banks

[BigGunZ]

I wanted more power, gauges to match my interior, and the ability to plug and play. I don't want to have to tap into existing wiring harnesses to run a box (I was told I had to do this with the Banks box). I think it's unnecessary.

This is an issue for me as well. I actually looked at an Edge system at a local dealer. The kit looked very simple and I like the A-pillar console for the monitor.

Additionally, I don't have an auto, so I'm not worried about slip. I can hear it if my clutch is slipping, but with only 87 hp on tap for an '03 w/ the six gun, there's no chance of slipping anyway.

I'm not too worried about slip as most of my hauling is short distance, but I do have an auto and I'm worried about getting the most life out of my transmission. It's very likely that before I do anything else to increase power, I'm getting a good converter such as the ATS. It's plainly obvious after 3 weeks of ownership that this factory unit is marginal. Most notably the stall speed. I'd almost bet that a TC is probably the absolute best mod for your dollar for an auto equipped Cummins.



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[JCleary]

That sloppy converter is part of what it takes to make a stock auto last behind the mighty Cummins. I think you'd want to upgrade your valve body as well at the very least...

 

[BigGunZ]

That sloppy converter is part of what it takes to make a stock auto last behind the mighty Cummins. I think you'd want to upgrade your valve body as well at the very least...

That's an interesting observation and I think I see your logic... sort of absorbs the shock of all that torque. I'm currently trying to school myself on auto trannies and likely will perform surgery on mine one day. For now, I'm very happy with the power and accelleration of this beast even with simple airflow/exhaust mods.

 

[RMalone]

I've got a banks six gun (325/600 version) and speedloader with banks guages for sale PM me if anyone is interested.

 

[mberry]

I am no expert at any of this, but since I have joined TDR there seems to be an overall dislike for Banks. I am not sure why that is...

There have been members that have had issues with Banks customer service and with Banks standing behind their warranties. I personally do not like any company that bashes another's products simply for marketing and/or emotional reasons.



I will not bash Bank's stuff. In fact, I think their hardware stuff is some of the best out there. It's their electronic stuff I have no confidence in. Would I try it? Yes if it was at a price that was reasonable and in line with competitors products for quality and functionality. Are there better products out there? Probably. And I say probably because how many of us here have actually tried them all? Not me and I don't plan to unless I win some super mega jackpot lottery somewhere.

 

[Diesel Nut]

I have run the Banks stuff. Twice, actually. Their hard parts are great, aside from the extra surcharge for the name. The elctronics I have had NO luck with. I understand that SOME people want their box to be simple and foolproof to operate. Get an Edge EZ. More hp than my 6 gun/speedloader made, same milage (empty and towing), lower install time or cost, and much lower purchase price. Personally, if you want something decent, look at the variety of boxes available. My tst has digital gauges and I can adjust my EGT limiting. Banks is set at a preset position. End of story. Tke me. I know I am a little more extream than some, but read on. When I am pulling at about 23K GCVW, I back down the power, and lower my EGT limits to 1350, where the Banks is set at. However, when I want to race down the 1/4 mile, I know that for a short period of time I can hit 1500 or more. So, I can raise my limit or eliminate the limit to play. Or I can leave it there and play it safe. But, I have the choice, and Banks doesn't offer that.

The other issue I had wat thier exhaust brake. The brake worked great, but the electronics were junk. And I told that to the tech that I finally got ahold of after thier 3 day luch break ( no BS). The system did not include a shifter switch either. Anyone with a manual trans and an exhause brake wants a switch on the shifter. At least, more do than don't. Real hoaky set up. Finally bought a switch from a Gear Vendors dealer and hardwired it to the solenoid. Worked great.

You go where you want for parts. Some people to bash with no knowledge, so because they have been there. And because they have heard the Banks tech say " We are aware of the problem but there are no plans in the works to fix it. "