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MN-509_57298.pdf
AD-938 LS user guide.pdf
AD-985-ALC-Warranty- Flyer.pdf
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.

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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Call 888-634-9494Limited Lifetime
5 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1971 - 1999 | Ford F-250 | For Use With Reese 5th Wheel Hitch |
| 1997 | Ford F-250 HD | For Use With Reese 5th Wheel Hitch |
| 1999 - 2004 | Ford F-250 Super Duty | For Use With Reese 5th Wheel Hitch |
| 1971 - 1997 | Ford F-350 | For Use With Reese 5th Wheel Hitch |
| 1999 - 2004 | Ford F-350 Super Duty | For Use With Reese 5th Wheel Hitch |
The Air Lift LOADLIFTER 5000. 57298 (Part #BBCG57298) fits 1971-1999 Ford F-250 models. The 2004 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The Air Lift LOADLIFTER 5000. 57298 (Part #BBCG57298) fits the following vehicles: 1971-1999 Ford F-250; 1997 Ford F-250 HD; 1999-2004 Ford F-250 Super Duty; 1971-1997 Ford F-350; 1999-2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the Air Lift LOADLIFTER 5000. 57298 (Part #BBCG57298) is designed to fit the 1971-1999 Ford F-250.
The Air Lift LOADLIFTER 5000. 57298 (Part #BBCG57298) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The LoadLifter 5000 is an air spring suspension system 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 to 100 PSI and is designed to help level vehicles under load while maintaining ride comfort and stability.
Kit 57298 is recommended for most ¾ and 1 ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs. It is also used in motorhome rear kits and some motorhome fronts where leaf springs are used. The manual specifically mentions compatibility with 1999 and later Super Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks equipped with 5th wheel hitches. For fitment on other specific vehicle models and years, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
Your vehicle may be equipped with a rear brake proportioning valve, and any type of load assist product could affect brake performance. Air Lift recommends that you check with your vehicle's dealer before installing this product. If your vehicle does not have a rear brake proportioning valve or is equipped with an anti-lock brake system, installation will have no effect on brake system performance.
The kit requires a minimum of 8" of clearance between the frame and the tire for a fully inflated air spring. This clearance must be measured and verified before installation begins.
Required tools include: hoist or floor jacks, safety stands, safety glasses, torque wrench, open-end or box wrench, crescent wrench, ratchet with deep well sockets, 1/2", 3/8" and 5/16" drill bits (very sharp), heavy duty drill, hose cutter/razor blade/sharp knife, air compressor or compressed air source, and spray bottle with dish soap/water solution.
The kit includes: 2 air springs (part 58437), 1 upper bracket right (07478), 1 upper bracket left (07479), 2 lower brackets (03102), 4 roll plates (11951), 8 bolts 3/8"-24 x 7/8" (17203), 8 lock washers 3/8" (18427), 16 flat washers 3/8" (18444), 2 elbow fittings (21837), 4 optional spacers (01525), 4 U-bolts 4½" (10583), 4 U-bolts 2" (10594), 4 bolts 3/8"-16 x 1.5" (17159), 12 nyloc nuts 3/8" (18435), 4 large flat washers 3/8" (18447), 1 air line assembly (20086), 6 tie straps (10466), 2 valve caps (21230), 2 flat washers 5/16" (18405), 2 rubber washers (21234), 2 star washers (18411), and 4 hex nuts 5/16" (21233).
Normal ride height is the distance between the bottom edge of the wheel-well and the center of the hub with the vehicle in the "as delivered" condition. To determine it: (1) Remove unusual loads and examine your vehicle from the side to ensure it is on a level surface. (2) If necessary, use a jack to raise the rear end so the vehicle achieves the original "as delivered" ride height. (3) Measure the distance between the center of the hub and the bottom edge of the wheel well. This measurement is your normal ride height and must be maintained throughout installation.
The manual does not specify that the battery must be disconnected for LoadLifter 5000 installation. This is an air suspension system without electrical components requiring battery disconnection.
Follow these steps: (1) Set a roll plate on both ends of the air spring with the radiused (rounded) edge toward the air spring so it seats in both roll plates. (2) Install a 90° swivel air fitting finger tight plus 1½ turns using a 7/16" open end wrench on the metal hex nut only—do not overtighten. (3) Place the upper bracket onto the top of the bellows and hat with legs facing down, guiding the swivel fitting through the large slotted hole in the center. (4) Place the lower bracket on the air spring with the flat edge toward the legs of the upper bracket (inboard). (5) Loosely attach the upper bracket using flat washers, lock washers, and hex head bolts. (6) Loosely attach the lower bracket using flat washers, lock washers, and hex head bolts.
The air spring must be installed between 5" and 8" from the upper bracket to the lower bracket, with the distance equal on both sides. It is best to position the upper bracket as high as possible. If necessary, optional spacers may be used to achieve this 5"–8" spacing.
Position the upper bracket so that the two forward bolt holes will be on the flat section of the frame rail, keeping the edge of drilled holes no closer than 3/4" from the top or bottom radius of the frame rail. Push the upper bracket against the frame and 5th wheel bracket, then mark the existing holes (used to hold the 5th wheel brackets to the frame) on the flat flange of the upper air spring bracket. Remove the assembly and drill two ½" holes through the upper bracket where the holes were marked, then set the assembly back on the leaf spring.
Yes, drilling is required. You must drill two ½" holes through the upper bracket to align with existing 5th wheel bracket holes on the frame rail. Additionally, you must drill a 5/16" hole to install the inflation valves at your chosen location (wheel well flange, license plate recess, under gas cap, or through license plate). A heavy duty drill with very sharp 1/2" and 5/16" drill bits is required.
Depending on the thickness of the leaf spring stack, it may be necessary to trim the tops of the U-bolts to prevent them from contacting the upper bracket in full jounce. This is a conditional modification that should be assessed during installation.
Use a hose cutter, razor blade, or sharp knife to cut the air line. A clean, square cut will ensure against leaks. Do not use wire cutters or scissors, as these tools may flatten or crimp the air line, causing it to leak around the O-ring seal inside the elbow fitting. When cutting, leave approximately 12" of extra air line before the final connection to the air fitting.
No, this modification is specific to 1999 and later Super Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks. For these vehicles, remove the bolt holding the emergency brake cable to the outside of the frame rail and reinstall it in reverse order with the nut on the inside of the frame rail to prevent rubbing against the air spring.
U-bolt lock nuts should be torqued to 16 ft/lbs.
The 3/8" frame bolts should be torqued to 44 ft/lbs.
The 5th wheel hitch bolts (existing hardware) should be torqued to 85 ft/lbs.
Install the 90° swivel air fitting finger tight plus 1½ turns. Use a 7/16" open end wrench, being careful to tighten on the metal hex nut only. Do not overtighten. This fitting is precoated with sealant.
The air springs compress to 2.8" and extend to 9.1". Regardless of load, air pressure should always be adjusted so that normal ride height is maintained at all times to prevent the air spring from limiting the suspension in either compression or extension.
The maximum inflated diameter of the air spring is 7.0". There must be sufficient clearance between the air spring, the frame, the tire, and the brake drum when the air spring is at this maximum inflated diameter.
Route the air line along the frame to the air fitting on the air spring. Keep at least 6" of clearance between the air line and heat sources such as exhaust pipes, muffler, or catalytic converter. Avoid sharp bends and edges. Use plastic tie straps to secure the air line to fixed, non-moving points along the chassis. Tie straps should be tight but not pinch the air line. Leave at least 2" of slack to allow for any movement that might pull on the air line. On the passenger side only, place the provided thermal sleeve on the air line near the exhaust.
Choose a convenient location for mounting the inflation valves such as wheel well flanges, license plate recess in bumper, under the gas cap access door, or through the license plate itself. Ensure there is enough clearance around the inflation valves for an air chuck. Drill a 5/16" hole at the chosen location. Place a 5/16" nut and star washer on the air valve, leaving enough valve exposed to extend through the hole and have room for the rubber washer, flat washer, and 5/16" nut and cap. Approximately ½" of valve should be exposed after installation to easily apply a pressure gauge or air chuck. Push the inflation valve through the hole and secure with the rubber washer, flat washer, and another 5/16" nut.
Cut the air line leaving approximately 12" of extra air line. Ensure the cut is clean and square. Insert the air line into the 90° swivel fitting. This is a push-to-connect fitting—simply push the air line into the fitting until it bottoms out. Approximately 9/16" of air line should be in the fitting.
The minimum air pressure is 5 PSI and must 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. Failure to maintain correct minimum pressure will void the warranty.
The maximum air pressure is 100 PSI. Never inflate beyond 100 PSI. Failure to maintain correct maximum pressure or exceeding it will void the warranty.
No. Compressed air can cause injury and damage to the vehicle and parts if it is not handled properly. Do not try to inflate the air springs until they have been properly secured to the vehicle.
No. The installation of this kit does not alter the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or payload of the vehicle. You must check your vehicle's owner's manual and not exceed the maximum load listed for your vehicle. Exceeding the GVWR is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
Maintain at least a thumbs width of clearance between the air spring and the frame when uninflated. When inflated to 60 PSI, there must be at least ½" clearance from anything that might rub against the air spring, including the tire, brake drum, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables. Keep at least 6" of clearance between the air line and heat sources such as exhaust pipes, muffler, or catalytic converter.
Before operating the vehicle, perform these checks: (1) Clearance test—inflate the air springs to 60 PSI and ensure at least ½" clearance from anything that might rub (tire, brake drum, frame, shock absorbers, brake cables). (2) Leak test—inflate to 30 PSI and check all connections for leaks using a soapy water solution. All leaks must be eliminated before road testing. (3) Heat test—ensure at least 6" clearance from heat sources. (4) Fastener test—recheck all bolts for proper torque (3/8" frame bolts at 44 ft/lbs, U-bolt lock nuts at 16 ft/lbs). (5) Road test—inflate to 25 PSI (50 PSI if loaded), drive 10 miles, and recheck for clearance, loose fasteners, and air leaks.
Inflate the air spring to 30 PSI and spray all connections and the inflation valves with a solution of 1/5 liquid dish soap and 4/5 water. Spot leaks easily by looking for bubbles in the soapy water. After the test, deflate the springs to the minimum pressure required to restore normal ride height (no less than 5 PSI). Check the air pressure again after 24 hours. A 2–4 PSI loss after initial installation is normal. Retest for leaks if the loss is more than 5 lbs.
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. A 2–4 PSI loss after initial installation is normal.
After 30 days or 500 miles (whichever comes first), recheck the air spring system. 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 the abrasion, the air spring may need to be remounted. If professionally installed, consult the installer. Check all fasteners for tightness.
Follow these maintenance guidelines: (1) Check the air pressure weekly. (2) Always maintain normal ride height and never inflate beyond 100 PSI. (3) If you develop an air leak, use a soapy water solution to check all air line connections and the inflation valve core before deflating and removing the spring. (4) When increasing load, adjust the air pressure to maintain normal ride height. (5) Periodically check all air spring system fasteners for tightness and check the air springs for any signs of rubbing, realigning if necessary. (6) Always add air in small quantities, checking pressure frequently. (7) When raising the vehicle by the frame, ensure the system is at minimum pressure (5 PSI) to reduce tension on suspension/brake components.
Check the air pressure weekly. This regular maintenance helps ensure the air springs maintain proper ride height and function correctly.
The air springs support approximately 40 pounds of load (combined for both springs) for each 1 PSI of air pressure. Use this guideline: 1,000 lbs requires 25–35 PSI; 2,000 lbs requires 45–55 PSI; 3,000 lbs requires 70–80 PSI; 4,000 lbs requires 90–100 PSI. Always use enough pressure to level the vehicle to normal ride height. A loaded vehicle (with heavy bead load, trailer, or both) requires at least 25 PSI more than an unloaded vehicle. Operating below the minimum air spring pressure will void the warranty.
Yes, 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 the air springs are properly installed and maintained, they can last indefinitely.
Follow these troubleshooting steps: (1) Leak test the air line connections, threaded connection of the elbow into the air spring, and the inflation valves. (2) Check for dirt debris in the valve core. (3) Inspect the air lines to ensure none are pinched—tie straps may be too tight. Loosen or replace the strap and replace leaking components. (4) Inspect the air line for holes and cracks and replace as needed. (5) Look for a kink or fold in the air line and reroute as needed. If these steps do not solve the problem, it is most likely caused by a failed air spring. Call Air Lift at (800) 248-0892 for assistance or a replacement.
If there is a problem with the swivel fitting: (1) Check the air line connection by deflating the spring and removing the line by pulling the collar against the fitting and pulling firmly on the air line. Trim 1" off the end of the air line, ensuring the cut is clean and square. Reinsert the air line into the push-to-connect fitting. (2) Check the threaded connection by tightening the swivel fitting another ½ turn. If it still leaks, deflate the air spring, remove the fitting, and re-coat the threads with thread sealant. Reinstall by hand tightening as much as possible, then use a wrench for an additional two turns.
If there is a problem with the inflation valve: (1) Check the valve core by tightening it with a valve core tool. (2) Check the air line connection by removing the air line from the barbed type fitting. Do not cut the air line completely off as this will nick the barb and render the fitting useless.
If the vehicle has a rough and harsh ride, it 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, and when in doubt, always add air. Adjust the pressure up and down to find the best ride. Remember that stability should be the priority—the driver may need to sacrifice a perfectly level and comfortable ride for safety.
If the vehicle's headlights are shining into the trees or the vehicle is leaning to one side, it is not level. Raise the air pressure to correct either of these problems and level the vehicle. 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 is not uncommon.
If the vehicle rocks and rolls, adjust the air pressure to reduce movement. Stability issues including roll control, bounce, dive during braking, and sponginess usually require an increase in pressure.
If the front of the vehicle dives while braking, increase the pressure in the front air bags if equipped.
If it is suspected that the air springs have bottomed out, increase the pressure. Bottoming out occurs when the air spring compresses to its limit (2.8") and can cause damage to the suspension and vehicle.
Kit 57298 is recommended for most ¾ and 1 ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs, motorhome rear kits, and some motorhome fronts. It is specifically compatible with 1999 and later Super Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks with 5th wheel hitches. For other specific vehicle models, contact Air Lift at (800) 248-0892.
You need: hoist or floor jacks, safety stands, safety glasses, torque wrench, open-end/box wrench, crescent wrench, ratchet with deep well sockets, sharp 1/2", 3/8", and 5/16" drill bits, heavy duty drill, hose cutter/razor blade/sharp knife, air compressor, and spray bottle with dish soap/water solution.
The kit requires a minimum of 8" of clearance between the frame and tire for a fully inflated air spring. This must be verified before installation.
Torque 3/8" frame bolts to 44 ft/lbs, U-bolt lock nuts to 16 ft/lbs, and 5th wheel hitch bolts to 85 ft/lbs. Install the 90° swivel air fitting finger tight plus 1½ turns only.
Minimum pressure is 5 PSI (must be maintained at all times). Maximum pressure is 100 PSI. Never inflate beyond 100 PSI. Failure to maintain correct minimum pressure will void the warranty.
No. Installation does not alter the GVWR or payload. You must not exceed the maximum load listed in your vehicle's owner's manual. Exceeding GVWR is dangerous and voids the warranty.
Inflate to 60 PSI and check ½" clearance from tire, brake drum, frame, shock absorbers, and cables. Inflate to 30 PSI and check all connections for leaks using soapy water. Verify at least 6" clearance from heat sources. Recheck all bolt torque. Then inflate to 25 PSI (50 PSI if loaded) and road test for 10 miles.
A 2–4 PSI loss after initial installation is normal. If loss exceeds 5 PSI after 24 hours, there is a leak. Check all air line connections, the threaded connection of the elbow into the air spring, and the inflation valve core using a soapy water solution. For swivel fitting leaks, trim 1" off the air line end and reinsert, or tighten the fitting another ½ turn and re-coat threads with sealant if needed. For inflation valve leaks, tighten the valve core or check the air line connection. If leaks persist, call Air Lift at (800) 248-0892.
Rubbing or abrasion indicates insufficient clearance between the air spring and another component (frame, tire, brake drum, shock absorber, or brake cable). Identify the source of contact and relocate it if possible. If relocation is not possible, the air spring may need to be remounted. Ensure at least ½" clearance when inflated to 60 PSI and a thumbs width when uninflated.
A harsh ride may be caused by too much or too little air pressure. Try different pressures to find the best ride comfort. Start with the vehicle level or slightly above. When in doubt, add air. Adjust pressure up and down to find the optimal balance between comfort and stability.
If the vehicle is leaning to one side, it is not level. Raise the air pressure to correct this problem. It may be necessary to maintain different pressures on each side of the vehicle. Loads such as water, fuel, and appliances cause the vehicle to be heavier on one side. As much as a 50 PSI difference between sides is not uncommon.
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