Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Banks Powerpack

[phicks]

I'm installing the power pack this weekend on my 98 12valve, any members done this? Any problems encountered? The ottomind instructions are ok but leave out valuable info for checking out performance before installing the new break off screw. Any info will help.

 

[illflem]

The Ottomind instructions leave out adjusting the AFC star wheel even though they show a picture and location in the instructions. Just turn it towards the engine about 20 clicks and check your smoke, back it off if there is too much or turn it more if there isn't enough. You can also slide the entire housing that is held down by the break off screw forward for more power. I wouldn't ever break off the tamper screw, you'll be back in there again.

 

[C Schomer]

The k&n in the stock box isn't near enough air filter. The bhaf is the easiest. Mine is the biggest that will fit and has the most media but requires some fab work for the inlet. I've read that the Powerpack kit comes with an 11 plate. I already had the 11 when I added the Twin Ram and didn't have enough fuel to get the most out of the manifold. Do the Piers arm adjustment (free - see his www) and the 3K kit for $125. No matter what you've already done, the 3K kit really broadens the power band and much more fun to drive. The afc kit is nice too! If you still need more top end fuel, Ill tell you how to fix that plate and not have to slide it forward Craig

 

[thekidfan]

phicks, saturday I'm kinda busy in the morning but give me a call if you want moral support and maybe I can come up I live in Dixon not to far from you and I have a 97 a/t Cal. truck with a Banks power pack on it (visuals may be of some help). Either way good luck. Jeff

 

[phicks]

Thanks for the info. I called Banks and they said to slide cover all the way forward towards radiator for low end power, then test drive. If I can't get 1300 degrees and 30-34 on boost move plate towards radiator the width of one nickel then test drive again. If temp and pressure don't come up then call them again. they did say if it goes the other way and is a smoker adjust the star wheel CCW in 10 click increments to lean it out.

I pull a fifth wheeler and am wondering if this would be a good load test?

 

[illflem]

And folks here say Banks has lousy customer service...

Pull your trailer uphill if you can

 

[HVAC]

Opinions

You should tap into the NorCal group to get some first hand opinions. We may be meeting at Sacramento Raceway next Saturday for more imovable mass vs. irresistible force studies

 

[phicks]

CSchomer, you mentioned the Piers arm adjust, what would I gain and whats involved.

Illflem, would you happen to know if the cover screw is available at any hardware store with metric screws? That way I could leave it out until I can find a shop with Dyno for 100% results.

 

[illflem]

I'm sure you can find what you need at a place with a good selection of metric. Buy four to keep the heads the same, I prefer allen head myself. I ran the break off screw on mine for over 100k without breaking it off before finally replacing all of them. Tractor dealers are often a good source of metric.

 

[C. Harlan]

And folks here say Banks has lousy customer service...

A friend of mine has a powerpack on his, and is very unhappy with the customer support. . the one thing I like about the banks, is the twin ram intake, but it really does not make a big enough difference. BTW, how much was the whole kit?? You may be able to send it back and work out a deal with Piers, for the same if not less $ and get MORE POWER! I was going to get a banks back at the beginning of the year, then heard about PDR, compared the prices, as well as customer support, and after seeing how Piers stands behind his products, I decided to ditch BANKS. Just my $. 02 worth.



-Chris-

 

[C Schomer]

The rocker adj. puts the tip up closer to the main fuel ramp so power start sooner. It increases the entire fuel curve a little. I went all the way up to where Piers says then went back down a little. It was a bit too much - I didn't feel I needed to hit max egt at any rpm. The Twin Ram is $600 by itself. It does make some difference but it's an expensive 20hp. An old TDR report supports that it does what Banks says. The afc kit gives smoother more gradual smoke control but TST says they aren't very effective on autos. Craig

 

[C Schomer]

Oh yeh. go to www.piersdiesel.com and click on technical on the left and click on the rocker adj. and you'll see everything. It's worth the time to remove the fuel filter to do the adj. . Craig

 

[phicks]

Power Pack

:--) Thanks for all the info. Finished installation and it runs like a scalded cat. Running Hwy 99 empty I can get 32 psi boost and 1050 pyro, and 85 mph. Hooked 10,000 lb 5th wheel and ran the same course, unbelivable, 32 boost 1150 pyro and 75 mph.

Will really put it to the test in a couple weeks when I head to Olympia.