New migration from 80 to GX470

[MrMikeyG]

I picked up a 2003 GX470. I've gotten distracted reading though a couple of build threads.
Some quick notes.
mechanical history seemed decent.
190k on the odometer
it's on 4runner rims and fairly new Dueller HT tires. I like the wheels, the tires are not what I would have bought, but they do save me from an approximately $1200 week one purchase.
It is the silver color (I haven't looked up the paint name/codes yet)
It has quite a few dings and dents which I don't mind since it will see forest roads and such.
The hood and grill are a bit messed up and the seller included a used good shape grill.
***** This had me thinking about initial form over function mods (new hood in flat black and a blacked out or 3rd party "Lexus" grill)*** I think I can manage to steer clear of the raptor style grill lights.
The side mirrors are pretty beat up and look like someone used a brush to paint them. I'll likely troll ebay for a set of mirrors
3rd row seats will be removed later today.

My first questions;

Is there a decent "filler" of some type for the headliner dvd screen? Mine is still there, but no kiddos and I haven't tried the thing out yet. I'm guessing it may not work since the inner cover will not latch.
I seem to have the Mark Levinson system with Nav. I'm ok with this except that I cannot make/receive calls and I think the cd changer is kaput.

The pile of keys I got is also an interesting problem. 2 true Lexus keys. 2 aftermarket non-cut keys and the programmer that plugs into the obd2 port. Nothing in the pile is properly paired at this point so I will tinker with what I have.

The seller also included a steering wheel in better condition that the original. How many is a steering wheel swap? The airbag has me apprehensive.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to something that has a nice and quiet highway feel and can still off-road a bit.

 

[MrMikeyG]

Has anyone done a recent dvd update to the factory nav system? It seems like almost everyone hates the screen, but I need to live with things for a bit while I noodle on nav to non-nav or some other madness. It looks like I can get a new dvd for $30 -$150 depending upon new/used and seller.

I was under the impression that the GX had the same AHC system as an LX. Boy was I wrong. ha ha

 

[Rednexus]

Steering wheel swap is 20 minutes. Super, super easy job. It just takes a Torx bit to pull the airbag and a 19 mm socket to remove the retaining nut. Just make sure to get the wheels straight ahead, then set the clock spring right in the middle of it's travel (it has 5 turns left to right), and then install the new wheel, or otherwise you'll break it the fist time the wheel goes to full lock.

 

[zillymc]

Has anyone done a recent dvd update to the factory nav system? It seems like almost everyone hates the screen, but I need to live with things for a bit while I noodle on nav to non-nav or some other madness. It looks like I can get a new dvd for $30 -$150 depending upon new/used and seller.

I was under the impression that the GX had the same AHC system as an LX. Boy was I wrong. ha ha

Picked up my 2004 GX recently and did the Grom Vline V2 install and really like it. Yeah that screen kinda sucks but I actually like how it feels very OEM and year appropriate over one of those big Tesla screens you can put in

 

[MrMikeyG]

At this point, the Grom vline route seems to be a lot cheaper than trying to do an OEM non-nav conversion with an aftermarket HU. Another person posted a link to something that's way cheaper and plugs into the system in place of the cassete player. (I think it uses that connector on the harness, cassette player remains in dash, but no longer functions) I think. I need to find that thread again. The person seemed happy with sound quality and function.

Does anyone care to weigh in on the life expectancy of the OEM electronically damped shocks? The GX suspension is a bit simpler overall than I thought it was, but it's looking like OEM rear shocks and front struts will cost around $1k if I need them. $1k is a good percentage of most "normal" lift kits for these trucks.
I'm really trying to clamp down on immediate cosmetic/fun things vs maintenance/function so I'm really just making notes for a lot of things right now.

I am curious about counterfeit parts; I've seen a couple of OEM timing belt water pump kits on ebay now (older part numbers) for half of what things add up to from one of the southeast online part vendors. I guess the seller's feedback is my guide.

 

[MrMikeyG]

Oem factory service manual arrived. 4 volumes, good lord. I thought it was only 2. $180

Oem blank key with transmitter hasn't arrived yet. $134

Does anyone know if the later year in-dash cd changer (single slot) will work in place of the older changer with the disc cassette? I can't get pictures of the connections side by side to visually compare. I think my changer is dead. I do get the proper cd controls though the audio menu button, but "no-disc" and the cassette will not eject. Call me a weirdo, but I like physical media still.

Are people really replacing starters as a "while I was in there" on the 2UZ? That seems excessive, but then again

 

[Hornd]

I bought a Rusty 2005 GX with 4 Runner Rims and Factory Bridgestone Tires.

Bought a 5th New Rim and Tire on Ebay so all match.

Replaced All Fluids and Did a Build Thread - 2005 GX Build Thread

I too like Physical Media ie CD Mix Tapes, but these have a Common Problem with the Amp under Drivers Seat.
On Ebay you can send them away for Rework for ~$300.

The Grom is your Option if you want Navigation or Duplication of Phone Screen.

The Factory Key Cases Crack. The Case is Cheap to Replace but there are Upgrade Options from Yodateq but Pricey ~$100+

 

[MrMikeyG]

@Hornd I burned through your thread. We're "wheel buddies." My po had those same wheels installed. I can't believe the crap you're going through regarding rust. Great stuff man.

I've been looking at head unit options. I think I'm going to ditch in-dash gps as an option. It adds a ton to the cost, and a proper carplay/android unit can pull that role from the phone. Plus, I can bring out a tablet with offline maps should I really need it.
I'm starting to think there's no huge difference in the major brands anymore regarding basic function. It's hard to sift through all of the various suer reports regarding start up speeds and stuff like that. Pre-outs and basic connectivity are easy to sort.
I'm sitting on an old Kenwood "weblink" unit that I hated, but maybe a firmware update would help? It's only got like 6 months install time on it.

The telescoping function on my steering column has developed a pretty awful noise. I need to research that now.