OLD MAN EMU SUSPENSION
Suspension systems, especially when referring to 4WDs, are extremely complex. Determining the right solution for each 4WD requires special attention to many factors, with weight being the most critical. Old Man Emu 4×4 suspension by ARB approaches this in a unique way.
Instead of offering a compilation of parts that have been chosen primarily to increase the vehicle’s ride height, OME 4×4 suspension provides a range of tuned, matched and integrated systems, each offering optimum levels of comfort, load carrying capability and control characteristics.
The complete Old Man Emu suspension range incorporates more than just 4×4 shock absorbers and springs. At ARB, we take integration to the highest level with our own selection of bushes, U bolts, centre bolts, spring liners, trim packers and suspension fitting kits.
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OLD MAN EMU BP51 SUSPENSION
The BP-51 is a user adjustable internal bypass 4WD shock absorber that delivers increased comfort and control; both on and off road.
All BP-51 shock absorbers are designed and manufactured in-house by ARB using state of the art machining and hard anodising equipment.
The body of a BP-51 shock absorber is manufactured using 6061 anodised aluminium to dissipate heat more efficiently than steel or alloy steel and provide superior corrosion resistance.
Extensive dyno, real world and destructive testing has been undertaken during the development process to ensure that reliability, longevity and performance all meet ARB’s impeccable standards.
POSITION SENSITIVE DAMPING
Damping increases as you get closer to the end zone, meaning you’ll experience increased control at end zones and comfort at ride height.
ADJUSTABLE
External, independent rebound and compression on-car adjustment allows fine tuning of ride comfort and control to suit varying vehicle, load and trip requirements.
QUALITY ALUMINIUM MATERIAL
51mm bore, 6061 grade aluminium shock absorber body with type III, hard anodised finish for increased heat dissipation and corrosion resistance.
BOLT-IN APPLICATION SPECIFIC
Every BP-51 is expertly engineered to bolt-in to your vehicle, meaning no fitting modifications are required and no adjustments.
REMOTE RESERVOIR
6061 grade aluminium remote oil canister allows for increased oil volume, resulting in lower oil temperatures.
MT64 SHOCK ABSORBERS
Big distances, heavy loads, extreme climates. A 4WD demands the most of any gear, quickly sorting out the pretenders. Most shocks aren’t up to the task.
ARB’s Old Man Emu (OME) shocks thrive in exactly these conditions all around the world. We know the challenges a vehicle’s suspension faces, and 4WDing brings its own set of challenges. For a 4×4 owner, the dream is to have a set of shocks that will perform the same on the roads during the week, as it does on the tracks on the weekend.
In response, we’ve developed the ultimate all-round shock absorber.
Designed, engineered and manufactured by ARB’s specialised OME suspension engineers, the MT64 is an expertly constructed blend of the Nitrocharger’s proven reliability and the durability of BP-51’s premium features, making it the perfect all-rounder.
The MT is the abbreviated version of the word monotube, relating to the shocks singular tube design. The 64 describes the measurement of the massive 64-millimetre (2.5-inch) internal bore.
REFINEMENT IN RIDE
The huge 64mm (2.5in) internal bore allows for more oil and bigger piston and shim stacks, allowing precise tuning to provide more control through the stroke giving a more refined ride.
CONFIGURABLE RIDE HEIGHT FOR DIFFERENT LOADS
Utilising ridges on the body of the shock, OME engineers have included an configurable spring seat with 6 positions in 5mm increments, which allows for one coil spring to cater for added accessory weights.
COMPREHENSIVE COMFORT
In addition to plush everyday comfort, MT64 is also designed with a hydraulic end zone top out, which provides added padding at the shock’s full extension, to compensate for any unexpected bumps.
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring the same aerospace grade aluminium as our high-performance BP-51 to dissipate heat effectively, the MT64 also boasts a 22.5mm piston rod (shaft) for exceptional stability.
NITROCHARGER SHOCK ABSORBERS
During the development of Old Man Emu’s Nitrocharger shock absorbers, Ride Control Engineers tailor shock absorber valving to work with the different springs in the range, often resulting in multiple shock absorber options for each vehicle.
Old Man Emu Nitrocharger is a twin-tube design with the outer reserve tube providing protection to the internal components off road. Nitrocharger represents an excellent upgrade opportunity for any 4WDer seeking an increase in vehicle control and comfort, increased ride height, and load carrying capability.
HIGH FLOW PISTON
Free flowing design reduces aeration and high oil temperature, extending shock absorber performance under harsh conditions.
MULTI-DISC COMPRESSION VALVING
Six valving discs allow greater valving options for maximum ride and handling performance.
HIGH QUALITY OIL
Petroleum based, high performance formula designed to resist fade and aeration for improved durability and shock absorber performance.
NITROGEN GAS
Increases the temperature operating range and improves oil flow through the valving, ensuring optimum performance.
NITROCHARGER SHOCK TUNING
Do you have any idea what goes into developing a shock absorber for a new model? Stu and Mark take us through some of what’s involved in the video below where they discuss the development and tuning of the Suzuki Jimny shock absorbers.
VEHICLE SPECIFIC BUSHES
Increases the High quality, vehicle specific bushes manufactured from polyurethane and rubber materials for extended life.
KEY FEATURES:
- High Flow Piston: The free-flowing design minimizes aeration and maintains lower oil temperatures, ensuring extended shock absorber performance even in demanding conditions.
- Multi-Disc Compression Valving: Incorporating six valving discs provides a wide array of valving options, maximizing ride and handling performance.
- High-Quality Oil: Utilizing a high-performance petroleum-based formula, the shock absorbers are built to resist fade and aeration, resulting in improved durability and overall performance.
- Nitrogen Gas: The presence of nitrogen gas extends the operating temperature range and enhances oil flow through the valving, thus ensuring optimal performance.
Nitrocharger Shock Tuning: Ever wondered what it takes to develop shock absorbers for a new vehicle model? Stu and Mark provide insights in the video below as they discuss the intricate process of developing and tuning shock absorbers, using the Suzuki Jimny as an example.
Vehicle-Specific Bushes: To further enhance performance and longevity, Old Man Emu includes high-quality, vehicle-specific bushes made from durable polyurethane and rubber materials. These bushes are designed to withstand the test of time.
GVM UPGRADES
OLD MAN EMU FRONT AXLE LOAD UPGRADES
The final weight over the front axle of your vehicle is often determined by the weight over the rear axle, as more rear axle weight will reduce the downward pressure over the front axle. Therefore loading and unloading of weight on the rear of a vehicle, such as unhitching a trailer or removing your touring gear, can play havoc with weight distribution across your front axles in accordance with the manufacturer’s front axle load limits.
To assist in providing greater flexibility in managing load variations as you need, ARB offers a range of Old Man Emu front axle capacity upgrades for the most popular 4×4 models when installing an Old Man Emu suspension package. With up to an additional 170kg of verified front axle load, tourers and tradies alike can have peace of mind that dynamic shift in weight distribution is being aptly supported across both axles.
AVAILABLE FRONT AXLE LOAD UPGRADES
ARB’s front axle load upgrades are standard with any full Old Man Emu Nitrocharger or BP-51 Suspension kit and are demonstrated by certification attached to your vehicle’s door pillar, owner’s manual and customer handover pack. Current customers of the applicable vehicles can also organise through their local ARB store to have their vehicle assessed for compliance.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DOES A GVM INCREASE MY GCM?
A Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) upgrade is an independently engineered and tested suspension solution which allows users to increase the payload of their vehicle from what the manufacturer originally designated.
While this doesn’t alter the towing capacity or Gross Combination Mass (GCM) of the vehicle, it does assist in managing ball weight on the tow vehicle managing your vehicle’s GVM limit.
WHAT’S INVOLVED IN A GVM UPGRADE?
A GVM upgrade is achieved by fitting a purposely packaged solution of shock absorbers, springs and other suspension components which are tested and accredited by an independent engineer. Assessment includes braking and stability control testing to ensure that each vehicle and package combination maintains all of the vehicle’s safety standards while capable of carrying a greater payload.
Upgrading a vehicle’s GVM is finalised by registering the vehicle at the higher capacity, as well as the suspension upgrade documentation to the respective state authority’s database to officially document the approval.
Customers also receive a copy of all the accreditation documentation.
CAN I GET A GVM, UPGRADE IF MY VEHICLE IS ALREADY REGISTERED?
Yes.
Upgrading a vehicle’s GVM before first registration is much easier, as the vehicle is in its original manufacturer’s state including tyres with no vehicle alteration. This can be done at any ARB store or stockist.
To upgrade a vehicle which is already registered, you can still order the same package, however you’ll then need to have the vehicle independently engineered. Your ARB store will be able to point you in the right direction as to who can help perform this task, which is generally very simple.
DOES A GVM UPGRADE UPGRADE MY TOWING CAPACITY?
No.
A GVM upgrade does not change how much weight your vehicle is legally allowed to tow, as it does not increase the Gross Combined Mass (GCM). However, owners do need to understand that any weight added to your vehicle, whether you have a GVM upgrade or not, can have an effect on how much you can tow.
Towing trailers heavier than 3000kg is always going to be a struggle with more than just a driver in a completely un-accessorised vehicle. What it does do is help with managing trailer ball weight so you still have a reasonable payload on the vehicle itself; this is of most benefit for trailers in the 2000 to 2500kg weight spectrum.
Without a GVM upgrade, the vehicle weighs 2750kg (curb weight plus trailer down ball weight) before adding any 4WD accessories, luggage, fuel or even the driver! Add two adults (~150kg) plus a full tank of fuel (~70kg) and you have just 30kg to spare before you are over GVM (2970kg). In this same scenario with a 300kg GVM upgrade, you would have 330kg of additional payload on the vehicle, and would still be within your GCM limit.
At GVM, your vehicle will weigh 3300kg + a 2500kg trailer sits comfortably 200kg under your vehicles GCM.
WHY DO I NEED A GVM UPGRADE?
Modern vehicles regularly have a payload of anywhere between 500kg – 1000kg, however, with 4WD accessories and heavy trailer down ball weights, it’s not hard to very quickly reach those legal limits.
Increasing your vehicle’s GVM increases its payload, which allows you to kit it out with more of the gear you need to enjoy your 4WDing while staying within the legal limits.
WHO CAN FIT A GVM UPGRADE?
An Old Man Emu GVM upgrade package can be fitted by any ARB store or stockist or authorised ARB service centre. Certification of new, unregistered vehicles, is available at any ARB store or authorised stockist. Certification of registered vehicles must be conducted by a third party engineer. Your ARB store can put you into contact with these suppliers.
GROSS VEHICLE MASS
The legal weight limit of your vehicle including all passengers, luggage, accessories and fuel.
TOWING CAPACITY
The maximum trailer weight (braked) which can be towed behind the vehicle.
TOW BALL WEIGHT
The weight that is applied to the vehicle from the downforce of the tow ball of the trailer. Note, this weight is not removed from the trailer in GCM calculations.
GROSS COMBINED MASS
The weight limit of the vehicle and any trailer combined. GCM is usually lower than the combination of the GVM and the vehicle’s towing capacity.