What is a GVM upgrade?

Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) upgrades are an independently engineered and tested suspension solution that allows a legal increase in the payload of vehicles to exceed the limitation(s) specified by the manufacturer.

Why would I need or want a GVM upgrade?

GVM upgrades can provide improvements in your vehicle's load-carrying capacity, the ride and handling of the vehicle, as well as better towing stability.

Many 4WD's in Australia are modified with a range of aftermarket equipment and accessories that are designed to to enhance both on and off-road capability and/or to increase storage and loading capacities. These modifications typically result in considerable additional weight.

Most factory standard 4WD vehicles and light trucks have a GVM which is designed with little or no load margin over an above a full load of fuel, luggage and passengers. Any additional vehicle weight will likely result in the approved vehicle GVM being exceeded. The legal and safety implications in this case are substantial.

The towing of a trailer, boat or caravan adds further complexity.

What happens if I exceed my GVM?

Operating a vehicle beyond it's legal load limit can in some cases void the insurance policy(s) and may result in fines and/or litigation. Exceeding the approved GVM limit may result in a vehicle being impounded. For businesses and commercial operators, upgrading of vehicle(s) GVM can provide legal protection for liabilities and claims made for breaches in occupational health and safety regulations and/or employee negligence.

With determining a vehicle's GVM, an important fact often overlooked is that the ball weight of a caravan or trailer is calculated as part of the vehicle's GVM when attached.

What is involved in a GVM upgrade?

GVM upgrade options and requirements are determined by the following factors:

• Pre or post-registration vehicle modifications
• Suitability and serviceability of relevant existing components
• Specific objectives for the proposed vehicle operations including maximum load
• Rating of tyres and wheel rims
• Braking capacity
• Financial budget

Taking into account all of the above variables, The Ultimate Suspension can design, supply and install the optimal GVM upgrade package to suit your specific requirements.

The Ultimate Suspension can typically complete your GVM upgrade on average in 2-5 days.

Will a GVM upgrade affect my new car warranty?

In most cases a GVM upgrade will not affect the warranty of the vehicle. This must however be determined prior to installation and should be confirmed with the vehicle manufacturer.

What can I expect from a GVM Upgrade?

A GVM upgrade will increase the payload and generally improve the driving dynamics, handling and reliability of the vehicle.

Typically a brake system upgrade is recommended due to the added load capacity. Effective brake systems are a critical safety item. Read more about brake upgrade options.

Why choose us for your GVM upgrade?

The Ultimate Suspension are the trusted name in GVM upgrades for all vehicle types. For over 45 years we have been providing our products and services to private, commercial and fleet operators as well as to the Australian Defence Force, Government Agencies, United Nations peace keeping forces and international armoured vehicle manufacturers for both wheeled and tracked vehicle applications.

Australian Ultimate Suspension are authorised suppliers and installers of all leading brands of GVM upgrade and brake upgrade kits and components.

Which GVM packages do we offer?

The Ultimate Suspension provide pre-registration and post-registration second-stage of manufacture GVM Upgrades with a comprehensive range of options from industry-leading suppliers including Lovells, King Shocks, JMACX, AEV, Pedders, Tough Dog, Ironman, Dobinsons, Net4x4 and many others.

We design fully-Engineered packages to meet the specific requirements of vehicles including 4WD, commercial and tow vehicles. Our suspension systems deliver improved load-carrying capacity, superior handling and better reliability.

Our vast experience will allow us to provide the ultimate GVM upgrade for your vehicle. Get in touch with us to discuss your requirements.

JMACX off-road solutions

JMACX was founded by Jason McIntosh and is arguably the industry leader in large GVM upgrades for VDJ 70 Series and 200 Series Landcruiser in Australia, and the world. JMACX brought the world's first ever bolt-in coil conversion that has full SSM Approval bringing together comfort and off-road capability. The JMACX GVM Upgrades are available for both Pre and Post Registered vehicles across Australia (confirm your state laws before purchasing).