Upgrading Payload

[brianj42]

Guys

Please no beating around the electronic head on this one.

We have a Connect Tourneo 2004 which we use for our dog charity. Part of this we have regular runs to collect frozen food. At the moment we are restricted by the standard 730kg payload. To this, we could really do with upgrading this which would allow us to collect more in one hit and thus less trips.

I know that the new connects have around a 1 ton on payload and "I believe" its an optional extra to upgrade payload on some vans.

The question is: Is it possible, with modification, to upgrade the payload on a 2004 connect ?

Alternatively we change the van for a bigger one that can take the load, but the charity doesn't have the spare cash at the moment....

Cheers B

[Piglet]

Technically quite easy I should think, BUT:
Would you not then have to declare the gross weight change with DVLA?
and would this then give you insurance issues with a now modified vehicle?

Trailer?

[DodgeRover]

Get a trailer, it'll be easier and probably cost less, just make sure you don't go over the maximum train weight.

[paul2012]

2003-2009 Connects

Connect Tourneo LWB. Max payload weight is 700kg - Built for carrying passengers (vehicle category M1)
Connect T230 Van LWB. Max payload weight is 900kg - Built for carrying goods (vehicle category N1)


Reason why T230 van has a higher payload weight is due to having no rear seats, interior trim or glass in the rear.
You can remove rear seats, interior trim to gain an extra 100-150kg.

GVW (gross vehicle weight) of a Tourneo LWB when fully loaded. Is actually higher than a fully loaded T230 LWB Van
But it's overall GVW can't be increased beyond factory specs.

[brianj42]

Paul

Thanks for this. Apologies it took so long to reply, didn't see the reply.
Rear seats coming out tomorrow.

B