Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE for Half-Ton Vehicles 88268Air LiftOriginal price was $857.99. Current price is $621.99.In Stock
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2002 - 2008 Dodge Ram 1500
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LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE for Half-Ton Vehicles with internal jounce bumper to absorb shock for best ride comfort
Adjustable air spring kit for leaf springs
Rear
Safely run w/zero air pressure
LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE Heavy Half-Ton adjustable air spring kits feature all of the benefits of our heaviest rated air spring with the addition of an internal jounce bumper inside the spring for the ultimate in ride comfort. An Air Lift exclusive product! Fits vehicles with in-bed hitches. Tow and haul the heaviest loads with safety and comfort with LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE Heavy Half-Ton adjustable air spring kits. Works with vehicle's leaf springs to provide your half-ton exceptional rear load leveling capacity and keeps the vehicle riding stable, level and comfortable whether loaded or unloaded. Fully adjustable from 5 to 100 PSI. The closed-cell urethane foam jounce bumper inside the ULTIMATE Heavy Half-Ton adjustable air springs provide a cushion of air that absorbs shock, eliminates harsh jarring on rough roads and protects vehicles carrying heavy loads. Never bottom out again with the ULTIMATE! LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE Heavy Half-Ton adjustable air springs are maintenance free! Safely run with zero air pressure because of the internal jounce bumper. Replaces factory jounce bumper that is sometimes removed when adding air springs.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 - 2008 | Dodge Ram 1500 | — |
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE for Half-Ton Vehicles 88257 (Part #BBCG88257) fits 2002-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 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 ULTIMATE for Half-Ton Vehicles 88257 (Part #BBCG88257) fits the following vehicles: 2002-2008 Dodge Ram 1500. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE for Half-Ton Vehicles 88257 (Part #BBCG88257) is designed to fit the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram 1500.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE for Half-Ton Vehicles 88257 (Part #BBCG88257) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate is designed for 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs, motor home rear applications, and various front applications with leaf springs. Check your vehicle's suspension type and tonnage rating. For specific vehicle fitment, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate provides up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling support with air adjustability from 5–100 PSI. The springs support approximately 40 pounds of load (combined on both springs) for each 1 PSI of pressure.
Required tools include: hoist or floor jacks, safety stands, safety glasses, torque wrench, standard open-end combo wrenches, ratchet, metric and standard sockets, #6 metric Allen wrench, 7/32 Allen wrench, 5/16" drill bit (very sharp), heavy duty drill, hose cutter or sharp knife, air compressor or compressed air source, and spray bottle with dish soap/water solution.
The manual does not specify battery disconnection as a requirement for installation.
Yes. You must drill 5/16" holes to install the inflation valves. If a jounce bumper bolt breaks during removal, you must drill an additional 5/16" hole and install a self-tapping bolt. Use a very sharp 5/16" drill bit and heavy duty drill.
Upper frame bracket M10 button head screws (I): 30 lb.-ft. Upper bracket carriage bolts (G): 16 lb.-ft. Air spring bracket button head screws (M): no more than 20 lb.-ft. Lower bracket hex bolts (V): no more than 20 lb.-ft. Lower bracket hardware: 10 lb.-ft. Self-tapping bolt (O) if jounce bumper bolt breaks: 15 lb.-ft. Swivel fitting (N): finger tight plus one and a half turns.
Minimum recommended pressure: 5 PSI. Maximum pressure: 100 PSI. The system can safely run at zero air pressure, but operating below 5 PSI during normal use voids the Air Lift warranty. Loaded vehicles require at least 25 PSI.
Perform clearance test (1/2" minimum from tires, brakes, frame, shocks, cables), leak test at 75–90 PSI, heat test (6" clearance from heat sources), fastener torque recheck, 10-mile road test, and overnight leak-down test (pressure loss should not exceed 5 PSI in 24 hours). At 30 days or 500 miles, recheck the system and all fasteners.
No. Installing air springs will not change the weight ratings (GAWR, GCWR, or GVWR) of your vehicle. You must not exceed your vehicle's GVWR, as stated on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. Exceeding the GVWR is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
If properly installed and maintained, air springs can last indefinitely. Maintenance includes checking air pressure weekly, maintaining normal ride height, inspecting for leaks, checking fasteners periodically, and cleaning the springs with a garden hose to remove debris.
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, though it requires significant effort. An on-board air compressor system allows for hassle-free control. Learn more about Air Lift control systems at www.airliftcompany.com/products/compressor-systems.
The jounce bumper is a component mounted under the frame rail. It must be removed to make room for the upper frame bracket assembly to be installed. The bracket is attached to the frame using the existing jounce bumper mounting holes with M10-1.5 x 35 button head screws, torqued to 30 lb.-ft.
The slot in the upper frame bracket (A) must go inboard towards the inside of the vehicle. The bracket is attached to the frame using two M10-1.5 x 35 button head screws (I), torqued to 30 lb.-ft. Repeat the installation on the opposite side.
Set a roll plate (E) over the top of each air spring (D) with the radiused (rounded) edge facing the bellows so that the bellows is seated inside both roll plates. Repeat by flipping the assembly and setting another roll plate on the bottom of the air spring assembly.
Install the 90° swivel fitting (N) into the top of the air spring (D) finger tight plus one and a half turns. Do not over-tighten. This fitting connects the air line to the bellows assembly.
The lower bracket (C) must be offset from the swivel fitting on the opposite (top) end of the assembly. Insert two 3/8-16 x 3.0" carriage bolts (T) into the lower bracket using holes "A" and set the lower bracket so it is offset from the fitting. Attach with 3/8 lock washers (U) and two 3/8-24 x 3/4" hex bolts (V), torqued to no more than 20 lb.-ft.
1. Set the assemblies onto the axle with fittings facing inboard. Align the upper air spring and frame bracket slots and attach using two 3/8-16 x 1.25" carriage bolts (G), two flat washers (K), and two nylon lock nuts (J). Leave hardware loose. 2. Raise the axle or lower the frame until lower brackets touch the axle. 3. Insert remaining 3/8-16 x 3.0" carriage bolts (T) into both lower brackets. 4. Set axle straps (S) over the carriage bolts and cap with flat washers (K) and nylon lock nuts (J). 5. With axle raised all the way up, align upper and lower brackets by pushing the upper bracket forward or backward. 6. Torque upper bracket hardware to 16 lb.-ft. 7. Evenly torque lower bracket hardware to 10 lb.-ft.
On the left (driver) side, the carriage bolts (T) previously installed in the lower bracket must go under the brake line behind the axle. On the right (passenger) side, the bolts must go rearward of the brake line. The remaining bolts (behind the axle) will go between the brake lines and the axle. If brake lines hit or rub on the carriage bolts when torqued down, slightly adjust the lines to provide clearance.
Choose a convenient location with enough clearance around the inflation valves for an air chuck. Popular locations include: wheel well flanges, under the gas cap access door, license plate recess in bumper, or through the license plate. Drill 5/16" holes to install the valves.
Place a 5/16" nut and star washer on the air valve, leaving enough valve exposed (approximately 1/2") to easily apply a pressure gauge or air chuck. Push the inflation valve through the hole and use a rubber washer, flat washer, and another 5/16" nut to secure it in place. Tighten the nuts to secure the assembly.
Use a sharp knife or hose cutter to make clean, square cuts. Do not use scissors or wire cutters, as these may deform the air line and cause leaks. Do not cut at an angle. Cut the air line leaving approximately 12" of extra length. Insert the air line into the 90° swivel fitting by pushing it in firmly with a slight side-to-side rotational twist until it bottoms out (9/16" of air line should be in the fitting). This is a push-to-connect fitting.
Route the air line along the frame to the fitting on the air spring. Keep at least 6" of clearance between the air line and the exhaust system. Avoid sharp bends and edges. Use zip ties to secure the air line to fixed points along the chassis. Tie straps should be tight but not pinch the air line. Leave at least 2" of slack to allow for movement that might pull on the air line. Do not bend 1/4" hose at a radius less than 1" or 3/8" hose at a radius less than 1.5". Do not put side load pressure on fittings; the hose should be straight beyond the fitting for 1" before bending.
First, release all air from the system. Push in on the air line (step 1), push the collar in (step 2), and with the collar depressed, pull the air line out of the fitting (step 3).
The heat shield goes on the right side where the hose enters the fitting on the bellows assembly. 1. Attach radiator clamps loosely around the exhaust pipe nearest to the spring. 2. Bend the heat shield tab out at a 90° angle and again half the distance up at a 90° angle to form an "L" shape. Repeat on the other tab. 3. Position the heat shield and insert the tabs beneath the two radiator clamps. Tighten the clamps. 4. Bend the heat shield to form it around the tail pipe, maintaining a "dead air" space of 1/2" to 1" between the tail pipe and the heat shield. Make sure installation does not interfere with moving parts, gas lines, etc.
The heat shield protects the air spring and air line from the radiant heat of the exhaust system. A "dead air" space of 1/2" to 1" must be maintained between the tail pipe and the heat shield to prevent heat damage. If a heat shield is included in the kit, it must be installed. If one is required but not included, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
1. Inflate the air spring to 30 PSI. 2. Spray all connections and inflation valves with a solution of 1/5 liquid dish soap and 4/5 water. Spot leaks by looking for bubbles in the soapy water. 3. After the test, deflate the springs to the minimum pressure required to restore normal ride height (not lower than 5 PSI). 4. Check 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 PSI.
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 half 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 and then use a wrench for an additional two turns.
1. Check the valve core by tightening it with a valve core tool. 2. Check the air line by removing the air line from the barbed type fitting. Cut the air line off a few inches in front of the fitting and use pliers or vice grips to pull/twist the air line off the fitting. Do not cut off the air line completely as this will usually nick the barb and render the fitting useless. If these steps do not resolve the problem, call Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
The system may have an improperly installed air line, or the air line may have holes or cracks. Leak test the air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings in the control system. Check to make sure air lines are seated in connectors. Inspect fittings with soapy water. Trim hose or re-seal fitting. Ensure lines are cut straight. If the problem persists, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
Look for a kink or fold in the air line. Replace any air line that has been kinked. If the problem persists, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
1. Check air pressure weekly. 2. Always maintain normal ride height. Never inflate beyond 100 PSI. 3. If an air leak develops, use a soapy water solution (1/5 liquid dish soap and 4/5 water) to check all air line connections and the inflation valve core before deflating and removing the air spring. 4. Loaded vehicles require at least 25 PSI. 5. When increasing load, adjust air pressure to maintain normal ride height. 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. 8. Periodically check fasteners for tightness and air springs for rubbing. 9. Occasionally spray the air springs with a garden hose to remove mud, sand, gravel, or debris.
Pressure determination comes down to three things: level vehicle, ride comfort, and stability. 1. Level vehicle: If headlights are shining into trees or the vehicle is leaning to one side, raise air pressure to level it. 2. Ride comfort: If the vehicle has a rough or harsh ride, try different pressures to determine the best comfort. 3. Stability: Stability should be the priority. Stability issues include roll control, bounce, dive during braking, and sponginess. Tuning out these problems usually requires an increase in pressure. Start with the vehicle level or slightly above. When in doubt, always add air. If the front dives while braking, increase pressure in the front air bags if equipped. If air bags have bottomed out, increase pressure. It may be necessary to maintain different pressures on each side of the vehicle; a 50 PSI difference is not uncommon.
Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle, including passengers and cargo. This number is shown on the vehicle's Safety Compliance Certification Label. Payload is the combined maximum allowable weight of cargo and passengers that the truck is designed to carry. Payload equals GVWR minus the base curb weight. Do not exceed your vehicle's GVWR, as this is dangerous and voids the Air Lift 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. Use of on-board leveling systems do not require deflation or disconnection.
If a jounce bumper bolt breaks, use the Tech Tip Option: 1. Line up the hole in the upper bracket over the broken bolt (as if being bolted normally). 2. Center punch and drill a 5/16" hole in the center of the outside hole next to the broken bolt hole. 3. Insert and tighten a self-tapping bolt (O) into the hole drilled, torqued to 15 lb.-ft. The upper bracket can then be installed using the supplied M10 bolt (I) that was removed and the self-tapping bolt.
Inspect the hose for scratches that run lengthwise on the hose prior to installation. If the air line is damaged, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892. Do not use air lines with lengthwise scratches, as they may leak.
The recommended minimum air pressure is 5 PSI. The system can safely be run at zero air pressure. However, operating the vehicle below 5 PSI during normal use will void the Air Lift warranty. Loaded vehicles require at least 25 PSI.
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