When I Install the Pacbrake Alpha HD Air Bag Suspension Kit Will it Raise the Back of My Suspension?
Updated 11/14/2025 | Published 10/15/2025
Question:
I have a 2023 GMC Elevation which is sort of a lower stance from the factory. Will this raise my vehicle rear all the time or only when running higher presssures?
asked by: Warren H
Expert Reply:
Hello Warren,
Great question, and it’s awesome that you’re doing your homework on how the air system will affect your Elevation’s stance.
When you’ve got the Pacbrake ALPHA HD #PB69SV kit installed, you’ll need to keep a minimum of 5 psi in the bags just to protect them. That little bit of pressure keeps the rubber bellows from folding or rubbing when the truck’s unloaded. It’s basically a “maintenance” pressure.
At that minimum pressure, your truck’s ride height will raise a little (maybe 1/8", at most 1/4") but nothing noticeable from the outside. You’ll only start to see the rear lift a bit once you increase the air pressure, usually somewhere around 20–25 psi or more, depending on your load. That’s when the bags start helping out the leaf springs to keep things level.
Basically, the system is designed so your ride height stays normal when unloaded, and you only gain lift when you need it, like when towing or hauling. It keeps your truck comfortable day to day, but ready to handle the heavy stuff when duty calls.
If you want to pair the bags with an onboard compressor, I’d go with the Pacbrake Wireless Air Spring Controls w/ Compressor and Remote - Quick Mount - Single Channel #PB89MV. You don’t even have to leave the cab of the truck to get it to the psi you need. I’ve attached a picture of our installer Kevin airing up the bags from inside the truck.
What kind of load are you hauling that you’re looking for the extra support?
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Pacbrake Alpha HD Air Bag Suspension Kit - Rear Axle - 5,000 lbs
- Vehicle Suspension
- Towing/Load Leveling
- Air Springs
- Suspension Only
- Heavy Duty
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Pacbrake
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Kate F.
11/13/2025
Hey Warren, how did things go with the Pacbrake air bag kit on your Elevation? Did you notice the rear lift only when you added more pressure like we talked about? Your update could make it easier for others setting up the same system.