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Banks Monster-Ram Vs. BD Diesel Killer Grid Heater Upgrade Kit

Banks Monster-Ram Vs. BD Diesel Killer Grid Heater Upgrade Kit

Here are 6 reasons why Banks Monster-Ram is the most complete, cost-effective solution, for preventing RAM Cummins grid heater bolt failure while improving throttle response by removing airflow restrictions.
1. The Monster-Ram intake system includes a specially designed high-flow billet intake plate that replaces the factory grid heater, completely removing the failure-prone bolts with it. The factory grid heater assembly becomes an airflow killer over time. With a restrictive design from the start, it gets worse as oily soot builds up on the heating element. Nearly all diesel mechanics we’ve spoken to have experience with grid heaters so caked with soot, that they wonder how the engine is able to run. Eliminating the factory-style grid heater is the answer.
RAM Cummins Grid heater filled with soot
2. The BD fix does not prevent the second grid heater bolt from failing and damaging the engine. While BD does claim to include a replacement bolt that is of a higher grade, there is nothing to prevent it from melting and falling into the manifold, as seen in the image above. Imagine spending six hours installing the BD kit, only to have the secondary bolt fail a few years later and with the same destructive results. BD also claims that their part does not require an EO number, which is irrelevant, as all Banks Monster-Rams for ’13-current Ram applications have received an EO number and are 50-state emissions compliant.
3. BD's replacement busbar (highlighted below) further restricts airflow. By slowing the airflow, it promotes quicker buildup of oily soot on the grid heater. Cummins turned the stock thin busbar on its side in an effort to avoid blocking airflow. BD made a performance-limiting device.
BD Killer Grid Heater Upgrade Kit DODGE/RAM 6.7L CUMMINS Failure Points
BD Killer Grid Heater Upgrade Kit Failure Point
4. The Monster-Ram has been developed from the start as a performance upgrade, with or without being used in conjunction with other Banks Power components. By removing restrictions in the stock intake air system, the Monster-Ram dramatically improves throttle response by increasing air density into the manifold. Thousands of RAM owners also report increases in power and fuel economy.
Monster-Ram on left compared to stock RAM intake elbow
5. RAM 6.7L Cummins ownership was once anchored in the brand’s legendary reputation for durability. Today, Cummins’ standing has eroded as more and more owners become aware of the ticking time bomb in the engine. When choosing a preventative measure, owners should consider the engineering that went into the solution. The Monster-Ram system took more than a year to develop, taking advantage of Banks' in-house expertise in mechanical engineering and fluid dynamics to achieve its unbeatable airflow characteristics. The Monster-Ram restores faith in the Cummins 6.7L engine and provides owners with peace of mind.
6. The Monster-Ram intake system and BD's Killer Grid Heater Kit both require 4-6 hours of installation time. Why wouldn't you install the system that prevents all forms of grid heater failure while adding the benefit of improved performance?

No one wants to replace their $30,000 Cummins engine because a tiny nut and bolt failed and fell off the factory air intake (grid) heater and into cylinder #6. Buying the BD kit over the Monster-Ram buys you time, but is not a complete solution. Choosing BD over Banks is like retreading an old set of worn tires rather than buying a new set of long-lasting high-performance tires.
FAQ
  • Will Monster-Ram affect my warranty?
  • How does Monster-Ram prevent grid heater bolt failure?
    • The Monster-Ram kit includes a high-flow billet intake plate which replaces the failure-prone unit entirely.
  • How will I start my truck in cold weather? 
    • Monster-Ram includes a high-performance coil heater that threads into the top of the aluminum casting for easy access.
  • How does Monster-Ram improve performance? 
    • Monster-Ram eliminates airflow restrictions found in the stock intake elbow and grid heater. And, as these stock parts get caked in soot, airflow is further diminished. With Monster-Ram, there are no obstructions to get caked in soot. 
  • Does Monster-Ram require a tune?
    • Monster-Ram is designed to work with stock and tuned trucks. While no tune is required, performance gains get even better with tune. 
  • BD's kit is less expensive. Why choose Banks? 
    • Monster-Ram eliminates the entire grid heater assembly. BD only addresses one of the two bolts known to fail.
    • Monster-Ram improves throttle performance and fuel economy. BD retains the stock parts, known for poor airflow.
[product=intake-elbow-42799-pc-2019-2021-dodge-ram-2500-3500-6-7l-cummins]for 2019-2024 Dodge RAM 2500/3500 6.7L Cummins[/product]
[product=intake-elbow-42798-pc-2013-2018-dodge-ram-2500-3500-6-7l-cummins]
for 2013-2018 Dodge RAM 2500/3500 6.7L Cummins[/product]
[product=intake-elbow-42797-pc-2007-5-2012-dodge-ram-2500-3500-6-7l-cummins]for 2007-2012 Dodge RAM 2500/3500 6.7L Cummins[/product]
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