Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Kit. 57237Air LiftOriginal price was $667.99. Current price is $483.99.In Stock
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2003 - 2019, 2021 - 2026 Ford E-450 Super Duty
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Offering up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling capacity, the LoadLifter 5000 kit from Air Lift will make towing and hauling a breeze.
Offering up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling capacity, the LoadLifter 5000 kit from Air Lift will make towing and hauling a comfortable and stress-free experience. Our fully-adjustable air springs are the perfect partner for your vehicle, eliminating any issues that you might face. The LoadLifter 5000 kit helps to eliminate problems frequently faced when towing and hauling, such as squat, trailer sway, body roll, and bottoming out (NOTE: Do not exceed vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)). With the added stability that air springs provide, you can haul safely, knowing that you have optimal braking and steering control, now featuring an easy-to-install, no-frame-drilling design. As experts in air suspension products for 70 years, Air Lift is committed to delivering quality load support parts that last. The key suspension components have all been torture-tested to ensure the highest quality, longevity, and customer satisfaction. With a lifetime warranty and 60-Day Ride Satisfaction Guarantee, you can purchase this kit with peace of mind. Whether it is towing or hauling, the LoadLifter 5000 kit from Air Lift will give you the ability to use your Ranger with added safety and comfort.
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 - 2019, 2021 - 2026 | Ford E-450 Super Duty | — |
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Kit 57242 (Part #BBCG57242) fits 2003-2026 Ford E-450 Super Duty models. The 2026 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Kit 57242 (Part #BBCG57242) fits the following vehicles: 2003-2026 Ford E-450 Super Duty. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Kit 57242 (Part #BBCG57242) is designed to fit the 2003-2026 Ford E-450 Super Duty.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Kit 57242 (Part #BBCG57242) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The LoadLifter 5000 Series is an air spring load-leveling system manufactured by Air Lift Company. It uses reinforced, commercial-grade convolute bellows constructed like a tire with layers of rubber and cords. The system provides up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) of load-leveling support with air adjustability from 5–100 PSI (0.34–7 BAR). Two kits are available: the standard LoadLifter 5000 with zinc-plated steel roll plates, and the LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate with black powder-coated roll plates.
Yes, kits 57242 and 88242 are designed for Ford E-450 and E-Super Duty Commercial Chassis. However, you must check both sides of the frame rail for obstructions, specifically propane lines, which may prevent installation on the outside of the frame rail. If obstructions are present, use kit 57131 instead, which mounts under the frame to the axle.
Kit 57242 (standard LoadLifter 5000) includes air spring part number 58494 and zinc-plated steel roll plates (part number 11967). Kit 88242 (LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate) includes air spring part number 58439 and black powder-coated roll plates (part number 11951). Both kits share common hardware and mounting components. The main visual difference is the roll plate finish and coating.
The manual states that the vehicle may be equipped with a rear brake proportioning valve, and any type of load assist product could affect brake performance. You must check with your dealer before installing this product. However, if your vehicle does NOT have a rear brake proportioning valve or is equipped with an anti-lock type brake system, installation of the LoadLifter 5000 will have NO EFFECT ON BRAKE SYSTEM PERFORMANCE.
Required tools include: 1/2" and 9/16" open-end or box wrenches, adjustable wrench, ratchet with 9/16" and 1/2" deep well sockets, 5/16" drill bits (very sharp), heavy duty drill, torque wrench, hose cutter or sharp knife, hoist or floor jacks, two safety stands, safety glasses, air compressor or compressed air source, and a spray bottle with dish soap/water solution.
Both kits include two air springs, four roll plates, and common hardware: eight 3/8"-24 × 7/8" bolts, eight 3/8" lock washers, sixteen 3/8" flat washers (SAE), eight 3/8"-16 × 1.5" frame bolts, eight 3/8" oversized flat washers, sixteen 3/8"-16 nylon lock nuts, eight 3/8"-16 × 7" carriage bolts, eight clamp/spacer bars, one air line assembly, six zip ties, two valve caps, two M8 flat washers, two rubber washers, two star washers, and four 5/16" hex nuts. Kit-specific parts include upper and lower brackets and air fittings.
Normal Ride Height is the distance between the bottom edge of the wheel-well and the center of the hub with the vehicle in its "as delivered" condition. It is critical because the air spring assembly must be positioned with 4.5" to 6.5" (114–165 mm) between the upper and lower brackets at normal ride height. Before installation, remove unusual loads, ensure the vehicle is on a level surface, and measure this distance. If leaf springs are sagging badly, use a jack to raise the rear end to restore the original ride height. Record this measurement before proceeding.
The kit requires a minimum of 7.5" (191 mm) of clearance between the frame and the tire for a fully inflated air spring. Measure this distance before installation to ensure adequate space.
Yes. The installation procedure requires you to raise the vehicle and remove the wheels. After raising, check that the distance between the center of the hub and the bottom edge of the wheel is at the normal ride height recorded earlier. If not, raise the frame or lower the axle as necessary to restore the original distance.
The manual supports three methods: (1) If using an axle contact hoist, place axle stands under the frame and lower the axle as needed. (2) If using a frame contact hoist, place axle stands under the axle and lower the frame as needed. (3) If using a jack and supporting with axle stands on the frame, use a floor jack to lower the axle. In all cases, ensure the vehicle is at normal ride height before proceeding.
Follow these steps: (1) Place a roll plate on the top and bottom of the air spring so it is seated within the roll plates. (2) Install the air fitting finger-tight plus 1.5 turns using a 7/16" open-end wrench, tightening only on the metal hex nut; do not overtighten as the fitting is precoated with sealant. (3) Attach the upper bracket with legs down using two flat washers, two lock washers, and two bolts; leave loose for adjustment. (4) Place the lower bracket on the bottom of the air spring and roll plate with the flat edge toward the legs of the upper bracket (inboard). (5) Attach the lower bracket using two flat washers, two lock washers, and two bolts; leave loose for adjustment.
The upper and lower brackets must be positioned with 4.5" to 6.5" (114–165 mm) between them at normal ride height. If the measurement is not within these parameters or if stock u-bolts hit the lower bracket, use two spacer bars provided in the kit under the lower bracket to achieve the correct distance.
Position the upper bracket so that at least four bolt holes (two on each side) are on the flat section of the frame rail. Use the widest spacing possible to achieve the required 4.5" to 6.5" (114–165 mm) distance between brackets, making sure holes do not fall on the radiused edges of the frame rail. Position the upper bracket as high on the frame as possible and parallel with the lower bracket. If the correct mounting height cannot be achieved with the top hole and one of the two lower holes, position the top holes above the frame and use the two sets of lower holes for mounting.
Attach the lower bracket using two clamp bars, four carriage bolts, four flat washers, and four nylon lock nuts. Torque all fasteners to 16 lb.-ft. (21.7 Nm). The kit will be mounted on the same angle as the leaf springs.
Yes, drilling is required. You must drill 3/8" holes in the frame rail to mount the upper bracket. Before drilling any holes into the frame, check for interference such as hydraulic lines, gas lines, and electrical wires. If any such interferences are present, move them aside to proceed. The manual also requires drilling a 5/16" (8 mm) hole if necessary for Schrader valve installation.
The drilling procedure is sequential: (1) Clamp the upper bracket to the frame rail with a C-clamp or welding clamp and center punch one mounting hole. (2) Drill one 3/8" hole in the marked location and loosely install a frame bolt, oversized flat washer, and nylon lock nut. (3) Measure the upper to lower bracket clearance on the other side of the upper bracket to ensure it equals the first side and is between 4.5" to 6.5" (114–165 mm). (4) Center punch and drill a hole on the other side of the upper bracket and install a frame bolt, oversized flat washer, and nylon lock nut. (5) Remove the clamps and drill the remaining two holes, installing frame bolts, oversized flat washers, and nylon lock nuts. (6) Tighten all upper bracket hardware to 44 lb.-ft. (59.7 Nm).
Torque specifications are: (1) Lower bracket carriage bolts: 16 lb.-ft. (21.7 Nm). (2) Upper bracket frame bolts: 44 lb.-ft. (59.7 Nm). (3) Air spring mounting hardware (upper and lower bracket bolts to air spring): 20 lb.-ft. (27.1 Nm). After 500 miles (800 km), recheck all bolts for proper torque.
The air fitting should be installed finger-tight plus 1.5 turns using a 7/16" open-end wrench. Tighten only on the metal hex nut and do not overtighten, as the fitting is precoated with sealant.
The maximum air pressure is 100 PSI (7 BAR). Do not exceed this pressure. The minimum recommended air pressure for operation is 20 PSI (1.4 BAR). Although the air springs are rated at 100 PSI maximum, the actual air pressure needed depends on load and gross vehicle weight rating.
Air lines are routed from the air springs to Schrader valves. It is recommended that nylon air lines be routed along the top of the frame, forward of the axle, then down to the fitting. Cut the air line in half using a razor blade or hose cutter, making clean, square cuts; do not use scissors or wire cutters. Use zip ties to secure the air line to fixed points along the chassis without pinching or kinking. The minimum bend radius is 1" (25 mm). Leave at least 2" (51 mm) of slack in the air line to allow for movement. Maintain at least 6" (152 mm) of clearance between all air lines and the exhaust system.
Schrader valve locations include: (A) inside the fuel tank filler door, (B) inside rear wheel wells, or (C) license plate or rear bumper area. Choose the location that best suits your vehicle and drill a 5/16" (8 mm) hole if necessary.
Critical safety precautions include: (1) Do not inflate the air springs until they have been properly secured to the vehicle; compressed air can cause injury and damage if not handled properly. (2) Do not drill frame holes without first checking for hydraulic lines, gas lines, and electrical wires. (3) Maintain at least a thumb's width of clearance between the air spring and frame when uninflated. (4) Maintain at least 1/2" (13 mm) clearance from the air spring sleeve to the tire, brakes, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables when inflated to 40–60 PSI. (5) Maintain at least 6" (152 mm) clearance between all air lines and the exhaust system. (6) Do not exceed the vehicle's maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or payload rating. (7) Wear safety glasses during installation.
A heat shield protects the air springs and air lines from exhaust heat. Bend the heat shield tabs to provide a 1/2" (13 mm) dead air space between the exhaust pipe and heat shield, then attach it to the exhaust pipe using clamps. Bend the heat shield for maximum clearance to the air spring. Some vehicles have large resonators requiring double clamps. Maintain at least 6" (152 mm) of clearance between air springs and air lines and all heat sources. If a heat shield is required but not included, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
Complete the following checks in order: (1) Clearance test—inflate to 40–60 PSI and verify at least 1/2" (13 mm) clearance from tire, brakes, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables. (2) Leak test—inflate to 40–60 PSI and check all connections for leaks; all leaks must be eliminated before road testing. (3) Heat test—verify at least 6" (152 mm) clearance from heat sources; install heat shield if included or required. (4) Fastener test—after 500 miles (800 km), recheck all bolts for proper torque. (5) Road test—inflate to recommended driving pressures, drive 10 miles (16 km), and recheck for clearance, loose fasteners, and air leaks.
Maintenance requirements are: (1) Check air pressure weekly. (2) Always maintain normal ride height. (3) Never inflate beyond 100 PSI (7 BAR). (4) If the system develops an air leak, use a soapy water solution to check all air line connections and the inflation valve core before deflating and removing the air spring. (5) After 500 miles (800 km), recheck all bolts for proper torque.
Use a soapy water solution (spray bottle with dish soap and water) to check all air line connections and the inflation valve core. Apply the solution to suspected leak areas and look for bubbles. If leaks are found, deflate and remove the air spring to repair or replace the affected component.
Air Lift Company provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser of the LoadLifter 5000, covering defects in workmanship and materials when used on cars and trucks as specified by Air Lift Company and under normal operating conditions. The full Limited Warranty and Return Policy is available at www.airliftcompany.com/warranty. For additional warranty information, contact Air Lift Company customer service at (800) 248-0892.
Yes, kits 57242 and 88242 fit Ford E-450 and E-Super Duty Commercial Chassis. However, you must first check both sides of the frame rail for obstructions like propane lines. If obstructions prevent outside mounting, use kit 57131 instead, which mounts under the frame to the axle.
Essential tools include: wrenches (1/2", 9/16"), ratchet with deep well sockets, sharp 5/16" drill bits, heavy duty drill, torque wrench, hose cutter, hoist or floor jacks, two safety stands, safety glasses, air compressor, and a spray bottle with soapy water.
Lower bracket: 16 lb.-ft. (21.7 Nm). Upper bracket frame bolts: 44 lb.-ft. (59.7 Nm). Air spring mounting bolts: 20 lb.-ft. (27.1 Nm). Recheck all bolts after 500 miles (800 km).
Perform clearance test (40–60 PSI, 1/2" minimum clearance), leak test (check all connections), heat test (6" minimum from exhaust), fastener test (recheck after 500 miles), and road test (10 miles at recommended pressure).
Check air pressure weekly. Always maintain normal ride height and never inflate beyond 100 PSI (7 BAR). After 500 miles (800 km), recheck all bolts for proper torque.
If the measurement is not within the specified 4.5" to 6.5" (114–165 mm) range, or if the stock u-bolts hit the lower bracket, use two spacer bars (part number M) provided in the kit under the lower bracket to achieve the correct distance.
Use a soapy water solution (spray bottle with dish soap and water) to check all air line connections and the inflation valve core. Apply the solution to suspected leak areas and look for bubbles. If leaks are found, deflate the air springs and remove them before attempting repairs. All leaks must be eliminated before the vehicle is road tested.
If clearance is insufficient when the air spring is inflated to 40–60 PSI, reposition the air spring using the slotted holes for adjustment to achieve uniform positioning between the brackets. Ensure at least 1/2" (13 mm) clearance from the air spring sleeve to the tire, brakes, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables. If repositioning does not resolve the issue, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
Position the upper bracket so that at least four bolt holes (two on each side) are on the flat section of the frame rail, using the widest spacing possible to achieve the required 4.5" to 6.5" (114–165 mm) distance between brackets. Ensure holes do not fall on the radiused edges of the frame rail. If the correct mounting height cannot be achieved with the top hole and one of the two lower holes, position the top holes above the frame and use the two sets of lower holes for mounting instead.
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