Understanding GVM and GCM
A common question we get at ARB revolves around the difference between GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) And GCM (Gross Combinational Mass).
In Australia, the GVM of a 4WD vehicle is the manufacturers maximum net weight of the vehicle. This figure includes the total weight of the car whilst empty, ball load of any trailer being towed, people, fuel, accessories and luggage.
In contrast to this, the GCM accounts for the maximum combined weight of both the vehicle, and the trailer mass.
here is an equation to help better understand if you need a GVM Upgrade for you vehicle
Firstly find out your Factory Payload Capacity:
Manufacturer’s GVM _____kg
LESS the Kerb weight of Vehicle _____kg
= Factory Payload capacity _____kg
Lastly find out how much payload you actually have
Payload _____kg
LESS Weight of passengers & driver _____kg
LESS Additional liquids _____kg (Eg: extra fuel if fitted with long range tank, water, etc.)
LESS Accessories _____kg
LESS Luggage _____ kg
LESS Trailer ball load _____kg
= Actual Payload
If you finish on a negative number, you’ll be over your Factory GVM.
OME offers multiple Federally approved Pre-Registration GVM Upgrades for a variety of vehicles. To find out more about the OME GVM Upgrades please Click here.
At ARB We are frequently asked why we don’t do GCM Upgrades.
As it stands, there is no federal approved legislation in Australia for an increase in GCM to a light vehicle. As a company, ARB is stringent in only offering Federally approved upgrades that are relevant for all states of Australia. The case for ARB to begin offering GCM upgrades relies on the legislation of Australia. GCM upgrades will be considered for development by ARB only in the case that changes are made, and if it is safe, reliable and federally approved.
ARB Earth Camper
The Earth Camper pioneers ARB’s bold entry into the recreational vehicle (RV) industry. Culminating almost 50 years of knowledge & experience in the 4×4 space, we have integrated our skillset across each of our product categories to showcase the very best ARB has to offer, delivering one extremely capable, compact and feature packed off road camper trailer.
With ARB’s pursuit of the highest tier in both quality and functionality, you can depend on the Earth Camper to perform at the highest level – no matter where you take it.
ARB Celebrates 40 Years
This year at ARB, we’re celebrating our 40th anniversary and we have some big plans in store, with a special new project called Off Road Icons.
In 1975, Anthony Ronald Brown created the first ever ARB bull bar in his back shed. At the time, no one could have predicted how significant that project was, nor the 4WD accessories movement he would set into motion.
40 years on and ARB is undoubtedly an off road icon. To celebrate, we’re selecting four of the most iconic 4WDs of the last four decades, restoring them to their former glory and pitting them up against one of Australia’s most iconic 4WD destinations… the Simpson Desert.
To have your say and help us select the four most iconic 4WDs since 1975, visit our Off Road Icons website and tell us in 25 words or less, which vehicle you think deserves a guernsey and why.
One lucky entrant will win a 47L ARB Fridge Freezer, transit bag and wireless fridge monitor valued at over $1500.
Once you’ve submitted your entry, keep an eye on the web page and our social media channels for tonnes of updates regarding the final vehicle selection, restoration progress and trip preparation.
Introducing our first off road icon
We asked you to help us choose four of the most iconic 4WDs from the last four decades as part of our Off Road Icons project. We couldn’t be more pleased to announce the first Off Road Icons vehicle – the Toyota LandCruiser 40 Series.
The Toyota LandCruiser 40 Series was Toyota’s best selling vehicle in the 60’s and maintained a healthy 24-year lifespan on the market. More than one million were sold around the world with 121,000 sold in Australia. The reason for its popularity was clear; it was the first four wheel drive designed with the everyday family in mind. Its durability stands the test of time with many seen on the roads today. In a testament to its popularity, in 2006 Toyota developed the FJ Cruiser, a modern version of its old counterpart.
The Toyota LandCruiser 40 Series, Australia’s first standard family wagon, known for its versatility and reliability, it’s no wonder it was voted in as one of Australia’s most iconic 4WDs.
Key Stats:
- 24 years in production, from 1960 – 1984
- The most versatile vehicle of its era
- One million sold around the world (121,000 in Australia)
- Short (FJ40), middle (FJ43) and long (FJ45) wheelbase variants
- Used by farmers, rural drivers and everyday Australian families
Unique Features:
- Removable doors, roof, and windshield
- Folding jump seats allowed for two more passengers and maximum cargo space
- Compatible with GM’s small block engines
Watch the Video:
Christmas Bundles
BIG BOWS, BIG BUNDLES
BIG DISCOUNTS!
Need gift inspiration?
Get the adventurer in your life an ARB gift bundle and spread the joy.
We know that big adventures need the right, reliable gear, and we’ve put together the biggest and best bundles guaranteed to make anyone’s holiday special.
Offers only available between 21 November and 31 December 2022 to customers in Australia at any ARB store or participating stockist.
Purchases are only available in-store, and items in bundles cannot be swapped, removed or separated. While stocks last.
Next Generation Ford Ranger Announcement
Two iconic brands have joined forces to bring their customers a best-in-class personalisation ahead of the launch of the Next Generation Ford Ranger. A strategic collaboration between Ford and ARB has resulted in customers being offered the best range of accessories for work and play so they can live their life to the fullest.
Endorsed by Ford’s five year, unlimited kilometre warranty (when purchased through a participating Ford dealer), the exclusive partnership between Ford and ARB offers customers peace of mind. All accessories have undergone a rigorous development and validation process by Ford and ARB engineers to ensure they’re fully compatible with the Next Generation Ford Ranger, ensuring optimal integration and performance.
The collaboration first began between Ford and ARB in early 2019, with ARB and Ford engineers joining forces to design, test, and validate before ultimately manufacturing over 160 Ranger-specific parts.
Spanning the entire family of ARB accessories and parts, we are proud to begin to introduce the finished product of the FLA (Ford Licenced Accessories) program.
Over the coming weeks we’ll be sharing further details on each of these products, so make sure you follow our social media channels for up to date information:
GME Partnership to Support Beyond Blue
ARB and GME believe in the importance of communication. With this signature blue antenna, they will be donating $40 from each sale to Beyond Blue to support life-changing mental health initiatives.
After GME released the pink McGrath Foundation antenna, ARB’s Facebook page was flooded with comments asking for a version to support Beyond Blue. ARB and GME mutually agreed on the prospect of supporting a charity that has worked so hard, especially over recent times. In consultation with Beyond Blue, they have produced a blue antenna and are donating an impressive $40 from each sale directly to the mental health charity.
In a time of uncertainty, instability and isolation, the power of communication and connection has been more apparent than ever. “While mental health has always been a serious and important topic, the last 18 months have been particularly difficult. At ARB, we consider ourselves to be very fortunate to be associated with an activity that often provides people an opportunity to escape the daily grind, to destress and to spend much needed time with family and friends. Partnering with GME on this project was the perfect match given the importance of communication for those who battle with mental health. We can only hope that a wave of signature blue antennas on the tracks provides a reminder amongst our 4WDing fraternity to always keep the lines of communication open, start talking, keep talking,” says Mark Berger, Brand Marketing Manager.
Beyond Blue is a well-known mental health organisation that focuses on people affected by depression, anxiety and suicide. They provide information and support for all Australians to achieve their best possible mental health.
The antenna is a 6.6dBi 1200mm antenna and has an interchangeable whip with the AS4700 series. Included in the package is the blue radome antenna, the antenna assembly, a 4.5m coaxial cable and plug as well as the FME to PL259 adaptor.
A limited edition antenna, you can purchase this product exclusively from any ARB store or stockist while stocks last. To contribute towards Beyond Blue directly, all ARB stores and stockists have a QR code on their counter for customers’ convenience.
If you need support, please contact Beyond Blue directly on 1300 22 4636 or visit their website.
Product Releases: February 2021
INTENSITY AR40 V2 LIGHT BAR
The Intensity AR40 V2 Light Bar has been updated with the latest Hyperspot™ technology while utilising the optimal chassis design of the popular Intensity Light Bar.
Hyperspot™ is a refined optic used to focus and intensify the light output, driving the light down the road while maintaining the clarity and control of the beam to ensure the best performance and great natural visibility.
BP-51 FOR D-MAX
Take total control of your ride with the ultimate in 4WD suspension, BP-51 shock absorbers. These user-adjustable internal bypass shocks are designed and manufactured in house by ARB.
BP-51 shock absorbers have now been released for the 2021 Isuzu D-MAX.
RECOVERY FACELIFT
Heading off road generally means you’re bound to find yourself stuck at one stage or another. The ARB Premium and Weekender Recovery Kits have been upgraded to a new modernised colour design with heavy-duty PVC, making them easier to clean. The ARB Recovery Kits keep your gear organised and ready for when you need it most.
RAM 1500 AIR LOCKER
The rear locker for the 2011+ RAM 1500 is now available. ARB Air Lockers engage instantly and at any speed, meaning you don’t have to lose momentum before tackling an obstacle.
The Air Locker is in stock now.
D-MAX COMMERCIAL BAR
Expanding the range of bull bars to suit the new Isuzu D-MAX, the Commercial Bar is now available. Commercial Bars are frequently specified by organisations that demand strong and functional equipment but are willing to go without some of the aesthetic characteristics.
Note: This bar is not compatible with the X-Terrain model.
COMPRESSOR SWITCH BRACKET
With each unique build comes a new idea to develop a product that can provide variety to a wider range of customers. The latest product is the Universal Switch and Air Coupling Bracket.
This bracket provides a cleaner look while allowing you to easily use your compressor.
A new intensity of driving light
If you do a lot of driving after dark, you will appreciate the importance of good light. ARB has been a staple in the lighting game for many years, being the first manufacturer of round off road LED driving lights, and the latest iteration of driving light is no exception to the proven track record.
The ARB Intensity Solis light is a nine-inch driving light with 36 OSRAM LEDs, giving you plenty of light for the road ahead. With in-house engineers concentrating on refining the optics to focus the most amount of light while removing flat spots and controlling the beam to the right area, the Solis lights are made and tested for the variable Australian terrain. Impressively, light output has been measured at one lux @ 1,462 metres (2 x spot lights) to NATA industry standards.
With function front of mind, the Solis lights feature a unique digital dimmer control that allows the user to incrementally adjust brightness to suit driving conditions. For users of LINX, the Solis lights can be fully integrated with an optional controller harness to be released in late September.
The Solis lights feature an improved colour temperature of light, which reduces eye strain and fatigue when doing long distance driving. The light also has a die-cast aluminium body that acts as a heat sink and allows the dissipation of heat to keep the lights running at maximum performance.
The famous red ring of the ARB Intensity lights has become intrinsically linked with driving lights over the years and while the Solis lights share a level of design with the Intensity V2 lights, Solis features two bezels on the sides of the light that are interchangeable between red and black, both of which come standard with the light.
Make it your own with ARB's Base Rack
FEATURES
ARB has long offered a range of tried and tested alloy and steel tubular roof racks; while this bulletproof series of classic racks has undoubtedly secured its place within the range, there’s now a new kid in town. ARB’s team of engineers has spent years designing, trialling and testing the all new BASE Rack, a revolutionary new roof rack that is sleeker, stronger, smarter and bound to impress.
Featuring a fully welded extruded aluminium design with beams that run the width of the vehicle, the BASE Rack has the strength of the steel racks at a fraction of the weight.
Due to the strength in the cross beams, there is no requirement for a sub-frame, getting the rack lower to the roof of the vehicle. The low-profile design means the roof rack looks sleek and becomes more integrated in the vehicle’s overall appearance.
Utilising a dovetail system on both side profiles of the rack’s internal beams and the external side of the perimeter beams means there is more flexibility to attach a wide range of accessories where you need them and without disturbing other cargo. The side mounting profile also provides full use of the beams’ top surface and allows the beams to support cargo without worrying about protruding tie-down points.
ARB’s range of accessories also makes fitting cargo to your rack more efficient, saving time and effort during the packing process. Each accessory can be placed wherever you need in the moment, allowing you to Make It Your Own.
ACCESSORIES
The BASE Rack takes accessories and cargo loading to a whole new level of simplicity, speed and personalisation. The dovetail extrusion allows accessories to be added at any point along the beams or perimeter rails without disturbing other items. All accessories feature a clamp mount, which gives a strong connection to the rack.
The accessories available with the BASE Rack are:
Wind deflector – No longer will there be fear of additional cabin noise when fitting a roof rack. The wind deflector is available for a number of wagon models and ensures a quiet and enjoyable driving experience.
Guard rail system – You can attach rails to suit your needs by purchasing the kits to suit. You can get a full rail, 3/4 rail, trade rail or 1/4 rail in a simple kit that you can attach and remove as required.
Eye bolt tie-down – A key accessory included in many BASE Rack accessory kits, the eye bolt tie-downs provide a secure lashing point for standard J-hook ratchet and cambuckle straps and can stay on the rack while not in use. Sold in a pack of four.
Spring-loaded tie-down – Featuring a simple one-handed operation, these are great for one-off needs and quick loading and unloading.
Ratchet strap – A simple ratchet strap but the common J-hook is replaced with a custom dovetail hook that will stay in place once it’s on the rack, so you won’t lose the connection when you walk around to the other side to tighten.
Spare wheel Y-strap – These spare wheel straps are easy to use and secure in place. Simply weave the two adjuster straps through the Y plate and feed the third strap through the ratchet and tighten. The straps incorporate the unique dovetail hook, resulting in no requirement for additional tie-down points.
Awning bracket – Available in classic and quick-release versions, you can quickly mount your awning to the rack securely, spending less time prepping and more time at your destination.
Hi-Lift jack holder – An off road jack is a 4WDer’s best friend. Make sure yours is always accessible with either the classic jack attachment or the premium mount, which includes a quick-release function, jack cradle and security feature.
Roller kit – Alleviate the struggle of loading long or heavy items such as timber by adding the roller kit to the rear or sides of the rack.
Roof rack light bar – Specifically made to suit the BASE Rack, the light bar also has an aluminium body with black powder-coat finish. It’s slimline and has a strong performing combo beam with the option to mount in front of the rack or under the rack as desired.
Recovery track holder – Features a set of brackets that connects to the dovetail track at any point on the rack and allows the manufacturers’ original mounting hardware to be added to hold the recovery tracks in place.
Gas bottle holder – Keep your gas bottle safe and secure when travelling with this handy holder. Capable of holding two-kilogram to nine-kilogram bottles, it incorporates a baseplate for the gas bottle to lock into and secures with eye bolts and strap.
Jerry can holder – There are four variations available with the option of double or single holders in either horizontal or vertical configuration. The brackets are fitted with beam guides to ensure even distribution of weight across the rack.
T-slot adaptor – For the active outdoor adventurer, to use your existing T-slot accessories with the rack. It can attach to the dovetail track at any point on the rack and allows fitment from a range of roof rack accessory manufacturers.
SIZES
The BASE Rack is available in a number of sizes to complement the vast range of 4WDs on the market.
1255mm (l) x 1155mm (w)
12.7kg approximately
1255mm (l) x 1285mm (w)
14.3kg approximately
1545mm (l) x 1285mm (w)
17.1kg approximately
1835mm (l) x 1155mm (w)
18.5kg approximately
1835mm (l) x 1285mm (w)
19.9kg approximately
2125mm (l) x 1285mm (w)
22.8kg approximately