Air Lift Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 57354Air LiftOriginal price was $712.99. Current price is $516.99.In Stock
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2003 - 2008 Ford E-450 Super Duty
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LoadLifter 5000 Leaf Spring Leveling Kit.
Air Lift adjustable air helper springs level your load, and give your truck, van, or SUV a safer, more comfortable ride. Air springs are easy to install between your existing springs and the vehicle frame. Just add air when towing or hauling a heavy load, and reduce air pressure when unloaded, they are fully adjustable for a great ride. Air Lift air springs eliminate sag, sway, and bottoming out. They are made with rugged, durable components for long, reliable service. LoadLifter 5000 kits are Air Lift's heaviest-rated kits for hauling or towing heavy loads. They have up to 5,000 pounds of leveling capacity, right up to the manufacturer's recommended Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, and are air adjustable from 5 to 100 PSI. LoadLifter 5000 kits fit such popular vehicles as ton and one-ton pickup trucks, many Class A, B & C motor homes, and commercial trucks and other severe uses. They also come standard with a limited lifetime warranty and an exclusive 60 day ride satisfaction guarantee. e.
Air Lift Company has developed dependable air spring suspension products since our inception in 1949. Our original product, a rubber air spring inserted into a car’s factory coil spring, was created and patented in 1950. We’ve come a long way since 1949 and are proud to be a dedicated suspension specialist company.
Today, Air Lift load support products are sold worldwide and are engineered to fit over 540 vehicles. Our extensive product line offers air helper springs for trucks, RVs, SUVs, CUVs, and vans, as well as the most technologically advanced on-board air compressor systems for on-the-go air spring control.
Air Lift leads the industry in no-drill applications – kits that bolt onto your vehicle’s frame, speeding the installation process. Our teams work constantly to bring innovative products to you and upgrade existing products with the latest technology.
All of our efforts are spent ensuring your safety and comfort by designing, engineering, and manufacturing the highest quality suspension products. We are a family-owned business based in Lansing, Michigan, and make your family and cargo’s safety our top priority.
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1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 - 2008 | Ford E-450 Super Duty | — |
Yes, the Air Lift LOADLIFTER 5000 57131 (Part #BBCG57131) is designed to fit the 2003-2008 Ford E-450 Super Duty.
The Air Lift LOADLIFTER 5000 57131 (Part #BBCG57131) fits 2003-2008 Ford E-450 Super Duty models. The 2008 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The Air Lift LOADLIFTER 5000 57131 (Part #BBCG57131) fits the following vehicles: 2003-2008 Ford E-450 Super Duty. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The Air Lift LOADLIFTER 5000 57131 (Part #BBCG57131) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The LoadLifter 5000 is an air spring suspension kit manufactured by Air Lift Company. It uses reinforced commercial-grade convolute bellows (manufactured like a tire with layers of rubber and cords) to provide up to 5,000 lbs of load leveling support. The system is adjustable from 5–100 PSI and helps level the vehicle when loaded, improving ride quality and handling. It is designed for 3/4 ton and 1 ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs, as well as motor home rear kits and some motor home fronts.
The LoadLifter 5000 is recommended for most 3/4 ton and 1 ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs. It is also used in motor home rear kits and some motor home fronts where leaf springs are used. For specific vehicle compatibility with kit 57131, contact Air Lift Company at (800) 248-0892 or consult a fitment database, as the manual does not list specific makes, models or years.
No. Installing air springs will not change the weight ratings (GAWR, GCWR and/or GVWR) of your vehicle. You must not exceed your vehicle's GVWR, as stated in your vehicle's owner's manual and on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. Exceeding the GVWR is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the maximum allowable weight of your fully loaded vehicle, including passengers and cargo. This number is shown on your vehicle's Safety Compliance Certification Label along with tire, rim size and inflation pressure data. The LoadLifter 5000 does not alter your vehicle's GVWR. You must never exceed your vehicle's GVWR, regardless of air spring pressure or load assist, as doing so is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
Payload is the combined maximum allowable weight of cargo and passengers your truck is designed to carry. It is calculated as GVWR minus the Base Curb Weight. The LoadLifter 5000 does not increase your vehicle's payload. You must stay within your vehicle's payload limits as specified in your owner's manual.
Normal ride height is the distance between the bottom of the bumper and a flat road surface with the vehicle in an 'as delivered condition' (without a load, tool box, camper, etc.). Before beginning installation, measure and record the distance from the fender well to the center point of the hub. All LoadLifter 5000 kits are designed to be installed and operate at normal ride height. After installation, inflate the air springs until normal ride height is restored.
The manual specifies the following tools: a jack and safety jack stands, an open end wrench (for tightening the air fitting), a standard tube cutter, razor blade or very sharp knife (for cutting the air line), and a drill with a 5/16" bit (for the inflation valve hole). Additional tools such as a torque wrench are recommended for proper fastener tightening to the specified torque values.
Yes. The installation requires jacking up the rear of the vehicle or raising it on a hoist, with safety jack stands placed under the axle adjusted so that the axle-to-frame distance matches the design or normal ride height. A hoist or jack and safety stands are essential.
The first step is to jack up the rear of the vehicle or raise it on a hoist. Place safety jack stands under the axle and adjust them so that the axle-to-frame distance is the same as the design or normal ride height. This positioning is critical because all LoadLifter 5000 kits are designed to be installed and operate at normal ride height.
1. Position the bellows with the air port facing up. Insert the air fitting into the air port and tighten finger tight plus 2 turns using an open end wrench on the metal hex nut only; do not over-tighten. The fitting is precoated with thread sealant. 2. For the left hand unit, assemble the upper section (upper brackets are stamped 'R' and 'L'). Set the roll plate on the bellows. Slip the upper bracket over the air fitting and line up the mounting holes. 3. Install the 3/8-24x3.75" stud in the outboard tapped hole (short threaded end on the bellows side) and turn in carefully until it bottoms out. 4. Install the 3/8" lockwashers and 3/8-24x7/8" hex head cap screw (HHCS) a couple of turns to loosely assemble. 5. Repeat for the right hand unit.
Set the roll plate on the bottom of the bellows. Attach the lower bracket to the bottom of the bellows on both units using the holes shown in the installation diagram. The extended tabs should face rearward. Use 3/8" lockwashers and 3/8-24x7/8" HHCS fasteners, torqued to 15–20 ft-lbs. Ensure that the lower bracket and upper bracket are parallel to each other.
Yes. Unbolt and remove both rear rubber axle jounce bumpers and discard them. It is not necessary to remove the metal jounce bumper bracket. The stud of the air spring assembly will be mounted through the original jounce bumper mounting hole.
Set the air spring assembly on the axle inboard of the leaf spring. Squeeze the bellows down and align the stud with the original jounce bumper mounting hole. Insert the stud through the hole and fasten with a flat washer and 3/8-24 lock nut. Fasten the side of the bracket to the frame rail using a 5/16-18x1" HHCS bolt, flat washers and 5/16" lock nut. Torque all three fasteners to 15 ft-lbs. Note: On some models, a plastic stud for a wiring harness hanger may protrude through the hole; push it back through the frame and use the existing hole to mount the upper bracket.
Position the lower bracket so that it sits square on the axle. Install all four 3/8"-16x3.5" carriage bolts through the outer holes of the lower bracket. Slide the axle straps up onto the carriage bolts with the extended end facing the rear to provide clearance for the carriage bolt to the brake line. Hold the assembly loosely in place using lower straps, flat washers and lock nuts. Important: The brake line sits under the bracket between the bolts and the axle; be careful not to pinch it. Adjust the lower bracket assembly on the axle so that the bellows is square. While holding the bracket, tighten all four lock nuts securely. Be careful not to bend the straps to the point that they come in contact with the brake line.
Yes. Installation of the LoadLifter 5000 kit requires an exhaust heat shield. The shield is attached to the exhaust pipe with flanges bent for component clearance. Bend the tabs to provide 1/2" dead air space between the exhaust pipes and heat shield and maximum clearance with the bellows. A slight adjustment may be required to gain enough clearance to install the heat shield: loosen the exhaust clamp between the muffler and catalytic converter, push the muffler and tailpipe to the rear of the vehicle (retaining a minimum of 3/4" between tailpipe and frame crossmember), and retighten the clamp.
Yes. You must drill a 5/16" hole in the vehicle body or bumper for the air inflation valve. Use a standard tube cutter, razor blade or very sharp knife to cut the air line assembly into two equal parts (a clean square cut prevents leaks). No other drilling is required; the air spring assembly mounts to existing jounce bumper holes and frame mounting points.
A slight adjustment may be required. If necessary, loosen the exhaust clamp between the muffler and catalytic converter and push the muffler and tailpipe to the rear of the vehicle, maintaining a minimum of 3/4" clearance between the tailpipe and frame crossmember, then retighten the clamp. This adjustment is made to provide clearance for the exhaust heat shield. The modification is temporary and reversible.
The 3/8-24x7/8" HHCS fasteners that attach the lower bracket to the bellows should be torqued to 15–20 ft-lbs. The 5/16-18x1" HHCS bolt and 3/8-24 lock nut that fasten the bracket to the frame rail and jounce bumper hole should be torqued to 15 ft-lbs.
The axle clamp bar carriage bolt lock nuts should be torqued to 16 ft-lbs. Re-torque after 100 miles.
The LoadLifter 5000 is adjustable from 5–100 PSI. The minimum air pressure should be maintained at all times (20 PSI is recommended as the minimum to keep the air spring in shape). Never inflate beyond 100 PSI. Improper use or over-inflation may cause the assembly to burst, causing property damage or severe personal injury. Operating the vehicle below the minimum air spring pressure will void the Air Lift warranty.
Select a location on the vehicle bumper or body for the air inflation valve that is protected from damage and still accessible for the air chuck. Drill a 5/16" hole at the selected location. Install the inflation valve as shown in the installation diagram (Figure 7), using the star washer, rubber washer and flat washer provided. Install the inflation pressure decal near the inflation valve.
Run the air line from the inflation valve to the bellows, routing it to be protected from direct heat from the muffler or tailpipe and kept away from sharp edges. Slide the thermal sleeve protector onto the air line on the exhaust pipe side. The air line should not be bent or curved sharply. Cut off excess air line. Push the cut end of the air line into the air fitting as far as it will go; this is a self-locking fitting and you will hear or feel a definite 'click.' Secure the air line in place with the nylon ties provided.
The thermal sleeve protector is slid onto the air line on the exhaust pipe side to protect the air line from direct heat from the muffler or tailpipe. This prevents heat damage to the air line during operation.
Do not inflate the bellows when it is unrestricted or not installed. The bellows must be contained by suspension or other adequate structure. Do not inflate beyond 100 PSI. Improper use or over-inflation may cause the assembly to burst, causing property damage or severe personal injury.
The brake line sits under the lower bracket between the bolts and the axle. Be careful not to pinch the brake line during installation. Do not bend the axle straps to the point that they come in contact with the brake line, as this could damage the brake system.
For your safety and to prevent possible damage to your vehicle, do not exceed the maximum Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) as indicated by the vehicle manufacturer. Although the LoadLifter 5000 air springs are rated at a maximum inflation pressure of 100 PSI, the air pressure actually needed is dependent on your load and GVWR. Exceeding GVWR is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
Air springs and air lines must have at least 6 inches of clearance from any heat sources such as the muffler or tailpipe. The air line should be routed to be protected from direct heat and kept away from sharp edges. A thermal sleeve protector should be used on the air line on the exhaust pipe side.
With a load on your vehicle and the air springs inflated, you must have clearance all around the bellows at the maximum diameter (7.0"). After installation, inflate the air springs to 60 PSI and ensure there is at least 1/2" clearance around each bellows, away from anything that might rub against them. Be sure to check the tire, brake drum, frame, shock absorbers and brake cables.
Before operating, complete the following checks: 1. Clearance test — Inflate to 60 PSI and ensure at least 1/2" clearance around each bellows away from tires, brake drums, frame, shock absorbers and brake cables. 2. Leak test — Inflate to 60 PSI and check all connections with soapy water solution; all leaks must be eliminated before road testing. 3. Heat test — Ensure at least 6" clearance from heat sources; install heat shield if included. 4. Fastener test — Recheck all bolts for proper torque; axle clamp bar carriage bolt lock nuts should be torqued to 16 ft-lbs and re-torqued after 100 miles. 5. Road test — Drive 10 miles and recheck for clearance, loose fasteners and air leaks.
Use a solution of dish soap and water (1/5 liquid dish soap and 4/5 water) to check all air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings in the control system. Inflate the bellows and check the fittings, bellows, all connections and valve cores for air leaks with the soapy water solution. Look for bubbles, which indicate leaks. All leaks must be eliminated before the vehicle is road tested.
After the vehicle has been used for 24 hours, recheck the air pressure. If the pressure has dropped more than 5 PSI, there is a leak that must be fixed. Either fix the leak yourself or return to the installer for service.
Recheck the air spring system after 30 days or 500 miles, whichever comes first. If any part shows signs of rubbing or abrasion, identify the source and move it if possible. If it is not possible to relocate the cause of abrasion, the air spring may need to be remounted. If professionally installed, consult the installer. Check all fasteners for tightness.
Check the air pressure weekly. Always maintain normal ride height. Regardless of load, the air pressure should always be adjusted so that normal ride height is maintained at all times.
The minimum air pressure should be maintained at all times. The minimum air pressure keeps the air spring in shape, ensuring that it will move throughout its travel without rubbing or wearing on itself. A minimum of 20 PSI is recommended. Operating the vehicle below the minimum air spring pressure will void the Air Lift warranty.
Loaded vehicles require at least 25 PSI or more. A 'loaded vehicle' refers to a vehicle with a heavy bed load, a trailer, or both. The springs in this kit will support approximately 40 lbs of load (combined on both springs) for each 1 PSI of pressure. The required air pressure will vary depending on the state of the original suspension. Never exceed 100 PSI or your vehicle's GVWR, regardless of air spring pressure or other load assist.
When increasing load, always adjust the air pressure to maintain normal ride height. Increase or decrease pressure from the system as necessary to attain normal ride height for optimal ride and handling. Remember that loads carried behind the axle (including tongue loads) require more leveling force (pressure) than those carried directly over the axle. Always add air to springs in small quantities, checking the pressure frequently.
The vehicle can be lifted on a hoist for short-term service work such as tire rotation or oil changes. However, if the vehicle will be on the hoist for a prolonged period of time, support the axle with jack stands to take the tension off the air springs. If you need to raise the vehicle by the frame, make sure the system is at minimum pressure (20 PSI) to reduce the tension on the suspension and brake components. Use of on-board leveling systems does not require deflation or disconnection.
Periodically give the air springs a hard spray with a garden hose to remove mud, sand, gravel or other abrasive debris. This helps prevent damage and extends the life of the system.
If the air springs are properly installed and maintained, they can last indefinitely. Proper maintenance includes checking air pressure weekly, maintaining normal ride height, checking fasteners periodically for tightness, checking for signs of rubbing, and cleaning the springs with a garden hose to remove debris.
Periodically check the air spring system fasteners for tightness. Also check the air springs for any signs of rubbing and realign if necessary. After 30 days or 500 miles (whichever comes first), recheck all fasteners for tightness. Axle clamp bar carriage bolt lock nuts should be re-torqued to 16 ft-lbs after 100 miles.
First, use a soapy water solution (1/5 liquid dish soap and 4/5 water) to check all air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings in the control system. Inspect the air lines to be sure none are pinched; tie straps may be too tight—loosen or replace the strap. Inspect the air line for holes and cracks and replace as needed. Look for a kink or fold in the air line and reroute as needed. If the preceding steps do not solve the problem, it may be caused by a failed air spring (either a factory defect or an operating problem). Call Air Lift at (800) 248-0892 for assistance.
If the pressure has dropped more than 5 PSI after 24 hours of use, there is a leak in the system that must be fixed. Use a soapy water solution to check all air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings. Look for pinched lines, holes, cracks, kinks or folds. Either fix the leak yourself or return to the installer for service.
If any part shows signs of rubbing or abrasion, identify the source and move it if possible. If it is not possible to relocate the cause of abrasion, the air spring may need to be remounted. If professionally installed, consult the installer. Ensure there is at least 1/2" clearance around each bellows away from tires, brake drums, frame, shock absorbers and brake cables.
Check that you are maintaining the correct air pressure. Regardless of load, the air pressure should always be adjusted to maintain normal ride height. If the vehicle's headlights are shining into the trees or the vehicle is leaning to one side, raise the air pressure to level the vehicle. If the vehicle has a rough or harsh ride, try different pressures to determine the best ride comfort. If stability issues persist (roll control, bounce, dive during braking, sponginess), usually an increase in pressure is needed. It may be necessary to maintain different pressures on each side of the vehicle for uneven loads.
If it is suspected that the air springs have bottomed out, increase the pressure. Bottoming out indicates insufficient air pressure for the load being carried. Increase the air pressure and check that you are maintaining normal ride height. If the problem persists, you may be exceeding your vehicle's GVWR or payload capacity.
A rough or harsh ride may be due to either too much pressure or not enough. Try different pressures to determine the best ride comfort. Start with the vehicle level or slightly above. Adjust the pressure up and down to find the best ride. If the vehicle rocks and rolls, adjust the air pressure to reduce movement. Remember that stability (roll control, bounce, dive during braking, sponginess) should be the priority, and you may need to sacrifice a perfectly level and comfortable ride for safety.
If the front of the vehicle dives while braking, increase the pressure in the front air bags if equipped. Dive during braking is a stability issue that usually requires an increase in pressure.
If the vehicle is leaning to one side or the headlights are shining into the trees, the vehicle is not level. It may be necessary to maintain different pressures on each side of the vehicle. Loads such as water, fuel and appliances will cause the vehicle to be heavier on one side. As much as a 50 PSI difference between sides is not uncommon. Adjust the pressure on each side independently to level the vehicle and maintain normal ride height.
No. Air pressure can be adjusted with any type of compressor as long as it can produce sufficient pressure to service the springs. Even a bicycle tire pump can be used, but it is a lot of work. However, Air Lift offers optional on-board air compressor systems that allow you to inflate and deflate your air springs with the touch of a button from inside or outside the vehicle. These systems eliminate the need to search for gas stations with working compressors and provide convenient, on-the-go control.
Air Lift offers several on-board air compressor systems: WirelessAIR (P/N 25850 standard duty or P/N 25854 heavy duty) — wireless dual path system with easy installation and heavy duty compressor; WirelessONE (P/N 25852 standard duty or P/N 25856 heavy duty) — wireless single path system with easy installation; LoadCONTROLLER Dual (P/N 25870) — analog dual path system for separate control of each side; and LoadCONTROLLER Single (P/N 72000) — analog single path system. Choose single path for evenly distributed loads or dual path for uneven or top-heavy loads. Standard duty compressors work well for intermittent use; heavy duty compressors are for daily use and inflate faster and more quietly.
The LoadLifter 5000 is designed for 3/4 ton and 1 ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs, and motor home rear kits and some motor home fronts with leaf springs. For specific vehicle compatibility with kit 57131, contact Air Lift at (800) 248-0892 or consult a fitment database.
No. The LoadLifter 5000 does not change your vehicle's GVWR or payload. You must not exceed your vehicle's GVWR as stated in your owner's manual.
You will need a jack and safety jack stands, an open end wrench, a standard tube cutter or sharp knife, and a drill with a 5/16" bit. A torque wrench is recommended for proper fastener tightening.
Yes. You must jack up the rear of the vehicle or raise it on a hoist with safety jack stands under the axle adjusted to normal ride height.
The maximum air pressure is 100 PSI. Never inflate beyond 100 PSI; improper use or over-inflation may cause the assembly to burst.
The minimum air pressure is 20 PSI. Always maintain minimum pressure to keep the air spring in shape. Operating below minimum pressure voids the warranty.
Check the air pressure weekly. Always maintain normal ride height regardless of load.
Inflate to 60 PSI and check for at least 1/2" clearance around the bellows. Check all connections for leaks with soapy water. Verify 6" clearance from heat sources. Torque all fasteners. Drive 10 miles and recheck for clearance, leaks and loose fasteners.
There is an air leak in the system. Use a soapy water solution to check all air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings. Look for pinched lines (loosen or replace tie straps), holes or cracks in the air line, or kinks or folds in the line. Replace or reroute as needed. If the leak persists, the air spring may have failed; call Air Lift at (800) 248-0892.
Identify the source of rubbing and move it if possible. Ensure at least 1/2" clearance around the bellows away from tires, brake drums, frame, shock absorbers and brake cables. If the source cannot be relocated, the air spring may need to be remounted. If professionally installed, consult the installer.
Check that you are maintaining the correct air pressure for your load. Adjust the air pressure to maintain normal ride height. If the vehicle is leaning to one side, you may need different pressures on each side (up to 50 PSI difference is normal for uneven loads). If the vehicle is still not level after pressure adjustment, check that you are not exceeding your vehicle's GVWR.
A rough or harsh ride may be due to too much or too little pressure. Try different pressures to find the best ride comfort. Start with the vehicle level or slightly above and adjust up and down. If the vehicle rocks and rolls, increase pressure to reduce movement. Stability should be the priority over a perfectly level ride.
Bottoming out indicates insufficient air pressure for the load being carried. Increase the air pressure and ensure you are maintaining normal ride height. If bottoming out continues, you may be exceeding your vehicle's GVWR or payload capacity, which is dangerous and voids the warranty.
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