G63 Build - 2” Lift Kit
Now that the Defender 90 NAS is sold….we have time, space, and funds to modify the G63. We have already replaced the pedestrian sidesteps with functional rock sliders and replaced the low hanging side pipes with a higher clearance exhaust system. We also added a transfer case skip plate. Check out that update here. Now it’s time to give it a more aggressive stance and additional clearance by added a 2” lift and a new set of wheels and tires.
After a ton of research we went with Jack Wagon Overlanding’s 2” lift kit with Fox shocks and Jack Wagon springs. This will allow 33” tires to be stuffed under the chassis giving it much needed clearance. From what I have heard this also improves the ride quality due to the springs and shocks and it widens the stance a bit. There is a 4” lift kit option which would allow you stuff 35” tires which is very tempting but when you do this you run into more complications with the speedo being off, needing more parts to maintain the ride quality, and you need to lengthen the brake lines. I am also not sure the truck will fit in my garage if I go with a 4” lift + 35” tires. The good news is that you can start with the 2” lift kit and upgrade it later with a few more parts to turn it into a 4” lift. In order to prepare for that, I decided to get some of those upgrade parts now so it would be an easier transition in the future. So in addition to the 2” lift I also added caster correction offset bushings and adjustable panhard bars front and rear. The kit also comes with a Fox steering stabilizer.
I then added 463 Industries GC04 wheels in satin black to give it a new look and then wrapped those with Toyo AT3 tires (33 / 12.5 / r20). With these new wheels and tires I upgraded the tire mount on the rear to a Eurowise HD mounting plate to put more weight on the hinge versus the door and then added an extended tire mount to that plate so the wheel can be mounted “properly” versus a reverse mount like stock. This means I can also get rid of the soccer mom tire cover.
When all things are said and done I have a bit more clearance, I have better adjustability in the suspension, I have widened the stance a bit, I have more aggressive tires, and overall I have given the G a more aggressive look. But most importantly I have increased the off-road capabilities to make this more overlanding and trail ready.
Post Install Thoughts
I think the G looks way better. It is a noticeable step-up to get into the G, but very manageable. It does fit in a standard garage but just barely. I don’t have enough room for a roof rack or cross bars which is a bummer but so be it. The ride quality is nice and I love the look of the exposed rear tire. I have not taken it off-road yet but it will clearly be more capable given the higher clearance. I took some pre/post measurements but this might change a bit as the G settles and the springs break in a bit. I plan on taking another set of measurements after a few weeks to see if there are any changes.
Pre/Post Measurements
Pre: 78” tall
Post: 81” tall