Form and Function at its Finest

Some builds are meant to stay on the pavement. Others, like Brian Binkert’s Bink GX550, are made to go anywhere. The 2024 Lexus GX550 Overtrail started as a solid luxury off-roader but Brian had something bigger in mind—an overland machine capable of tackling Baja, Moab, and the rugged Southwest without breaking a sweat. Built for SEMA, real-world expeditions, and off-road photography adventures, this Lexus is more than just a showcase build.

The Bink GX550 wasn’t built just to look good—it had to perform. The first step was dialing in the suspension to handle both rocky trails and long highway miles. A Fox Performance Elite 2.5-inch DSC Evo setup paired with Eibach rear coils gives the GX the clearance and ride quality needed for unpredictable terrain. Whether navigating technical rock climbs or stretching out miles of washboard roads, this setup ensures a smooth yet responsive ride.

With the suspension sorted, it was time to choose wheels and tires. The GX550 now rolls on 37-inch Maxxis RAZR AT tires wrapped around 17×8.5 Method 318 wheels. This setup gives the truck the grip and durability needed for the toughest conditions, whether carving through deep sand or climbing steep rocky inclines. The aggressive tread pattern not only boosts traction but also adds to the overall aesthetic, which complements the rugged look of the build.

Every great overland rig needs protection. NYTOP came through with a front bumper, rock sliders, and a full skid plate kit to keep the Lexus safe from rough terrain. Overlanding isn’t just about capability—it’s about confidence, and these upgrades ensure that the GX550 is ready for the unexpected.

To fit the oversized tires and add an aggressive look, a NYTOP 1.5-inch carbon fiber flare kit was installed, giving the GX a functional and stylish stance. Not only does this allow for proper clearance on off-camber trails but it also protects the body and paint when the tires are slinging rocks and mud.

Storage is key when you’re off-grid, and Westcott Designs helped maximize cargo hauling with a roof rack, spare tire rack, and ladder. These additions allow for easy access to essential gear, while Roam 83L rugged cases provide additional enclosed storage, which keep everything organized and protected from the elements.

The factory 3.4L twin turbo V6 is already a strong performer, but Brian made a few key tweaks to increase its output. A K&N universal filter improves airflow, optimizing efficiency and ensuring peak performance in dusty conditions. A Magnaflow exhaust system not only gives the Lexus a deeper tone but also enhances exhaust flow for better throttle response and power delivery.

The Lexus 10-speed transmission and full-time 4WD remain untouched since they’re already built to handle just about anything. The full-time 4WD system paired with the Lexus Crawl Control feature allows for smooth low-speed navigation over technical terrain, making this platform even more capable for long-haul expeditions.

Illumination is crucial for any off-road adventure, and Baja Designs lights keep the trails lit after the sun goes down. Visibility is key when navigating through unknown terrain at night, and the sPOD BantamX HD switch system provides seamless control over the lighting setup, ensuring reliability in even the most remote environments.

This GX550 isn’t just for show—it’s already seeing real-world action in Baja, Moab, and the Nevada desert. Whether it’s tracking the perfect shot for a photography project or taking on multi-day expeditions, this Lexus is built to go the distance.

Brian has plans to push the build even further with additional upgrades and testing in extreme conditions. From deep desert sand to high-altitude mountain passes, the Bink GX550 is proving itself one mile at a time.

With more adventures on the horizon, the Bink GX550 is just getting started.

UPGRADES

2024 Lexus GX550

Owner:
Name: Brian Binkert / Bink Designs
Location: El Cajon, CA

Vehicle: Year: 2024, Make: Lexus, Model: GX550 Overtrail, Color: White pearl

Engine & Drivetrain: Engine: 3.4L twin turbo V6, Intake: K&N universal filter, Exhaust: Magnaflow, Transmission: Lexus 10-speed automatic, Drivetrain: Full-time 4WD

Suspension: Front: Fox Performance Elite 2.5-inch DSC Evo coilovers, Rear: Fox Performance Elite 2.5-inch DSC Evo shocks, Rear Coils: Eibach 16-inch tall / 3-inch diameter springs (350-lb), Upper Control Arms: Camburg front billet upper arms, Rear Trailing Arms: Camburg rear billet trailing arms

Wheels & Tires: Tires: 37-inch Maxxis RAZR AT, Wheels: 17×8.5 Method Race Wheels 318, bronze finish

Armor & Protection: Front Bumper: NYTOP Hybrid bumper, Rock Sliders: NYTOP rock sliders, Skid Plates: NYTOP full skid plate kit, Flares: NYTOP 1.5-inch carbon fiber flare kit

Storage & Accessories: Roof Rack: Westcott Designs, Spare Tire Rack: Westcott Designs, Ladder: Westcott Designs, Storage Cases: Roam 83L Rugged Cases

Lighting & Electronics: Lights: Baja Designs S2 amber (lower front bumper), Switching System: sPOD BantamX HD