by GMC Sierra 2500 Upgrades Australia
Engineered American Pickup Truck Accessory Fitment, Built for Real Use
By Chris Kikas, Service Manager – Autogroup International
At Autogroup International in Pakenham, I work closely with clients every day on upgrading and maintaining American pickup trucks.
This GMC Sierra 2500 build is a good example of how we approach these projects. The client wanted a practical, well-balanced upgrade that improved capability, ride and usability without creating issues down the track.
That is exactly how we approach every build. Not as a collection of accessories, but as a properly engineered package.
American Pickup Truck Upgrades Done Properly
We see a lot of American trucks come through our workshop from across Melbourne and around Australia.
Some are standard vehicles coming in for servicing. Others have already been modified elsewhere.
What we see quite often is that upgrades have been fitted without fully understanding how these vehicles work. That can lead to:
- Electrical issues from poor integration
- Suspension setups that don’t suit the vehicle or intended use
- Accessories interfering with safety systems
- Problems that affect reliability over time
Because we convert these vehicles to right hand drive and service them long term, we understand how everything is meant to work together.
That makes a big difference when planning and delivering upgrades.
Designing This GMC Sierra 2500 Build
For this Sierra 2500, the goal was to create a reliable and capable setup suited to Australian conditions, whether that is towing, touring or general use.
Every component was selected with that in mind.
Suspension and Load Handling
We fitted a BDS 3-inch suspension lift with FOX 2.5 shocks to improve ride control and ground clearance.
To support towing and load carrying, we added a Boss rear airbag kit, allowing the vehicle to maintain a level ride height under different loads.
This is one of the most practical upgrades you can make to a truck like this.
Wheels and Tyres
The vehicle runs Method 312 wheels with Mickey Thompson Baja Boss tyres, which are well suited to a mix of on-road driving and tougher Australian conditions.
This combination gives good durability and traction without compromising everyday usability.
Exhaust System
We installed an AFE 5-inch DPF-back exhaust system, improving exhaust flow while keeping everything compatible with the vehicle’s systems.
It is important that upgrades like this are done correctly so they do not create issues later on.
Bull Bar and Front-End Setup
The Sierra has been fitted with a Tuff 4-post bull bar.
This setup is:
- Airbag compliant
- Designed to work with parking sensors where required
- Built for Australian conditions
Correct integration here is critical. It is not just about fitting the bar, it is about how it works with the vehicle.
Lighting and Electrical Setup
For visibility, we fitted Stedi Type X Pro spotlights, supporting safer driving in regional and low-light conditions.
We also installed:
- GME UHF radio with 2.1 dBi aerial
- Running board side marker lights
- Kickass third battery system in the tub with Anderson plug
The auxiliary battery setup is particularly useful for touring and work applications, allowing the vehicle to run accessories independently.
All electrical work is completed by our in-house Auto Electricians to ensure everything is integrated properly.
Why Clients Come to Us for Upgrades
At Autogroup International, we have been converting and servicing American pickup trucks in Australia for over 30 years.
We have converted more than 5,000 vehicles and continue to service GMC, Chevrolet, RAM and Ford trucks every day at our Pakenham workshop.
Because of that, we are not just fitting accessories. We are working on these vehicles long term.
We see what works, and we see what causes problems.
That experience is why clients travel from across Melbourne, regional Victoria and all over Australia to have their vehicles upgraded and serviced here.
Supporting GMC, RAM, Ford and Chevrolet Pickup Trucks
Whether you own:
- GMC Sierra 1500 or 2500
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500 or 2500
- RAM 1500 or RAM 2500
- Ford F-150, F-250 or F-350
We provide servicing, upgrades and accessory fitment backed by real experience with these vehicles.
A Practical, Engineered Approach to Upgrades
The most important part of any upgrade is not the individual components. It is how everything works together.
Because we are the remanufacturer of these vehicles into right hand drive, every upgrade we complete is:
- Installed with engineering oversight
- Integrated with the vehicle’s systems
- Designed to maintain ADR compliance
- Completed without impacting the vehicle’s warranty
That is the standard we apply to every build.
Planning Your Upgrade
If you are considering upgrades for your American pickup truck, it is worth taking the time to get it done properly from the start.
Whether you own a GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Silverado, RAM 1500, RAM 2500, Ford F-150, F-250 or F-350, we can help you plan the right setup for how you actually use your vehicle.
Call me, Chris, today on (03) 9765 1300 to discuss your needs, your vehicle and the right upgrade path for your truck.