Module 2: Ford Ranger Next Gen Suspension GVM Upgrades

This 3505kg GVM upgrade is suited to vehicles carrying light to moderate constant load. It’s a practical option for mixed-use setups that need additional capacity while maintaining predictable handling and everyday usability. This upgrade also allows for an increase in GCM where applicable, supporting higher combined vehicle and trailer weights.

• GVM: Increased from 3280kg to 3505kg
• GCM: Increased from 6400kg to 7005kg
• Front Axle Capacity: Increased from 1490kg to 1640kg
• Rear Axle Capacity: Increased from 1959kg to 2050kg

For full specifications and vehicle requirements, see HERE

This 3700kg GVM upgrade is designed for vehicles carrying higher constant load, including more heavily equipped touring or work setups. The suspension package is selected to maintain stability and control under load, not just increase the GVM figure. This upgrade also allows for an increase in GCM where applicable, supporting higher combined vehicle and trailer weights.

• GVM: Increased from 3280kg to 3700kg
• GCM: Increased from 6400kg to 7200kg
• Front Axle Capacity: Increased from 1490kg to 1640kg
• Rear Axle Capacity: Increased from 1959kg to 2120kg

For full specifications and vehicle requirements, see HERE

This 4000kg GVM upgrade with remote reservoir adjustable shock absorbers is suited to high constant load vehicles. It’s designed for demanding use where improved heat management and damping control are required to maintain consistency over long distances. This upgrade also allows for an increase in GCM where applicable, supporting higher combined vehicle and trailer weights.

• GVM: Increased from 3280kg to 4000kg
• GCM: Increased from 6400kg to 7500kg
• Front Axle Capacity: Increased from 1490kg to 1640kg
• Rear Axle Capacity: Increased from 1959kg to 2360kg

For full specifications and vehicle requirements, see HERE

As part of the GVM upgrade process the vehicle’s classification changes from NA (commercial vehicle) to NB1 (light goods vehicle), which introduces new ADR requirements. One of these is the fitment of ADR compliant Category 6 side indicators to the front guards.

Federal compliance, or ‘pre-rego’, applies to brand new vehicles that have never been registered. When a GVM upgrade is completed under federal approval, the vehicle is modified prior to first registration and certified through the Commonwealth system. The updated specifications are recorded in ROVER (the Department of Infrastructure’s online vehicle certification system), and a Second Stage of Manufacture (SSM) approval is issued.

An SVI (Secure Vehicle Identifier) plate is then affixed to the vehicle by the approved SSM, identifying the new GVM and revised vehicle details. The vehicle is first registered at the upgraded GVM, and that higher rating becomes the vehicle’s recognised compliance specification nationwide.

State compliance, or ‘post-rego’, applies to vehicles that are already licensed. In Western Australia, GVM upgrades are processed under a WA Department of Transport Type Approval and issued as a modification approval once the vehicle has been inspected and passed.

The vehicle must be presented to an Authorised Inspection Station in roadworthy condition. The approval recognises the revised GVM, and where applicable, a revised GCM in line with the approval documentation. BTC revisions are not available under post-registration approval.

Unlike federal (pre-rego) upgrades, state-approved GVM increases are recorded as a modification against the vehicle rather than changing the original Commonwealth compliance plate details.

While not essential, upgraded Upper Control Arms are a popular addition.

• Stronger than OE
• Built-in caster and camber
• Improves wheel alignment
• Increases wheel travel

A leaf spring mounted airbag designed to support existing rear springs under load. The bag sits between the spring pack and the chassis and is run at low pressure when unladen, increasing only as load demands. Used correctly, it helps maintain ride height and vehicle attitude when towing or carrying weight, supporting stable steering, braking and overall balance.

Our Manual option simply refers to the inflation and these have two tyre style valves fitted near your trailer hitch for adjusting pressure.

Our onboard control system allows easy adjustment of airbag pressure through a dual digital gauge with independent inflation and deflation paddles. It requires a suitable, secure mounting location for the controls and an onboard compressor to supply air. In our builds, the canopy toolbox provides the most practical and protected install position, integrated with the vehicle’s electrical system for reliable operation.

The Lovells Braked Towing Capacity (BTC) Upgrade increases the Ranger's towing capacity from 3500kg to 4000kg, with a maximum Tow Ball Weight (TBW) of 400kg.

• Ford BTC 3500kg » Lovells BTC 4000kg (V6 only, Pre-rego only)
• Ford GCM 6400kg » Lovells GCM 7700kg (V6 only, Pre-rego only)

Lovells SSM Approval VTA-061527 for BTC Upgrade only covers the 3.0L V6 models. 2.0L Bi-Turbo cannot have a BTC Upgrade

• Can only be fitted in conjunction with Lovells 3700kg or 4000kg GVM Upgrade
• Only available for new vehicles (Pre-Registration)
• Fitment of the hitch to your caravan or boat is not included
• Recommended for towing 3500kg to 4000kg loads
• Maximum tow ball weight 400kg

• Lovells Heavy Duty Tow Bar
• Heavy Duty Height Adjustable Hitch Shank 95mm
• Heavy Duty Height Adjustable Hitch Shank 150mm
• Heavy Duty Lovells Haulace All Terrain Hitch
• 1 1⁄4” Shank Tow Pillar
• Lovells Haulace Aero Stainless Steel Handbrake
• 1200lb Weight Distribution (WDH) System