Case Study – Dual Cab Ute Touring Setup

Representative assessment of a modified dual cab vehicle towing a tandem axle caravan.

Vehicle specifications reflect a 2024 model dual cab ute configuration.

Vehicle configuration

• 2024 dual cab ute (XLV configuration)

• GVM: 2980 kg

• GCM: 6480 kg

• Front axle limit: 1400 kg

• Rear axle limit: 1850 kg

Fitted accessories

• Steel bull bar

• Winch

• Driving lights

• Underbody protection

• Heavy-duty aluminium canopy

• Roof platform

• Electric brake controller

Occupants and touring load

• Two occupants

• Touring equipment and recovery gear

Caravan configuration

• Tandem axle touring caravan

• ATM approximately 3000 kg class

• GTM compliant with manufacturer specifications

• Ball weight in typical touring range

Touring condition

• Fully loaded for travel

• Forward storage and accessories fitted

Measured inputs

• Front axle weight (measured)

• Rear axle weight (measured)

• Total vehicle mass

• Ball weight

• Combined mass compared against GCM

Key findings

• Rear axle load approached or exceeded manufacturer limit before GCM was reached.

• Front-mounted accessories increased front axle load without improving rear margin.

• Ball weight compounded rear axle loading more than expected.

• Suspension changes did not alter manufacturer axle limits.

• Tow rating compliance did not guarantee axle compliance.

Advisory outcome

The assessment identified the rear axle as the limiting factor within the configuration.

Options were outlined to improve operating margin through load redistribution and accessory review.

The advisory clarified the relationship between axle limits, ball weight and total combination mass.