Dobinsons Drawer System for the GX460: 5 Years of Use & Honest Review
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My Experience with the Dobinsons Drawer System for Overlanding
Introduction
When I first started building out my Lexus GX460 for overlanding, one of the biggest challenges was organizing gear. I needed something that could keep my tools, recovery gear, and camp essentials secure, accessible, and quiet while traveling rough trails. That’s when I decided to install the Dobinsons Drawer System. Now, after nearly five years of living with it, I think it’s time to share my honest thoughts—what I love about it, what I’d improve, and whether I still think it’s worth the investment for overlanders and expedition travelers.
Why I Chose the Dobinsons Drawer System
At the time I installed it, the Dobinsons drawers stood out for a few reasons:
Value for the Money: It was more affordable than some premium drawer brands. Considering the features it has standard, it offers great value. Coming in at $1500 without the optional wing kit, it's a product packed with value.
Solid Construction: The galvanized steel frame and heavy-duty roller bearings gave me confidence it could withstand off-road abuse. The drawers can hold 330 lbs each, and the drawer top can hold 770 lbs!
Built-in Features: The system includes an integrated fridge slide, marine carpet finish, key-locking latches, 220 lb rated tie-down points, and an optional "wing" finish kit.
Reputation in the Overland Community: Dobinsons is well-known for making solid suspension components, so I trusted the quality of their storage system.
Features & Design
The Dobinsons drawer system in my GX460 includes:
Twin Lockable Drawers: These come with marine carpet for added protection.
Galvanized Steel Frame Construction: This ensures strength and durability.
Roller-Bearing Slides: They allow for smooth drawer operation, even under load.
Wing Kits: These fill the gaps between the drawer and the side panels, creating a cleaner, more integrated look.
Integrated Fridge Slide: This slide features roller bearings and can also be used as a pull-out platform for hard-to-reach items.
The drawers offer a good balance between storage capacity and retaining enough flat space on top for stacking gear, mounting a fridge, or other cargo.
The Good – What I Still Love After 5 Years
Organization: Having a dedicated drawer for tools and another for camp kitchen gear has been a game-changer. No more digging through totes.
Durability: I’ve loaded this system on long expeditions over rough trails (think AZBDR, NEBDR, and El Camino Del Diablo), and it functions just like the day I installed it.
Security: The locking drawers give me peace of mind when I head into town and need to secure my valuables.
Value: Even after five years, I still feel the price-to-performance ratio makes this one of the best drawer systems for the GX460 and similar vehicles.
The Not-So-Great – Things I’d Like to See Improved
Drawer Slides: The ball bearing slides are incredibly strong. However, due to the design, they don't pull out all the way (full extension) nor do they lock out. This can make it hard to reach items in the back of the drawer. Additionally, the drawers and fridge slide won't stay open if the front of the vehicle is pointing downhill.
Drawer Lock: If you lock the drawer under the fridge slide, it only locks the drawer, not the fridge slide. This design flaw allows access to items in the drawer even when the fridge slide is out. To me, this is a significant oversight.
Rattles: I’ve put this drawer system through extreme use cases from coast to coast in the USA. After hundreds of miles on washboard and rough terrain, some rattles and creaks have developed that drive me insane. I cover these in the video linked above. I have discussed this with Dobinsons, and while they were pleasant, there was no resolution for the issues. I had to take matters into my own hands.
Who It’s Best For
The Dobinsons Drawer System is perfect for:
Overlanders and campers who need organized, secure gear storage.
Anyone who doesn't need the third-row seat and wants a more permanent system.
Weekend warriors who want their recovery and camp gear always ready to go.
Individuals looking for a balance of durability, features, and value without spending top dollar on high-end systems.
Final Thoughts
After five years of use, the Dobinsons Drawer System has proven itself on multiple long-distance expeditions and countless weekend trips. It’s not perfect—no system is—but for the price, it’s one of the best investments I’ve made in making my GX460 expedition-ready.
If you’re considering a drawer system and don’t want to blow your entire budget on storage, this is a solid option that has stood the test of time in my rig.
Additional Considerations for Overlanding Gear
When planning your overlanding adventures, consider the following:
1. Gear Selection
Choosing the right gear is crucial. Prioritize items that are versatile and durable. Look for multi-functional tools that can serve various purposes.
2. Packing Strategy
Develop a packing strategy that maximizes space and accessibility. Use packing cubes or bins to keep similar items together. This will save time when you need to find something quickly.
3. Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your gear and vehicle is essential. Check your drawer system and other equipment periodically to ensure everything is in good working order.
4. Community Insights
Engage with the overlanding community. Sharing experiences and tips can provide valuable insights into gear selection and trip planning.
5. Safety Measures
Always have safety measures in place. Carry a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, and emergency tools. Being prepared can make a significant difference in challenging situations.
In conclusion, the Dobinsons Drawer System has served me well, but continuous improvement is always possible. I hope my insights help you make informed decisions for your overlanding adventures.
