Install Recommendation for the Air Lift Load Lifter 5000 That Already Has Pre-Existing Frame Holes

Updated 12/04/2023 | Published 12/02/2023

Question:

I bought these for my 2015 Chevy Express 2500. Upon installing the upper bracket to the frame I noticed my van has 2 holes already in the exact location I need them but the existing holes are the size of the bolts themselves not allowing the self tapping to do it’s thing. Any suggestions?

asked by: Jarod P

Expert Reply:

It looks like someone else had a set installed previously which is why there is already holes there. Unfortunately this is going to mean you'll need to get creative to get the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs with Internal Jounce Bumpers # AL88205 installed.

If it were me I'd just enlarge the bolt holes a bit to just give the self tapping screw something to bite into. The instructions call for a 15 lb. ft torque spec so if you do use bigger hardware just make sure you're hitting that torque spec.

The other option is to tack weld the bracket to the frame of the vehicle. Since this piece would effectively become part of the frame, the torque specs and self tapping screws wouldn't matter.

expert reply by: Bryce D