Air Bags for a 2018 Ford F-150 Reaching Max Payload Capacity

Question:

will i need air bags for rear axle? new 5th wheel pin wt is 1080lbs,curt hitch sys 180lbs, passengers 330lbs,max ccc is 1795lbs, truck wt is 5250 with full 36ga.fuel

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

Although air bags won't increase the weight capacity or payload of your 2018 Ford F-150, since you are definitely pushing it to the max any additional help wouldn't hurt at all. You may want to make sure that the pin weight of your 5th wheel is at 20% of the weight of the loaded trailer. If it is over that then you can move some stuff back so as to help with the payload capacity.

If you have a 2WD F-150 then I recommend going with the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 # AL57268 but if you have a 4WD then you need part # AL57385 instead. Both systems are rated for up to 5,000 lbs and will do a great job at supporting a suspension system that is in good working order. My contact at Air Lift confirmed that either system will be compatible with your in-bed trailer hitch.

I also recommend using a compressor kit so that you don't have to go find an air compressor whenever you need to add air to the bags. The Air Lift Load Controller II # AL25592 is a great option for you. It is a single path application so that both air bags fill up at the same time and have the same psi rating. This kit features an analog gauge that installs inside your cab so that you can control and monitor your air bag system.

Please note that when you don't have your F-150 under a load the air bag system could make your ride a little less comfy but you can deflate them down to 5 psi so that the extra support (which wouldn't be needed) is a minimum.

expert reply by: Jon G