Air Lift RIDE CONTROL KIT 59501Air LiftOriginal price was $590.99. Current price is $428.99.In Stock
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2000, 2002 - 2010 Cadillac Escalade
Confirmed to Fit
2003 - 2010 Cadillac Escalade ESV
Confirmed to Fit
2002 - 2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT
Confirmed to Fit
1992 - 1994 Chevrolet Blazer
Confirmed to Fit
1992 - 1999 Chevrolet C1500 Suburban
Confirmed to Fit
1992 - 1999 Chevrolet K1500 Suburban
Confirmed to Fit
2000 Chevrolet Tahoe
Confirmed to Fit
1992 - 1999 GMC C1500 Suburban
Confirmed to Fit
1992 - 1999 GMC K1500 Suburban
Confirmed to Fit
1992 - 2000 GMC Yukon
Confirmed to Fit
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Air Lift RideControl air helper springs are air-adjustable from 5 to 100 PSI and have up to 2,000 pounds of leveling capacity, right up to the manufacturer's recommended Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
RideControl provides more safety, stability and ride comfort. The kit fits many popular vehicles with leaf springs, including half-ton and mini pickups, full-size and mini vans, and SUVs. Both front and rear applications are available for these vehicles. Each kit includes everything you need, and is easily installed in two hours or less. End caps are made of an ultra-strong nylon composite that is as strong as steel, but weighs less and is corrosion-proof. Air Lift RideControl adjustable air springs work with your existing leaf spring suspension. Just add air when towing or hauling a heavy load, and reduce air pressure when unloaded, the air bags are fully adjustable for a great ride. Air Lift air springs eliminate sag, sway, and bottoming out. Each kit includes everything you need, and is easily installed in two hours or less. End caps are made of an ultra-strong nylon composite that is as strong as steel, but weighs less than steel and is also corrosion-proof. These rugged, durable components mean that you get reliable service from the springs for the lifetime of the vehicle. Air Lift RideControl air helper springs are air-adjustable from 5 to 100 PSI and have up to 2,000 pounds of leveling capacity, right up to the manufacturer's recommended Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. They also come with a limited lifetime warranty and an exclusive 60-day ride satisfaction guarantee.
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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13 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Style | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000, 2002 - 2010 | Cadillac Escalade | — | — |
| 2003 - 2010 | Cadillac Escalade ESV | — | — |
| 2002 - 2010 | Cadillac Escalade EXT | — | — |
| 1992 - 1994 | Chevrolet Blazer | — | — |
| 1992 - 1999 | Chevrolet C1500 Suburban | — | — |
| 1992 - 1999 | Chevrolet K1500 Suburban | — | — |
| 2000 | Chevrolet Tahoe | — | — |
| 1995 - 1997 | Chevrolet Tahoe | 2-Door | — |
| 1995 - 1999 | Chevrolet Tahoe | 4-Door | — |
| 1992 - 1999 | GMC C1500 Suburban | — | — |
| 1992 - 1999 | GMC K1500 Suburban | — | — |
| 1992 - 2000 | GMC Yukon | — | — |
| 2000 | GMC Yukon | — | Old Body Style |
Yes, the Air Lift RIDE CONTROL KIT 59518 (Part #BBCG59518) is designed to fit the Cadillac Escalade.
The Air Lift RIDE CONTROL KIT 59518 (Part #BBCG59518) fits Cadillac Escalade models. The 2010 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The Air Lift RIDE CONTROL KIT 59518 (Part #BBCG59518) fits the following vehicles: Cadillac Escalade; 2003-2010 Cadillac Escalade ESV; 2002-2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT; 1992-1994 Chevrolet Blazer; 1992-1999 Chevrolet C1500 Suburban; 1992-1999 Chevrolet K1500 Suburban; 1995-2000 Chevrolet Tahoe; 1992-1999 GMC C1500 Suburban; 1992-1999 GMC K1500 Suburban; 1992-2000 GMC Yukon. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The Air Lift RIDE CONTROL KIT 59518 (Part #BBCG59518) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The RideControl air spring kit is an air suspension system that provides load-leveling support for pickup trucks, vans, SUVs, and motorhomes. It uses two sleeve-style air bags (part 58987) rated at a maximum of 100 PSI, each capable of supporting up to 2,000 pounds of load-leveling support combined. The air springs are designed like tires with layers of rubber and cords to control expansion. The system does not alter your vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or payload capacity.
The kit requires a minimum of 5 inches of clearance between the frame and tire for a fully inflated air spring. This clearance must be measured and verified before installation to ensure the air spring will not rub or contact the tire during operation.
Your vehicle may be equipped with a rear brake proportioning valve, and any load assist product could affect brake performance. Air Lift recommends checking with your vehicle dealer before installing this kit. 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 system performance.
Required tools include: hoist or floor jacks and 2 safety stands; safety glasses; torque wrench; 5/16", 7/16", and 9/16" open-end or box wrenches; crescent wrench; ratchet with 9/16", metric, and 1/2" deep well sockets; 3/8" and 5/16" drill bits (very sharp); heavy duty drill; hose cutter, razor blade, or sharp knife; air compressor or compressed air source; and spray bottle with dish soap/water solution.
The kit includes: 2 air springs (58987), 2 upper brackets (07940), 2 lower brackets (03616), 1 installation tool (10591), 2 elbow fittings (21837), 2 3/8" U-bolts (10583), 2 clamp bars (01426), 8 washer head frame bolts (17159), 2 1/2" hex head cap screws (17124), 3 pal nuts (18454), 12 3/8" Nyloc nuts (18435), 4 3/8" flat washers (18444), 2 1/2" flat washers (18414), 8 3/8" oversized washers (18447), 1 16-foot air line (20216), 6 tie straps (10466), 2 valve caps (21230), 2 5/16" flat washers (18405), 2 rubber washers (21234), 2 star washers (18411), and 4 5/16" hex nuts (21233).
Normal ride height is the distance between the bottom edge of the wheel-well and the center of the hub. To determine it: (1) Remove unusual loads and examine your vehicle from the side on a level surface. (2) If necessary, use a jack to raise the rear end so the vehicle achieves its original "as delivered" ride height. (3) Measure the distance between the center of the hub and the bottom edge of the wheel well. Record this measurement for reference during installation.
The installation tool (10591) assists in proper setup and alignment of the air spring and positions the upper bracket for drilling bolt holes. It attaches to the upper and lower brackets and is rigid to self-align the upper bracket. The threaded section of the tool ensures the air spring can only be mounted at the correct height. The air spring will work throughout the entire threaded range on the tool, with correct placement depending on the particular vehicle application.
The assembly should be set on the leaf spring forward of the axle. The upper bracket must be pushed against the frame rail using the slot in the lower bracket. The legs must be flat against the frame rail and all four mounting holes must be on the middle section of the frame rail—not on the rounded edges. You must also allow at least 1.5 inches above the top of the upper bracket for air fitting clearance. For 1987 and older Chevy/GMC 4WD vehicles, the upper bracket must be installed with the legs pointing up.
Yes, drilling is required. You must drill two 3/8" holes through the frame for the upper bracket mounting bolts. Before drilling, you must check the back side of the frame for clearance issues such as brake lines, gas lines, and electrical lines. Any obstacles must be temporarily relocated to clear the area. Use a 3/8" drill bit (very sharp) and a heavy duty drill.
On some vehicle models, it will be necessary to trim the inner body flange to allow the air spring to be mounted at the recommended height of 5.5–7 inches with 1.5 inches clearance for the air fitting. Mark the area to be removed and use a die grinder or tin snips to cut it away. On the passenger side, check for A/C heater lines that must be cleared to prevent damage. On the driver side, check for any bolt protruding through the frame that may rub on the air spring; if present, remove or trim it flush.
Torque specifications are: 3/8" frame bolts—20 ft/lbs; U-bolt lock nuts—20 ft/lbs; mounting bolt/pal nut—10 ft/lbs. These torque values must be verified during the installation checklist and rechecked after 30 days or 500 miles of operation.
The air fitting (pre-coated with sealant) should be tightened finger-tight plus two complete turns with a 7/16" open-end wrench. Tighten only on the metal hex nut and do not overtighten, as this can damage the fitting.
Choose a convenient location for the inflation valves with enough clearance around them for an air chuck. Popular locations include: the wheel well flanges, license plate recess in bumper, under the gas cap access door, or through the license plate itself. Drill a 5/16" hole for each valve. Ensure approximately 1/2 inch of valve is exposed after installation to easily apply a pressure gauge or air chuck.
Use a hose cutter, razor blade, or sharp knife to make a clean, square cut. Do not use wire cutters or scissors, as these may flatten or crimp the air line, causing leaks around the O-ring seal inside the elbow fitting. Cut the 16-foot air line assembly into two equal lengths. Leave approximately 12 inches of extra air line. Insert the air line into the 90° swivel fitting until it bottoms out (9/16" of air line should be in the fitting). This is a push-to-connect fitting.
Keep at least 6 inches of clearance between the air line and heat sources such as exhaust pipes, muffler, or catalytic converter. Route the air line along the frame and use plastic tie straps to secure it to fixed, non-moving points along the chassis. Tie straps should be tight but not pinch the air line. Leave at least 2 inches of slack to allow for any movement that might pull on the air line.
The maximum air pressure is 100 PSI. Each sleeve is rated at a maximum of 100 PSI. Never inflate beyond this pressure. Exceeding the maximum pressure or failing to maintain correct minimum pressure will void the warranty.
The minimum air pressure is 10 PSI. This minimum pressure must be maintained at all times to keep the air spring in shape and ensure it will move throughout its travel without rubbing or wearing on itself. Operating the vehicle below the minimum air spring pressure will void the Air Lift warranty. Do not deflate below 5 PSI when raising the vehicle by the frame for service.
No. Adding air springs will not change the weight ratings (GAWR, GCWR, and/or GVWR) of your vehicle. The installation of this kit does not alter the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating or payload. You must not exceed the maximum load listed in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. Exceeding the GVWR is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
Inflate the air spring 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 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.
Inflate the air springs to 60 PSI and verify at least 1/2 inch clearance from anything that might rub against each sleeve. Check the tire, brake drum, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables. Also verify at least 6 inches of clearance from heat sources such as exhaust pipes, muffler, or catalytic converter. If a heat shield was included in the kit, install it. If there is no heat shield but one is required, call Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892.
Before road testing, complete the following: (1) Clearance test—inflate to 60 PSI and verify at least 1/2 inch clearance from tires, brake drums, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables. (2) Leak test—inflate to 60 PSI and check all connections for leaks; all leaks must be eliminated. (3) Heat test—verify at least 6 inches clearance from heat sources; install heat shield if included. (4) Fastener test—recheck all bolts for proper torque (3/8" frame bolts and U-bolt lock nuts at 20 ft/lbs; mounting bolt/pal nut at 10 ft/lbs). (5) Road test—inflate to 10 PSI or until level, drive 10 miles, and recheck for clearance, loose fasteners, and air leaks.
Check the air pressure weekly. Always maintain normal ride height. Regardless of load, the air pressure should always be adjusted to maintain ride height at all times. After 24 hours of initial installation, recheck the air pressure. If it has dropped more than 5 PSI, there is a leak that must be fixed. After 30 days or 500 miles (whichever comes first), recheck the entire air spring system and all fasteners for tightness.
Follow these maintenance guidelines: (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 inflation valve core before deflating. (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) Periodically spray air springs with a garden hose to remove mud, sand, gravel, or other abrasive 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. Loaded vehicles require at least 25 PSI or more. Loads carried behind the axle (including tongue loads) require more leveling force (pressure) than those carried directly over the axle.
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 inch 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 1/2 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 it from the barbed-type fitting. Cut the air line off a few inches in front of the fitting and use pliers or vice grips to pull/twist the air line off the fitting. Do not cut off the air line completely as this will usually nick the barb and render the fitting useless.
If the preceding troubleshooting steps have not resolved the leak problem, it is possibly caused by a failed air spring—either a factory defect or an operating problem. Call Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892 for assistance. Have your receipt, kit number, and description of the problem ready when you call.
The RideControl kit (59518) is designed for pickup trucks, vans, SUVs, and motorhomes with leaf springs. Specific year, make, and model compatibility is not detailed in the manual. Contact Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892 to confirm fitment for your vehicle.
All hardware is included in kit 59518. You will need to provide: hoist or floor jacks, safety stands, torque wrench, wrenches (5/16", 7/16", 9/16"), drill with 3/8" and 5/16" bits, hose cutter, and air compressor. No additional parts are required.
Use 20 ft/lbs for 3/8" frame bolts and U-bolt lock nuts; use 10 ft/lbs for the mounting bolt/pal nut. Recheck all fasteners after 30 days or 500 miles.
Minimum air pressure is 10 PSI; maximum is 100 PSI. Always maintain minimum pressure to keep the air spring in shape. Never exceed 100 PSI. Operating below 10 PSI or above 100 PSI voids the warranty.
Inflate to 30 PSI and spray all connections with a 1/5 dish soap and 4/5 water solution. Look for bubbles to spot leaks. After 24 hours, recheck pressure; a 2–4 PSI loss is normal. If loss exceeds 5 PSI, retest for leaks.
Check air pressure weekly. After 24 hours of initial installation, recheck pressure; if it drops more than 5 PSI, there is a leak. After 30 days or 500 miles, recheck the entire system and all fasteners.
First, check the air pressure after 24 hours of initial installation. A 2–4 PSI loss is normal. If the loss is more than 5 PSI, there is a leak. Use a soapy water solution (1/5 liquid dish soap and 4/5 water) to check all air line connections, the threaded connection into the air spring, and all fittings. Inspect air lines for pinches (tie straps may be too tight), holes, cracks, kinks, or folds. If the leak is at the swivel fitting, trim 1 inch off the air line end with a clean square cut and reinsert. If the leak is at the inflation valve, tighten the valve core with a valve core tool. If these steps do not resolve the problem, call Air Lift at (800) 248-0892.
Air line leaks are usually caused by improper cutting, pinching from tight tie straps, holes, cracks, kinks, or folds. Inspect the entire air line for these issues. If the line was cut with wire cutters or scissors, it may be flattened or crimped. Use a hose cutter, razor blade, or sharp knife to make a clean, square cut. Trim 1 inch off the end of the air line and reinsert it into the fitting until it bottoms out (9/16" should be in the fitting). If tie straps are too tight, loosen or replace them. If the line has holes, cracks, or kinks, reroute or replace the affected section.
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. Start with the vehicle level or slightly above. Always add air in small quantities, checking pressure frequently. Adjust the pressure up and down to find the best ride. It may be necessary to maintain different pressures on each side of the vehicle if loads such as water, fuel, or appliances cause the vehicle to be heavier on one side.
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. If the vehicle rocks and rolls, adjust the air pressure to reduce movement. If the front of the vehicle dives while braking, increase the pressure in the front air bags if equipped. If the air bags appear to have bottomed out, increase the pressure. Adjust the pressure up and down to find the best ride, prioritizing stability and safety over a perfectly level and comfortable ride.
After 30 days or 500 miles of operation, check the air springs for any signs of rubbing or abrasion. If rubbing is detected, 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. Verify that at least 1/2 inch of clearance exists between the air spring and the tire, brake drum, frame, shock absorbers, and brake cables when inflated to 60 PSI.
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