FACTORY VS UPGRADED
WHAT A RAM 1500 GVM UPGRADE CAN DELIVER
Here's what a certified GVM upgrade delivers for your RAM 1500 DT — installed by BAW Automotive, engineered by our trusted suppliers.
RATING | FROM FACTORY | WITH GVM UPGRADE |
|---|---|---|
GVM | 3450kg | Up to 4000kg |
Payload | ~818kg | Up to +550kg |
GCM | 7713kg | Up to 7950kg |
BTC | 4500kg | 4500kg (unchanged) |
THE REAL PROBLEM
WHY UPGRADE YOUR RAM’S GVM?
The RAM 1500 DT isn't built like a proper American truck...the factory GVM doesn't leave a lot of room for loadlid, long range tank, bullbar, and two adults on board.
Hook up a caravan or a boat and tow ball download weight comes straight off your GVM too. It adds up fast.
Exceeding your GVM doesn't just affect how the RAM 1500 handles - it can void your insurance and put serious strain on a chassis that already has a known weakness under heavy towing. A certified GVM upgrade increases your legal payload and keeps your RAM compliant on Queensland roads.
GVM UPGRADE OPTIONS
WHICH GVM UPGRADE SUITS YOUR RAM 1500 DT?
How you tow and load your RAM 1500 Laramie determines the right GVM upgrade for you. Whether it’s a 3.5T van on the back or a full canopy setup for touring, there’s an option to keep it all legal and level.
The table below shows how each GVM option increases your legal payload capacity and which setups they’re best suited for; from weekend getaways to full-time towing.
GVM RATING | INCREASE OVER FACTORY | TYPICAL USE CASE |
|---|---|---|
3700kg | +250kg | Light Touring or Tradie |
3950kg | +500 kg | Part-time Tourer or Heavy Tradie |
4000kg | +550 kg | Full-time Tourer or Towing |
DISCLAIMER
GVM upgrades are NOT available for RAM 1500 Limited models fitted with factory air ride suspension.
All GVM upgrade figures and payload increases shown are typical examples only. Final approved upgrade levels may vary depending on your RAM 1500’s model year, variant, suspension configuration, drivetrain, and fitted accessories.
Every vehicle is inspected and certified individually to ensure compliance with Australian Design Rules and relevant state regulations.
GCM & TOWING
TOWING WITH YOUR RAM 1500? DON'T FORGET GCM
Upgrading your vehicle’s GVM can increase how much weight you can legally carry — but when you’re towing, your GCM (Gross Combination Mass) still sets the overall limit.
This tool shows how the weight of your vehicle and trailer combine to reach your GCM limit.
Adjust the sliders to see how close you are to the maximum combined weight when towing.
The RAM 1500 DT has a generous GCM from factory, compared to other dual cabs utes. However hook up a heavy van, and the GCM gets eaten through faster than most owners realise. Add tow ball download weight — roughly 10% of whatever you're towing — and that comes directly off your GVM as well.
Get the numbers wrong and you're compliant on GVM but over on GCM. This is exactly why BAW does a full assessment before recommending a kit.
WHAT SETS US APART
1 /CERTIFIED GVM INSTALLER
Trusted by Lovells &Tough Dog to fit QLD-certified GVM upgrades post rego.
2 / ROVER APPROVED
We meet strict government standards for Federal GVM compliance and safety.
3 / TRADE-QUALIFIED
20 years experience installing suspension in Brisbane, fitted by a qualified team who knows your 4WD inside out.
GVM UPGRADES ON RAM 1500 BUILDS
BRANDS WE TRUST
BAW Automotive is an authorised dealer for Lovells and Tough Dog GVM upgrades for the RAM 1500 DT — installed and certified right here in Brisbane.
Whether your RAM is squatting under load, running out of payload, or you just want to do it properly before something breaks — we'll get you sorted.
