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.
1999 - 2004 Ford F-250 Super Duty
Confirmed to Fit
1999 - 2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty
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!
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 Sun, Sep 6 - Wed, Sep 9
Order before 2 PM EST Monday–Friday for same-day processing
Guaranteed safe & secure checkout
MN-832_88298.pdf
AD-985-ALC-Warranty- Flyer.pdf
AD-938 LS user guide.pdf
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.
Experts available to answer your questions
Call 888-634-9494Limited Lifetime
5 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1971 - 1999 | Ford F-250 | Kit only fits applications with a Reese fifth wheel hitch |
| 1997 | Ford F-250 HD | Kit only fits applications with a Reese fifth wheel hitch |
| 1999 - 2004 | Ford F-250 Super Duty | Kit only fits applications with a Reese fifth wheel hitch |
| 1971 - 1997 | Ford F-350 | Kit only fits applications with a Reese fifth wheel hitch |
| 1999 - 2004 | Ford F-350 Super Duty | Kit only fits applications with a Reese fifth wheel hitch |
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88298 (Part #BBCG88298) fits 1971-1999 Ford F-250 models. The 2004 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 88298 (Part #BBCG88298) is designed to fit the 1971-1999 Ford F-250.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88298 (Part #BBCG88298) fits the following vehicles: 1971-1999 Ford F-250; 1997 Ford F-250 HD; 1999-2004 Ford F-250 Super Duty; 1971-1997 Ford F-350; 1999-2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 ULTIMATE with internal jounce bumper 88298 (Part #BBCG88298) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate is recommended for most 3/4 and 1 ton pickups and SUVs with leaf springs, motor home rear applications, and various front applications with leaf springs. It is specifically designed for vehicles like 1999 and later Super Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks with 5th wheel hitches. Check your vehicle's suspension type and weight class. If your vehicle has a rear brake proportioning valve, consult your dealer before installing, as load assist products could affect brake performance. Vehicles with anti-lock brake systems or no proportioning valve will not be affected.
A minimum of 8 inches of clearance is required between the frame and tire for a fully inflated air spring. Additionally, maintain at least a thumb's width of clearance (uninflated) between the air spring and frame, and at least 1/2 inch clearance around each bellows away from the tire, brake drum, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables when inflated to 60 PSI.
Required tools include: hoist or floor jacks, 2 safety stands, safety glasses, torque wrench, open-end or box wrench, crescent wrench, ratchet with deep well sockets (1/2", 3/8", 5/16"), heavy duty drill with very sharp 1/2", 3/8", and 5/16" drill bits, and hose cutter, razor blade, or sharp knife for cutting air lines.
Yes. You must drill two 1/2" holes through the upper bracket to align with existing 5th wheel bracket holes on the frame. You must also drill a 5/16" hole for the inflation valve(s). The manual specifies that drilled holes must be no closer than 3/4" from the top or bottom radius of the frame rail.
U-bolts attaching the lower bracket: 16 lb-ft. Existing 5th wheel hitch bolts (upper bracket): 85 lb-ft. Frame bolts (3/8" bolts through frame): 44 lb-ft. Do not overtighten the 90° swivel air fitting; tighten finger tight plus 1 1/2 turns only using a 7/16" open-end wrench on the metal hex nut.
Minimum recommended pressure is 5 PSI, though the air springs can safely run at zero air pressure. Maximum pressure is 100 PSI. However, the actual pressure needed depends on your load and GVWR. Loaded vehicles (heavy bed load, trailer, or both) require at least 25 PSI or more. Never exceed your vehicle's GVWR regardless of air pressure.
Check air pressure weekly. After initial installation, recheck after 24 hours (a 2–4 PSI loss is normal; more than 5 PSI indicates a leak). Retorque all fasteners after 100 miles. Perform a 30-day or 500-mile inspection (whichever comes first) to check for rubbing, abrasion, and fastener tightness. Periodically check fasteners and inspect for rubbing or debris.
No. Do not inflate the air springs until they have been properly secured to the vehicle. Compressed air can cause injury and damage to the vehicle and parts if not handled properly.
Route the air line along the frame to the air fitting on the air spring. Maintain at least 6 inches of clearance from heat sources such as exhaust pipes, muffler, or catalytic converter. Avoid sharp bends and edges. Use plastic tie straps to secure the air line to fixed, non-moving points. Tie straps should be tight but not pinch the air line. Leave at least 2 inches of slack to allow for suspension movement. On the passenger side only, place the provided thermal sleeve on the air line near the exhaust.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate is an adjustable air helper spring system designed for 3/4 and 1 ton pickups, SUVs, and motor homes with leaf springs. It uses reinforced, commercial-grade single or double convolute bellows manufactured like a tire with layers of rubber and cords. An internal jounce bumper absorbs shock and eliminates harsh jarring on rough roads. The system provides up to 5,000 lbs of load leveling support with air adjustability from 5–100 PSI, allowing you to maintain proper ride height when towing or hauling.
No. Installing air springs will not change the weight ratings (GAWR, GCWR, or GVWR) of your vehicle. You must not exceed the maximum load listed 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.
No, you do not need to remove the 5th wheel hitch. You must remove the rear 5th wheel hitch bolts that go through the web of the frame and keep them for later use. The upper bracket is then attached using the existing 5th wheel hardware (the bolts you removed), which are reinserted and torqued to 85 lb-ft.
The manual does not specify that the battery must be disconnected for installation of the LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate air springs.
The air spring must be installed between 5 and 7 inches from the upper bracket to the lower bracket, and this distance must be equal on both sides. It is best to position the upper bracket as high as possible. If necessary, use optional spacers (part 01525) under the lower bracket to achieve the correct 5–7 inch spacing.
1. Set a roll plate on both ends of the air spring with the radiused (rounded) edge toward the spring so it is seated in both roll plates. 2. Install a 90° swivel air fitting finger tight plus 1 1/2 turns using a 7/16" open-end wrench on the metal hex nut only—do not overtighten. 3. Place the upper bracket on top of the bellows with legs facing down, guiding the swivel fitting through the large slotted hole. 4. Place the lower bracket so its flat edge mounts toward the upper bracket legs (inboard). 5. Loosely attach both brackets using flat washers, lock washers, and hex head bolts.
1. Position the upper bracket so the two forward bolt holes will be on the flat section of the frame rail, keeping the edge of drilled holes no closer than 3/4" from the top or bottom radius of the frame rail. 2. Push the upper bracket against the frame and 5th wheel bracket. 3. Mark the existing holes (used to hold the 5th wheel brackets to the frame) on the flat flange of the upper air spring bracket. 4. Remove the assembly and drill two 1/2" holes through the upper bracket where marked. 5. Set the assembly back on the leaf spring and ensure holes in the upper bracket align with existing holes in the 5th wheel bracket.
If not using spacers: Attach the lower bracket securely using the provided U-bolts, flat washers, and lock nuts, torqued to 16 lb-ft. Use shorter U-bolts (2" U-bolts, part 10594) when attaching to frame contact overload springs. If using spacers: Place the spacer legs down on the leaf spring, then attach the lower bracket securely using the provided U-bolts, flat washers, and lock nuts, torqued to 16 lb-ft.
1. Insert the 5th wheel hitch bolts (previously removed) and attach the upper bracket with the existing hardware. Torque to 85 lb-ft. 2. Using the upper bracket as a template, center punch and drill both 3/8" holes through the frame, using the widest bolt hole pattern possible. 3. Install a washer head frame bolt, oversized flat washer (part 18447), and lock nut (part 18435). Torque the 3/8" frame bolts to 44 lb-ft.
With the air spring still loose in the upper and lower brackets, align the air spring both inboard and outboard using the slotted holes in the brackets so it is uniformly positioned between the brackets. Maintain at least a thumb's width of clearance between the air spring and the frame when uninflated. The air spring should be centered and not touching the frame or other components.
Secure the air spring to the upper and lower brackets using an open-ended 9/16" wrench by tightening the two bolts on the top and the two bolts on the bottom of the spring assembly. Depending on the thickness of the leaf spring stack, it may be necessary to trim the tops of the U-bolts to prevent them from contacting the upper bracket in full jounce. Repeat the entire installation procedure for the remaining side.
Cut the air line assembly in two equal lengths using a hose cutter, razor blade, or sharp knife only. 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. A clean, square cut will ensure against leaks. When connecting to the air fitting, cut off air line leaving approximately 12" of extra air line and make a clean square cut.
Popular locations for the inflation valves are: the wheel well flanges, license plate recess in bumper, under the gas cap access door, or through the license plate itself. Whatever location you choose, make sure there is enough clearance around the inflation valves for an air chuck. Drill a 5/16" hole to install each inflation valve.
1. Drill a 5/16" hole at your chosen location. 2. Place a 5/16" nut and star washer on the air valve, leaving enough valve exposed to extend through the hole with 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. 4. Use the rubber washer, flat washer, and another 5/16" nut to secure the assembly. 5. Tighten the nuts to secure the assembly in place.
Route the air line along the frame to the air fitting on the air spring, maintaining at least 6 inches of clearance from heat sources. Cut off air line leaving approximately 12" of extra air line with a clean square cut. Insert the air line into the 90° swivel fitting—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.
1. Inflate the air spring to 30 PSI. 2. Spray all connections and the inflation valves with a solution of 1/5 liquid dish soap and 4/5 water. 3. Look for bubbles in the soapy water to spot leaks easily. 4. After the test, deflate the springs to the minimum pressure required to restore normal ride height, no less than 5 PSI. 5. 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.
1. Clearance test: Inflate to 60 PSI and ensure at least 1/2" clearance around each bellows away from tire, brake drum, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables. 2. Leak test: Inflate to 60 PSI, check all connections with soapy water solution. All leaks must be eliminated before road testing. 3. Heat test: Ensure at least 6" clearance from heat sources (exhaust, muffler, catalytic converter). 4. Fastener test: Recheck all bolts for proper torque. Retorque after 100 miles. 5. Road test: Drive 10 miles and recheck for clearance, loose fasteners, and air leaks.
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. 4. Loaded vehicles require at least 25 PSI or more. 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). 8. Periodically check fasteners for tightness and inspect air springs for rubbing. 9. Occasionally spray air springs with a garden hose to remove mud, sand, gravel, or other abrasive debris.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate provides up to 5,000 lbs of load leveling support combined on both springs. The springs support approximately 40 lbs of load (combined on both springs) for each 1 PSI of pressure. For example, at 25 PSI, the system supports approximately 1,000 lbs. The actual pressure needed depends on your load and GVWR. You must never exceed your vehicle's GVWR regardless of air spring pressure.
Yes. The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate can safely be run at zero air pressure. The internal jounce bumper inside the spring absorbs shock and eliminates harsh jarring, allowing the air springs to safely operate at zero air pressure. However, the recommended minimum air pressure is 5 PSI to maintain normal ride height. Operating the vehicle below the minimum air spring pressure of 5 PSI will void the Air Lift warranty.
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. However, for convenient on-the-go control, Air Lift offers optional on-board air compressor systems in single or dual path configurations with wireless, analog, or automatic control options. These systems eliminate the need to search for gas stations with working compressors.
If the air springs are properly installed and maintained, they can last indefinitely. Proper installation means following all instructions in the manual, and proper maintenance includes checking air pressure weekly, maintaining normal ride height, keeping fasteners tight, inspecting for rubbing or debris, and addressing any leaks promptly.
Yes, 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 of time, support the axle with jack stands to take the tension off the air springs.
Pressure determination comes down to three things: level vehicle, ride comfort, and stability. 1. Level vehicle: If headlights are shining into the 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 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. Start with the vehicle level or slightly above. When in doubt, always add air. It may be necessary to maintain different pressures on each side for uneven loads—as much as a 50 PSI difference is not uncommon.
If the front of the vehicle dives while braking, increase the pressure in the front air bags if equipped. This will improve braking stability and reduce the diving motion.
If the vehicle rocks and rolls, adjust the air pressure to reduce movement. Increasing pressure will generally improve stability and reduce body roll.
Normal ride height is the distance between the bottom edge of the wheel-well and the center of the hub with the vehicle in the "as delivered" condition. To determine it: 1. Remove unusual loads and examine your vehicle from the side to ensure it is on a level surface. 2. If necessary (in cases where leaf springs are sagging badly), use a jack to raise the rear end so the vehicle achieves the original "as delivered" ride height. 3. Measure the distance between the center of the hub and the bottom edge of the wheel well. This measurement is your normal ride height. In some cases, normal ride height is not perfectly level.
1. Raise the vehicle and remove the wheels. 2. Check the distance between the center of the hub and the bottom edge of the wheel to ensure it is at the normal ride height previously recorded. If not, raise the frame or lower the axle as necessary to restore the original distance. If using an axle contact hoist, place axle stands under the frame and lower the axle as needed. If using a frame contact hoist, place axle stands under the axle and raise or lower the frame as needed. If using a jack and axle stands on the frame, use a floor jack to lower the axle.
If your vehicle is equipped with factory frame contact overload springs, the lower bracket should be attached using the short 2" U-bolts (part 10594) provided in this kit. If an unusually harsh ride is experienced even at the minimum required pressure (5 PSI), it may be helpful to remove the overload springs. This will not reduce carrying capacity—the difference will be made up by running the air spring at a higher pressure. It may be necessary to purchase different U-bolts or reuse the block spacer to hold the main leaf spring stack tight to the axle housing.
For 1999 and later Super Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks, remove the bolt holding the emergency brake cable to the outside of the frame rail. Reinstall the bolt in the reverse order, with the nut on the inside of the frame rail to prevent rubbing against the air spring.
Use the optional spacers (part 01525) when it is necessary to achieve the 5–7 inch spacing between the upper and lower brackets. For example, if only the top hole makes contact above the lower radius edge of the frame rail, it may be necessary to use the optional spacers under the lower bracket to achieve the correct mounting height. Place the spacer legs down on the leaf spring and attach the lower bracket securely using the provided U-bolts, flat washers, and lock nuts.
Depending on the thickness of the leaf spring stack, it may be necessary to trim the tops of the U-bolts to prevent them from contacting the upper bracket in full jounce (full compression of the suspension).
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. 2. Trim 1" off the end of the air line with a clean, square cut. 3. Reinsert the air line into the push-to-connect fitting. If the threaded connection leaks: 1. Tighten the swivel fitting another 1/2 turn. 2. If it still leaks, deflate the air spring, remove the fitting, and re-coat the threads with thread sealant. 3. 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 connection by removing the air line from the barbed type fitting. Do not cut the air line completely off as this will 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 for assistance.
If any part shows signs of rubbing or abrasion during the 30-day or 500-mile inspection (whichever comes first), identify the source and move it if possible. If it is not possible to relocate the cause of the abrasion, the air spring may need to be remounted. If professionally installed, consult the installer for service.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle, including passengers and cargo. This number—along with other weight limits, tire, rim size, and inflation pressure data—is shown on your vehicle's Safety Compliance Certification Label. The installation of the LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate does not alter the GVWR. You must not exceed the maximum load listed for your vehicle. Exceeding the GVWR is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
Payload is the combined, maximum allowable weight of cargo and passengers that your vehicle is designed to carry. It is calculated as GVWR minus the Base Curb Weight. The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate does not alter your vehicle's payload. You must not exceed the maximum payload listed in your vehicle's owner's manual. Check your vehicle's Safety Compliance Certification Label for this information.
If your vehicle is equipped with a rear brake proportioning valve, any type of load assist product could affect brake performance. We recommend that you check with your dealer before installing this type of product. If your vehicle does not have a rear brake proportioning valve or is equipped with an anti-lock type brake system, installation of a load assist product will have no effect on brake system performance.
If it is ever suspected that the air bags have bottomed out, increase the pressure. Bottoming out occurs when the air spring compresses fully and the internal jounce bumper reaches its limit. Increasing pressure will prevent this condition and improve ride quality and stability.
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 between left and right sides. Adjust the air pressure on each side independently to maintain level ride height and proper stability.
When raising the vehicle by the frame for service work, make sure the system is at minimum pressure (5 PSI) to reduce the tension on the suspension and brake components. This prevents excessive stress on these components during lifting. Use of on-board leveling systems does not require deflation or disconnection.
On occasion, give the air springs a hard spray with a garden hose in order to remove mud, sand, gravel, or other abrasive debris. This helps prevent damage to the bellows and extends the life of the system.
1. Leak test the air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings in the control system using a soapy water solution (1/5 liquid dish soap and 4/5 water). 2. Inspect the air lines to ensure none are pinched—tie straps may be too tight. Loosen or replace the strap and replace leaking components. 3. Inspect the air line for holes and cracks. Replace as needed. 4. Look for a kink or fold in the air line and reroute as needed. If these steps do not solve the problem, it may be caused by a failed air spring (either a factory defect or an operating problem). Call Air Lift at (800) 248-0892 for assistance.
A 2–4 PSI loss after initial installation is normal. If the pressure has dropped more than 5 PSI after 24 hours, there is a leak that must be fixed. 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. Either fix the leak yourself or return to the installer for service.
If the vehicle has a rough or harsh ride, it may be due to either too much pressure or not enough. Try different pressures to determine the best ride comfort. If an unusually harsh ride is experienced even at the minimum required pressure (5 PSI), and your vehicle is equipped with factory frame contact overload springs, it may be helpful to remove the overload springs. This will not reduce carrying capacity—the difference will be made up by running the air spring at a higher pressure.
If the vehicle's headlights are shining into the trees or the vehicle is leaning to one side, it is not level. Raise the air pressure to correct either of these problems and level the vehicle. It may be necessary to maintain different pressures on each side of the vehicle if loads such as water, fuel, and appliances cause the vehicle to be heavier on one side.
No reviews have been added for this product.