Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88398Air LiftOriginal price was $887.99. Current price is $643.99.In Stock
View productAsk a Question About This Product
Our in-house experts typically reply within one business day.
Our in-house experts typically reply within one business day.
Air Lift
Verify Fitment
Select your vehicle to confirm this part fits.
2001 - 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 3500
Confirmed to Fit
2007 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 Classic
Confirmed to Fit
2007 - 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
Confirmed to Fit
Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
Free Shipping!
Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
Free Shipping!
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.
Experts available to answer your questions
Call 888-634-9494Limited Lifetime
6 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2001 - 2006 | Chevrolet Silverado 3500 | Fits Commercial Cab and Chassis Applications Only |
| 2007 | Chevrolet Silverado 3500 Classic | Fits Commercial Cab and Chassis Applications Only |
| 2007 - 2012 | Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD | Fits Commercial Cab and Chassis Applications Only |
| 2002 - 2006 | GMC Sierra 3500 | Fits Commercial Cab and Chassis Applications Only |
| 2007 | GMC Sierra 3500 Classic | Fits Commercial Cab and Chassis Applications Only |
| 2007 - 2012 | GMC Sierra 3500 HD | Fits Commercial Cab and Chassis Applications Only |
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88286 (Part #BBCG88286) fits 2001-2006 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 models. The 2012 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 88286 (Part #BBCG88286) is designed to fit the 2001-2006 Chevrolet Silverado 3500.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88286 (Part #BBCG88286) fits the following vehicles: 2001-2006 Chevrolet Silverado 3500; 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 Classic; 2007-2012 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD; 2002-2006 GMC Sierra 3500; 2007 GMC Sierra 3500 Classic; 2007-2012 GMC Sierra 3500 HD. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88286 (Part #BBCG88286) 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 bellows (rubber and cord construction similar to a tire) 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 handling.
The kit is recommended for most 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs. The manual does not specify fitment by bed length, cab style, or drivetrain. Contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892 to confirm fitment for your specific vehicle.
No. Installing air springs will not change the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), gross axle weight rating (GAWR), or payload of your vehicle. You must not exceed your vehicle's maximum GVWR as listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver's door jamb. Exceeding the GVWR is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
Required tools include: safety glasses, hoist or floor jack, jack stands, standard and metric sockets and wrenches, air compressor or compressed air source, spray bottle with dish soap and water solution, hose cutter or sharp knife, and a drill with 5/16" drill bit. You will also need a valve core tool for leak checking and possibly a wrench for tightening the swivel fitting.
The kit includes: 2 bellows (A), 2 lower brackets (B), 2 upper brackets (C), 4 roll plates (D), 2 clamps (E), 1 emergency brake cable bracket (F), 4 flat head screws (G), 4 hex cap screws (H), 4 lock washers (I), 15 flat washers (J), 1 clip (K), 1 hex cap screw (L), 4 carriage bolts (M), 4 hex cap screws (N), 2 flat washers (O), 8 nylon lock nuts (P), 1 nylon lock nut (Q), 2 swivel elbow fittings (R), 1 air line assembly (S), 6 tie straps (T), 2 M8 flat washers (U), 2 star washers (V), 2 valve caps (W), 4 hex nuts (X), 2 rubber washers (Y), and 1 heat shield (Z).
Yes. As the first step, you must raise the vehicle on jack stands and lower the axle as far as it will go, then remove the jounce bumpers from the frame above the axle. These are the factory bump stops that the upper bracket will mount in place of.
1. Set the roll plates (D) on both sides of the bellows (A) with the rounded edge of each roll plate facing the air spring, seating both ends of the bellows in the roll plates. 2. Install the 90° swivel elbow fitting (R) to the top of the bellows and tighten finger tight plus 1.5 turns—tighten only on the hex nut and do not over-tighten. 3. Install the upper bracket to the bellows using two 3/8" bolts (H), lock washers (I), and flat washers (J), leaving bolts loose. On the driver side, attach the emergency brake cable bracket (F) to the forward bolt. 4. Insert two 3/8" carriage bolts (M) into the lower bracket (B) on the opposite end from the tabs. Attach the lower bracket to the bellows using two 3/8" flat head screws (G) and tighten securely, with the carriage bolts on the same side as the fitting.
Set the clamp (E) into position under the jounce bumper strike plate that is welded to the axle. It may be necessary to pry the bracket into position. Then set the driver side assembly in place over the axle so that the tabs on the outside of the lower bracket index under the jounce bumper strike plate. While setting the lower bracket into position, insert the lower bracket carriage bolts into the holes in the clamp (E). Cap with two 3/8" flat washers (J) and nylon lock nuts (P) and tighten both nuts evenly until tight.
Lift the axle up just far enough for the upper bracket to touch the frame. The upper bracket fits under the bottom frame flange and the brace also fits under the top flange. Using the existing holes where the jounce bumper was removed, attach the upper bracket to the frame using two 3/8" bolts (N), four flat washers (J), and nylon lock nuts (P). Set the nut inside on the bracket while holding the washer onto the underside of the bolt, push the bolt down into the nut, and turn the bolt to start it. With the bellows mounting bolts still loose, you may need to push the bellows forward or back to gain clearance to start the nut.
The upper bracket mounting bolts (N) should be tightened to 31 lb-ft. First align the bellows by moving the upper bracket inward or outward and moving the bellows forward and back so the bellows is perpendicular to both brackets, then tighten to 31 lb-ft. After raising the suspension back to stock ride height and confirming bellows alignment, push the emergency bracket (F) on the driver's side as far forward as possible and tighten the upper bellows mounting bolts securely without over-tightening.
Install a clip (K) to the emergency brake cable and attach the clip to the emergency brake cable bracket (F) using a 5/16" hex cap screw (L), two flat washers (O), and a nylon lock nut (Q). Install the cable so it is on the bellows side of the mounting hardware. This prevents the cable from rubbing a hole in the side of the bellows.
Choose a convenient location for mounting the inflation valves with enough clearance around them for an air chuck. Popular locations include: the wheel well flanges, the license plate recess in the bumper, under the gas cap access door, or through the license plate. Drill 5/16" holes at your chosen location(s).
1. Drill 5/16" holes at your chosen location. 2. Place a 5/16" nut and star washer on the air valve, leaving enough valve in front of the nut to extend through the hole and have room for the rubber washer, flat washer, and 5/16" nut and cap. Approximately 1/2" of valve should be exposed after installation to easily apply a pressure gauge or air chuck. 3. Push the inflation valve through the hole and use the rubber washer, flat washer, and another 5/16" nut to secure it in place. 4. Tighten the nuts to secure the assembly.
1. Cut the air line assembly in two equal lengths using a sharp knife or hose cutter, making clean, square cuts. Do not use scissors or wire cutters as they deform the hose and cause leaks. 2. Route the air line along the frame to the fitting on the air spring, maintaining at least 6" clearance from the exhaust system. Avoid sharp bends and edges. 3. Use zip ties to secure the air line to fixed points along the chassis, keeping ties tight but not pinching the line. Leave at least 2" of slack to allow for suspension movement. 4. Cut off the air line leaving approximately 12" of extra length. 5. Insert the air line into the air fitting (push-to-connect type). Wiggle the hose back and forth while inserting to ensure it bottoms out in the fitting for a good seal.
Do not bend the 1/4" hose at a radius of less than 1" or bend 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 scratches running lengthwise prior to installation and contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892 if the air line is damaged.
Bend the heat shield tabs to provide a dead air space (approximately 1/2") between the exhaust pipe and heat shield. Attach the heat shield to the exhaust pipe using the supplied clamps. Bend the heat shield for maximum clearance to the air spring. Some vehicles have large resonators in this area and may require doubling up on the clamps to fit properly.
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 testing, deflate the springs to the minimum pressure required to restore normal ride height, but not lower than 5 PSI. 4. Check air pressure again after 24 hours. A 2-4 PSI loss after initial installation is normal. If loss exceeds 5 PSI, retest for leaks.
1. Clearance test: Inflate to 75-90 PSI and verify at least 1/2" clearance from anything that might rub (tire, brakes, frame, shock absorbers, 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: After 24 hours of use, recheck pressure; if it has dropped more than 5 PSI, there is a leak that must be fixed. 7. Thirty-day or 500-mile test: Recheck the system after 30 days or 500 miles (whichever comes first) for signs of rubbing or abrasion and fastener tightness.
The minimum recommended air pressure is 5 PSI. The maximum air pressure is 100 PSI. The air springs can safely be run at zero air pressure when the vehicle is unladen (no load). For loaded vehicles (heavy bed load, trailer, or both), maintain at least 25 PSI. The springs support approximately 40 pounds of load (combined on both springs) for each 1 PSI of pressure.
Check air pressure weekly. Always maintain normal ride height and never inflate beyond 100 PSI. When increasing load, always adjust air pressure to maintain normal ride height. Add air to springs in small quantities, checking the pressure frequently.
Pressure tuning comes down to three things: level vehicle, ride comfort, and stability. 1. Level vehicle: If headlights shine into trees or the vehicle leans to one side, raise air pressure to level it. 2. Ride comfort: If the ride is rough or harsh, try different pressures to find the best comfort. 3. Stability: Prioritize stability over a perfectly level or comfortable ride. Stability issues include roll control, bounce, dive during braking, and sponginess. Tuning these problems usually requires increasing pressure. Start with the vehicle level or slightly above, and when in doubt, add air. It may be necessary to maintain different pressures on each side of the vehicle (as much as a 50 PSI difference is not uncommon for uneven loads).
The vehicle can be lifted on a hoist for short-term service work such as tire rotation or oil changes without damaging the air springs. 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. If you need to raise the vehicle by the frame, make sure the system is at minimum pressure (5 PSI) to reduce tension on suspension and brake components. On-board leveling systems do not require deflation or disconnection.
If the system loses pressure overnight, there is likely a leak. First, 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. If you find a leak at the swivel fitting, trim 1" off the end of the air line (making a clean, square cut) and reinsert it into the push-to-connect fitting. If the threaded connection leaks, tighten the swivel fitting another half turn. If it still leaks, deflate the air spring, remove the fitting, re-coat the threads with thread sealant, and reinstall by hand-tightening as much as possible, then use a wrench for an additional two turns. A 2-4 PSI loss after initial installation is normal; loss over 5 PSI indicates a leak requiring repair.
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 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 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.
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, though it requires significant effort. For convenient operation, Air Lift offers optional on-board air compressor systems. Learn more at www.airliftcompany.com/products/compressor-systems.
Yes. The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate can safely be run at zero air pressure when the vehicle is unladen (no load). The recommended minimum air pressure is 5 PSI, but it is not required when there is no load. For loaded vehicles (heavy bed load, trailer, or both), maintain at least 25 PSI.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate is recommended for most 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.
Yes. You must drill 5/16" holes to install the inflation valves. The upper bracket uses existing jounce bumper mounting holes on the frame.
The manual does not mention disconnecting the battery. No electrical work is required for this installation.
Yes. You must remove the jounce bumpers from the frame above the axle as the first installation step. The upper bracket will mount in place of the jounce bumpers using the existing holes.
Tighten the upper bracket mounting bolts (N) to 31 lb-ft. The swivel fitting on the bellows should be tightened finger tight plus 1.5 turns only—do not over-tighten.
The maximum air pressure is 100 PSI. Never exceed this pressure. The minimum recommended pressure is 5 PSI, but the springs can safely run at zero PSI when unladen.
Maintain at least 6" clearance between the air line and the exhaust system. A heat shield is included in the kit to protect the air springs from heat sources.
Check air pressure weekly. After 30 days or 500 miles (whichever comes first), recheck the system for signs of rubbing, abrasion, and fastener tightness. Periodically check fasteners and inspect for rubbing.
The most likely cause is an improperly installed air line, or the air line has 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 (1/5 dish soap, 4/5 water) and look for bubbles. Trim the hose or re-seal the fitting. Ensure lines are cut straight. A 2-4 PSI loss after initial installation is normal; if loss exceeds 5 PSI, there is a leak requiring repair.
Look for a kink or fold in the air line on that side. A kinked air line will prevent proper air flow and cause pressure loss. Replace any air line that has been kinked.
A rough or harsh ride 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, add air. If the front of the vehicle dives while braking, increase the pressure in the front air bags if equipped. If the air bags have bottomed out, increase the pressure. Adjust pressure up and down to find the best ride.
Raise the air pressure to correct the leveling problem. If the vehicle is leaning to one side, you may need to maintain different pressures on each side. As much as a 50 PSI difference is not uncommon for uneven loads such as water, fuel, or appliances.
Adjust the air pressure to reduce movement. Stability issues include roll control, bounce, dive during braking, and sponginess. Tuning out these problems usually requires an increase in pressure. Prioritize stability over a perfectly level or comfortable ride.
On Sale Today
Original price was $857.99. Current price is $621.99.You save $236.00 (28%)
Free Shipping
Ships free on all orders
Authorized Dealer
Quick Ship
In stock and ready to ship — order now!
FREE ShippingFREE SHIPPING
Estimated delivery Tue, Sep 22 - Fri, Sep 25
Order before 2 PM EST Monday–Friday for same-day processing
Guaranteed safe & secure checkout
No reviews have been added for this product.