So, you've taken the plunge and upgraded your 4x4 with a GVM upgrade or a suspension overhaul—nice move! But now what? To get the best performance (and avoid costly mistakes), there are a few post-installation essentials you can’t afford to ignore. We get a ton of questions about what to do after a GVM or suspension upgrade, so we’re tackling the most common ones right here. From why you need to load your rig ASAP to the critical first 500km checklist, this guide has you covered.
Let’s dive into the must-know answers so you can protect your investment, maximize performance, and keep your 4x4 in top shape.
1. What is a GVM upgrade and why is it important?
A GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) upgrade increases the maximum weight your 4x4 vehicle is legally allowed to carry. This is crucial for owners who frequently load their vehicles with camping gear, tools, or tow trailers, as exceeding the original GVM can compromise safety, road legality, and even void insurance.
2. After a GVM upgrade, why is it important to immediately load your vehicle with the typical weight you intend to carry?
Loading your vehicle to its intended weight after a GVM upgrade helps the new suspension components (coils, leaf springs, bushes, arms, etc.) settle and "bed in." This process allows these parts to find their optimal positions, ensuring the suspension performs as designed and provides accurate feedback for post-installation adjustments.
3. Why is off-road driving recommended within the first 500 kilometers after a suspension or GVM upgrade?
Driving off-road subjects the suspension to its full range of motion. This allows all suspension components, including upper control arms and remote reservoirs (if equipped), to operate through their entire range. It helps identify any potential issues, binding, or areas needing adjustment, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
4. How soon after a wheel removal should I check the wheel nuts and why is this so critical?
Wheel nuts should be checked within 50 kilometers (approximately 31 miles) after the wheels have been removed or the vehicle has had a suspension upgrade. This is because alloy wheels, in particular, are prone to slight shifting and settling after being re-torqued. Loose wheel nuts can lead to serious safety hazards, including wheel detachment.
5. How often should wheel nuts be checked after having the wheels removed?
Wheel nuts should be checked at least twice: once at the 50km mark, and again before returning the vehicle to the installer for a post-upgrade inspection. The installer will also perform their own check of the wheel nuts as part of the inspection.
6. What tools are recommended for checking wheel nuts?
A torque wrench is the recommended tool for checking wheel nuts, as it allows you to tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque. If a torque wrench isn't available, have a professional check them.
7. What are the three essential steps to take within the first 500km after a GVM or suspension upgrade, according to the source?
The three essential steps are:
Load your vehicle with the weight you typically carry.
Drive off-road to exercise the full range of the suspension.
Check your wheel nuts after 50km.
8. Besides safety, why is it important to follow these steps?
Following these steps will allow the company that installed your GVM upgrade to inspect it and make sure any needed adjustments or tweaks can be made to the system.
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