"Wanted
to give you a progress report on the Banks PowerPack® installed
on my 2002 Newmar ISB (Freightliner) powered Kountry Star
37' motorhome. I now have driven the unit approximately
2000 miles since installing the Banks system. So far, the
results are great! Less downshifting going up grades, mileage
in the 10-11 mpg range (5500 miles on unit, so only will
improve), EGT @ ~ 1280F by gauge in hard pull, boost ~34
psig max. Wish I'd have installed gauges before the rest
to see what actual difference the Banks has made relative
to EGT and boost.
Thanks
for your help. By the way, my wife has taken my cap away
from me....thinks it's cool." —Paul
Gibson; Durango, CO
"Since I had the
Stinger installed, driving has been a lot more enjoyable. I increased my mileage 1
to 2 mpg. I hardly ever have to shift down anymore when I hit a grade, and if I do
it is rarely below 5th gear—and that's towing a Grand Cherokee. I keep up with
the best of them now.
The cost was well worth
it. Just wish I had done it two years ago when I bought my RV. I was planning on trading
it in until I got the kit installed—now I plan on keeping it for at least another
two years." —Robert Stickler; Enumclaw, WA
"PowerPack made for a great trip back to Tucson. My Diplomat ISB climbed the
hill east of Indio like a greyhound. The engine ran cooler, was more responsive and
there was less gear shifting. Thanks a lot!" —Bill
Hohmann; via e-mail
<top>
"I'm
in the RV [Monaco Diplomat with Cummins ISC], I haven't
done a lot of driving, maybe 70 miles since I left your place,
and I have three words: Ho. Lee. Sh--!
That
is some impressive power! Going up grades, where normally
you would kick down
to 4th gear, and you watch the speedometer
drift slowly backwards, I did something I've never done
before while going uphill in the RV: I actually took my
foot OFF
the accelerator because I was going too fast! I just turned
the camera on to make sure the truck [GMC Sierra 2500 with
two jet-skis, 8000 lbs total] is still attached to the
back. Unbelievable!
The
[factory installation] service was outstanding. Bruce [Bonfield
in Sales] said "Be there at 6:00am, because
we start promptly," and I thought, "Yeah, right." But
I got there at 6:01 and there was already a guy in the
shop ahead of me. It was finished when they promised,
earlier
actually, and the motorhome looked cleaner than when
I left it!
I've already called two friends of mine and told them
I can run circles around their motorhomes. Helluva system.
I proudly
display my Banks Power [emblem] on both the truck and
the
motorhome. Please tell the other guys there, and Mr.
Banks, 'thank you.'" —Dr. Tom
Durick; via voicemail from the road
<top>
"PowerPack provided
a vast improvement in overall drivability. The smooth-running engine handled the weight
with more spirit, improving almost all aspects of performance. The coach had an easier
time getting up to highway speeds, could negotiate grades with aplomb and safely merge
with freeway traffic." —Motorhome magazine
"A friend told me about
Banks Engineering. I set a date to install the PowerPack. When I took my 190-hp Cummins
motorhome to your facility, I thought I was faced with an under-powered engine for
my 36-foot coach. Our three-week vacation took us through steep inclines, long 6%
grades, passes as high as 7000 feet. Our climbing power was obvious in every situation.
We passed trucks in slow lanes. We held our speed on many climbs. Thanks for a great
product." —George & Kit Howard; Huntington Beach,
CA
"To say that we are
pleased with the Banks PowerPack installed on our Holiday motorhome is putting it
mildly. As full-timers, this upgrade has made our travels a much more pleasant and
satisfying experience. We appreciate the professional care and expertise given our
'home.'" —Al & Fran True; Spokane, WA
"I am the owner of a
'95 35-foot Coachman with a 5.9 (230 hp) Cummins rear diesel RV. Two months ago I
ordered a Banks PowerPack. I just set my cruise control at 65 mph and your system
did the rest. It literally flattened every hill. Not once did I get below 65 mph.
Your system saved me thousands of dollars against a new, more powerful motorhome or
larger engine." —Werner M. Stallman; Silver Bay, NY
"I recently had Banks
Stinger added to my 230-hp Cummins engine on my '97 Fleetwood Discovery ... It has
been a huge success, and I wanted to tell you of my complete satisfaction. The Quick-Turbo
really accelerates speed to the desired level. I definitely notice the increased power
as I move in and out of traffic." —Donald H. Emanuels;
Maple Valley, WA
"The minute I pulled
away from Banks, I knew I had something under me I didn't have before. Banks Stinger
makes me feel good! It's like it jumps away from stop signs. Up hills my [Cummins
C8.3] motorhome used to take in 4th gear, now it goes in 5th or 6th—and that's
towing a Honda Civic. On grade to Las Vegas, we were zipping along without even a
grunt." —Harold Mallet; Las Vegas, NV
"We just picked up our
motorhome from your plant in Azusa. My husband was driving down the freeway as I looked
through the paperwork you gave us. After traveling about 30 minutes, I asked my husband
if he was going to put any of the Banks Power stickers on the coach. He replied "Not
until I see how it performs." Further down the road he said "Did you feel that? Notice
the Banks kick in?" I had, and I said "Yes." By the time we stopped in Sun City, we
were fully satisfied. The following day, we headed home, taking three BIG hills the
coach climbed with ease. The next weekend we washed the motorhome. When we were done,
my husband put on three Banks Power stickers." —Steve
& Carol Escalante; El Cajon, CA
"I am very happy with
the performance of the Banks PowerPack installed on my diesel motorhome. It really
gives it the 'get up and go' I was looking for. I'm especially pleased with its performance
going over the Grapevine. (This is our second Banks system-we had one installed on
our previous motorhome, a gas Pace Arrow.)" —Kelly
Roper; Salinas, CA
"Wow, I'm kinda
like a kid with a new toy! Your PowerPack system for my 35-foot Gulf Stream's Cummins
B5.9 really made an excellent engine even better. We've got improved throttle response
with better acceleration from stoplights. Now pull a 12% grade in Anaheim Hills, in
3rd gear at 31-mph vs. 2nd gear at 26 mph before the PowerPack installation. Cajon
Pass on the I-5 is a 6% grade, which we used to pull in 4th gear at 45 mph, now we
take it in 5th gear at 58 mph, towing a 2,500-lb. Saturn. I admit that the fuel mileage
improved since I quit PLAYING with the extra 85 hp or so your PowerPack has given
me in cruise control at 65 mph, we gained 0.5 mpg!" —William
E. Weible; Lake Havasu City, AZ
<top>
"I
went for the Full Meal Deal. On [Banks Power Consultant]
Tony Wood's advice I installed the complete PowerPack system
on my 37-foot Newmar Mountain Aire. The improved performance
was noticeable right from the shop driveway—increased
power on hills and freeway onramps, and a tremendous reduction
in transmission downshifts. Now there are as many people
looking under the motorhome at my Banks system as are looking
at the rig itself! My RV dealer informed me that the PowerPack
will increase the value of my rig if I eventually trade
up. I'll be giving it a real test this summer going to
the Yukon and Alaska. Keep up the great work." —Graham
Caines, Port Coquitlam, BC
"With many ongoing questions
to resolve power and fuel economy issues for my '99 31-foot motorhome, I was surprised
at your Power Representative's patience and found the information extremely helpful.
After weeks of pondering, I settled on a Stinger and TransCommand for my coach. The
kit was a perfect match, and I will never forget my experience with your company.
You have a customer for life." —Jim Emmett; Monrovia,
CA
"I am really impressed
with the way the Banks PowerPack changed the performance of my Ford V-10 motorhome.
Travelling from the factory to Bakersfield, the low end was apparent as soon as we
pulled onto the freeway, towing our Olds Cutlass. We were at highway speed by the
end of the ramp ... a new experience for me after 8000 miles with the original system.
As great as that experience was, the climb over the Grapevine erased any doubt about
the PowerPack and its capabilities. It was a great feeling to climb long, steep grades
with power to spare." —Edgar Smoot; Wasilla, AK
"The new Gale Banks
PowerPack for the 6.8-liter Triton V-10 engine can deliver a welcome kick in the performance
pants ... With such impressive horsepower and torque gains, you'd expect a noticeable
reduction in 0-to-60 and 40-to-60 mph timed acceleration runs-and Banks PowerPack
system delivered." —Motorhome magazine
"I'm not one to write
testimonials for products, but in this case I am unable to help it. Your Banks system
on my new V-10 motorhome is phenomenal! I had trouble believing the power and speed,
and there are a lot of steep hills between Las Vegas and Medford. Even at 65-70 mph,
I get 9-10 miles per gallon. My wife, whose very large aggravation used to be going
up hills at 40 mph or less, is overjoyed. I can't honestly say you saved my marriage,
but you sure made her happy. She loves to drive the Banks." —Doug
Hildreth; Medford, OR
"I took a 36-mile drive
today and the RV sure seemed more responsive to my right foot. Will have to take a
longer trip to see the real effects of installing the OttoMind module, but I'm positive
that the engine has more power than before." —Richard
C. Walther; Los Alamos, NM
"We
have a new V-10 motorcoach. I had done EVERYTHING possible
to improve an already good engine.
My wife was sick of me spending money!! On a trip to Georgia,
I decided at a last moment to get the complete Banks system.
Well, I got my @## chewed out about spending
$2400. But if anybody asks her now, she will point out to
you that this was 'her idea in the first place!' We both
are extremely happy with this addition and will never,
never own a coach without it!!
We
since then hooked up our heavy Ford Explorer and didn't
know it was back there!"
—Steve Ecton; Heber Springs,
AR
"Just wanted to let you know how great the Banks system works in our Bounder
with the V-10. I was amazed at the difference in acceleration as we pulled on to the
210 and took hills in 4th (even with our towed vehicle.)
With the TransCommand,
the mushy feeling while shifting is gone." —Brian
Marler; via e-mail
"I purchased a Banks PowerPack and TransCommand for our 1999 Winnebago on the
Ford 6.8 L V-10 chassis. Fully loaded, the rig weighs 19, 650 lbs, plus the Dakota
Sport we tow at 3880 lbs. Before Banks, on an 11,200-mile trip, the rig averaged 6.235
mpg. We just returned from a 9723-mile trip through Canada and Alaska, and averaged
7.45 mpg with Banks.
The motorhome towing
our Dakota Sport now can scale 5.5-6% grades in 3rd gear at speeds up to 50 mph. Grades
7.5% required 2nd gear and could be negotiated at speeds up to 40 mph; 8.5% grades
required 1st gear and our speed was 25 mph. The only hills that we dared not try were
10% or greater.
It is safe to say that
both my wife and I are happy with the Banks and now feel that we can take our rig
nearly anywhere. The 19.5% increase in mileage is VERY welcome." —Jim
Kitts; via e-mail
"Just a note to let you know the results of the Banks PowerPack installed on
our 1999 Ford chassis motorhome. We noticed a real difference in the amount of power,
a reduction in downshifting on hills and against the wind, and about an 8.5% increase
in gas mileage. An added plus is the quietness of the motorhome. We are really pleased."
—Jerrall C. Nelson; Hettinger, ND
"I own a 37-foot,
slide-out Bounder, Ford V-10 powered, that tows a Saturn. Going up long grades was
a bum deal. I was underpowered. Considered long about a big-$$$ diesel, or Banks PowerPack
with a TransCommand. My hat is off to Banks: saved me about $75K for a small diesel,
and I run on regular gas. Beep, beep, beep: big Bounder comin'!"
"Checked out Banks'
claims and took them to mean 50-75% of the truth, but I could live with that. All
wrong! At least 110% of what you claimed! I now run with the Big Dogs and pass the
small ones on any hill. Gas mileage is 20% better." Stan Greenwald; via e-mail"I
installed the PowerPack on my Ford V-10 motorhome. I took it up to Lee Canyon (altitude
goes from 3000 feet to 7000 feet in 17 miles of straight road); my lowest speed went
from 28 mph to 35 mph. Very impressive."
"I did the install
myself and your engineering is very good. Everything fit!"
"Thanks for selling
an excellent product that does everything the advertising implies. It improved the
performance and drivability of my coach immensely."
"Now with the TransCommand
installed, I pulled the same hill in 3rd gear instead of dropping to 2nd in about
five spots. The TransCommand also kept me in overdrive on many small hills that previously
required 3rd gear." —Charles Auer; Las Vegas,
NV
"Thank you for
the fast turn-around time and good job of installation of my PowerPack and TransCommand.
The motorhome runs very well with plenty of power." —John
H. Roads, MD; Tucson, AZ
<top>
"I
want to thank you for your helpfulness while I was considering
installing the Banks PowerPack on my 1996 Ford 460 Bounder.
As I promised, I wanted to give you a report on this first
trip. I started to grin at the very beginning of the trip.
I turned onto the access road from Highway 14 onto Interstate
65 into Birmingham—a fairly steep incline. Before
I could never get above 60 mph even with my foot to the
floor until I crested the hill. With the Banks system,
I passed 60 while in the merge lane and was still accelerating.
I leveled off at 64 mph and set my cruise control. There
are numerous hills that get increasingly high and steep
as we head north. Not once did the Bounder have to kick
into passing gear to get up any of these hills until I
crossed the largest of the bunch, Red Mountain. That was
a huge difference. Not only did I not have to go into passing
gear, I maintained 64 mph the whole way. Previously I would
be in and out of passing gear on almost every hill and
would lose 5-10 mph on each hill. The one time I had to
kick into passing gear, the 35-foot Bounder maintained
speed easily. It was a good feeling to pass an 18-wheeler
going up Red Mountain. That was something that never happened
before, either.
The
Bounder handled Red Mountain as easily going southbound
as it had going northbound. The Bounder
was climbing, not
struggling. That made me smile.
What
really made me smile was passing a Holiday Rambler. I could
see that motorhome
ahead and tell from the way
we held distance on the level areas that he was also
running at 60 mph. But every time we went up a hill, he
lost speed.
I didn't. It took me about 15 miles, but I eventually
caught and then passed him (naturally, I passed him going
uphill.)
All
of this convinces me that A) Banks PowerPack does exactly
what you say it does and, B) I made a smart
choice
installing
it. I will gladly display the Banks decals on my motorhome,
and I will gladly refer anyone who asks to you. You
have one very satisfied customer." —Wayne
Perry; via email
"Gale Banks leads a
team that gleefully ferrets out sloppiness in design and manufacturing that the factories
overlook—details that yield significant payoffs in horsepower and torque." —Coast
to Coast magazine
"With the PowerPack,
we saw a peak of 239 hp, for a gain of 58.3 horses (all numbers SAE corrected). That
is a substantial gain." —Motorhome magazine
"I did a pre- and post-test
in our '96 36S with Banks [PowerPack] ... The trip, in its entirety, forced
the 4th to 3rd downshift 13 times. After installing the Banks system (in only 5 hours)
we duplicated everything and the Bounder shifted exactly twice." —Bounder
Beacon magazine
"I just finished a trip
of 3500 miles. I had the opportunity to drive the Banks PowerPack under all sorts
of conditions. The improvement is even better than your tests indicated. Previous
to the Banks system, I was averaging 7 mpg and most of the time it was in the 6.5
to 7 mpg range. Banks is giving me 8.5 to 9 mpg and up to 10.5 mpg in the portion
across Arkansas to Tulsa and into Texas. This mileage represents an improvement of
27%." —Clifford J. Wilton, LTC USA Ret.; Allen,
TX
"I have your Banks PowerPack
System on my 40-foot motorhome ... and have been very pleased with it and have bragged
on it to many, many people in campgrounds as we travel. It is an excellent system
and has shown much increased power, better mileage and runs much cooler." —James
D. Boadham; Albany, OR
"The performance of
the motorhome with the newly installed Banks PowerPack far exceeded my expectations.
While the gentle hills on I-80 across Iowa are not steep, they are long. Where I formerly
had difficulty holding 60-65 mph, I could now accelerate and increase speed over these
grades." —Myron D. Brubaker; Kokomo, IN
"I absolutely could
not believe the increase in performance of our motorhome after installation of the
PowerPack. Ingressing a freeway, I gained the length of a football field with the
same throttle pressure! Coming to Bakersfield, I only shifted out of overdrive three
times, where last year, it must have been at least 15 times." —Dale
Wood; Jefferson, OR
"My new motorhome weighs
9000 lbs and could pull the 8% Conejo grade at 41 mph, but shifted to 2nd near
the top. With Banks I do the whole grade at 45 mph in 3rd gear the whole way. Money
well spent." —George Gosser; Thousand Oaks, CA
"We had Banks PowerPack
and TransCommand installed, with great results. In Las Vegas, the mountain became
a molehill, with speeds ups to 50 mph, passing trucks all the way. I am very happy
with the money spent." —Ken Hemphill; Reno, NV
"I contacted your firm
about a Banks PowerPack for my '95 Holiday Endeavor with a Ford 460. I originally
sought the information based on your ad 'Cheaper to Keep Her.' Well, you have one
more totally satisfied customer! I simply cannot believe the improvement in performance:
significant hill climbing power increase, noted fuel economy increase and a very pleasant
sound from the exhaust pipe—just a fun side benefit. Truly, it has been 'cheaper
to keep her.'" —Jesse L. Livermore; Northville, MI
"An unexpected bonus
is I can now run the [PowerPacked 460] motorhome on 87 octane. Previously,
the engine pinged under load unless I was using 89 octane. The improved engine aspiration
saves me at least 10 cents per gallon." —Malcolm F.
McNeil; Pahrump, NV
"With the other chip
that I had installed, my Bounder was able to take 6% grades 5 mph faster, but
with considerable detonation. After installing the PowerPack, I experienced 15 mph
faster on 6% grades, towing my Jeep!" —Paul Eldon
Douglas; Claremont, CA
"The engine oil temperature
ran close to 15° F cooler than before and the transmission oil temperature never
got over 205° F while pulling those long grades." —Don
Gagnon; Perris, CA
"Thank you and your
crew for making our Bounder purr like a kitten. It has indeed been a pleasure to do
business with such a well organized and efficiently run company ... Mr. Banks, thank
you for assembling such a nice group of people to work with you. They are a great
asset to your good name and your company." —Robert
and Rosemary Neuman; Deming, NM
"Driving up some
of the steepest roads in the USA was a good test of the PowerPack power system. The
fuel savings was noticeable. I really worked the Banks and can say that the high-end
rpm was there and didn't falter a bit." —Jim
Wilson; Lyons, OR
"I recently installed Banks Stinger and TransCommand on my Ford 460 motorhome.
While normally a skeptic when it comes to claims of large horsepower and torque increases
from bolt-on products, I am now a believer!!! The increase in useable power is way
beyond what I expected and the TransCommand does just what it is advertised to do.
I can't wait to blow the doors off my friend's Chevy-powered (no Banks … yet!)
motorhome." —Timothy Austin; Springfield, VT
"I was ready to trade my unit for lack of power. A friend installed Banks on
his RV and bragged so much, I had to try one on my Ford RV. Banks PowerPack works
great and improved my power to my satisfaction. I tow my car up hills with very little
shifting. Believe me, I'm not ready to trade anymore." —Harold
Case; Londonderry, NH
"I decided to upgrade my 4-year old motorhome rather than trade it in for a diesel
pusher, but my '97 Southwind did not have the horsepower and torque to pull tall grades
with my Honda CRV in tow. Banks PowerPack and TransCommand made a huge difference
in the way the beast performs NOW! It transformed my motorhome, which is now a pleasure
to drive in the mountains. I feel that I saved $100,000 by keeping what I have. Gale
Banks is right on the target: 'It IS cheaper to keep her!' My big regret is that I
didn't do this four years ago." —Len Souza;
San Jacinto, CA
"Rose and I have high standards for product quality and customer service. We
give feedback in either direction, and are happy to provide you with this very positive
reaction to dealing with your company."
"The instructions
are very good, and written so that a home mechanic like myself who doesn't install
these everyday can easily follow them. The detail regarding minor things, the drawings
and cautionary notes are very helpful—probably the best I've seen, better than
auto repair books."
"Rose and I knew
within a half mile of leaving home that the power improvement was substantial. We
live in mountainous country, and our RV historically had considerable difficulty in
this terrain: we averaged only 50-60 mph, and gas mileage ranged in the 5.5-7 mpg.
With the PowerPack, gas mileage was 7.2 both in head wind and no wind. I was able
to put the cruise on at 73 mph and relax. It was like sitting in my living room recliner
as far as physical effort and energy spent."
"The chrome exhaust
tip is a nice touch. It is a visible symbol of the quality of the product. On vacation,
my wife laughed at me for polishing it each time we stopped for gas."
"We run into so
much indifferent or poor quality service in the world today that we applaud when justified.
Thank you very much and we wish you continued success—with your recipe that is
virtually assured!" —David Stoley & Rose
Marie Nehls; Trafford, PA
"A note to tell you how happy and impressed we are with the Banks PowerPack system!
After hooking up our tow, it really climbed those hills. We hit I-80 and sailed home
in cruise-control at 68 mph, and even passed some semis on the hills."
"The engine sounds
very smooth, and not working as hard as before Banks."
"We kept a gas
record, and are very pleased at the mileage: over 913 miles, an average of 7.74 mpg.
That's a 29% increase over the pre-Banks 6.0 mpg!" Fred
Matzner; Susanville, CA
"Banks PowerPack leveled the highway, giving us the speed and safety that driving
in traffic demands."
"I'm sure that
the aggravated people who used to follow behind our pre-Banks coach would have been
happy to share the cost [of our new PowerPack]."
"We've also noted
a difference in mileage that's to our benefit." —David
Murdock; Las Vegas, NV
"We'd read and talked to friends about Banks PowerPack. On the road, we put our
new system to the true test—Interstate 80, up Donner summit on a warm afternoon.
The Banks PowerPack did better than we anticipated and the gearshifts were smooth.
Now you know why we are so happy with Banks."
"For years we'd
heard friends talk about Banks’ running with the big dogs' in terms of performance.
We are very pleased with our PowerPack's initial trial. For our motorhome, towing,
to pass a tractor-trailer rig going uphill at 55 mph unbelievable! And the power when
merging onto the highway fives us a safer feeling." —Bob
and Paula Moore; Modesto, CA
"In 1995, my wife and I purchased a 32-ft Holiday Rambler on a Ford 460 chassis.
After several trips, I realized this coach needed two more inches of throttle to make
it go, and seriously considered selling it because of the lack of power, although
we liked it otherwise. After researching my options, I decided that Banks PowerPack
was the way to get that two inches of throttle. Wow, what a difference! Towing or
not, I have power to accelerate. Merging onto the interstate is no longer a problem.
We've logged 24,000 miles since the PowerPack and thoroughly enjoy driving the rig."
"Banks literature
promised great things, and the product lives up to the claims (and then some!) I admit,
I enjoy passing other motorhomes and trucks on long, steep grades! When I hear folks
talking about a lack of power, I always recommend Banks PowerPack." —Dan
Kowalik; Phoenix, AZ
"The manufacturing of the PowerPack system was so well done, it fit like a glove,
and went on with a minimum of effort and time." —Ed
Calman; Henderson, KY
"Have to tell you your system on my Ford 460 motorhome is about the only thing
I've purchased in 20 years that did what it was supposed to."
"I've been a mechanic
for 40 years and installed over 1,000 original-equipment parts that didn't fit any
better or as right."
"The performance
and gas mileage make me like to drive a motorhome again." —Robert
E. Peckham; Rudolph, WI
"I installed the TransCommand and Stinger on my motorhome. I've taken two trips
totaling 3,000 and am pleased to report good findings: more power and increased mileage
of about 1.5 mpg. Thank you for putting out a good product." —Robert
Coe; South Cle Elum, WA
"When my husband approached me about putting the PowerPack on our RV, I almost
went through the ceiling. I could think of an entire list of things we could spend
the money on. He won, but at the time I was not happy about it … Well. I am here
to tell you I cannot believe the difference in power, especially when going up a hill.
I highly recommend the Banks PowerPack to anyone."
"Hat's off to you
for your professionalism and kindness. We have recommended your company to several
people who have anything from diesel trucks to RVs." —Mr.
and Mrs. Jim Kacey; Baltimore, MD
"Dave loves his new Banks PowerPack system, and sure loves the extra power."
"We've met several
people who have Banks power, and never met anyone who was anything but happy with
their system." —Dave & Kathy Diamond; Rancho
Santa Fe, CA
"We had a Banks PowerPack and TransCommand module installed on our 1995 Bounder.
The tuned exhaust manifolds and air intake definitely give us more power. The engine
runs quieter and the transmission's shift characteristics are much improved. Needless
to say, we are happy campers." —Curtis B. Lailer;
Torrance, CA
"The performance
can be summed up with a simple FANTASTIC. This weekend I put my first 250 miles on
the motorhome with the PowerPack installed. With the cruise control set my 17,750-pound
rig climbed all over the hills without downshifting once on its own."
"I was amazed that
the speed didn't vary more than 1 mph, and to pass I just stepped on the throttle
and had all the power I needed."
"The vehicle accelerated
much better, without all the noise." —Don Peoples;
Hamilton, NJ
"We had a Banks
PowerPack installed on our 38-foot Kountry Aire. It is fantastic."
"We had considered
going to a diesel for better power, but now, WE HAVE POWER!" —G.
Judi Wuerch; Charlestown, RI
"Pulling my Honda
on a dolly is now like solo was before the PowerPack. Even my wife—from the passenger
seat—noticed how it seemed to be less strain to hold our speed."
"Pick up for passing
is much better, 65 mph seems easier that 50-55 mph was. Doesn't seem to be running
'out of breath." —Deen S. Adolphe; Vancouver,
WA
"After talking to others who have installed the PowerPack on the Ford gas engines
I took the plunge. I thought the differences in performance in our 1996 Sea Breeze
33' would be subtle. Hardly! Even the sound of the engine has changed. The only engine
sound I hear comes from the rumble out the end of the Monster exhaust tailpipe. Instead
of feeling like I am constantly driving into the wind, the coach now goes! Wouldn't
I pay another 5% for a performance boost of 30%? In a New York minute! The Banks system
has benefits for those of us being pulled down the road by Ford's 7.5L! —Gene
& Linda Rusco; via e-mail
"Last year my 1990 Coachmen (Oshkosh) needed both exhaust manifolds replaced.
The vehicle had 18,000 miles on it at the time but was out of warranty. A friend,
fellow RVer reminded me of the Banks system and I decided to try it. For a few dollars
more than just replacing the manifolds, I got the whole [PowerPack] system including
pipes and muffler. I must tell you that after putting about 6,000 miles on the motorhome
so far this summer I couldn't be more pleased. Gas mileage increased by more than
1+ mile per gallon and the cruising power by more than 10mph. I have to slow down
going up steep inclines now so that my traveling friend who gave me the reminder about
Banks can stay with me." —Bob Moss; via e-mail
"It has been over one year since I installed a PowerPack on my 28-foot 1994 Bounder
motorhome, having a Ford chassis, non-catalytic converter. I have never been more
pleased with an aftermarket product."
"The performance
increase is nothing short of overwhelming. The substantial increase in low-rpm torque
is appreciated during hill climbing. With Banks PowerPack most grades will maintain
cruise control speed. Fuel economy has improved as well."
"Thank you, Gale
Banks, for bringing such an excellent product to the marketplace." —Robert
Wilders, Wildomar, CA
"In May we had a Banks PowerPack put on our 1998 35-foot Bounder. We love and
enjoy the power. We pass everything on the road and trust the performance. Thank you
for a good product." —Roy & Nancy Haskell;
Reno, NV
"I did a pre- and post-test in our '96 [Ford 460 36-foot motorhome] with the
Banks [PowerPack]. The trip was from Littleton, MA down I-495 to I-290, then to a
very long hill in Worchester, turn around and then back. Used cruise control except
for starts and stops to exit and turn around. The trip, in its entirety, forced the
4th to 3rd downshift 13 times. After installing the Banks system (in only five hours),
we duplicated everything and the Bounder shifted exactly twice on the same round trip.
The power difference between the stock F-53 and the Banks modified unit was overwhelming."
—Paul Monat, Bounders of America Beacon
"Performance has improved and we are very happy [with Banks PowerPack]. We have
driven [our Ford 460 38-foot motorhome] more than 2,500 miles and are getting 9.8
mpg towing out heavy Nissan Pathfinder. All we could get before was 6.9 mpg."
"The added power
is great, cruise control works on all but the steepest hills, and the get-up-and-go
in emergencies is also very welcome." —Bob Bills,
Bounders of America Beacon
"I purchased Banks [Ford 460 motorhome] PowerPack and TransCommand. I can really
tell a noticeable improvement in performance. Acceleration is quicker and there's
no drop in speed when climbing hills." —John
W. Hardy; Winston-Salem, NC
"I made my way
to your facility in California without the PowerPack, but at times it was very slow
going and fuel economy averaged 6 mpg. After the installation of the PowerPack, it's
like I have a new [Ford 460 chassis] motorhome and have ended my desires for a diesel
pusher. My mileage on the 2400-mile return trip averaged 8+ mpg. On long grades I
would make it to the top and wait [for a friend with a diesel pusher]."
"I am completely
satisfied with the PowerPack and when I buy a new motorhome, it will be on a Ford
chassis and have a Banks PowerPack before I accept delivery." —Bill
Church; Titusville, FL
"I had your company
install the complete PowerPack, including the TransCommand module on our 1996 Dolphin
535 with a Ford chassis. Thank you for a job well done. The motorhome is like a different
unit and the performance is absolutely outstanding."
"I have been in
the car business since 1948 and can state with confidence that the engineering done
by your company is terrific. Keep up the good work."
"Not only does
the engine have a lot more power and torque, but it also runs cooler and sounds great.
It runs more quietly on hills such as Cajun Pass.
"On I-80 from Sacramento
to Reno, I am passing some diesel pushers and lots of trucks with a big smile on my
face. The transmission shift points are greatly improved and no longer is there constant
up-and-down shifting at critical rpm ranges."
"I have already
convinced three members of our Sierra Hi Roller FMCA region to get your PowerPack
installed. You've got an enthusiastic fan in Reno." —Werner
Strunck; Reno, NV
"Since [the PowerPack]
I have driven I-8 from El Cajon to El Centro three times. I am impressed and delighted
with the results, and this bit of highway is certainly the place to prove it."
"When asked if
I can tell the difference my reply is that I'm one gear longer than before. It pulls
like third in overdrive now, like second in third, etc., and in 90 degree heat the
temp rose to mid range and then dropped when the fan kicked in."
"Excellent results
and the comfort of freeway merging and catching up with the flow of traffic is nearly
worth the price by itself." —Richard W. Harper; via e-mail
"The PowerPack
system worked very well! It lowered the engine temperature 100 to 150 degrees and
gave us more power. It's great to go a little faster up the hills. We gained one gear
and 5 to 8 mph."
"We'll certainly
put a PowerPack on our next engine. We tell others how happy we are with this system."
—Tod Kingsland; (home town unknown)
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"Between your literature
and my friends recommendation, I had a PowerPack installed. On the first hill I experienced
100% improved power. I found myself passing cars and trucks on the hills ... My
wife remarked 'I wouldn't believe it if I didn't feel it.'" —George
K. Barnett; Freehold, NJ
"Had I known then what
I know now about Banks PowerPack, I'd have installed it the day I bought our motorhome—and
enjoyed a much more spirited coach that ran quieter and cooler from the start." —Family
Motor Coaching magazine
"Our first trip towing
the car behind our '81 Titan was a dream. I went up every hill at speeds of 60-75
mph with ease! What a boost in horsepower. Keep my name on your referral list. I would
be happy to talk to anyone about my Banks PowerPack system. Money well spent!" —Larry
Berger; Westminster, CA
"On the road, Banks
PowerPack did everything Gale said it would. Most noticeably, increased gas mileage
and power. Now we go up most hills in high gear, with no loss of speed." —Outdoor
News Network
"This is my second motorhome
with your PowerPack. You would think it would be 'Ho-hum, so what's new?' I cannot
believe the startling increase in performance. I cannot adequately express my overjoyed
satisfaction. The coach flew over Altamonte Pass in overdrive. At the crest the speed
was back to the 65 mph I started with at the bottom." —Richard
A. Ciccarelli; Granite Bay, CA
"We also appreciate
the improved acceleration when passing and at freeway onramps, and the improved mileage
to a new high of 8.5 mpg while towing." —Lee R. Cort;
Canyon Lake, CA
"After installation
of the PowerPack, the improvement in all categories was dramatic. Perhaps the most
stunning statistic is the uphill fuel-economy figure. Picking up 2.85 miles per gallon
and 11 mph is significant." —Motorhome magazine
"The coach was loaded
with 10 people, plus all our gear for a three-day stay on the river. Needless to say,
we were overloaded, but we still flew up hills that previously [to the PowerPack]
we'd have crawled up." —Mark R. Graves; Norwich, CT
"We used to struggle
up hills, usually in 2nd gear, at 45 mph. I felt uncomfortable revving the engine
excessively so we would creep up long, steep grades. On our recent trip we topped
most hills at interstate speeds with only an occasional shift down to 3rd. No more
excessive revving." —David H. Iles; Clinton, NY
"On long grades I open
the window. I love that deep rumbling sound ... My wife grins, shakes her head and
mumbles something. But I don't hear a thing ... I am more than happy." —Klaus
Riebe; Kitwanga, British Columbia
"We were thinking of
upgrading to a diesel pusher but it was hard to justify the big expense after reading
about Banks. Thank you for convincing us to go with Banks PowerPack." —Del
Shipman; Watford City, ND
"Right away I noticed
a big improvement in performance over my previous motorhome of same make and model
... Best money I've ever spent. I'd recommend [ the PowerPack] to any motorhome
owner." —Mel Smothers; Fresno, CA
"We just got back from
a 5000-mile trip. You won't believe what I'm going to report. Before [the PowerPack],
we could not make 4 mpg ... Now we get a solid 7 mpg! I have no way of measuring the
difference in power. But I do know I am no longer embarrassed when we come to a hill."
—Robert Thompson; Henderson, NV
"I had the opportunity
to see the Banks PowerPack system before it was installed on the RV next to mine.
It really impressed me. Pictures don't do the system justice, you really have to see
it in person." —Robert J. Horsley; Sun City, AZ
"I am 62 years young
and completed the PowerPack installation in less than two days, without breaking a
sweat or any help. Thank you for an excellent product at a very fair price." —Marion
H. Walton, Harahan, LA
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"Just got back
from 3,600 miles in my 30' 454 TBI Cruise Master, towing a Beetle, after having the
full Banks system installed. Sure made a difference—lighter throttle, seldom
shifting down to 2nd on the grades, and stayed cooler. I figured 7.5 mpg average BBI
(Before Banks installation) but got just over 9 mpg. Much less strain on driver, passenger
and dog, too!" —Dean Layton; via e-mail
"I have an amazing increase in power. On the trip to Oklahoma City it just melted
away all of the hills. There was no incline that I could not accelerate on."
—Bill Murphy; via e-mail
"I'm sure you receive many letters such as this, but I must comment on the difference
Banks PowerPack made on my motorhome. We just returned form a 1000-mile trip. Originally,
the coach cruised at 62-63 mph, but now it's quite happy at 67-68. Hills that previously
cost me 10-20 mph I can now easily hold to a 4-6 mph drop, usually without kicking
out of overdrive."
"I do have one
problem, though. Most interstate hills in our area are relatively shallow grade. Typically
I'd lose 3-5 mph, but now if I'm not careful, I gain 3-5 mph!"
"The local installers
have a high regard for Banks equipment. He commented on the quality and workmanship
of the components. They appreciate the fit and that everything is included."
—Jim Stevenson; Des Moines, IA
"I want to express my appreciation for your employee's prompt, courteous and
friendly manner during our visit to your facility for installation of the PowerPack
system on our motorhome. The service we received made our day made our day most enjoyable.
Then driving our motorhome made it even more enjoyable, with the extra power and performance."
—Ed Streuli; Bellevue, WA
"Two years ago we purchased a 1992 Airstream 30-foot Land Yacht with 454 engine—our
seventh motorhome since 1977. We had Banks PowerPack installed. The mileage increase
has been a pleasant surprise. Now in the mountains we can keep up with traffic with
no problem. Also, the engine seems quieter. After reading about the PowerPack for
all these years and now having one installed, we will not be without the Banks system
on any future motorhome."
"After averaging
from 3.4 to 6.7 mpg with our previous motorhomes, imagine our surprise now that we
get 10.7 to 11.9 mpg uphill, downhill, or into the wind." —Ralph W.
E. Decker; Mason City, IA
"From the moment I arrived until the installation was completed and I was on
my way home, your employees treated me with a level of professionalism and friendliness
that clearly sets a high standard in the industry."
"My motorhome is
a 29-foot 1993 Class-A on a Chevrolet chassis with a TBI 454-ci engine. When loaded
with water, gear and people, hooked up with the desert toys, climbing the 4,000-foot
mountain pass, it was slow going. As promised, the PowerPack delivered. What is really
impressive is that I now climb hills with a 6% grade in 3rd gear at 50 mph!"
"Over a 1,100-mile
before-and-after comparison driving the same route, my fuel economy is up 15% over
stock."
"My wife was very
skeptical about spending money to improve the motorhome. Yet, after she rode in the
PowerPack-equipped coach, she complimented on how much smoother and quieter the vehicle
was driving down the road. The performance made a believer out of her."
"The bottom line
is I really appreciate your organization and your products, and constantly tell my
friends and acquaintances about the benefits of a Banks PowerPack-equipped vehicle."
—Ruby Williams-Brown; Carlsbad, CA
"From the time
I first contacted your company to the time we said goodbye, we were treated with courtesy
and professionalism. We sat in the lobby, where even our dog was welcome, for about
four hours where we heard Ann taking calls. She represents your company extremely
well! Courtney was thoroughly professional, meeting us in the morning, taking us to
your fabrication area and seeing us off in the afternoon. There were no "hand-offs"
with their miscommunications, only one person responsible. Even the mechanic handed
the keys to Courtney."
"Yesterday we were
in Azusa to have your [PowerPack] system installed on our 1985 Airstream. My cousin
recommended your products to solve the GM exhaust gasket problem, but from the drive
home, I think we got much more."
"I received my
advanced education at IBM in its Golden Age, and learned about class operations. Yours
is one of them!" —Bob Knight; Berkeley, CA
"I had to tell
you how pleased I am with my Banks PowerPack ... The power I am getting now feels
like the 454 is not working hard at all to maintain speed on the interstate—and
in the mountains, needless to say, I am a satisfied customer ... Passing other vehicles
is no trouble at all."
"The motorhome
runs much cooler. The fan clutch does not engage nearly as much as before, so it is
quieter in the driver's compartment."
"I installed the
PowerPack by myself in one day. Everything fit like a glove."
"I have recommended
this system to a number of my friends who own motorhomes." —Bobby
J. Rackley; Burlington, NC
"The
Banks PowerPack system made a world of difference in the performance of this motorhome.
It has much more power on the hills. I am getting from one to 1.5 more miles per gallon
of gas."
"It is quieter
in the driver and passenger compartment of this Class A motorhome. My wife and I can
now talk without shouting at each other."
"I would definitely
recommend this system to anyone who wants more performance out of their motorhome."
—Dale W. Parkhurst; Wales, WI
"Your system has worked flawlessly and I noticed an increase in mileage, from
an average of 6.2 to 7.3 mpg! I also have more power in the hills and the engine runs
cooler." —Bob Jinks; America-at-Large (full-timer)
"We enjoyed better
gas mileage, good improvement in acceleration, more high-gear power on upgrade."
"The engine is
much quieter, we can carry on a conversation now, rather than having to speak loudly."
"The following data pretty much says it all:
