Recommended Air Bags for a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 w/ a Diesel Engine

Updated 08/20/2025 | Published 01/06/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs - Double Convoluted - Rear Axle

(3009)

$423.10

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

(1352)

$478.88

Firestone Air Command Standard Duty Air Compressor - Smartphone App Only - Single Path

(359)

$571.18

Question:

I need some rear suspension helper spring info. It seems my options are very limited. My truck is a 2021 gmc sierra 1500 4wd crew cab denali diesel. Thanks

asked by: Marshall J

Expert Reply:

You are correct, with that diesel engine you are limited. The best option is going to be the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs with Internal Jounce Bumpers item # AL88288.

These have a 5,000 lbs load leveling capacity and come with custom fit brackets that attach to your 2021 GMC Sierra 1500's frame. They do not require drilling unless you already have 5th wheel brackets installed. They are compatible with in bed hitches but you'll need to drill some holes on both sides.

I also recommend adding the Firestone Air Command item # F2610 to your truck. This onboard compressor will allow you to adjust the PSI in your air bags from your phone.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Jim

2/16/2025

Hi Jerrod I want to add part number AL88388 to my Denali. The etrailer chat a while ago says it is compatible, but the Air Lift website says it is not. I will have these professionally installed. My truck is a 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali 4WD 3.0 Diesel WITH Adaptive Ride Control. I really need a solution because I tow occasionally and I sometimes carry my tools and it suits too low in the rear when I do that. Thank you, Jim

Jerred H.

2/17/2025

@Jim Sorry Jim! I checked with Air Lift and you are correct their item # AL88388 does not work with the Adaptive Ride Control feature on your 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali. Additionally, I checked with Firestone and they do not have a set of compatible air bags either.

Jim

2/17/2025

@JerredH, thank you for checking

Jerred H.

2/18/2025

@Jim You're welcome! Wish I could be more helpful but our selection of aftermarket suspension enhancement options are limited because of the compatibility issues with your truck's Adaptive Ride Control feature. If you're towing a travel trailer, I can address the rear end sagging with a weight distribution system. I would just need to know your trailer's total weight when loaded or tongue weight if you have it.

See All (9) Replies to Jim ∨

Joe

7/10/2025

The original question was for a 2021 GMC 1500 with Active Ride Control and a 3.0 Diesel. The follow up question was for a 2025 Sierra with Active Ride Control and a 3.0 Diesel. The AL88388 will not fit the 2025, but will fit the 2021. Is this correct?

Jerred H.

7/11/2025

@Joe Yes, that is correct the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs item # AL88288 do indeed fit the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 with the diesel engine.

Ullii

8/20/2025

@JerredH Will the kit fit a 2022 high Countrywith3L diesel and adaptive suspension? Thanks Ullli

Jerred H.

8/20/2025

@Ullii No, I am sorry it will not. The Firestone item # F2609 are not compatible with the diesel engines in the 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 High Country. Additionally, the Air Lift air bags are not compatible with the adaptive suspension.