Finding and Fixing Leaks in an Air Lift Helper Spring System

Updated 08/17/2020 | Published 11/11/2014

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1406)

$457.52

Air Lift Air Hose Cutter

(99)

$31.21

Question:

I didnt think I had a leak, but I am losing pressure on the passenger side air lift. Ive refilled several times and continue to lose pressure. I dont have a leak at the bumper end, and getting ready to try to check the other end although hard to see on top where the hose goes into the fitting. I will attempt to put soapy water on that fitting to see if I have a leak there. However, if I do, I cant find my instructions right now and if I have to remove the hose and recut to re-install, can you tell me the procedure to remove without damaging the connection.

asked by: Jerry L

Expert Reply:

First, I have included a link to the installation instructions to the right for Air Lift kit # AL88299 for you.

Using soapy water is the best way to find a leak in an air system. If it is leaking at a hose or fitting then replacing that hose or fitting would fix the problem. However if it is a bag that is leaking then you would need to replace the bag.

Using the instructions you can reverse the installation process. When cutting air lines the cut needs to be as straight as possible. If you do not already have one, I recommend a tubing cutter, # AL10530.

Air Lift does have the following information regarding leaks:

1. If there is a problem with the swivel fitting:
a. Check the air line connection by deflating the spring and removing the line by pulling the collar against the fitting and pulling firmly on the air line. Trim 1” off the end of the air line. Be sure the cut is clean and square. Reinsert the air line into the push-to-connect fitting.
b. Check the threaded connection by tightening the swivel fitting another 1/2 turn. If it still leaks, deflate the air spring, remove the fitting, and re-coat the threads with thread sealant. Reinstall by hand tightening as much as possible, then use a wrench for an additional two turns.

2. If there is a problem with the inflation valve, then:
a. Check the valve core by tightening it with a valve core tool.
b. Check the air line connection by removing the air line from the barbed type fitting. DO NOT CUT THE AIR LINE COMPLETELY OFF AS THIS WILL NICK THE BARB AND
RENDER THE FITTING USELESS.

expert reply by: Michael H

Kenneth B.

8/6/2020

iam thinking about bying the wireless 72000 will it keep air to a bag that may have a small leak

Chris R.

8/15/2020

The Air Lift Compressor # AL72000 will do its best to keep those air bags filled, but it'll obviously have to work more if it's constantly leaking. My best advice would be to simply repair that leak and then add the compressor for optimal performance.

Kenneth B.

8/17/2020

@ChrisR Thanks