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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1990 - 1997 Ford F-53 Motorhome Chassis
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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 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 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. Requires no drilling into frame! 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 - 1997 | Ford F-53 Motorhome Chassis | — |
Yes, the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88208 (Part #BBCG88208) is designed to fit the 1990-1997 Ford F-53 Motorhome Chassis.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88208 (Part #BBCG88208) fits the following vehicles: 1990-1997 Ford F-53 Motorhome Chassis. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88208 (Part #BBCG88208) fits 1990-1997 Ford F-53 Motorhome Chassis models. The 1997 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 88208 (Part #BBCG88208) 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 rubber and cord layers) to provide up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling support. Air pressure is adjustable from 5 to 100 PSI, allowing you to level your vehicle under load and improve ride comfort and stability.
The kit is recommended for most 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups and SUVs equipped with leaf springs. The manual does not provide a specific year, make, or model list. For confirmation that the kit fits your specific vehicle, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
No. Installing air springs will not change the GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating), GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating), or GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of your vehicle. You must not exceed your vehicle's GVWR, as doing so is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty. Check your vehicle's owner's manual and the Safety Compliance Certification Label for weight limits.
Yes. Your vehicle may be equipped with a rear brake proportioning valve, which could be affected by load assist products. Air Lift recommends checking with your vehicle's dealer before installation. 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 performance.
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, razor blade, or sharp knife; hoist or floor jacks; safety stands; safety glasses; air compressor or compressed air source; and spray bottle with dish soap/water solution.
The kit includes: 2 air springs, 2 upper brackets, 2 lower brackets, 4 roll plates, 2 90° air fittings, 4 clamp bars, 8 7" carriage bolts, 8 1.5" washer head frame bolts, 16 3/8" lock nuts, 8 3/8" flat washers, 8 oversized flat washers, 8 3/8" x 7/8" hex head bolts, 8 3/8" flat washers, 8 lock washers, 1 air line assembly, 6 tie straps, 2 valve caps, 2 5/16" flat washers, 2 rubber washers, 2 star washers, and 4 5/16" hex nuts.
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 (before any load is added). It is important because you must establish this measurement before installation and maintain it throughout the installation process. The vehicle must be on a level surface, and if leaf springs are sagging badly, you may need to use a jack to raise the rear end to achieve the original ride height before measuring.
Raise the vehicle using a hoist or floor jacks and support it with safety stands. The manual provides three methods depending on your lifting equipment: (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 raise the frame as needed; (3) If using a jack with axle stands on the frame, use a floor jack to lower the axle. Ensure the vehicle is at normal ride height before proceeding.
The air spring assembly mounts forward of the axle on top of the leaf spring. Before mounting, check for obstructions such as body flanges, lines, or other components in or near the installation location. It may be necessary to move obstructions (such as clips holding lines to the frame rail) to provide sufficient clearance for the air spring.
All air spring fasteners should be torqued to 20 lb.-ft. This applies to: the lower bracket attachment to the leaf springs (clamp bar fasteners), the lower bracket attachment to the air spring, the upper bracket attachment to the frame rail, and the upper bracket attachment to the air spring.
Follow these steps: (1) Install the 90° air swivel fitting (E) to the top of the air spring, tightening finger tight plus 1.5 turns; (2) Place the bottom of the air spring into one roll plate (D) and the top into another roll plate; (3) Set the upper bracket (B) on top of the air spring with the air fitting port inboard; (4) Loosely attach the upper bracket to the air spring using flat washers (M), lock washers (N), and 3/8" x 7/8" hex head bolts (L), leaving them loose for adjustment; (5) Attach the lower bracket (C) to the air spring with the same washers and bolts, tightening to 20 lb.-ft.
The upper to lower bracket measurement must be between 5 and 7 inches and must be equal on both sides of the vehicle. This measurement is critical for proper air spring alignment and function.
Maintain at least a "thumb's width" of clearance between the air spring and the frame when the air spring is deflated. When inflated to maximum diameter (7.0"), there must be sufficient clearance between the air spring, frame rail, tire, and brake drum. At maximum inflation (75-90 PSI), there should be at least 1/2" clearance from anything that might rub.
Yes. You must drill four 3/8" holes in the frame rail to attach the upper bracket. The manual requires that you drill only on the flat section of the frame rail (not on radiused edges) and use the widest bolt spacing possible. Before drilling, you must check for hydraulic lines, gas lines, and electrical wires that may need to be moved aside on either side of the frame.
Before drilling any holes into the frame, you must check for hydraulic lines, gas lines, and electrical wires that may be present on either side of the frame and may need to be moved aside. Failure to do this could result in damage to critical vehicle systems.
Yes. After attaching the lower bracket to the leaf springs using the clamp bar, you may trim off excess bolt if desired.
Choose a convenient location for the inflation valves, such as wheel well flanges, license plate recess in bumper, under the gas cap access door, or through the license plate. Ensure there is enough clearance around the valves for an air chuck. Drill 5/16" holes for the valves. Place a 5/16" nut and star washer on the valve, leaving approximately 1/2" of valve exposed after installation to easily apply a pressure gauge or air chuck. Secure the valve using a rubber washer, flat washer, and another 5/16" nut.
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 (tie straps) to secure the air line to fixed points along the chassis, ensuring the ties are tight but do not pinch the 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". The hose should be straight beyond the fitting for 1" before bending.
Cut the air line assembly into two equal lengths using a sharp knife or hose cutter, making clean, square cuts. Do not use scissors or wire cutters, as these tools may deform the air line and cause leaks. Do not cut at an angle. Leave approximately 12" of extra air line. Insert the air line into the push-to-connect fitting on the air spring, wiggling the hose back and forth while inserting to ensure it bottoms out in the fitting for a good seal.
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 attempt to use a damaged air line.
The minimum recommended air pressure is 5 PSI. The maximum air pressure is 100 PSI. Operating the vehicle below the minimum air spring pressure of 5 PSI will void the Air Lift warranty. For loaded vehicles (heavy bed load, trailer, or both), maintain at least 25 PSI. Regardless of load, always adjust air pressure to maintain normal ride height.
For LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate, the air springs can safely be run at zero air pressure when the vehicle is unladen (no load). However, the recommended minimum air pressure is 5 PSI, and operating below 5 PSI will void the warranty.
The air spring compresses to 2.8" and extends to 9.1". For maximum effectiveness and safety, the air spring should not be the suspension limiter in either compression or extension. The shock absorber is usually the limiter on extension. If this is not the case, consider using limiting straps, especially if the vehicle is used off-road.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate provides up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling support combined on both springs. The springs support approximately 40 pounds 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 and the load distribution.
The manual does not mention disconnecting the battery. No battery disconnection is required for this air spring installation.
Before operating, perform these checks: (1) Clearance test — Inflate to 75-90 PSI and verify at least 1/2" clearance from tire, brakes, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables; (2) Leak test — Inflate to 75-90 PSI and check all connections for leaks; (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; (5) Road test — Drive 10 miles and recheck clearance, fasteners, and leaks; (6) Overnight leak test — After 24 hours, recheck pressure; loss of more than 5 PSI indicates a leak requiring repair.
Inflate the air springs to 30 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 to the minimum pressure required to restore normal ride height (not lower than 5 PSI). Check pressure again after 24 hours; a 2-4 PSI loss is normal. If loss exceeds 5 PSI, retest for leaks.
Recheck the air spring system after 30 days or 500 miles, whichever comes first. Inspect for any signs of rubbing or abrasion; if found, 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.
Check air pressure weekly. Always maintain normal ride height. Never inflate beyond 100 PSI.
Follow these maintenance guidelines: (1) Check air pressure weekly; (2) Always maintain normal ride height and never exceed 100 PSI; (3) If a leak develops, use soapy water (1/5 liquid dish soap and 4/5 water) to check all air line connections and inflation valve core before deflating; (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, reduce system pressure to 5 PSI to reduce tension on suspension/brake components; (8) Periodically check fasteners for tightness and inspect air springs for rubbing; (9) Periodically spray air springs with a garden hose to remove mud, sand, gravel, or debris.
If the air springs are properly installed and maintained, they can last indefinitely.
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, support the axle with jack stands to take the tension off the air springs.
Tuning comes down to three things: (1) Level vehicle — If headlights shine into trees or vehicle leans to one side, raise air pressure to level it; (2) Ride comfort — If ride is rough or harsh, try different pressures to find the best comfort; (3) Stability — Prioritize stability for safety; stability issues include roll control, bounce, dive during braking, and sponginess, which usually require increased pressure. Start with the vehicle level or slightly above. When in doubt, always add air. Adjust pressure up and down to find the best ride. It may be necessary to maintain different pressures on each side; differences up to 50 PSI are not uncommon.
If the system loses pressure overnight, perform a leak test on 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. If a leak is found, trim 1" off the end of the air line (making a clean, square cut) and reinsert it into the push-to-connect fitting, or re-seal the threaded fitting.
Look for a kink or fold in the air line. Replace any air line that has been kinked. A kinked line will prevent proper air flow and cause pressure loss.
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 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, 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 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.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate is recommended for most 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs. For confirmation that it fits your specific vehicle, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
A torque wrench is essential, along with a 3/8" drill bit, wrenches (7/16" and 9/16"), sockets (3/8", 9/16", 1/2"), hoist or floor jacks, safety stands, and an air compressor or compressed air source.
All air spring fasteners are torqued to 20 lb.-ft., including lower bracket, upper bracket, and air spring attachment bolts.
Minimum recommended pressure is 5 PSI; maximum is 100 PSI. Loaded vehicles require at least 25 PSI. Operating below 5 PSI voids the warranty.
No. Air springs do not change GVWR, GAWR, or GCWR. You must not exceed your vehicle's GVWR, as doing so is dangerous and voids the warranty.
No. Do not try to inflate the air springs until they have been properly secured to the vehicle. Compressed air can cause injury and damage if not handled properly.
Perform a leak test by inflating to 30 PSI and spraying all connections with soapy water (1/5 dish soap, 4/5 water). Look for bubbles. A 2-4 PSI loss after 24 hours is normal; more than 5 PSI indicates a leak requiring repair.
Cause: Improperly installed air line, air line with holes or cracks, or compromised fitting seal. Solution: Perform a leak test on 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. Trim 1" off the end of the air line (making a clean, square cut) and reinsert into the push-to-connect fitting, or re-seal the threaded fitting with thread sealant.
Cause: Kink or fold in the air line. Solution: Look for a kink or fold in the air line and replace any air line that has been kinked. A kinked line prevents proper air flow and causes pressure loss.
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