Building a G-WAGON in 7 days [Filmed in 4K]

In 1979, Mercedes Benz crafted the beginning of one of the strongest legacies in off road history, the G-Wagon. While most of the world is aware of their true nature, they've been relegated in America as mall crawling status symbols. Follow along as I attempt to shed proper light on this amazing platform, taking this 2010 G550 and unleashing its true potential over an action-packed 7 day build.
Watch this G-Wagon go from stock to complete expedition vehicle in stunning 4K.
Chapters
00:00 Intro
04:23 Paint Correction
08:00 Camping/Overland/Remote Work Mods
10:55 Suspension, Wheels, Tires
15:07 Sound System
18:10 Final Thoughts
Links to anything covered in the video (in order of appearance):
Filming at Black Mountain Motorworks
www.blackmountainmotorworks.com/
Detailing
(Done by AWL Detailing: awl-detailing.square.site/)
Adams Polishes:
www.adamspolishes.com
Amber front turn signals
jackwagonoverlanding.com/prod...
LED tail lights
jackwagonoverlanding.com/prod...
Overlanding/Camping Equipment
GOBI Stealth Rack+Ladder
www.gobiracks.com/product/gob...
Autohome Columbus Variant Rooftop Tent
www.autohomeus.com/products/c...
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X
www.goalzero.com/products/goa...
Goal Zero Yeti Link Expansion Module
www.goalzero.com/products/yet...
ARB Zero 63 qt fridge
arbusa.com/portable-fridge-fr...
ARB 2500 black series awning
arbusa.com/tents-awnings-camp...
Suspension, Wheels Tires
(Done at TruAutomotive: truautomotive.com/)
Jackwagon Overlanding 4" Suspension:
jackwagonoverlanding.com/prod...
Alpha Wheels Grenades 17x9"
alphaequipt.com/collections/w...
General Tire - Grabber X3 - 35x1250
bit.ly/3HBFT43
Soundystem
(Done at PDA Road Gear: pdaroadgear.com/)
Head unit:
bit.ly/3vVqkBe
Dash kit I used for head unit:
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
Sub (misspoke in the video - it's an 8" not a 10"!)
bit.ly/3zQjBcS
Front Speakers:
bit.ly/3PeFN6f
Rear Speakers:
bit.ly/3QDjsAb
Sub amp:
bit.ly/3zPUlDy
Speaker amp:
bit.ly/3BWwbtK
Dash cam:
bit.ly/3doUjv3
Backup cam:
bit.ly/3paCLVW

[@jackwagonoverlanding]

Had a blast working with you and love seeing our 4” lift kit and accessories in action! Thank you for using us as part of the build!

[@Outworld]

Likewise Jack! It's been a phenomenal suspension system - you did great! Now to spread the word.

[@titus450]

2013 G550 owner here! Do you have any authorized dealers and/or installers in Washington State for that sweet 4" lift kit? If not, I may just have to take a trip out to you for the professional install.

[@titus450]

@@Outworld Which rear bumper is that at the end?

[@Outworld]

@@titus450 VTS

[@limeyhooligan2536]

Nicely done. For sure you don't see many G wagons out there truly off-roading, so you'll definitely stand out. I have the Frontrunner rack and side-opening iKamper mini on my 2012, which is also a great setup as it frees up half of your roof rack to store items (fuel containers, traction boards, recovery straps, etc.). You'll probably find that the awning gets the least amount of use for the space taken, I went with a separate stuff-in-a-bag low footprint one originally made for a VW bus club. Probably better to save room on the rack to mount a hi-lift jack or other useful off-roading tool (shovel, etc.). I haven't found center of gravity to be an issue, however I do realize the limitations of the G platform for the really rocky stuff. I think these were built to be excellent at traction (I call mine the 'tractor') to plow through any kind of relatively level terrain, but they just don't have the architecture to tackle serious rock climbing. For that, they'd need a wider stance, shorter cabin area and more wheel articulation. But, I've had mine at some severe angles on some challenging trails with a fully loaded roof rack, and you'll certainly know when you're getting close to the tip-over point. But that point is more extreme than you would think! Not sure I'd have bothered with the paint correction - if you off-road the fact of life is it's going to get scratched up - probably a wrap would have been more appropriate. It's true on the maintenance, but everything is pretty easy access and doing it yourself is really not much more money than other vehicles except perhaps for the cost of the parts. These year G Wagons don't have the complications of things like turbos and are surprisingly basic (e.g. share parts with older C Class models). I'm sure loving mine!

[@awldetailing7857]

Amazing video!! Was a pleasure working with you on this G Wagon, thanks for the opportunity!!

[@Outworld]

Excellent work on that paint Addison!

[@mremy8813]

Great review, just what I was looking for.

[@henryi9738]

What an amazing rig ! Thanks for putting it all together, it was fun to watch.

[@Outworld]

Thanks Henry!

[@backroadmonkeys1622]

Love this so much. The height of the windows, the seating position, these are the best!

[@Outworld]

I have to agree :)

[@TH3SWAMP]

This was a really great video , I’m hoping to see more of this build

[@ivancroes4712]

Thank you for sharing and giving information on how to do some upgrades and what companies to use. Very helpful.

[@Outworld]

Glad I could help Ivan!

[@americapride]

Great built!

[@mitchellz24]

Awesome build! Im glad to see you modding a legend! Im definitely saving this vid for future reference.

[@Outworld]

Thanks Mitch! Having the ability to get up close and personal with this platform was definitely a bucket list item. Amazing machines.

[@johnfuniciello]

This video is really next level. You’ve captured almost all of the aspects of a build that enthusiasts are looking to see in a video, and it’s great to see your support for local businesses and American manufacturing. I just purchased my first 4Runner, a 2015 SR5, and I’m very excited to start on some modifications. Luckily for me the original owner put a Gobi on it! Keep up the great work, and if you’re ever in the Adirondacks I’d love to do some lighting for you.

[@Outworld]

Thank you for the thoughtful comment - much appreciated. For your 4Runner, make sure you check out my previous video where I built a 2019 in 7 days. Same layout and should be even more relevant to you! Thanks again!

[@user-yq9ec6en3u]

The sound setup look really good. I have been taking my time to learn this chassis before purchasing, appreciate the informative information during the video

[@Outworld]

Thanks dude - hope it helped!

[@trevorninness2551]

Nice build & gives me some great ideas to upgrade my '93 G-wagon.

[@Outworld]

Love hearing that Trevor!

[@djprsone]

Hell yeah my brother Wes. Always quality builds.

[@Outworld]

Eyyyy Preston! We'll be in San Diego next weekend.

[@mrmags1708]

love it

[@LukusCannon]

Great info and presentation! I’ll keep @Jack Wagon Overlanding in mind when I go to lift my 2013!

[@Outworld]

Thanks Lukus! Jack is the man, couldn't recommend working with them enough.

[@AustinLWright]

Great work Weston.

[@Outworld]

Thank you!

[@leosaldana1670]

Love the bike mount! I have a similar rtt/rack set up on my 2009 550 and been trying to figure out how to carry my mtb… what ladder and mount do you use? Would appreciate more details on that🙏🏽 thanks for this video

[@Kgregg1991]

Another awesome build!

[@Outworld]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed :)

[@iwantoffroad]

Badass rig !

[@Outworld]

Thank you!

[@mikes2654]

Awesome build!!!

[@Outworld]

Thanks Mike!

[@drvaleriejuliebrousseau9607]

Really nice build! Awesome lift - and facelift!

[@Outworld]

Thanks Dr. Valerie!

[@J.DavenportMusic]

This video should have more views. Great build, and great video Weston.

[@Outworld]

It's definitely a smaller market but was happy to make it regardless of views. Glad you enjoyed and thanks for the kind words J!

[@LP_REALITY]

Great informative video! I love these ol G Wagons! Turned out good looking! I was hoping to see some vids of it on the trail. Rig turned out great! 🔥

[@Outworld]

It's tough filming and driving haha one man show problems

[@nelsonpuzon]

More content please. Just not enough content on g wagons in the wild

[@jasonbourne5761]

Great Work! Where did you get the rear bumper? I drive a 2002 G500. Great cars for offroading. Greets from Germany

[@EarthRealm]

My man. You got the handle for one of the most iconic names in Mortal Kombat history (Outworld). Which is why I have EarthRealm. I was like I gotta see who is running the Outworld handle lol. Looks like you're living the good life dude, cheers!

[@Outworld]

Haha awesome. Mortal Kombat is the reason my name doesn't rank in Google but I'll concede to one of the greatest fighters ever.

[@EarthRealm]

@@Outworld ✊

[@MatthewC137]

Your G is WAY better looking than the current one in my opinion.

[@Outworld]

Thanks Matthew! I mostly agree but have to say the new 4x4 squareds are amazing

[@gj0628]

Amazing build. I do have a 80series I need jack to hook my suspension up. Can I have his info

[@shiann_builds]

There is good but scattered info on the MBWorld and ClubGWagen Forums. Good too see the W463 platform getting more attention with good video and storytelling. Jack is the best, hands down. You don't need the rear speakers either - they don't do much when properly time aligned and aren't worth the custom effort. Also remove the OE Sub and use the space for recovery storage/tools/onboard air.

[@Outworld]

Everything you said is spot on. There is definitely good information out there between those two, but coming from the 4Runner world, ease of access is a whole different story. Jacks definitely the best! Wouldn't consider another route in the future.

[@AA-vr8ez]

What have you done for rust prevention?

[@alessandrofossati8205]

What headlights did you buy? I am looking for some on my new G build!

[@RIFATZ]

Great video, thank you for making this. How tall is your G wagon now with the 4inch lift and gobi rack/tent mounted? Trying to see if I have clearance to do the same and still park in my garage.

[@Outworld]

Sorry for the lat reply Rifat. I think the total heigh was around 8.5' with everything on

[@BlakeMadsen]

In the market for an overlander build G-Wagen, got any long-term ownership & reliability updates for us?

[@leardi58]

Was there a specific reason that you went away from the 4runner looked like you had a good set up

[@odilonsta.teresa9591]

Great video! i have a 2019 350d G Class Professional Edition. The only upgrade i will probably do is the 4 inch lift kit

[@Outworld]

Thank you! You're lucky to have access to the professional editions they do not exist in the US

[@Olph1]

Excellent video. I too am a Toyota guy but I have a love for the G. I drive a 4Runner but in the next year will add the 200 LC or the G my garage.

[@Outworld]

Thank you! I think you'll find either to be an excellent addition for their own reasons.

[@jcoats5529]

I saw one here in B.C. on one of our infamously harder trails. I was really shocked to see it out there. It handled the terrain easily but i just thought the owner was crazy to completely ruin the paint on a mud and bush trail.

[@billyabroad8057]

Great build. I was wondering to do mowab do you need to lift the 2021 G-wagon amg 63 model? It’s got a 9.87 ground clearance. The brakes are massive and the rims are 22’s so rim and off-road tire options are limited. Not doing anything special just wanting to camp the lady on vacations without voiding the factor warranty. Thanks

[@Outworld]

Sorry for the delay on the reply Billy. You should be fine with a lot of the dirt roads around Moab but I would not tackle any legitimate trails. The max I would do with a 463a AMG is Shafer switchbacks to Potash Road, but even that has one or two sections you'd need to choose your lines correctly. Otherwise plenty of dirt/gravel roads with accessible campgrounds.

[@854RUN]

Great build, cleanly done and gear video. Any plans to regear it? the mpg is surprising but i assume thats from the stock gearing? I have a 96 80 series on 38's and i get anywhere from 12 to 13 on avg but i am regeared.

[@Outworld]

Regear is definitely ideal. Though dropping 2mpg on average on highway with everything isn't too bad! Would definitely regain another mile per gallon after regear.

[@854RUN]

@@Outworld Ya not a bad drop, i missed you saying the stock mpg re-watch and caught it the 2nd time and after all a brick will always be a brick you can only fight aerodynamics so far lol. Again clean build, thats how they should look stock imo.

[@Chthonian121]

I personally would not have touched the sound system but overall great work and attention to detail

[@Outworld]

Thank you! The sound system was in absolute need of an upgrade. Super happy I went with it.

[@oddvarolaussen4439]

You’ve bent your sidestep? Nice build!

[@christopherquesada835]

Awesome video, nice build. Did you do anything with the motor? Apologies if I missed it. Can you speak to some of the tweaks you refer to that help the older version appear like a newer version? I agree with your seeing as the older models abandoned.

[@Outworld]

No engine modifications and didn't feel the need. As for tweaks, the head unit and sound system was one but there are plenty of aftermarket body kits, grilles etc that can make it look newer. Keep in mind the body changed in 2019 so you can awkwardly try and pretend to be a 2019+ but much easier and cohesive to change to a 2018 style

[@philiphannum4211]

Where did you find a 2010? This is a wonderful platform for building a rig. Good video.

[@Outworld]

I found this one on Auto Trader! It was out of state so I hired an inspection company (Lemon Squad) who went out and gave a thorough evaluation. Overall pretty painless.

[@unknowninsanity]

What rear bumper is that and which ones have you looked at to replace the front along with adding a winch?

[@Outworld]

It's a VTS bumper. And yeah I've had a few ideas on the front. The ARB from a 70 series Land Cruiser is a pretty close match, but the one I wanted most was a OE G63 front bumper with the LeTech winch mount. Would have replaced the intercoolers on the ends with BajaDesigns LP6s

[@CToR15]

I'm out of the loop here brother, what happened to the 4Runner?

[@rodwiggins5875]

Great build! I have the same Jackwagon lift on my 2002 G500. Jack was super helpful. I'm amazed at how capable this rig is off road and how great the on road manners still are. Did you have any driveshaft vibration? I've had some, but it doesn't sound common, or perhaps I'm being overly picky. Great to see the interest in using these trucks as the designers intended.

[@carlosr1060]

At what speed does the vibration start, and does it get worse as you increase speed ?

[@Outworld]

Sorry for the late response Rod. I didn't notice any driveshaft vibrations. The main point was the ESP system kicking in on highway turns. That one freaks you out if your aren't expecting it.

[@sjfifita6223]

Beautiful truck all time legend and dare I say "status symbol".. Just wondering have you run a diagnostic test on it? I'm guessing this is like most German cars the just have endless faults fails for age.

[@OffRoadOverlandCamping]

Great video! My question is how are the motors and how many miles can you get out of them? I'm a Jeep guy, but he quality isn't there like the German cars. Now that a fully built Rubicon is getting up to $90K, why not consider the 550 G Wagon.

[@Outworld]

That's a deeper question. The 500 engines have a better rep overall but I love the 5.5 in the 550s. They have their pricey head scratching part replacements, but it's part of the experience.

[@PacificNorthwestRaptor]

Any updates on this? I’m interested to see how ride has felt and longevity. Thinking of selling my raptor for one.

[@Outworld]

Feel free to shoot me a message on Instagram if you want to have a convo on it! They're awesome machines but interested to hear what you like about the raptor so I can compare. @outworldhq

[@farhadrgh]

I am buying a used 2014 G550 with low millage (~40K) on it. But just got the inspection report and was surprised to see some leaks such as front hub seal, front differential pinion seal, transmission fluid, and transfer case output shaft seal! The mechanic and dealer (of course!) tell me these are common but did you have a similar experience purchasing your car? Do you happen to know a reliable shop in Denver?

[@cboria148]

very curious about what happened with this

[@farhadrgh]

@@cboria148 I flew to TX to check out the car. Turns out differential locks are not engaging, perhaps due to the leaks reported!

[@kisselabaja4390]

I like the bike carrier!!! What bike carrier is that

[@Outworld]

Thanks Kissel! It's a Thule Top Ride with some slight modifications.

[@steven_dekok]

I have the exact same year/model. With that specific lift kit, did you have any "death wobble" at lower or higher speeds? Or does everything included in the kit solve that issue? I ask because it is an extremely common issue with every lift kit I have researched. Thanks!

[@Outworld]

Absolutely no death wobble. I believe the caster correction bushings have a hand in solving that. The ESP system does it's thing at speed around curves depending how you take them, and the first time it happens it can be pretty surprising haha. But I usually take easy, light turns when I have the rooftop tent on and got over it pretty quickly. Never tried disabling it but that's also an option!

[@jackwagonoverlanding]

Hey Steven, if you are looking to lift your G, shoot us an email and we'd be happy to go over things with you! This isn't just a spring and shock upgrade - it's a full kit to make sure the truck handles as best as possible with the raised CoG

[@steven_dekok]

@@jackwagonoverlanding Definitely will do so when I get to that part of the build, thanks!

[@creative_partner]

@@jackwagonoverlanding What is the smallest lift I need to have 35 tires? I currently have a 2 inch lift with ORC blue springs and Koni shocks.

[@jackwagonoverlanding]

@@creative_partner for 35s and no rubbing whatsoever, we recommend the 4” kit. We’ve heard of people fitting them with less lift but if you plan to off road the truck, you will rub with smaller kits. Shoot me an email and we can go into more detail

[@nurdinimanaliev9635]

like for that puppy

[@patdowsakul4564]

Nice rig, did you have to regear the G Wagon? thanks!

[@Outworld]

I didn't during this part of the build and it was still great, even on inclines at altitude!

[@mohithellscream]

while you talk about your camping accessories, you should have also showed yourself operating them, some B rolls opening the awning and the roof top tent would have been nice

[@Outworld]

That's a good call Mohit and sorry about that. Next one!

[@taxonly975]

2002 was the first official model year in the US.

[@Outworld]

Good call out thanks!

[@spearfish]

If you had the choice between the 2015 5.5L NA V8 and the 2016 4.0 Turbo V8, which would you pick? I have a feeling that the 2015 would be more preferable for overlanding since it is mechanically simpler and has a larger gas tank, but the extra power and more attractive front bumper in the 2016 is pretty appealing too. Kind of worried the turbo intercoolers would become easily damaged during offroading though. What do you think?

[@Outworld]

That's a good question! I haven't had any experience with the turbo 4.0 and haven't researched it a ton. I had a 2017 G63 prior to this which is the twin turbo 5.5L. It's obvious it wasn't tailored for trail at all. My gut says the same as you. No replacement for displacement and the N/A 5.5L was awesome.

[@jasoncrandall]

You could only find one shop willing to work on a late model G wagon?

[@spysjogga]

Put on the wider fender flares, that the only thing you missed

[@maxfitt227]

Please tell me the name and direct me how I may obtain that intro track that's playing. 😳😳😳

[@Outworld]

It's a KZbin song! You should be able to find it from the studio library.

[@DKLONGHORN]

I wish these had removable roof panels and doors.

[@Outworld]

That would be sweet!

[@mrb9642]

Did you provide a cost breakdown that I missed?

[@Outworld]

All links are provided in the description that should go straight to the product page

[@moiseart_sideways]

amber signals was a mistake, overall good and simple build

[@Outworld]

Haha hard disagree. Classic amber over new clear any day of the week.

[@PositiveROI]

How much was the total for rims, lift, and audio? Looks amazing. Nice content. Thanks

[@Outworld]

Thanks Jerry! In the description I've linked to each of the products used in this build.

[@PositiveROI]

@@Outworld AMAZING!! THANK YOU!!! LOVE THE BUILD!!!

[@Outworld]

@@PositiveROI thanks again!

[@That-Guy-79]

My only question is does Rufus sleep up top with you?

[@pellcio]

Looks like a pretty functional build. However, and to each his own, I'd totally skip the audio upgrade, I mean, when you're out in the wilds, do you really need to be cranking tunes? It just disrupt the reason for getting away from it all in the first place. What's more important in my experience, is the convenience mods, of cooking, food storage, ease of cleaning up dishes, and having the tools to do so close at hand. Another thing you didn't mention re. Toyota vs. G Wagen, is the 3 locking difs, which Toyota does not have in stock configuration. Sure, tire and wheels can be changed around on both vehicles, which accounts for a lot in any car's performance. But your lift kit is sound and makes perfect sense. I hope you will share more videos.

[@Outworld]

Thanks for the thoughtful response! For the audio, it may not have a place when you actually get to camp, but having a good audio system with the latest in display tech is absolutely worth it! The goal was enriching the driving experience too. Good point about the locking diffs! I did mention it in the beginning of the video but I should have expanded on that in the final section. Thanks again and glad you enjoyed! Weston

[@luisbueso29]

My 2005 G55 AMG has factory 18” wheels. In the video you state you need non AMG to mount 18” due to size of brakes.

[@Outworld]

Thank you for the clarification and apologize for the mistake. I believe I was thinking of the G63 brakes!

[@thekidcomn5938]

Just saw this on Reddit and subscribed. Can’t believe the jealousy over there.

[@Outworld]

Haha everyone is entitled to their opinions. Hope you enjoyed!

[@thekidcomn5938]

@@Outworld , I really like the build. Are you in SD, or in Colorado now??

[@noyota]

That ä is pronounced as an e in Deutsch. Deutsch is what Anglophones call "German. " That 5.4lV8 is the best pick of the bunch, but Diesel versions are better with OM606 straight six and now the G400d with OM656 straight six. The G500 and G550 use the exact same engine, a jewel that will last a million miles. Toyota doesn't have the edge on reliability; practice have proven the perception wrong many times over, in Africa and Awestralia. 😊

[@iddddaduncan]

1/2 the comments removed, why?

[@Outworld]

I don't see that?

[@unknownunknowns]

Someone likes Avril Lavigne!😊

[@BenzinioB]

Would never consider 4 inch lift, for me this ruin the vehicle instead of makes it. My general rule is as big wheels as possible as low as possible!

[@user-sn1xf7vj1r]

👋👍❤👏

[@geoffreymclaughlin7412]

pքɾօʍօʂʍ 😔

[@reestyfarts]

It needs a more efficient engine than the crookedly installed V-8.

[@Iwo26]

As much as it looks cool, I would rather go with the gen 3 F150 Raptor.

[@Outworld]

Oof hard pass

[@octaviograsia2831]

Me gonna buy and build like ur own 🎉

[@ppcfinal]

for whatever reason it doesn't look cosmetically good to me !!! good job though

[@Outworld]

Thank you - it's certainly not for everyone!

[@tomskimcdouglegaming806]

That fuel efficiency is a joke. My 20 year old Mitsubishi is just as capable and gets half that.

[@Outworld]

You don't buy a 5500 lb. vehicle for fuel efficiency

[@Winnetou834]

Yellow indicators in the front and LED in the back??? That's it, i'm out!

[@Outworld]

Team amber around here. You'll find no love

[@rand0mGT]

Off road history..right ..in the the backyard or large air conned garages

[@Outworld]

What does this even mean haha

[@aldan4046]

I guess the word “building” means something else now.

[@TheKillWizard]

100X better looking than the Toyota.

[@MarkyMark2003]

Would you guys be possibly be able to build a Chevy 2500hd? Like a 2015 - 2019?😅

[@americanjedi5721]

Worst riding vehicle I ever loved!

[@Outworld]

The AMGs are definitely stiff but I personally love how they feel.

[@adriaticbatman]

Filming is horrible…makes me dizzy ..now I know why no one has subscribed to this channel

[@Outworld]

Spicy take. Sorry you are the way you are

[@berkc06]

What a bad filming

[@atn2666]

You paint corrected when you’re going to overland it ?!?

[@atn2666]

@@lor7780 its going to get scratched the hell up anyway if he's actually going to offroad it

[@Outworld]

@@atn2666 this is a popular argument. Ultimately, I like using my stuff but I also like protecting my investments. I typically detail my vehicles every 3-4 months to make sure the clear coat is in good shape. I don't like seeing good looking vehicles neglected like that just because it looks like you use it. All a part of proper care.

[@atn2666]

@@Outworld fair enough. was just curious lol if you did it yourself that's great

[@Outworld]

@@atn2666 I've done quite a few paint corrections in the past! But because I was filming I hired AWL Detailing!

[@atn2666]

@@Outworld you probably already explalined it but how would you rate the cost for aftermarket costs for the g wagon?

[@sdpikapp]

why wax over ceramic coating?

[@Outworld]

Good question. I would probably invest in a more intense paint correction before sealing it with ceramic.