Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88398Air LiftOriginal price was $887.99. Current price is $643.99.In Stock
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LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE 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 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. Works with vehicle's leaf springs to provide up to 5,000 lbs. of front 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 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 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. Includes industry-exclusive 60 Day No Questions Money Back Guarantee! Includes the most comprehensive Lifetime Warranty in the industry---covers all kit contents including brackets, fittings and air line. Air springs are built like a tire and are reinforced by durable, 2-ply fabric for maximum strength. Exclusive upper and lower roll plates included. Protect the springs from sharp edges, such as brackets or the frame. The kit includes 2 air springs, brackets, air lines, Schrader valve and all of the hardware needed for installation. Includes fully illustrated instruction manual. Add an Air Lift on-board air compressor system to inflate and deflate air springs with the touch of a button from inside or outside of the vehicle.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 - 1999 | Chevrolet P30 | — |
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88203 (Part #BBCG88203) fits 1975-1999 Chevrolet P30 models. The 1999 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 with internal jounce bumper 88203 (Part #BBCG88203) fits the following vehicles: 1975-1999 Chevrolet P30. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88203 (Part #BBCG88203) is designed to fit the 1975-1999 Chevrolet P30.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88203 (Part #BBCG88203) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate is an adjustable air helper spring system designed for 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs. It uses reinforced, commercial-grade convolute bellows (manufactured like a tire with layers of rubber and cords) to provide up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling support. Air pressure is adjustable from 5 to 100 PSI, allowing you to level the vehicle under load and improve ride comfort and stability. The kit includes two air springs, brackets, hardware, air lines, and inflation valves.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate is recommended for most 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs. The manual does not specify particular makes, models, years, cab styles, or bed lengths. Contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892 to confirm fitment for your specific vehicle.
No. Installing air springs will not change the weight ratings (GAWR, GCWR and/or GVWR) of your vehicle. The installation does not alter the gross vehicle weight rating or payload. You must not exceed your vehicle's maximum 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.
Required tools include: 7/16" and 9/16" open-end or box wrenches, crescent wrench, ratchet with 3/8", 9/16", and 1/2" deep well sockets, 3/8" and 5/16" drill bits (very sharp), 3/8" nut driver, heavy duty drill, torque wrench, hose cutter or sharp knife, hoist or floor jacks, safety stands, safety glasses, air compressor or compressed air source, and a spray bottle with dish soap/water solution.
The kit includes: 2 air springs, 2 upper brackets, 2 lower brackets, 4 backer plates, 2 elbow fittings, 8 × 3/8"-24 × 7/8" bolts, 8 × 3/8" lock washers, 20 × 3/8" flat washers, 12 × 3/8" nylon lock nuts, 4 × 3/8"-16 × 3.5" carriage bolts, 8 × 3/8"-16 × 1.5" carriage bolts, 4 J-straps, 2 thermal sleeves, 2 heat shields, 4 heat shield clamps, 1 air line assembly, 6 tie straps, 2 valve caps, 2 × 5/16" flat washers, 2 rubber washers, 2 × 5/16" star washers, and 4 × 5/16" hex nuts.
The manual does not mention disconnecting the battery. No electrical work is required for this installation.
Place a backer plate (D) on the top of the air spring (A). Then install the 90° elbow fitting (E) to the top of the air spring, tightening it finger tight plus 1½ turns. Be careful to only tighten on the metal hex nut and do not over-tighten.
Tighten the 3/8" bolt (F), 3/8" lock washer (G), and 3/8" flat washer (H) that attach the upper bracket (B) to the air spring (A) to 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm).
Tighten the 3/8" bolts (F), 3/8" lock washers (G), and 3/8" flat washers (H) that attach the lower bracket and backer plate to the assembly to 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm).
The lower bracket should be placed in an offset position so that the air spring assembly overhangs the lower bracket. The offset must be on the air fitting side of the assembly. When properly positioned, the air spring will be mounted straight up and down, and the lower bracket will be centered on the axle housing.
You must remove the rubber jounce bumper from the metal bracket on the frame rail (this will not be reused) and remove the two nuts and bolts holding the metal-to-metal stop to the frame (discard these parts). Replacement nuts and carriage bolts are provided in the kit. You may also need to remove a clip holding lines on the inside of the frame rail to provide access to the existing bolts.
The tab of the upper bracket rests against the jounce bumper bracket. It does not go into the slot of the jounce bumper bracket.
Tighten the J-strap nuts to 16 lb.-ft. (22 Nm).
Tighten the upper bracket to the frame/jounce bumper bracket assembly to 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm).
Install the J-straps (L) with the long leg to the front of the vehicle. On the shock absorber side of the lower bracket, fit the J-strap between the shock bracket and the axle housing.
No. It is not necessary to remove the shock absorber. Disconnecting the lower shock attachment may simplify the installation, but it is optional.
Cross tighten the nuts on the shorter carriage bolts first, then tighten the long bolts. Tighten the J-strap nuts to 16 lb.-ft. (22 Nm), then secure the upper bracket to the frame/jounce bumper bracket assembly to 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm).
Bend the heat shield tabs to provide a 1/2" dead air space between the exhaust pipe and heat shield. Attach the heat shield (N) to the exhaust pipe using the provided clamps (O). Bend the heat shield for maximum clearance to the air springs. Ensure at least 1/2" of dead air space is maintained between the heat shield and air springs.
Drill a 5/16" hole to install the inflation valves. Choose a convenient location such as the wheel well flanges, stowage area, or under the body flange, ensuring there is enough clearance around the inflation valves for an air chuck.
Cut the air line assembly (AA) in two equal lengths using a hose cutter, razor blade, or sharp knife. 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.
Place a 5/16" nut (GG) and star washer (FF) on the air valve, leaving enough valve exposed to extend through the hole and accommodate the rubber washer (EE), flat washer (DD), and another 5/16" nut (GG) and cap (CC). Approximately 1/2" of valve should remain exposed after installation to easily apply a pressure gauge or air chuck. Push the inflation valve through the hole and secure it with the rubber washer, flat washer, and nut. Tighten the nuts to secure the assembly.
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 (BB) 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 movement that might pull on the air line.
The thermal sleeve (M) protects the air line from heat damage. Place the provided thermal sleeve on the air line near the exhaust on both sides.
Cut off the air line leaving approximately 12" of extra air line. Make a clean square cut to ensure against leaks. Insert the air line into the 90-degree swivel fitting on the air spring. 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.
Compressed air can cause injury and damage to the vehicle and parts if not handled properly. Do not try to inflate the air springs until they have been properly secured to the vehicle.
Inflate the air springs to 60 PSI. 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. After testing, deflate the springs to the minimum pressure required to restore the system to normal ride height (do not deflate below 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 PSI.
Inflate the air springs to 60 PSI and make sure there is at least 1/2" clearance from anything that might rub against each sleeve. Be sure to check the tire, brakes, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables.
Ensure sufficient clearance from heat sources of at least 6" for air springs and air lines. If a heat shield was included in the kit, install it. If there is no heat shield but one is required, call Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
Perform the following tests in order: (1) Clearance test — inflate to 60 PSI and check 1/2" clearance from tires, brakes, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables; (2) Leak test — inflate to 60 PSI and check all connections for leaks; (3) Heat test — verify 6" clearance from heat sources and install heat shield if included; (4) Fastener test — recheck all bolts for proper torque; (5) Road test — drive 10 miles at recommended driving pressures and recheck for clearance, loose fasteners, and air leaks.
Recheck the air spring system after 30 days or 500 miles, whichever comes first. If any part shows signs of rubbing or abrasion, identify and move the source if possible. If relocation is not possible, the air spring may need to be remounted. Check all fasteners for tightness.
The recommended minimum air pressure is 5 PSI. However, the air springs can safely be run at zero air pressure when unladen (no load). For loaded vehicles (heavy bed load, trailer, or both), maintain at least 25 PSI. Never operate below the minimum air spring pressure, as this will void the Air Lift warranty.
The maximum air pressure is 100 PSI. Never inflate beyond 100 PSI. The actual air pressure needed is dependent on load and GVWR.
Check air pressure weekly. Always maintain normal ride height and never inflate beyond 100 PSI. If the system develops an air leak, 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. Loaded vehicles require at least 25 PSI. The springs support approximately 40 pounds of load (combined on both springs) for each 1 PSI of pressure. Periodically check fasteners for tightness and inspect air springs for rubbing. On occasion, spray the air springs with a garden hose to remove mud, sand, gravel, or debris.
The springs in this kit will support approximately 40 pounds of load (combined on both springs) for each 1 PSI of pressure.
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.
When increasing load, always adjust 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.
Pressure determination comes down to three things: level vehicle, ride comfort, and stability. (1) Level vehicle — if headlights shine into trees or vehicle leans 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 translates into safety and 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.
Yes. 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.
Check for an improperly installed air line, holes, or cracks. Leak test the air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings in the control system. Also check that air lines are seated in connectors and inspect fittings with soapy water. Trim the hose or re-seal the fitting, ensuring lines are cut straight.
Look for a kink or fold in the air line. Replace any air line that has been kinked.
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. If it still leaks at the threaded connection, tighten 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.
Check the valve core by tightening it with a valve core tool. Check the air line by removing it 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 the air springs are properly installed and maintained, they can last indefinitely.
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 requires significant effort.
No. 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.
The kit is recommended for most 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs. For specific fitment confirmation, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
Yes. You must drill a 5/16" hole for each inflation valve (two holes total). You will also use a 3/8" drill bit for the lower bracket mounting holes using the provided template. Print the template at 100% scale only.
Air spring to upper bracket: 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm). Air spring to lower bracket: 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm). J-strap nuts: 16 lb.-ft. (22 Nm). Upper bracket to frame: 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm).
Maintain at least 1/2" clearance between the air springs and anything that might rub (tires, brakes, frame, shock absorbers, brake cables). Keep at least 6" clearance between air lines and heat sources (exhaust, muffler, catalytic converter).
Check air pressure weekly. After 24 hours of initial installation, recheck pressure (a 2-4 PSI loss is normal; more than 5 PSI indicates a leak). After 30 days or 500 miles, recheck the entire system.
Perform a leak test using soapy water (1/5 dish soap, 4/5 water) on all connections, fittings, and the inflation valve. Check for kinked air lines. If loss exceeds 5 PSI after 24 hours, there is a leak that must be fixed before operating the vehicle.
Cause: Improperly installed air line, air line with holes or cracks, or compromised fitting seal. Solution: Perform a leak test on all air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings in the control system. Check that air lines are seated in connectors. Inspect fittings with soapy water (1/5 dish soap, 4/5 water). Trim 1" off the end of the air line and reinsert into the push-to-connect fitting if the connection is loose. Ensure all lines are cut straight.
Cause: Kink or fold in the air line. Solution: Inspect the air line for kinks or folds. Replace any air line that has been kinked.
Step 1: Check the air line connection. Deflate the spring and remove 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. Step 2: If still leaking at the threaded connection, tighten the swivel fitting another half turn. Step 3: If still leaking, 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.
Step 1: Check the valve core by tightening it with a valve core tool. Step 2: Check the air line by removing it 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 nick the barb and render the fitting useless. Step 3: If the preceding steps do not resolve the problem, call Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
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