15
MN-831
LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate
If the preceding steps do not solve the problem, it is possibly caused by a failed air spring — either
a factory defect or an operating problem. Please call Air Lift at (800) 248-0892 for assistance.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. Will installing air springs increase the weight ratings of a vehicle?
No. Adding air springs will not change the weight ratings (GAWR, GCWR and/or GVWR)
of a vehicle. Exceeding the GVWR is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
Q. Is it necessary to keep air in the air springs at all times and how much pressure
will they need?
For LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate, the recommended minimum air pressure is 5 PSI, but it
can safely be run at zero air pressure.
Q. Is it necessary to add a compressor system to the air springs?
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’s
a lot of work.
Q. How long should air springs last?
If the air springs are properly installed and maintained they can last indefinitely.
Q. Will raising the vehicle on a hoist for service work damage the air springs?
No. 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.
TUNING THE AIR PRESSURE
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,
then it is not level (fig. 2.1). Raise the air pressure to correct either of these problems
and level the vehicle.
2. Ride comfort
If the vehicle has a rough or harsh ride it may be due to either too much pressure or not
enough (fig. 2.2). Try different pressures to determine the best ride comfort.
3. Stability
Stability translates into safety and should be the priority, meaning the driver may need
to sacrifice a perfectly level and comfortable ride. Stability issues include roll control,
bounce, dive during braking and sponginess (fig. 2.3). Tuning out these problems usually
requires an increase in pressure.
fig. 2.1
Bad headlight aim
Sway and
body roll
fig. 2.3
Rough ride
fig. 2.2
