It`s a shame that stores can install illegal hardware on your 4×4. However, not all will; Some will let you know, others will even refuse to do so. The advice given here is based on my own experience modifying my personal 4×4 in Western Australia. In addition, laws will be introduced to limit tire sizes, wheel track modifications and suspension lifts to ensure people drive safe and roadworthy vehicles. You are responsible for driving a safe and roadworthy vehicle. Some modifications, especially if not done correctly, have a serious impact on your vehicle`s ability to brake, steer and operate safely. Is it worth putting your passengers and environment at risk for a few modifications? Previously, there was a 50mm ceiling to increase the overall height of a vehicle, whether by making modifications with the suspension or tires. The results will come as no surprise to anyone who has installed a high-quality replacement suspension kit. We`ve all done this knowing that a suspension upgrade usually results in ride and handling improvements, even if the ride height increases by 50mm. The AAAA tests confirmed our experience with the “fit of the pants”, but above all paved the way for legal 50mm suspensions and/or bodylifts in vehicles with ESC, which is good news for all new 4X4 buyers. Pit inspections are often very painful as they look at every aspect of your 4×4 to make sure it`s 100% good, not just the reason you were pulled up in the first place. Oil leaks, other modifications that are not legal, and other damage can result in multiple trips to the garage to have your car recertified, with expensive repairs or changes in between.

So there you have it. Finally, 75mm pneumatic lifts/suspensions are legal – at least in New South Wales and Victoria – but we have two different `standards`, both different from the agreed national code of conduct. If you`re not sure if your 4×4 is legal or not, call your local transportation service and inquire. Don`t rely on information you`ve heard from others or read online. Much of it isn`t right, and it`s not something you want to mess up. Independent tests initiated by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) have shown that a 50mm suspension or body lift does not affect the effectiveness of the vehicle`s electronic stability control (ESC) systems. The results led the Australian authorities to decide that these specific amendments no longer required technical approval. According to the AAAA, the vehicle`s performance with a spare stroke of 50mm was in the same range as the standard version in most cases. It`s important to note that the VSB 14 update also gives you tips on how to measure your ride height, so you can actually have a baseline for a 4X4 suspended platform. Vehicle modification laws in Australia have always had the problem of being very strict but also unclear, unrealistic or even in some cases completely contradictory and oxymoronic. Now you can lift your 4X4 a total of 75mm: 50mm through the suspension and 25mm through the tires.

Big silly lifts are still out of the question, but many of those who want to subtly modify their 4X4 for better touring or off-road performance now have plenty of leeway for suspension and tire modifications. New South Wales Minister for Roads, Sea and Freight Duncan Gay has announced changes to New South Wales` Light Vehicle Modification Acts, allowing 75mm vehicle lifts without certification. This amendment brings New South Wales into line with Victoria and is entitled “Light Vehicle Modifications Manual – Suspension and Ride Height”. We asked to see a copy and were told that we could not because the notice in the Official Journal had not been published. Bodylifts and suspensions are also limited in height and vary from state to state. In WA, you can lift the roof of your vehicle as little as 50 mm in total, in a combination of spring lift, weight training and tires. This is because you are limited to a 50mm larger tire and a 25mm suspension stroke without technology. How many 4x4s do you think exceed that number? It`s already legal in QLD and has been for years.

It is not necessary to design a combination of 50 mm tire elevation (diameter) and 50 mm suspension stroke increase. Anything over 75 mm to 125 mm is the only one that requires engineering. So a combination of 50 mm increase in tire size (25 mm in total) plus a 50 mm increase in suspension plus 50 mm body = 125 mm. Everything that is finished is illegal and cannot be built “legally”. It`s on TMR`s website. Anyone who tells you otherwise is a liar and denies. Let`s look at some case studies. Do you want to modify the suspension of your Toyota HiLux (or 90% of 4×4 on the road (double cabins)? However, New South Wales takes a different approach than Victoria, as it would be too difficult to expect our two most populous neighbours to be consistent.

We asked whether the NSW 75mm lift would be subject to the same conditions as Victoria, and a Transport for NSW spokesperson told us that “unlike the Victorian exception, it is not limited to `4×4 vehicles`”. You can go to most 4×4 stores and order a 5-inch lifting kit, have it installed and leave without questions asked. Your 4×4 would be completely illegal and you might not be smarter until the local police officer shoots you up. There is a huge lack of knowledge about 4×4 modifications and people will be surprised. In response, the Minister published the “Light-Duty Vehicle Modification Manual – Suspension and Ride Height”. And for 4×4 owners and potential buyers, the big news is: “Increases ride height by 75mm; Consisting of a 50mm suspension and a 25mm wheel/tire without the need for certification under the Vehicle Safety Compliance Program. An increase in tyre diameter of 50 mm means a stroke of 25 mm. Nowadays, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to modifying a 4×4. Whether you want something custom or a standard item, you have more options than ever. However, there are many accessories available that can make your 4×4 illegal, so it`s important to shop around and do some smart research. Duncan Gay, New South Wales` Minister for Roads, Sea and Freight, recently announced via Facebook that the laws surrounding vehicle suspension platforms have changed.

VSB 14, which regulates chassis modifications and in particular 4X4 suspension platforms, has recently been the subject of a workplace because they have been identified as “too expensive, restrictive, impracticable or simply dangerous”. In any case, this is good news. Increasing the diameter of your tires offers great benefits for off-road driving, but don`t forget the disadvantages: increasing your ride height affects your center of gravity, which has many implications on and off-road. And increasing the size of a tire is bad for your brake and off-road transmissions. A 4X4 hanging lift is a good modification, but be sure to walk the path of modification with your eyes open.