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Take It To The Next Level.

GVM Upgrades

GVM upgrades are an extremely hot topic and generally the foundation of any touring or work vehicle setup.

We specialise in 4wd suspension and GVM upgrade packages to suit a wide range of applications.

Our staff are highly trained & knowledgeable when it comes to GVM upgrades and we perform all of the modifications in our specialist workshop.

GVM Terminology

  • GVM

    (Gross Vehicle Mass)

    Maximum weight your vehicle is able to weigh

  • BTC

    (Braked Towing Capacity)

    Maximum weight your vehicle can tow

  • GCM

    (Gross Combination Mass)

    Maximum weight total of vehicle & trailer combined

  • Tow Ball Download

    (or ball weight)

    Maximum weight a trailer can put on your tow ball

  • Vehicle Payload

    Maximum weight you can load on/in your vehicle

  • Axle Load Capacity

    Maximum weight that can be carried on a single axle

  • Wheel Load Ratings

    Maximum weight the tyre and rim is rated to carry

What Is A GVM Upgrade?

From factory all vehicles have a standard GVM set by the manufacturer which is the maximum weight the vehicle can weigh, generally the GVM of a vehicle will be printed on the compliance plate and found in the owner’s manual. Performing a GVM upgrade is the process of modifying a vehicle to increase the GVM, once the GVM is increased the vehicle can legally carry more weight.

  • Why do I need a GVM upgrade?

    There are many reasons for needing a GVM upgrade however they generally all stem back to the need for carrying more weight. Exceeding the GVM of a vehicle can present multiple issues in regards to mechanical failure, legal implications, warranty and insurance. Vehicles may be over GVM due to the added weight of accessories, passengers, luggage or tow ball download from a trailer (generally a combination). Increasing the GVM of a vehicle will limit the potential issues by ensuring the vehicle can physically and legally carry the additional weight.

  • What is involved?

    GVM upgrades will often incorporate a wide range of different components & modifications to achieve the higher GVM rating. Generally, it will depend on the model of vehicle, the intended use and the GVM rating that is required. Basic GVM upgrades normally involve an aftermarket suspension system including heavy duty springs and shocks which allow the vehicle to carry some additional weight whilst still being safe & legal. For a more serious GVM upgrade there will usually be other modifications required to achieve the higher GVM ratings such as upgrades to suspension arms, braking systems, diff housings, axles, driveline and chassis.

Think Beyond GVM

GVM is very important but there are many other things to consider when looking at vehicle weights and legalities, especially when towing. Some of the notable numbers to take into account are the tow ball download, GCM, BTC, axle load capacities and wheel load ratings. It is very common for a vehicle to be within the legal GVM limit whilst exceeding these other weight ratings:

  • Tow ball Download

    When you connect a trailer to your vehicle it puts weight onto the towbar, this weight is called ‘tow ball download’. The tow ball download weight being transferred onto the towbar is adding to the overall weight of your vehicle which is something to keep in mind when calculating your GVM. Some vehicles will be under their GVM without a trailer connected but then exceed their GVM when a trailer is connected due to the additional tow ball download weight.

  • Axle Load Capacity

    Axle load capacities are an individual maximum weight that can be carried across a single axle. Axle load capacities are generally based on the weakest limitation in the system which could be any of the load bearing components such as a diff housing, suspension, wheel bearings, wheel studs, brakes etc. It is common for a vehicle to be under GVM but exceeding an axle load capacity due to the load distribution. If the weakest components in the system are upgraded as part of a GVM upgrade it is often possible to increase the axle load capacities.

  • Think Beyond GVM

    We can perform GVM upgrades on most common makes and models of 4wd, however there are a few specific models that we don’t have anything available for. Generally, this will be due to a unique suspension geometry, factory limitations or a lack of aftermarket options for that vehicle model. Some vehicle models have complete systems available from manufacturers and others require a custom package to be put together. These are some of the common vehicles we can perform a GVM upgrade on:

    • Ford Ranger
    • Isuzu D-Max
    • Mitsubishi Triton
    • Toyota Hilux
    • Toyota Landcruiser 200
    • Toyota Landcruiser 300
    • Toyota Landcruiser 79
    • Toyota Landcruiser 78
    • Toyota Landcruiser76
    • Toyota Prado
    • Mazda BT-50
    • Volkswagen Amarok
    • Ram 1500
    • Ford Everest

  • Brands

    We have access to a wide range of suspension brands and GVM upgrade options. The brands we recommend for a GVM upgrade will depend on the vehicle model, intended use, required GVM and budget of each individual application. These are some of the common brands we can utilise within a GVM upgrade package:

    • EFS
    • Dobinsons
    • Jmacx
    • Lovells
    • Webco 4x4
    • Terrain Tamer

Confused or keen to find out more?

We get it! There’s a lot to take in and you potentially now have more questions than answers.

That’s okay, our sales team will be more than happy to talk you through everything about GVM upgrades and help find the best option for you. We can put together a package and provide a personalised quote to best suit your individual application. Get the ball rolling by filling out our contact form.

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