Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88347Air LiftOriginal price was $887.99. Current price is $643.99.In Stock
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1998 - 2013 Chevrolet Express 3500
Confirmed to Fit
2009 - 2012 Chevrolet Express 4500
Confirmed to Fit
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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 is a 3rd generation family owned company that has been manufacturing the highest quality suspension products in Lansing, MI.
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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2 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 - 2013 | Chevrolet Express 3500 | Fits G: 3500 and G-4500 Cutaway Chassis with a C-Channel frame only. |
| 2009 - 2012 | Chevrolet Express 4500 | Fits G: 3500 and G-4500 Cutaway Chassis with a C-Channel frame only. |
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88245 (Part #BBCG88245) fits the following vehicles: 1998-2013 Chevrolet Express 3500; 2009-2012 Chevrolet Express 4500. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88245 (Part #BBCG88245) fits 1998-2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 models. The 2013 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88245 (Part #BBCG88245) is designed to fit the 1998-2013 Chevrolet Express 3500.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88245 (Part #BBCG88245) 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 that provides up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling support for 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups, SUVs with leaf springs, motor home rear applications, and various front applications with leaf springs. The air pressure is adjustable from 5 to 100 PSI, allowing you to maintain normal ride height under different load conditions and improve ride comfort and handling.
Kit 88245 is designed for 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs, as well as motor home rear applications and various front applications where leaf springs are used. To confirm fitment for your specific vehicle, contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892 or visit airliftcompany.com.
No. Installing air springs will not change the weight ratings (GAWR, GCWR and/or GVWR) of your vehicle. You must not exceed your vehicle's 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.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the maximum allowable weight of your fully loaded vehicle, including passengers and cargo. This number is shown on your vehicle's Safety Compliance Certification Label. The installation of air springs does not alter your vehicle's GVWR. You must never exceed your vehicle's GVWR regardless of air spring pressure or other load assist, as doing so is dangerous and voids the warranty.
Payload is the combined maximum allowable weight of cargo and passengers your truck is designed to carry. It is calculated as GVWR minus the base curb weight. Air springs help support loads, but you must never exceed your vehicle's payload or GVWR, as stated in your vehicle's owner's manual.
Required tools include: standard open-end or box-end wrenches, ratchet with standard sockets, drill with 5/16" and 1/2" drill bits, torque wrench, hose cutter or sharp knife, safety glasses, and an air compressor or compressed air source. A spray bottle with dish soap and water solution is also needed for leak testing.
The kit includes: 2 upper brackets (07847), 2 lower brackets (03020), 2 bellows (58740), 8 hex cap screws 3/8"-24x7/8" (17203), 8 split lock washers 3/8" (18427), 16 flat washers 3/8" (18444), 2 swivel fittings 90° (21837), 1 spacer (13232), 1 M8-1.25x35 bolt (17252), 2 M8 flat washers (18501), 1 hose assembly (20086), 4 axle straps (01815), 2 carriage bolts 1/2"-13x1-1/2" (17186), 8 carriage bolts 3/8"-16x3" (17277), 2 flat washers 1/2" (18414), 2 split lock washers 1/2" (18429), 2 nuts 1/2"-13 (18431), 8 nylon lock nuts 3/8"-16 (18435), 6 zip ties (10466), 2 serrated lock washers 5/16" (18411), 2 valve caps (21230), 4 hex nuts 5/16" (21233), and 2 flat washers 5/16" (21234). An exhaust heat shield is also required.
Normal ride height is the distance between the bottom edge of the fenderwell and the center point of the wheel when the vehicle is in an 'as-delivered condition' (without a load such as a tool box or camper). You must measure and record this distance before beginning installation because all Air Lift kits are designed to be installed and operated at normal ride height. After installation, you will inflate the air springs until this normal ride height measurement is restored.
Yes. You must jack up the rear of the vehicle or raise it on a hoist, and place safety jack stands under the axle before beginning installation.
Insert a 1.5" carriage bolt (M) into the square hole of the upper bracket. Attach the upper bracket to the top plate of the air spring using two bolts (D), flat washers (F), and lock washers (E). The upper bracket is then loosely attached to the frame with a 1.5" carriage bolt (M), flat washer (O), lock washer (P), and nut (Q), with the threaded portion of the carriage bolt pushed into the jounce bumper track.
Attach the lower bracket to the bottom plate of the air spring using the mounting holes shown in the installation diagram. The lower bracket will be offset outboard away from the air fitting. Use two bolts (D), flat washers (F), and lock washers (E), and torque to 20 lb-ft.
Remove the rubber jounce bumper from the frame rail by pulling it out of the slotted track in the jounce bumper bracket. The threaded portion of the carriage bolt from the upper bracket will then be pushed into this jounce bumper track.
On models with disc brakes, ensure the emergency brake cable is above the upper bracket on the driver's side. Remove the bolt holding the cable onto the back-side of the passenger's side axle. Install the supplied spacer between the bracket and the emergency brake cable clip. Insert the supplied bolt and tighten the cable down securely.
LOOSELY attach the lower bracket and straps around the axle using the 3" carriage bolts (N), flat washers (F), and lock nuts (R). Both straps will be attached between the leaf spring stack and the shock mount bracket. On disc brake models, the inside strap on the passenger-side goes between the emergency brake cable bracket and the shock bracket on the axle.
The air spring should have at least a 'thumbs width' clearance between it and any interference. After installation, inflate the air springs to 75-90 PSI and verify at least 1/2" clearance from anything that might rub, including the tire, brakes, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables.
The lower bracket bolts (D) should be torqued to 20 lb-ft.
The FRONT 3/8" nylon lock nuts should be tightened first, then the rear nuts, to prevent any interference with the brake line. Torque to 20 lb-ft.
The 1/2" nut on the upper bracket should be torqued to 20 lb-ft.
Yes. Installation of this kit requires an exhaust heat shield. The shield is attached with stainless steel clamps to the exhaust pipe, with the flanges bent inward. The shield may be trimmed or bent to attain component clearance. Bend tabs to provide 1/2" dead air space between exhaust pipes and heat shield and maximum clearance with air springs.
Select a location for the inflation valves in the rear bumper area or rocker panel flange, ensuring that each valve will be protected and accessible with an air hose. Drill 5/16" holes for the inflation valves and mount as illustrated in the manual, with the rubber washer on the outside for weather seal.
Drill 5/16" holes for the inflation valves in the rear bumper area or rocker panel flange.
Route the air line from the inflation valve location along the frame rail to the air springs. The air line must be protected from direct heat from the muffler or tailpipe and kept away from sharp edges. The air line should not be bent or curved sharply. Attach the air line to the chassis with the provided plastic straps. Keep the air line at least 6 inches from the exhaust system, and use the thermal sleeve on the exhaust side.
Use a sharp knife or hose cutter to make clean, square cuts. Do not use scissors or wire cutters. Cut off the excess air line squarely and install into the fitting. This is a push-to-connect fitting: push and slightly turn the cut end of the air line into the fitting as far as it will go (5/16"). You will hear or feel a definite 'click' when the air line is seated.
When cutting air lines, use a sharp knife or hose cutter and make clean, square cuts. Do not use scissors or wire cutters, as these tools may deform the air line and cause leaks. Do not cut lines at an angle. Do not bend the 1/4" hose at a radius of less than 1" or the 3/8" hose at a radius of less than 1.5". Do not put side load pressure on the fitting. The hose should be straight beyond the fitting for 1" before bending. Inspect the hose for lengthwise scratches prior to installation.
Inflate the air springs to 60 PSI air pressure and test for air leaks by applying a soapy solution to all valve cores, fittings, and connections.
After inflating to 60 PSI, check once again to ensure there is sufficient clearance around the air springs. Then lower the vehicle and inflate the air springs until the normal ride height measurement (recorded before installation) is restored. Air pressure should be adjusted so that normal ride height is maintained at all times.
Yes. A 5-7 PSI loss after initial installation is normal. If pressure has dropped more than 7 PSI, re-test for leaks with a soapy water solution.
Never inflate the air springs beyond 100 PSI. Do not inflate the bellows when they are unrestricted or not installed, as improper use or over-inflation may cause the assembly to burst, causing property damage or severe personal injury.
For the LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate, the recommended minimum air pressure is 5 PSI. However, the system can safely be run at zero air pressure when the vehicle is unladen (no load). A loaded vehicle requires at least 25 PSI. Operating the vehicle below the minimum air spring pressure will void the Air Lift warranty.
Before operating, perform the following 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; all leaks must be eliminated before road testing. (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 for clearance, loose fasteners, and air leaks. (6) Overnight leak-down test—recheck pressure after 24 hours; if pressure has dropped more than 5 PSI, there is a leak that must be fixed.
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.
Check air pressure weekly to maintain optimal performance and ride height.
Follow these maintenance steps: (1) Check air pressure weekly. (2) Always maintain normal ride height and never inflate beyond 100 PSI. (3) 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. (4) Loaded vehicles require at least 25 PSI; never exceed GVWR. (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 the system to minimum pressure (5 PSI) to reduce tension on suspension/brake components. (8) Periodically check fasteners for tightness and check air springs for signs of rubbing. (9) Occasionally 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 required air pressure will vary depending on the state of the original suspension and the load being carried.
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 in small quantities, checking the pressure frequently.
If it becomes necessary to raise the vehicle by the frame, make sure the system is at minimum pressure (5 PSI) to reduce the tension on the suspension and brake components. Use of on-board leveling systems does not require deflation or disconnection.
Inflate the air spring to 30 PSI. 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 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.
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 and 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 the air line from the barbed type fitting. Cut the air line off a few inches in front of the fitting and use a pair of pliers or vice grips to pull/twist the air line off of the fitting. Do not cut off the air line completely, as this will usually nick the barb and render the fitting useless.
If the system won't maintain pressure overnight, the cause is likely an improperly installed air line, or an air line with 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 a corner won't raise or an air leak develops, look for a kink or fold in the air line. Replace any air line that has been kinked.
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.
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 in order to take the tension off of the air springs.
Pressure determination comes down to three things: level vehicle, ride comfort, and stability. (1) Level vehicle: If the vehicle's headlights are shining into the trees or the vehicle is leaning to one side, raise the air pressure to correct these problems. (2) Ride comfort: If the vehicle has a rough or harsh ride, it may be due to either too much or too little pressure. Try different pressures to determine the best ride 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.
Follow these guidelines: (1) Start with the vehicle level or slightly above. (2) When in doubt, always add air. (3) If the front of the vehicle dives while braking, increase the pressure in the front air bags, if equipped. (4) If it is suspected that the air bags have bottomed out, increase the pressure. (5) Adjust the pressure up and down to find the best ride. (6) If the vehicle rocks and rolls, adjust the air pressure to reduce movement. (7) 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.
Kit 88245 is designed for 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs. Contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892 to confirm fitment for your specific vehicle.
You need: wrenches, ratchet with sockets, drill with 5/16" and 1/2" bits, torque wrench, hose cutter or sharp knife, safety glasses, air compressor, and a spray bottle with dish soap and water.
Yes. You must drill 5/16" holes in the rear bumper area or rocker panel flange for the inflation valves.
Yes. Installation of this kit requires an exhaust heat shield, which is attached to the exhaust pipe with stainless steel clamps.
Torque the lower bracket bolts to 20 lb-ft, the 3/8" nylon lock nuts to 20 lb-ft, and the 1/2" nut on the upper bracket to 20 lb-ft.
Never exceed 100 PSI. Do not inflate the bellows when unrestricted or not installed, as over-inflation may cause the assembly to burst.
Check air pressure weekly. Maintain normal ride height at all times and never exceed 100 PSI.
Perform clearance, leak, heat, and fastener tests. Inflate to 75-90 PSI and verify at least 1/2" clearance from tire, brakes, frame, and shock absorbers. Check all connections for leaks. Ensure 6" clearance from exhaust. Recheck all bolt torque.
No. Air springs do not change GVWR, GCWR, or GAWR. You must not exceed your vehicle's GVWR as stated in your owner's manual.
Cause: Improperly installed air line, or air line with holes or cracks. Solution: Leak test the air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings. Check that air lines are seated in connectors. Inspect fittings with soapy water. Trim hose or re-seal fitting. Ensure lines are cut straight.
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.
Cause: Fitting seal or air line is compromised. Solution: 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.
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