Air Lift

Performance
3H /3P
® ®

P A T E N T E D

INSTALLATION GUIDE
MN-946 • (072107) • ECR 9839

For maximum effectiveness and safety,

please read these instructions completely
before proceeding with installation.
Failure to read these instructions can result in an
incorrect installation.
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See 3H/3P User Guide for instructions on pairing your device.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Component List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Notation Explanation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Installing Air Lift Performance 3H/3P Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Layout Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Tank (Optional). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Installing Harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Installing Air Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Helpful Air Line Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Manifold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Compressor (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Height Sensors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Installation Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17

Troubleshooting Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Leak Testing and Detection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Permissible Modifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Display Mounting Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Height Sensor Install Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Manifold Mounting Template. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
16444 Compressor Mounting Template. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Limited Warranty and Return Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
 Installation Guide

Component List
Refer to Installation diagram on pages 16-17 for item illustrations.

NOTE Some kits include parts in addition to or different from what is listed here. Those kits
include an Installation Guide insert with a parts list for that kit.

HARDWARE CONTENT

Item Part # Description Qty Item Part # Description.............................. Qty

A 26498-009 Harn – USB display cable....................1 K 24594 Ins. Female .250" term. 14-16GA......... 1
B 26498-006 Harn – Main harness............................1 L 24561 ATM Fuse tap adapter.......................... 1
C 27050 3H/3P Display....................................... 1 M 24542 ATO/ATC Fuse tap adapter................... 1
D 24503 Fuse ATM 3A.......................................1 N 10466 Zip Tie, 8" black.................................. 20
E 24501 Fuse Holder ATM.................................1 O 17103 Screw 5/16"-18 x 12" Zinc................... 2
F 24500 Fuse Holder ATO/ATC..........................1 P 18542 Flat washer 5/16" stainless................... 2
G 24661 Heat shrinkable butt splice 14-16GA.....1 Q 17263 Screw 1/4"-14 x 1" self-tapping Zinc... 1
H 24752 Heat shrinkable butt splice 10-12GA.....3 R 17494 Screw 1/4"-14 x 2" self-tapping Zinc... 2
I 24748 Ring terminal 3/8" 10-12GA................. 2 S 10530 Hose cutter kit....................................... 1
J 24524 Ins. Female .187" term. 14-16GA......... 1 V 24547 Fuse ATO/ATC 30A..............................1

MANIFOLD CONTENT

Item Part # Description Qty Item Part # Description Qty

1/4" Hose Kits (27680, 27690, 27780, 27790) 1/4" Manifold (27680, 27690)
AF 20946 Air Line 1/4"................................... 60ft. AE 72635 Manifold ECU 1/4" PTC...................... 1
AP 21779 Fitting elbow 1/4”PTC-1/4”MNPT.......2 G Thread Manifold (27785, 27795)
3/8" Hose Kits (27685, 27695, 27765, 27775) AE 72675 Manifold ECU G thread.......................1
AF 20947 Air line 3/8"................................... 60 ft. 1/4" Thread Manifold (27780, 27790, 27765, 27775)
AP 21851 Fitting elbow 3/8"PTC-1/4"MNPT.......2 AE 72674 Manifold ECU 1/4" NPT.......................1
/8" Manifold (27685, 27695)
3 AR 21745 Fitting 1/4"PTC-1/4"MNPT..................6
AE 72634 Manifold ECU 3/8" PTC..................... 1 or
AR 21853 Fitting 3/8"PTC-1/4"MNPT..................6

FILTER CONTENT
Item Part # Description.............................. Qty Item Part # Description.............................. Qty
AI 11217 P Clamp, 1 1/2" Cushion.....................1 AM 22677 Tee fitting, 1/4"....................................1
AJ 21011 Miniature filter......................................1 AN 21048 Pressure-relief valve............................1
AK 17173 Screw #14-1/4 x 3/4" self-tapping......1

COMPRESSOR (OPTIONAL) TANK (OPTIONAL)

Item Part # Description.............................. Qty Item Part # Description.............................. Qty

AG 16444 Compressor.........................................1 AH Varies Tank.....................................................1

HEIGHT CONTENT (OPTIONAL INCLUDED IN 3H SYSTEMS ONLY)

Item Part # Description.............................. Qty Item Part # Description.............................. Qty

W 34977 HPACK- Height sensor linkage............4 AA 26953-020 Harn-20FT FL height sensor*..............1
X 26894 Height sensor assembly......................4 AB 26953-021 Harn-20FT FR height sensor*..............1
Y 26953-012 Harn-12FT RL height sensor*..............1 AC 10466 Zip Tie, 8" black.................................20
Z 26953-013 Harn-12FT RR height sensor*.............1 AD 17497 Screw 10-16 x 1 3/4" self-tapping Zinc.... 8
AO 11998 Height sensor spacer.................................. 4

STOP! Missing or damaged parts? Call Air Lift customer service at (800) 248-0892 for replacement parts.

2 * FL = Front left corner RL = Rear left corner FR = Front right corner RR = Rear right corner MN-946
Installation Guide

Introduction
The purpose of this publication is to assist with the installation, maintenance and
troubleshooting of Air Lift Performance® 3H/3P.

Read and understand the entire installation guide before beginning installation or
performing any maintenance, service or repair. The information includes step-by-step
installation information, installation templates and a troubleshooting guide.

Air Lift Company reserves the right to make changes and improvements to its Air Lift
Performance products and publications at any time. For the latest version of this manual,
contact Air Lift Company at (800) 248-0892 or visit [Link].
NOTATION EXPLANATION
Hazard notations appear in various locations in this publication. Information which is
highlighted by one of these notations must be observed to help minimize risk of personal
injury or possible improper installation which may render the vehicle unsafe. Notes are
used to help emphasize areas of procedural importance and provide helpful suggestions.
The following definitions explain the use of these notations as they appear throughout this
guide.

INDICATES IMMEDIATE HAZARDS WHICH WILL RESULT IN SEVERE PERSONAL

DANGER INJURY OR DEATH.
INDICATES HAZARDS OR UNSAFE PRACTICES WHICH COULD RESULT IN SEVERE
WARNING PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
INDICATES HAZARDS OR UNSAFE PRACTICES WHICH COULD RESULT IN DAMAGE
CAUTION TO THE MACHINE OR MINOR PERSONAL INJURY.

NOTE Indicates a procedure, practice or hint which is important to highlight.

IF THE PRESSURE-BASED SYSTEM IS ALREADY INSTALLED BEFORE HEIGHT

WARNING SENSOR INSTALLATION, MAKE SURE TO DISABLE RISE ON START AND PRESET
MAINTAIN. THIS WILL PLACE THE SYSTEM INTO MANUAL MODE AND PREVENT
UNINTENDED ADJUSTMENTS. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS WARNING COULD RESULT
IN EQUIPMENT DAMAGE, BODILY HARM OR DEATH (SEE USER GUIDE).

FLOOR JACKS CAN BE DANGEROUS. WHENEVER USING A FLOOR JACK, MAKE

WARNING SURE IT IS RATED FOR THE LOAD IT IS LIFTING. CHECK THE VEHICLE OWNER’S
MANUAL FOR INFORMATION ABOUT WHERE TO PLACE THE JACK. BEFORE
RAISING THE VEHICLE, PLACE WHEEL CHOCKS IN FRONT AND BEHIND THE
WHEELS TO PREVENT THE VEHICLE FROM ROLLING. ALWAYS USE JACK STANDS
TO SUPPORT THE VEHICLE. NEVER GET UNDER OR PLACE ANY BODY PARTS
UNDER A VEHICLE THAT IS SOLELY SUPPORTED BY THE JACK.

REMOVE ALL FUSES WHEN JUMP-STARTING OR WELDING ON THE VEHICLE.

CAUTION FAILURE TO DO SO COULD DAMAGE THE MANIFOLD.

MN-946 3
 Installation Guide

Installing Air Lift Performance 3H/3P Kit

LAYOUT OVERVIEW
NOTE For a complete installation diagram, see pages 16-17. See page 2 for a complete parts list.

Layout
1. Plan component location first. Ideally, the manifold should be located at a level
above the compressor and tank to avoid compressor ingested water from gathering
in the manifold (fig. 1). This is most important for vehicles operated in below-freezing
climates.
2. Prior to mounting components, check to make sure:
• the electrical harness connections will reach the manifold and compressor.
• the compressor leader line will reach the tank.
• the air lines will route cleanly through the vehicle without kinking or bending.

NOTE Be sure to install all components as far as possible from any heat sources (figs. 2 and 3).
Plan and prepare harness and air line routing thru the vehicle. Eliminate all sharp edges that
could chafe. Use rubber grommets when passing through compartment walls.

MANIFOLD

COMPRESSOR fig. 1
AIR TANK

fig. 2 fig. 3

4 MN-946
Installation Guide

TANK (OPTIONAL)
Tank pre-assembly
1. Determine tank location and orientation prior to installing fittings.
2. Before installing fittings, apply thread sealant around the male threads, leaving the
first two threads uncovered.
NEVER BACK OFF AN INSTALLED PIPE FITTING TO ACHIEVE PROPER ALIGNMENT.
CAUTION LOOSENING INSTALLED PIPE FITTINGS WILL CORRUPT THE SEAL AND
CONTRIBUTE TO LEAKAGE AND FAILURE.
3. Install the drain/fill PTC fitting in the tank’s lowermost threaded port.
4. Choose a middle tank threaded port for manifold/filter air line.

Tank install
1. Using the tank’s feet as a template, drill holes for hardware assembly.
2. Secure the tank using the supplied hardware.
3. Route the drain/fill air line with the Schrader valve (included in the tank hardware
pack) preferably outside the vehicle (fig. 4).
4. Install tee fitting and pressure-relief valve in-line to the drain fill line. Locate the
pressure-relief valve inside the vehicle, if possible.

Drain/
fill valve
routed
to vehicle
exterior

The pressure-relief valve should be

fig. 4
mounted at an angle above horizontal.
Ideally, it would be mounted with the
valve pointed straight up, but any angle
above horizontal is acceptable. This will
stop water from collecting in the valve.
Pressure-relief
valve

INSTALLATION OF THE PRESSURE-RELIEF VALVE IS IMPORTANT TO ENSURE THE

CAUTION SYSTEM IS NOT OVER-PRESSURIZED AS A RESULT OF A COMPRESSOR OR RELAY
FAILURE.

Torque Specifications Table 1

Fitting Size Turns Past Torque
Finger-tight lb./ft.
1/8" NPT 1.5 - 3.0 12
1/4" NPT 1.5 - 3.0 25
3/8" NPT 1.5 - 3.0 40
1/2" NPT 1.5 - 3.0 54

MN-946 5
 Installation Guide

FILTER
AIR COMPRESSORS TAKE IN MOISTURE (HUMIDITY) FROM THE OUTSIDE AIR
CAUTION SOURCE, AND WILL DEPOSIT THAT MOISTURE IN THE AIR TANK. THE AIR LIFT
PERFORMANCE 3H/3P SYSTEM INCLUDES A FILTER THAT WILL GREATLY REDUCE
THE POTENTIAL FOR MOISTURE TO ENTER THE MANIFOLD. HOWEVER, TANKS
MUST BE REGULARLY PURGED TO ELIMINATE THE POSSIBILITY OF WATER
ENTERING THE MANIFOLD. BE SURE TO PROVIDE EASY ACCESS TO DRAIN/
FILL VALVE (PREFERABLY OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE). IF USING AN ENGINE-DRIVEN
COMPRESSOR, AN ADDITIONAL COALESCING FILTER MUST BE USED. OTHERWISE
THE LIFE OF THE PROVIDED FILTER MAY BE REDUCED DUE TO THE INCREASED
POTENTIAL FOR OIL BEING INTRODUCED INTO THE SYSTEM.
1. Mount the filter to the tank using the appropriate fittings (fig. 5).

fig. 5

2. Ensure the filter is mounted in a vertical position. Do not install filter inverted or
angled (fig. 6).

fig. 6

3. The arrow on the filter indicates flow direction and must point toward the manifold (fig. 7).

Arrow on top of filter

pointing toward
manifold
fig. 7

4. If choosing not to mount the filter to the tank, run necessary hose from tank to the
filter and filter to the manifold using the appropriate fittings.

THE FILTER USED IN THIS SYSTEM IS A MANUAL FILTER

WARNING AND MUST BE PURGED ON A REGULAR BASIS TO
ENSURE WATER DOESN’T GET INJECTED INTO THE
SYSTEM CAUSING PREMATURE MANIFOLD FAILURES.
TO PURGE, USE THE RELIEF BUTTON ON THE BOTTOM
OF THE FILTER ASSEMBLY. fig. 8

6 MN-946
Installation Guide

INSTALLING HARNESS
The harness can be routed inside or underneath the vehicle. In either case, ensure all
parts of the harness are protected from abrasive edges and heat sources.

DISCONNECT THE BATTERY GROUND BEFORE INSTALLING THE SYSTEM.

CAUTION
REMOVE ALL FUSES WHEN JUMP-STARTING OR WELDING ON THE VEHICLE.
CAUTION FAILURE TO DO SO COULD DAMAGE THE MANIFOLD.
1. Manifold/relay/compressor connections
• Attach the manifold connector; it will "click" into place once fully seated.
• Mount the compressor relay using supplied hardware.
• Cut off the spade and eyelet from the compressor power (red) and ground
(black) wires.
• Attach the compressor (red) wire to the main harness compressor power (red/
white) wire using the supplied heat-shrinkable butt splice.
• Attach the compressor (black) wire to the main harness compressor ground
(black) wire using the supplied heat-shrinkable butt splice.

2. Battery/ignition connections
• Route battery power (red) and ground (black) wires of the main harness to the
battery.
• Attach the battery power (red) wire to the red wire of the fuse holder using
supplied heat shrinkable butt splice.
• Attach supplied ring terminal to the other end of the fuse holder and fasten to
the positive battery (+) terminal or stud.
• Install a 30A fuse into this fuse holder and close the cap.
• Attach the other ring terminal to the ground (black) wire and fasten to the
negative battery (-) terminal or stud.
• Route the ignition (pink) wire to a key-switched ignition source that remains on
during cranking. Examples include: ECU, fuel pump.

NOTE Do not select an accessory source. With the system fully installed, if the display shuts off
while starting the vehicle, this is not a true ignition source.

• Attach the ignition (pink) wire to the black wire of the fuse holder.
• Attach a faston terminal to the other end of the fuse holder and attach to a
selected ignition source using a supplied fuse tap.
• Install a 3A fuse into this fuse holder and close the cap.

NOTE The supplied harness is only capable of powering a single compressor. If installing
dual compressors, a second dedicated power wire is required. Contact an AIR LIFT
PERFORMANCE retailer to purchase the optional second compressor harness kit (part
number: 27703).

MN-946 7
 Installation Guide

3. Display
• Route the main harness display cable as desired to the preferred operating
location.
• Attach the 4’ display cable to the main harness cable, and to the back of the
display.
4. Height sensor harness (optional)
• Route and attach each height sensor harness to the height sensor locations
based on the heat shrink labels for the appropriate corners of the vehicle (FL,
FR, RL, RR)*.
• Connect the main harness height sensor drops to the appropriate height sensor
harness feeding the corresponding corners of the vehicle (match FL, FR, RL,
RR)*.
5. Reconnect the battery once the system is completely installed.

NOTE Keep proper drip loops and use proper bend radius for wire bundles (fig. 9).

Route for potential

water intrusion fig. 9

* FL = Front left corner FR = Front right corner RL = Rear left corner RR = Rear right corner

INSTALLING FITTINGS
See Table 2 below for information pertaining to kits that require manifold fitting
installation.

G THREAD VERSION HAS

A RECESSED FRONT

Kit Numbers:
3H KITS 3P KITS Table 2
27790 (1/4"NPT - 1/4" AIR LINE) 27780 (1/4"NPT - 1/4" AIR LINE)
27795 (G THREAD) 27785 (G THREAD)
27775 (1/4"NPT - 3/8" AIR LINE) 27765 (1/4"NPT - 3/8" AIR LINE)

Fittings: 1/4" MNPT DOT Fittings (AR) provided in manifold kit

G 1/4-19 DOT Fitting required (not supplied)
Torque Specifications: 1/4" MNPT Threads - 1 1/2 to 2 turns past finger-tight
G 1/4-19 Threads - See manufacturer’s recommendation

8 MN-946
Installation Guide

INSTALLING AIR LINES

1. Route and attach the air lines from the manifold to the air springs and from the
manifold to the filter, as well as from the filter to the tank, if not mounting filter
directly to tank.
• Route air lines free from abrasive edges and heat sources.
2. Attach air lines to the appropriate manifold ports for the air springs, filter/tank and
exhaust.

NOTE Air lines should be pushed in firmly, with a slight back-and-forth rotational twist – check the
connection by pulling on each line to verify a robust connection.
3. Exhaust port can be left open, or routed to preferred exhaust location. Routing
exhaust outside of vehicle will eliminate any possibility of moisture being discharged
from the port to surrounding area.

NOTE Use the included hose cutter (Part number: 10530). Cut all hose ends as squarely and as
smooth as possible (fig. 10).

GOOD CUT POOR CUT

fig. 10

NOTE To release the air line from the connection (fig. 11), first release all air from the system. Push
on the line (step 1), depressing the ring towards the fitting (step 2), and then pull the air line
out of the fitting (step 3).

STEP 1 fig. 11

STEP 2 STEP 3
HELPFUL AIR LINE TIPS
4. Minimum air line bend radius
• 3/8" air line = 1 1/2" air line bend radius.
• 1/4" air line = 1" air line bend radius.
5. Air line to fitting
• No side loading on fitting from air line.
• Air line straight for 1" before bending.
6. Air line cutting
• Cut air line perpendicular to air line length.
• Inspect air line for scratches that run lengthwise on air line prior to insertion.
• Use the included air line cutter.

MN-946 9
 Installation Guide

MANIFOLD
BEST PRACTICE IS TO LOCATE THE MANIFOLD UNIT INSIDE THE VEHICLE. IF
CAUTION EXTERNAL MOUNTING IS DESIRED, THE MANIFOLD SHOULD BE LOCATED IN AN
AREA SHIELDED FROM DIRECT WATER SPRAY FROM TIRES OR CAR WASHES.
1. Position the manifold in desired location. Make sure the manifold mounting surface
is flat.

NOTE When mounting the manifold, do so either horizontally or vertically, with ports and connector
facing toward the ground. Do not mount the manifold upside down. Proper manifold
mounting will help prevent water from settling in areas sensitive to freezing (fig. 12).

UP

IDEAL

MANIFOLD
ACCEPTABLE ROTATION/
ORIENTATION

UNACCEPTABLE
fig. 12
DOWN

2. Fasten the manifold using the supplied hardware. If the mounting surface is not flat,
add washers or a spacer to lift the manifold up over surface irregularities (fig. 13).
In addition to the provided self-tapping screws, the manifold mounting holes are
threaded and can be secured with 5/16"-18 bolts (also supplied).

fig. 13

3. A manifold mounting template can be found on page 27.

10 MN-946
Installation Guide

COMPRESSOR (OPTIONAL)
1. Prepare the compressor intake. If it is mounted inside the vehicle, attach the filter to
port on end of compressor (fig. 14). If the compressor is located outside the vehicle,
snorkel the inlet filter to dry location inside vehicle using components supplied with
compressor (fig. 15).
2. Center-punch and drill four holes using the compressor or the template on page 29.
3. Secure the compressor using the supplied hardware (see installation diagram).

Filter attached
to compressor

Mounting bolt
Flat washer
Compressor foot
COMPRESSOR
Rubber bushing
MOUNTING
HARDWARE Mounting surface
Flat washer
Lock washer
fig. 14
Nut

If using an Air-Zenith compressor see figure 33 on page 22.

NOTE
FILTER

Filter snorkeled
inside of vehicle
to reduce
moisture drawn
into the tank.

fig. 15

Compressor
mounted under
vehicle

MN-946 11
 Installation Guide
IF THE PRESSURE-BASED SYSTEM IS ALREADY INSTALLED BEFORE HEIGHT
WARNING SENSOR INSTALLATION, MAKE SURE TO TURN OFF RISE ON START TO AVOID
UNINTENDED AIRING UP. (SEE USER GUIDE.)

HEIGHT SENSORS
Installation of height sensors is a trial-and-error process and requires patience. The goal is to
use as much of the sensor range as possible which will maximize height adjustment accuracy.

Determining Height Sensor Mounting Point

1. Choose a solid mounting point on the body or frame that will not deflect. Anything
that moves is not a good mounting point.
For best system performance, mount the sensors in the same location on the driver’s and
NOTE passenger’s sides of the vehicle. This will ensure that the sensor range is equal side to side.
2. The sensor can be mounted in any direction and will still work as long as the sensor
arm base’s extruded point is pointing toward the connector when the sensor arm is
at its mid-position. The height sensor assembly is supplied in position A. Remove
the arm to reposition it to B or C but keep the extruded point in the direction of the
connector. The orientation of the connector must be either facing down or parallel
to the ground to avoid water accumulating on the connector and making its way
into the sensor. Also, mount the sensor where the arm will be mounted opposite or
90 degrees from the connector wiring if possible. If not possible, ensure the wiring
harness is secured away from arm travel so it will not get caught up when the arm
cycles (fig. 16).
Extruded
point
PREFERRED ORIENTATIONS (A., B.) ACCEPTABLE ORIENTATION (C.)
A.
C.

AS SUPPLIED
SENSOR
Extruded point
ARM RANGE D.
B.
on the sensor
base must point
toward the
connector as
arm is mounted
in mid-position fig. 16

NOTE Do NOT position the sensor with connector up, or with the point on the sensor base pointed
anywhere but at the sensor connector when arm is in its mid-position.
3. Find a point where the sensor will be directly above the lower linkage mounting
surface. It may be necessary in some applications to fabricate a bracket to locate
sensor in appropriate position.
4. Make sure that the sensor and sensor arm clear the vehicles suspension, wheels,
and any other moving parts. This includes steering the wheels all the way to the
lock position left and right to ensure proper clearance. Provide enough clearance
to compensate for heavy load/movement that can’t be seen from manual/physical
articulations.
5. Keep the sensor and wires away from heat sources and moving parts that will create
wear and may damage these components.

12 MN-946
Installation Guide
6. Understand whether the suspension or wheel assembly is the limiting factor when
the vehicle is aired out. This will ensure proper accommodation of sensor arm travel.
7. If using self-tapping screws into the frame, make sure there are no wires or brake/
air/fuel lines on the other side before installing screw.
FLOOR JACKS CAN BE DANGEROUS. WHENEVER USING A FLOOR JACK, MAKE
WARNING SURE IT IS RATED FOR THE LOAD IT IS LIFTING. CHECK THE VEHICLE OWNER’S
MANUAL FOR INFORMATION ABOUT WHERE TO PLACE THE JACK. BEFORE
RAISING THE VEHICLE, PLACE WHEEL CHOCKS IN FRONT AND BEHIND THE
WHEELS TO PREVENT THE VEHICLE FROM ROLLING. ALWAYS USE JACK STANDS
TO SUPPORT THE VEHICLE. NEVER GET UNDER OR PLACE ANY BODY PARTS
UNDER A VEHICLE THAT IS SOLELY SUPPORTED BY THE JACK.

SELECTING SENSOR LOCATION

1. Mark on the vehicle the intended sensor mount location to maintain consistency
in measuring methods in the next several steps. After finding a potential sensor
location, measure the suspension travel, which will determine the proper arm hole.
Exhaust the air springs, disconnect the air lines and jack up the suspension to its
lower limit position. Take the measurement between the selected sensor arm hole
with the arm at its midpoint and directly below the intended lower linkage location
(fig. 17).

Measure the
dimension between Intended
the selected arm hole lower linkage
and the intended mounting
lower linkage location
mounting location

fig. 17

2. Reinstall air lines and cycle the suspension to get to the upper limit position again,
measuring between the sensor arm’s middle position and directly below the sensor
arm hole mounting to the lower linkage ball joint (fig. 18). The difference between
these two values will be the full suspension travel range.

fig. 18
Measure this
dimension

Intended
lower linkage
mounting
location

MN-946 13
 Installation Guide
SELECTING SENSOR ARM HOLE
Max angle of travel for this sensor is 120 degrees, which can be correlated to the
necessary suspension travel as seen in the table below (Table 3). Any significant
over-extension or over-compression may damage and possibly destroy the sensor
or sensor linkage (fig. 19).
First hole Second hole Third hole

fig. 19

Hole Maximum Suspension Range Minimum Suspension Range

First 2 3/4" 1 13/16"
Second 4 3/16" 2 7/8"
Third 5 5/8" 4 3/16"

Table 3
The sensor should be mounted so the measured travel falls near one of the maximum
suspension range dimensions. Move the sensor closer or farther from the suspension
pivot point to achieve this measurement. (fig. 20).

fig. 20

MODIFYING LINKAGE ANGLE

After selecting the location of the sensor and the arm hole to be used, determine the
lower mounting point. Ensure the angle between the mounting point and the sensor
arm is less than 15 degrees. Any more angle than that, will put unwanted stress on the
components. Use the supplied spacer on the lower mounting point to get the angle
closer to vertical with respect to the sensor arm (fig. 21).

Flat Washer

Bolt

fig. 21
Arm Nut

Spacer

Mounting
Location Nut
Bolt

Flat Washer Flat Washer Max angle —

15 degrees

14 MN-946
Installation Guide
LINKAGE ASSEMBLY/MODIFICATION
1. Locate the linkage and ensure the rod is threaded all the way on (fig. 22).
Thread both ends all the way down
fig. 22

2. Next put the suspension in the mid-position with respect to full suspension travel (fig. 23).

Mid-position

Min.

fig. 23
Max.
3. Fasten by finger tightening the linkage to the sensor arm and ensure the sensor arm
is at mid-position with respect to the sensor (fig. 24).

fig. 24

4. Loosen if needed in order to extend to reach the lower mounting point. If loosening
the linkage to extend, it is required to make sure to have at least 5 threads of
engagement on both ends (fig. 25).
Minimum 5 threads
engaged

fig. 25

5. If shortening the rod linkage is necessary, mark the rod cover where the mounting
location intersects with the intended mounting location (fig. 26).

Mark here

fig. 26

MN-946 15
 AE Refer to component
list on Page 2 for
Y complete part
R descriptions.
Heat-shrinkable

MN-946
Installation Guide

or or butt splice
O AND P
H
Exhaust Attach filter
(See page 9)
AF
AG
AH
Filter
(See
page 6)
AJ
Drain/Fill Valve
AM (See page 5)
AN
RL Bag RR Bag
(not included) (not included)
RL
REAR RR
OF VEHICLE AD
RL Sensor (optional) X RR Sensor (optional)

16
 17
FL Bag
3H/3P Display
(See User Guide)
CAUTION FR Bag
(not included) (not included)
REMOVE ALL FUSES WHEN JUMP-STARTING OR
WELDING ON THE VEHICLE. FAILURE TO DO SO
COULD RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE MANIFOLD.
NOTE
IF YOUR VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH LOW
FL PROFILE FUSES YOU CAN ORDER KIT 50749 THAT
INCLUDES A FUSE HOLDER AND 3A FUSE.
J OR K L OR M
In-line
FL Sensor (optional) fuse FR Sensor (optional)
To Ignition Source
C (See page 7)
Existing fuse
To Battery
A Not supplied (See page 7)
(see Note) or
D
Optional Accessory:
Stance Guard
AA (27711) See Page E In-line
23 for additional fuse I
details.
Heat-shrinkable
V
butt splice

Heat-shrinkable
G F

butt splice
FL
H
Heatshrink
B AB
FL
FR FR
Installation Guide

RR RR
RL
Z
WARNING
IF THE PRESSURE-BASED SYSTEM IS

MN-946
Optional Accessory: 2nd ALREADY INSTALLED BEFORE HEIGHT
RL compressor harness (Kit 27703) SENSOR INSTALLATION, TURN OFF RISE ON
*Shown integration signal wire Q
Relay
START TO AVOID UNINTENDED SUSPENSION
CYCLING. (SEE USER GUIDE)
 Installation Guide
6. Remove the rod linkage from the sensor arm and measure 1/2" back from the mark.
This will show where to cut the rod (fig. 27).

Mark
Rod cover

Cut here fig. 27

1/2"

7. Before cutting the rod, thread the jam nut back on the rod. Use the nut to deburr the
rod end (fig. 28).

Cut here

fig. 28
Jam nut

8. Cut the rod cover 5/8" shorter than the rod length with the rod assembled on one
end after cutting (fig. 29).

Cut here Cover

fig. 29
5/8"

9. Assemble linkage back together, and fasten it to the sensor arm and lower mounting
location with supplied hardware (fig. 30). Temporarily secure the sensor in its
intended location including using the height sensor spacer that is provided.

fig. 30

18 MN-946
Installation Guide
VERIFYING SUSPENSION RANGE
Use the paper height sensor tool on page 25 or electronic sensor tool in the display to
make sure the range is sufficient to provide accurate measurements (fig. 31). (See User’s
Guide)
Next, manually air the vehicle up and down to see if there is any issue with the travel of
the sensor using the height sensor install tool.
After confirming that the range is correct and adequate, permanently secure the position
of the sensor using the supplied hardware.
Complete this for all four sensors. To verify range using the electronic sensor tool, start
with the vehicle at its lowest height. The sensor tool should display "range low" below
each corner. Manually air up the front corners of the vehicle to their maximum height.
Both front corners should then display "OK." Manually air up the rear corners to their
maximum height. Both rear corners should then display "OK."
It may be necessary to repeat these steps by raising the rear first, to see if results vary.
For any corners that do not display OK, sensors will need to be adjusted to be within the
acceptable limits, or increase the overall range (stroke).
Once the system is completely installed and system calibration is done, if any of the
height sensors are out of range, there will be a warning message and the affected
corner’s visual indicators will not move with pressure adjustments. See User’s Guide for
more information.

Angles measured
from arm centerline

Maximum range
of sensor: 120
degrees

fig. 31

MODIFYING SENSOR ARM

Follow the arcs around the appropriate holes to make the arms shorter. Keep the
smooth, rounded contour of the end of the arm (fig. 32).

Arc for trimming fig. 32

MN-946 19
 Installation Guide

Troubleshooting Guide
For technical assistance please contact our customer service department by calling (800) 248-0892,
Monday through Friday.
For calls from outside the USA or Canada, dial (517) 322-2144 or email techsupport@[Link].

PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION

Compressor doesn’t run. Check for a blown fuse, bad relay, poor ground, Replace the 30A or 3A fuse if blown. Check
or poor electrical connections or the motor ground wire connection at battery and compressor.
overheated. Let compressor cool off for about 30 minutes to
allow thermal overload switch to reset.
Compressor runs all the time. The compressor relay is defective or there is a Replace the relay or locate the leak and repair.
leak.
Air spring or tank leak. Fitting seal or air line is compromised. Check to make sure air lines are seated in
connectors. Inspect fittings with soapy water. Trim
hose or re-seal fitting. Ensure lines are cut straight.
Nothing happens when the vehicle is key on, Check for a blown fuse or a poor connection. Replace the fuses and check the electrical
ignition active. connections.
Compressors runs all the time but doesn’t fill the Compressor in-line check valve fitting has been Loosen fitting and check again. Replace if needed.
tank. overtorqued.
Display does not work. Check for a blown fuse, compromised cable/ Replace the 3A fuse if blown. Replace the
harness. extension cable.

20 MN-946
Installation Guide

Leak Testing and Detection

1. A leak can be defined as a loss of pressure of more than 5 PSI over an 8-hour
period. Be aware that ambient temperature change has an effect on pressure that
may seem like a leak. For example: a change of 10 degrees F up or down from your
baseline will have an approximate gain or loss of indicated pressure of 2 PSI. If a
leak is suspected after including any temperature change, proceed to step 2.
2. Spray soapy water (1/5 Dawn brand dish soap to 4/5 water) on suspect fittings and
®

air line connections and look for any bubbling caused by air leakage.
3. Fix leaking connection (review page 9 for help on NPT fittings and air line
connections).
4. Wipe down sprayed connections with rag to remove any residual soapy water.

NOTE Dawn brand dish soap will not corrode the metals (aluminum, brass, steel) with which it
®

comes into contact.

MN-946 21
 Installation Guide

Permissible Modifications
1. If it is necessary to extend the display cable beyond the 4-foot cable that is
supplied, purchase a USB A/M adapter extension of up to 8 feet. Use an off-the-
shelf USB 3.0 cable if possible.
2. If using an Air-Zenith OB2 compressor, follow the wiring diagram below (fig. 33).
The 70A fuse, relay, etc. are supplied with compressor. Wiring requirements for the
compressor should follow manufacturer’s recommendation.
Yellow
35/50A 16AWG 80A
relay relay Vehicle
Compressor Minimum
battery
power 6AWG
RD/WE-10GA
70A
AMG

Ground Butt
10GA splice
To rest of 10-12GA
fig. 33
3H/3P Main Air-Zenith
Harness OB2
ground

3. The keypad on the 3H/3P display can be rotated for horizontal applications but it
must not be rotated so that the keypad is above the screen (fig. 34). It will not power
up in this position.
a. Rotate the keypad after removing the two screws on the back of the 3H/3P
display unit (fig. 35). Once they are removed, the keypad can be pulled out and
rotated.
b. Using light and even pressure, push the keypad into the display until it is flush.
c. After rotating the keypad, re-fasten the screws to the torque of 14-16 oz.-in. Do
not overtighten.
d. See the User Guide for additional information about display options.
Acceptable Unacceptable
See page 23
for a scale
template
for the 3H/3P
fig. 34 display

Not mounting holes

Button pad fastener holes
Keypad Torque (14-16 oz.-in.)
Normal
Acceptable Acceptable

4-40 screw
.20” deep

Keypad Keypad
Right Left
fig. 35

4. Extending the compressor power and ground wires is not recommended. It is

permissible to remove a portion of the battery power and ground wires to extend the
compressor wiring if necessary, keeping the same overall harness length. This will
keep the voltage drop within industry standards. Failing to do so could decrease the
life of the compressor.

22 MN-946
Installation Guide
5. Optional Accessory Stance Guard:
When installed inline with the 3P/3H
display, the buzzer dongle (Fig. 36) will
generate an audible beep when the air
spring pressure is too low or too high.

fig. 36

Display Mounting Template

IMPORTANT: PRINT THIS MANUAL AT 100% SCALE. THIS MANUAL CONTAINS
CAUTION DRILLING TEMPLATES, WHICH WOULD BE RENDERED INCORRECT IN DIMENSION
IF PRINTED WITH ANY SCALING. USING AN INCORRECT TEMPLATE TO DRILL
HOLES MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR VEHICLE.
REFER TO THE ONE-INCH SCALE (FIG. 37) AND USE A MEASURING TOOL TO

Display Template
CONFIRM THAT THE PRINTED SCALE MEASURES ONE INCH TO VERIFY PROPER
SCALE. IF THIS IS PRINTED AT ANY SCALE OTHER THAN 100%, THE INSTALLER
COULD END UP DRILLING IN THE WRONG LOCATIONS ON THE VEHICLE.

INCH
2 5/16” 0 1
2”

fig. 37

Not mounting holes

Button pad fastener holes 4 1/16”
Torque (14-16 oz.-in.) 4 3/8”

(4X) 4-40, .20” deep

MN-946 23
Installation Guide

Height Sensor Install Tool

120˚ 120˚

✃
✃
100˚ 100˚

80˚ 80˚

60˚ 60˚

120˚ 120˚
✃

✃
100˚ 100˚

80˚ 80˚

60˚ 60˚

Cut out the height sensor tools

and position each one as shown
at right depending on the height
sensor orientation. It would be
a good idea to make copies of
120˚

100˚

80˚

60˚

INCH
0 1 this page in case the tools are
damaged during installation.
Make sure to copy at 100% so
the tools are the correct size.
The drawing to the right is not to
scale.

MN-946 25
Installation Guide

Manifold Mounting Template

313
16"
5/16-18 UNC Thread
(1/4-14 Self Tapping
17
8"
Screw included in kit)

6 15
16" 63
8"

MN-946 27
 Installation Guide

16444 Compressor Mounting Template

HOLE PATTERN FOR

16444 COMPRESSOR

8 1/2”

3 5/16”

MN-946 29
Installation Guide

Notes

MN-946 31
 Installation Guide

Limited Warranty and Return Policy

Air Lift Company provides a Limited Warranty to the original purchaser of its
Air Lift Performance products, subject to the requirements and exclusions set
forth in the full Limited Warranty and Return Policy that is available online at
[Link]/warranty.
For additional warranty information contact Air Lift Company customer service.

32 MN-946
 Need Help?
Contact Air Lift customer service department at
(800) 248-0892, Monday through Friday. For calls
from outside the USA or Canada, dial (517) 322-2144.

Thank you for purchasing Air Lift Performance products!

Air Lift Company • 2727 Snow Road • Lansing, MI 48917 or P.O. Box 80167 • Lansing, MI 48908-0167
Toll Free (800) 248-0892 • Local (517) 322-2144 • Fax (517) 322-0240 • [Link]

Printed in the USA

JJC-0721