Comparing The Air Lift 5000 and the Firestone Ride-Rite Red Label For the 2019 GMC Sierra 3500

Published 11/06/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs with Internal Jounce Bumpers - Rear Axle

(1352)

$503.65

Firestone Air Command Heavy Duty Air Compressor with Tank - Analog - Dual Path

(359)

$723.40

Firestone Ride-Rite Red Label Extreme Duty Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(829)

$562.64

Question:

what is the difference between the airlift AL88338 and Ride-Rite F2709 for the 4wd pickup 2019 gmc sierra 3500 which ones should i get

asked by: Jose

Expert Reply:

The better option for the 2019 GMC Sierra 3500 Pickup with 4 wheel drive is the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs part # F2709 over the Air Lift Load Lifter Air Helper Springs part # AL88338 because the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs are completely compatible with an in-bed hitch without drilling and the construction of the bag is better.

The Air Lift Load Lifter Air Helper Springs will fit with in-bed hitch but it will require drilling into the frame of the truck. The Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs install in a different spot then the goose neck or fifth wheel hitch brackets so there is not any drilling required to install with an in-bed hitch.

The Firestone bags use a rolled crimp seal that keeps the bag securely anchored while the Air Lift uses a metal band that is not as secure. The Firestone bags also are constructed of 4 layers of rubber compared to the Air Lift air bags that are constructed of 2 layers which can lead to punctures from moving components on the vehicle or flying debris. They also have a higher capacity with a 7,500 lb capacity compared to the 5,000 lb capacity of Air Lift.

I recommend to add the Firestone Air Command II Compressor System part # F2168 so you can inflate and deflate the bags from the cab of the truck without carrying around a bulky compressor or stopping at the gas station for air. The dual path system also allows you to inflate or deflate either side of the truck individually for leveling out the payload if you need to.

expert reply by: Heather A