Vehicle Weight & Payload Management
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
Vehicle Weight & Payload Management
Overloading is the leading cause of suspension failure, chassis cracks, and rollovers in the desert. Before adding 100+ liters of water and fuel, you must calculate your GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass).
The Payload Formula
Payload is the maximum weight your vehicle can carry, including passengers, fuel, water, and accessories.
- GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass): The maximum legal weight of the vehicle (found on the door placard or manual).
- Kerb Weight: The weight of the vehicle with a full tank of fuel but no passengers or cargo.
The "Adventurer's Reality" Checklist
Use this table to estimate your total weight. You will likely be surprised how quickly you exceed your limit.
| Item | Average Weight (kg) | Your Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Passengers (2 adults) | 160 kg | |
| Water (100 Liters) | 100 kg | |
| Additional Fuel (50L in cans) | 45 kg | |
| Bullbar & Winch | 60–90 kg | |
| Roof Rack & Awning | 40–60 kg | |
| Fridge & Food | 40 kg | |
| Tools & Recovery Gear | 30 kg | |
| TOTAL ESTIMATE | 475–525 kg |
Critical Safety Tips
- Center of Gravity: Keep the heaviest items (water, fuel, tools) as low as possible and between the axles. Avoid putting heavy liquids on the roof rack, as this drastically increases the risk of a rollover on uneven dunes.
- The "10% Rule": Try to keep your actual weight at 10% below your max GVM to account for the dynamic stress of off-road "thumping."
- Tyre Pressure: As your weight increases, your tire pressure must be adjusted. When driving on sand with a heavy load, you must drop pressures to increase the "footprint," but speed must be strictly limited to prevent overheating.