#Satisfactory trailer drivers#
#Satisfactory trailer upgrade#

This will require an upgrade of the vehicle springs to a higher load rating than the standard springs.When the GVM upgrade does not exceed the original manufacturer's specified axle load capacity: There are several mechanisms that can be used to achieve a GVM upgrade, and these are listed in the following sections. In many circumstances, the carrying capacity (GVM) can be upgraded following these modifications. This typically results in upgrades to vehicle springs and dampers and the selection of alternative tyres, all of which will affect the vehicle load carrying capacity, ride comfort and handling and braking characteristics. This will mean accepting a different compromise from that determined by the vehicle manufacturer. Often a vehicle owner may require an increase in the GVM of his or her vehicle. The configuration provided is ultimately a compromise to achieve a satisfactory balance to accommodate a wide range of vehicle uses and loading conditions.

Vehicle manufacturers apply GVM ratings to vehicles on the basis of meeting their expectations for ride comfort, handling, braking and durability.

Requirements for vehicles seeking GVM re-rating Once all requirements listed on the SOR have been satisfied, the department will issue a Certificate of Exemption (COE) for the vehicle, thereby approving the modifications and re-rating the GVM. The department may require a roadworthiness inspection of the vehicle following receipt of the certification report. These conditions will include the need for the LVES to provide a certification report that justifies the acceptability of the modifications undertaken and the new GVM or BTC. The SOR will specify the conditions that must be satisfied for the vehicle to be considered as meeting the standards for registration. The Department will review this application and will issue the registered owner a Statement of Requirements (SOR) once it is satisfied that the modifications proposed will likely result in an acceptable outcome. ProcedureĪ vehicle owner who already owns a vehicle and wishes to have vehicle re-rated is required to submit an Application to modify a light motor vehicle prior to the modification being undertaken:Īlternatively, the LVES may fill out the form on the owner’s behalf. Note: A roadworthiness inspection is not required for vehicles modified under pre-registration SSM or vehicles less than 12 months old that are modified in accordance with an SSM approval by the SSM recognised company and are certified by an LVES. Vehicles may be purchased that have their GVM or BTC ratings change from the original manufacturer’s ratings while they are new (ie before first registration).Ī vehicle that has a GVM or BTC rating increased by this process may be registered without requiring approval by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT). More information can be found on the Heavy vehicles web page (Second Stage Manufacture (SSM)

#Satisfactory trailer drivers#

It must be registered and insured as a heavy vehicle and the drivers will need to have a heavy vehicle licence (class LR, MR, HR or HC). It is important to realise that if the increased GVM is more than 4,500 kg the vehicle becomes a heavy vehicle. This will affect the ride comfort, handling and braking characteristics and the capacity of components such as axles.Ĭareful analysis and testing by a South Australian Light Vehicle Engineering Signatory (LVES), (formerly Fact sheet MR426) will be needed to ensure the vehicle remains safe to drive and compliant with applicable Australian Design Rules (ADRs). Upgrades may be required to springs and dampers, tyres and the cooling capacity of both engine and gearbox. Often a vehicle owner may require an increase in the GVM or BTC of the vehicle. These ratings are chosen by the manufacturer, taking into account the strength of critical components (such as axles and tyres) and meeting their customer’s expectations of ride comfort, handling, braking and durability. For a trailer that does not have brakes the maximum loaded mass is 750 kg. The Braked Towing Capacity (BTC) is the maximum loaded mass of a trailer (fitted with brakes) that may be towed by a light vehicle. The GVM is the total permissible mass of a light vehicle and the load it carries (a light vehicle is one with a GVM of no more than 4,500 kg). The load carrying capability of a light vehicle is determined from the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) rating. It applies to motor vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) no greater than 4500kg. This information is for the assistance of people who intend to re-rate their motor vehicles.