Project Spotlight: RAM 3500 GVM Upgrade to 6.2 Tonnes
Updated: Oct 4
A RAM 3500 already carries serious factory capability — but for owners running a full touring or work setup, even a big American truck can run out of payload fast. This project involved certifying a RAM 3500 Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) upgrade to 6.2 tonnes, with a 3,500 kg rear axle rating, supported by a VSB 6 engineering evidence package.
Can my RAM 3500 receive the same GVM upgrade?
This 6,200 kg result applies to the vehicle and modifications assessed in this project. It is not a standard upgrade offer for every RAM 3500. Before choosing components or a target GVM, ask KME Vehicle Engineering to review your vehicle's existing ratings, proposed modifications, intended use and registration jurisdiction.
Planning a RAM 3500 GVM upgrade? Request an assessment through our quote form.
The Brief
The owner needed genuine additional payload capacity for touring — enough headroom to carry a loaded canopy, recovery gear, water and equipment without running close to the factory GVM limit. Because the RAM 3500 sits over 4.5 tonnes once modified, the project was assessed through the heavy-vehicle VSB 6 modification framework rather than the light-vehicle VSB 14 framework.
The Engineering Scope: VSB 6 Modification Codes
This project required several VSB 6 modification codes, each addressing a different part of the modified vehicle. The controlled engineering evidence package identifies:
D3 — fitting of non-standard rear wheel components
E3 — fitting of non-standard front wheel
F1 — suspension substitution
G4 — brake system certification
J1 — body mounting
M1 — fuel system alterations
P1 — towbar and coupling installation other than fifth wheels and kingpins
S1 — GVM/GCM re-rating
S2 — GVM re-rating (design)
Supporting evidence included component specifications, inspection findings, test data and engineering assessment assembled into one vehicle-specific evidence package.
Suspension and Brake Re-Certification
The modified suspension included an electronically controlled full air suspension system together with associated suspension components supporting the increased rear axle capacity. The brake system itself was unmodified, but the change in vehicle rating required G4 assessment and an abridged brake test as part of the certification evidence.
ADR Review
The engineering evidence package also records a review of the Australian Design Rules applicable to the vehicle, consistent with the VSB 6 requirement that modified vehicles continue to comply with applicable ADRs and other relevant requirements.
The Result — a 6.2 t GVM upgrade
The RAM 3500 was certified at a 6,200 kg GVM with a 3,500 kg rear axle rating. Its GCM remained 14,433 kg. The issued compliance certificate records the D3, E3, F1, G4, J1, M1, P1, S1 and S2 modification codes, with supporting engineering evidence retained by KME Vehicle Engineering.
What to provide for a RAM 3500 GVM assessment
Include your model year, registration state or territory, current plated GVM and GCM, existing modifications and the extra carrying capacity you need. If available, attach photographs of the vehicle and rating plates, existing engineering paperwork and a recent weighbridge ticket showing axle weights. Tell us how you use the vehicle, including your touring or work fit-out and trailer.
How much will the upgrade cost?
This project does not establish a fixed package price for another RAM 3500. The assessment scope needs to be established for your vehicle before the required components, inspection, testing and certification work can be priced.
Our GVM upgrade cost guide explains the factors to consider when budgeting.
Discuss your RAM 3500 upgrade
Start with our GVM upgrade assessment service and heavy vehicle engineering and certification service to understand how KME Vehicle Engineering can help. The engineering scope and approval pathway must be confirmed for your vehicle and registration jurisdiction.
Request a RAM 3500 GVM assessment — provide your vehicle details through the quote form so we can review the next step.
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