Upgrading axle / mass on 280

[RyanJJones]

Hi
I've got a transit 280SWB camper van conversion
I'd like to increase the carrying weight if possible. I know I can fit 300SWB springs on the rear, but apart from helping bounce it does not legally increase anything.
Can I do anything to increase load capacity?
I have the 125 engine installed.
I've contacted svtech and waiting response.
Any info appreciated.
Cheers!

[MrMPuk]

Get a van with a higher payload is the only way really.

[V184]

would wait for response, but you may have to upgrade front springs, tyres ?

[OxtonyxO]

brakes too maybe

[AndyG]

Are you carrying more than a tonne

[RyanJJones]

We were planning on using the camper as a weekend/short break van, but enjoy it so much we plan to go up to 12 mts around Europe in it.

Hindsight is wonderful as we had the choice of a 300 upgrade! DOH!

Van weights 2400kg with most kit/fuel/gas etc on board.

+ clothes, food, beer, bikes, us........ Getting close - esp I fear on rear axle loading.

[AndyG]

Wouldn't worry about the actual axle

But I agree with uprating the suspension

However you will NOT be changing the payload allowed You'll simply make it carry it'self better for the trip

[RyanJJones]

Cheers
So the axle is strong enough then (technically if not legally?) if the springs are uprated?
SVTECH (apparently) can re-plate vehicles taking mods into account (apparently do a lot of work in motorhome markets). If they every got back to me....

[motorwise]

if it's an early one it may just look overloaded even if it's not - it was a problem with the earlier van (pre 2003 I think) and ford released a "tail down kit" to rectify the problem

I fitted a kit to mine and it made a big difference to the attitude and ride height - the kits consists of rear springs and shocks and an extension bracket for the brake load compensator valve

[sc_BK]

I've had my 280 pretty low, no idea what the actual weight was so dunno if it was overloaded

[motorwise]

I've had my 280 pretty low, no idea what the actual weight was so dunno if it was overloaded

how old is yours - the early ones do have a saggy look even if they're underweight - thats what the kit does - props it up to how it should be

[sc_BK]

X reg, cannae really tell in these pics but it was low!