Free 4WD GVM Calculator Estimate payload, vehicle weight and front and rear axle loads

About the Calculator

This free Australian 4WD GVM calculator helps estimate vehicle weight, payload, front axle load and rear axle load using representative vehicle geometry and accessory data.

Unlike generic payload calculators, Project GVM models where the weight sits on the vehicle. That means it can better estimate how accessories, passengers, fuel, cargo and tow-related loads affect not just total vehicle weight, but also each axle.

It is designed for common touring and towing platforms including the Toyota LandCruiser 200 Series, 79 Series, Prado, Ford Ranger, Patrol Y62 and many other popular Australian 4WDs.

Why use this calculator

• Estimate payload before you buy accessories
• Check front and rear axle loading
• Plan towing setups more realistically
• Understand whether your build is approaching legal limits

No signup • Free • Quick • Simple

How to Use the GVM Calculator

1. Select Your Vehicle

Choose your make, model and variant to load representative vehicle data and axle limits.

2. Add Accessories and Modifications

Select accessories and fitted parts to estimate how each change affects total vehicle weight and axle loading.

3. Add Passengers, Fuel and Payload

Include the often-missed items such as passengers, recovery gear, cargo, fuel and other touring load.

4. Review the Results

Check the results panel to understand total vehicle weight and how the load is split across the axles.

• Green: Within the displayed limit.
• Red: Over the displayed limit and needs review.

Built Using Vehicle Geometry and Accessory Data

Project GVM is designed to go beyond generic weight calculators by estimating how weight placement changes the load on the vehicle. That matters because the same amount of weight can affect the axles very differently depending on where it is mounted or stored.

Accessory values are based on real product data where available, and the calculator remains fully adjustable so you can refine the setup to match your own parts list or weighbridge results.

Why Staying Under GVM Matters

Exceeding vehicle or axle limits can affect more than legality. It can also change braking, steering feel, handling, tyre loading and how the vehicle behaves on corrugations, rough roads and while towing.

• Safety and handling: Better weight distribution improves stability, braking and control.
• Rear axle management: Many vehicles reach rear axle limits before total GVM.
• Tyre and component load: Overloading increases stress on tyres, suspension, bearings and chassis components.
• Insurance and compliance: Staying within rated limits helps reduce compliance risk.

Supported 4WD Platforms

Project GVM includes pre-loaded data for many of Australia’s most popular touring and towing vehicles.

* Missing your vehicle? Please use the contact form and request it.

Vehicle Weight Glossary

Tare Mass

The weight of the vehicle with minimal fuel and fluids, but without passengers or cargo.

Kerb Weight

The vehicle ready to drive with fuel and fluids, but without additional payload. Always check the manufacturer definition for your vehicle.

Payload

The total weight added to the vehicle, including passengers, fuel, accessories, tools, cargo and tow ball load.

Axle Capacity

The maximum allowable load on the front or rear axle. One axle can be overloaded even when total GVM has not yet been reached.

Common GVM Questions