Tradie Triton ute build: GVM and brake upgrade by Pedders

We have subjected our Triton to some solid upgrades from Pedders, in the form of a GVM upgrade and a new braking package.

Both modifications are ideally suited to tradies and workers looking to carry a substantial amount of tools and building materials, and hauling loaded trailers. The Triton has scored a GVM+ load carrying upgrade, a rear disc brake conversion kit, new brake rotors and TrakRyder Kevlar Ceramic brake pads, and it has never felt so good under load or when braking.

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Ride height, performance and handling under load, as well as safe stopping distances, are all key factors in these upgrades, and to ensure everything was done right we headed to see our mate Grant and his team at Pedders Hornsby to install the upgraded components.

These upgrades and additions from Pedders are about making our Triton not just legal but safe when it comes to carrying heavy loads and towing, whether that’s trailers loaded with sand, gravel or rock to more weekend oriented hauling such as caravans or boat trailers.

GVM+ load-carrying upgrade

If your livelihood revolves around carrying substantial loads then you are going to appreciate this Pedders Suspension GVM+ upgrade kit, which increases the GVM rating to 3200kg on the MR Triton 4x4, which is 300kg more than standard.

The kit consists of heavy-duty coil springs and foam cell shock absorbers that are strategically calibrated to support increased loads. This comprehensive system enhances the Triton’s load-carrying capacity and ensures optimal performance and comfort under heavy loads, providing the safety and peace of mind. The GVM+ kit components include TrakRyder foam cell struts and coil springs for the front and TrakRyder foam cell shock absorbers, leaf springs, bushes and U-bolts for the rear.

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As with all of Pedders GVM upgrades, the Pedders GVM+ kit is federally approved, and the modifier of the vehicle is supplied with any necessary evidence to ensure the GVM kit is compliant.

All Pedders suspension components installed as part of a GVM upgrade package are backed by a two-year/40,000km nationwide warranty.

Rear disc brake conversion kit

The Pedders Rear Disc Brake Conversion Kit is a game-changer that offers increased stopping power, improved pedal feel, and various other benefits that enhance performance and safety.

When it comes to braking performance, Independent Australian engineering test results proved that at 100km/h the Pedders rear disc braking system stopped sooner than the original equipment requiring just 50% of the braking force.

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The kit replaces the Triton’s standard rear drum brakes with high-performance Pedders ceramic brake pads to significantly improve stopping power. This upgrade is particularly beneficial for tradies who encounter frequent stop-and-go situations or off-road drivers who navigate challenging terrain. The conversion kit also enhances brake pedal feel, providing better control and confidence in various driving conditions.

Compared with drum brakes, the larger braking surface area of disc brakes is a game-changer, especially during repeated hard braking. The kit minimises the potential for brake fade, ensuring that even under strenuous conditions the Triton’s brakes maintain optimal performance, even when towing.

As well as improved stopping power, disc brakes offer enhanced water drainage, which is beneficial after exiting river crossings as water retention can compromise braking efficiency. As you would expect, the Pedders rear disc conversion kit is ADR compliant.

TrakRyder Kevlar ceramic pads and slotted rotors

Completing our Triton’s new braking packages is a set of TrakRyder Kevlar Ceramic Brake Pads and Slotted Geomet Coated Brake Rotors.

The pads are engineered for the specific demands of 4x4s, and tradies who tow heavy loads or venture off-road will appreciate the enhanced stopping power they provide. They are made from a kevlar ceramic formula that is specifically engineered to maintain a high coefficient of friction under extreme conditions. This ensures reliable, consistent, quiet and smooth stopping power, even under heavy loads. It is also claimed to ensure consistent performance over the life of the pads.

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According to Pedders, the TrakRyder brake pads deliver a remarkable increase in stopping power compared to standard pads, providing extra safety and confidence whether driving around town, on the open road, on worksites or navigating tricky off-road terrain.

Verdict

The Pedders suspension and brake upgrades have literally elevated our Mitsubishi Triton to new heights.

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More importantly, the driveability, feel and braking performance is substantially improved. We have carried heavy loads and towed trailers with heavy machinery and to say we are happy with the results is an understatement.

For tradies who rely on their work utes daily, these upgrades are more than enhancements – they’re a necessity. Whether carrying the tools of the trade or embarking on an off-road adventure, Pedders have ensured our Triton will deliver optimal performance, safety and reliability. And Grant and his team at Pedders Hornsby have done a stand-out job on the Triton.