus GX platform is very capable as a stock vehicle. Take your time and don’t rush your build. Target the critical modifications first. These come with air suspension in the rear and a center locker stock. I also recommend looking at 2006 – 2009 models. They adjusted tuning and performance that made these more powerful and reliable. Also note that the GX470 has a timing belt that needs to be replaced every 90,000 miles with the water pump. It’s a bit costly of a repair but required to keep the engine running. The 4.7L v8 is a 1-million-mile motor when maintained.
Want to submit your rig for our blog? Email us at info@hest.com to get started!
