Changing rim size when certified for other rim

[tom]

My land cruiser is currently lvv certified for 15x10 inch rims and various other items which was done before I bought it. I want to change the rims to 16x8 inch rims and go to 285/75R16 tires (currently on 33x12.5R15, so very similar rolling circumference) which the vehicle should have on it. Do I need to go through a full certification just to change the rims or can I just get a partial re-cert for them?

Thanks.

[Leon]

Hi Tom

No, you don't go through a full re-cert, just the wheel + tyre / test drive / brake test aspects of it.

So give your certifier a call.

www.lvvta.org.nz/contact.html#certifier

[tom]

Thanks Leon. Gave the local certifier a call. He quoted me $495 just to do the wheels. Seems pretty harsh considering how minor the change will be. Or is this the usual price country wide?

Thanks.

[Leon]

Hi Tom,

I'm not sure on that one sorry, because there isn't a set price list. All the certifiers are independent owner operators.

[tom]

Are there any problems getting a tire certified that has a speed rating of M? My understanding is that if the tire is rated for the speed limit (100kmh) then it will be okay.

I don't really understand why I have to fork out $495 to certify new 16x8 rims if they already comply with your rules and current w.o.f standards as would be acceptable on any other vehicle without a lvv certification. Is it not possible to get a replacement certification plate with the 15x10 rims removed from the list? Even if I went back to OEM rims would this still need a lvv certification.

Thanks.

[Leon]

Hi Tom, I can't think of anything that would stop an M rating being used.

Have a look at our wheels and tyres standard, and see if what you're intending to fit complies.
www.lvvta.org.nz/documents/standards/LVVTA_STD_Wheels_&_Tyres.pdf

Correct, once a vehicle is certified, it means that the vehicle is now committed to a particular rim size (or a couple of rim sizes, if you have a car tested with a couple of sets).

With a modified vehicle, there are variables that mean going to another set of wheels, or even back to OE wheels wouldn't always be safe. Different suspension, steering components, brake components, or ride height might mean that a car needs to be on a particular set of wheels. So the normal VIRM threshold doesn't apply.

So a change needs to be inspected by a certifier, to ensure that it is now safe in its changed state.

[tom]

I have been reading through the Lvvta website and found this: "Can I modify a vehicle which already has already been LVV Certified? Yes, but the vehicle will need to be re-inspected by an LVV Certifier who will issue a new LVV plate covering all the car's modifications. Modifications that fall within the Certification Thresholds do not need re-certification."

My modification (16x8 rims & 285/75R16 tires) DOES fall within the certification thresholds (The tyres: have an outer rolling circumference that is not more than 5% greater than OE; and are an appropriate selection for rim width; and have tread that does not extend beyond the original or modified body panels or guard extension. The wheels: are of a known and reputable brand; and would be considered an appropriate fitment for the vehicle type by the wheel manufacturer; and are not modified; and do not have spacers or adaptors fitted). My new wheels are completely sensible and comply with Lvvta thresholds which would indicate I do not need re-certification (ie the tests)??.. I don't understand why I would need to undergo a brake test/test drive aspects of the certification if they comply. I understand I would still need it inspected in order to issue a new certification plate with the updated rims and tires though.