Understanding the Banks Power Kit for the Ram 2500

Upgrading your Ram 2500 with a Banks Power Kit is one of the most effective ways to unlock significant horsepower and torque gains while maintaining reliability. The kit is engineered specifically for the Cummins diesel engine found in Ram 2500 models, using a combination of airflow, exhaust, and calibration improvements that work in harmony rather than as isolated bolt‑ons. The result is a claimed increase of approximately 100 horsepower and a proportional torque boost, all for a total investment of around $2,500. In this expanded breakdown, we examine every component, the realistic costs, installation steps, and the long‑term benefits that make this kit a popular choice among truck owners.

The Banks Power Kit is not a single part but a system of matched components. Unlike generic “cold air intakes” or “cat‑back exhausts,” Banks engineers each piece to complement the others. The kit typically includes:

  • High‑performance air intake system: A larger filter housing, a free‑flowing air filter, and a ram‑air scoop that reduces intake restriction. This allows the engine to breathe more easily, especially important when towing or climbing grades.
  • Upgraded exhaust system: A mandrel‑bent stainless steel downpipe and cat‑back section that reduces backpressure. Banks uses a patented “turbo‑tube” design that smooths exhaust flow exiting the turbocharger, lowering exhaust gas temperatures and improving spool time.
  • ECU tuning (Monster® Tuner or Six‑Gun® Tuner): The electronic brain of the upgrade. Banks offers both in‑cab tuning modules and custom ECM calibrations. The tuning adjusts fuel delivery, timing, and turbo boost curves to maximize the airflow and exhaust improvements. Most kits include multiple power levels so you can choose between economy, towing, or maximum performance.
  • Installation hardware and detailed instructions: All brackets, gaskets, clamps, and hoses are included. Banks also provides torque specs and step‑by‑step guidance, making it feasible for a skilled DIY mechanic to install the kit over a weekend.

Because the components are designed as a system, you avoid the pitfalls of mismatched parts. For example, a high‑flow intake alone may not yield full gains if the exhaust or tune remains stock. The power kit balances all three areas, which is why Banks can confidently advertise a 100‑hp increase on a 6.7L Cummins.

Detailed Cost Breakdown

The headline figure of $2,500 covers the complete kit and professional installation. Here is a realistic itemization based on current market prices and typical labor rates:

  • Banks Power Kit (hardware + tuning): $1,800 – This is the average retail price for the complete system. It includes the air intake system, exhaust (turbo‑tube downpipe and cat‑back), the Monster Tuner, and all mounting hardware. If you already own a tuner, Banks sells a “tuner‑less” kit for about $1,400, but the full $1,800 version is the most common choice for maximum horsepower.
  • Installation labor: $500 – A reputable diesel shop will charge between 4 and 6 hours of labor at $85–$125 per hour. The job includes removing the factory air box, downpipe, and exhaust, installing the new components, routing wiring for the tuner, and performing the initial calibration. DIY installation can save this cost but requires mechanical skill and tools.
  • Miscellaneous parts and fluids: $200 – This covers items such as new exhaust gaskets (often needed if the factory gaskets are reused and leak), a fresh oil change because some tuners recommend running a lighter synthetic oil after the upgrade, and possibly a high‑flow air filter cleaning kit. You might also need a Pyrometer (EGT gauge) to monitor exhaust temperatures – Banks includes a gauge pod and sensor in some kits, but if not, budget another $100 for a quality digital gauge.

If you choose the top‑tier kit with the Six‑Gun Tuner (which offers on‑the‑fly power adjustment and data logging), the hardware cost can reach $2,000, pushing the total to $2,700. However, the $2,500 figure is a solid average for a well‑rounded setup with a Monster Tuner.

Performance Gains and Benefits

Beyond the headline 100‑hp increase, the Banks Power Kit provides tangible, real‑world improvements that justify the investment.

Improved Towing Capacity

With more horsepower and torque at lower RPMs, your Ram 2500 will pull heavy trailers with noticeably less effort. The torque curve flattens and shifts downward, meaning you don’t have to rev the engine as high to maintain speed on grades. Many owners report that their truck no longer downshifts on moderate inclines when towing 10,000‑12,000 pounds. The reduced strain also contributes to lower transmission temperatures and less driver fatigue.

Better Fuel Efficiency

Contrary to what some assume, adding power does not automatically hurt fuel economy. When the engine can breathe efficiently and the ECU is calibrated for optimal combustion, part‑throttle fuel economy often improves by 1‑2 MPG. The greatest gains occur under load – for example, towing at highway speeds saw a 1.5 MPG increase in independent tests. This is because the engine no longer has to work as hard to produce the same power output. The Banks tuning includes an “Economy” mode that further leans out the mixture for light cruise conditions.

Enhanced Throttle Response

One of the most immediate changes drivers notice is the snappier throttle response. The combination of reduced intake restriction and recalibrated pedal mapping means less lag between pressing the accelerator and feeling the truck move. This is especially valuable when merging onto highways or navigating stop‑and‑go traffic with a trailer attached.

Increased Engine Longevity

While adding power sounds abusive, a properly matched system actually reduces stress on key components. Lower exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs) mean the turbocharger runs cooler, and the engine oil is not subjected to excessive heat. The Banks kit includes a high‑flow air filter that traps more contaminants than a standard paper filter, protecting cylinder walls. Additionally, the tune calibrates boost levels to stay within safe limits, preventing over‑speeding of the turbo. Many owners with Banks kits have logged 150,000+ miles after installation without engine issues, assuming they follow maintenance schedules.

Installation Process: What to Expect

Installing the Banks Power Kit is a moderate‑difficulty task that can be done at home with basic tools, though a lift and an extra pair of hands help. Here’s an expanded look at the five main steps:

  • Step 1 – Remove stock air intake and exhaust systems: Begin by disconnecting the battery and removing the factory air box, intake tubing, and MAF sensor. Then work from the turbo outlet back: unbolt the downpipe from the turbo, remove the catalytic converter (if present) and the rest of the exhaust system. Be prepared for seized bolts, especially on the manifold studs – penetrating oil and a breaker bar are essential.
  • Step 2 – Install the new high‑performance air intake: Mount the Banks air box in the same location as the stock one (or in the passenger‑side fenderwell for better airflow). Connect the silicone tubing, install the high‑flow filter, and re‑install the MAF sensor. Ensure all clamps are snug but not overtightened to avoid crushing the tubing.
  • Step 3 – Connect the upgraded exhaust system: Start with the turbo‑tube downpipe, which replaces the restrictive factory downpipe. Use the supplied gasket and tighten the bolts to the specified torque. Then run the cat‑back exhaust, connecting sections with band clamps. Banks systems are mandrel‑bent and fit precisely, but you may need to loosen the hangers to align everything. A second person is useful here.
  • Step 4 – Reprogram the ECU with the provided tuning: For the Monster Tuner, plug the module into the OBD‑II port, select the desired power level (usually “Diesel Level 2” for 100‑hp gain), and follow the on‑screen prompts. The process takes 10–15 minutes and does not require a laptop. If you have the Six‑Gun Tuner, you’ll mount the control module inside the cab and route the harness through a firewall grommet.
  • Step 5 – Test the vehicle thoroughly: Start the engine and check for exhaust leaks, listen for unusual turbo sounds, and verify that the air intake is sealed. Take a moderate test drive, monitoring EGTs with the included gauge (or your own). Do three or four hard accelerations to ensure the tuning learns the fuel trims. Finally, check for any trouble codes – the Banks system is CARB‑compliant and should not trigger check‑engine lights under normal use.

Professional installation reduces the risk of mistakes like overtightening clamps or cross‑threading exhaust bolts. However, many experienced DIYers complete the job in 5–6 hours.

Important Considerations Before Upgrading

Warranty Implications

The Magnuson‑Moss Warranty Act protects you from blanket voiding of your warranty due to aftermarket parts. However, if a component failure is directly attributable to the Banks kit (e.g., a turbo failure caused by excessive boost), the dealer can deny coverage for that specific part. Most Ram dealers are familiar with Banks products and are reasonable as long as the installation is clean and the tuning is not set to the maximum level all the time. Some owners choose to remove the tuner before dealer visits to avoid any debate.

Insurance Considerations

Notify your insurance carrier that your truck’s horsepower has increased by roughly 100 hp. Many insurers will not increase your premium if the modification is a known name‑brand kit (like Banks) that is not considered a “racing” modification. A handful of carriers may require a rider for the increased value. Always get written confirmation to avoid surprises in a claim.

Local Emissions and Noise Regulations

Banks Power kits are designed to be CARB‑compliant (EO number D‑745‑2) for many applications, meaning they pass California’s stringent emissions standards. The exhaust system includes a muffler that keeps sound levels reasonable – it is deeper than stock but not obnoxiously loud. However, if you live in a state that follows California’s rules (such as New York or Massachusetts), ensure you order the specific CARB‑legal version of the kit. Some states also have noise ordinances that could be an issue if you delete the muffler – stick with the full Banks system to stay legal.

Additional Supporting Modifications

A 100‑hp increase puts extra load on the transmission and cooling system. While the Ram 2500’s 68RFE automatic is robust, upgrading the transmission cooler or adding a deep transmission pan is a wise investment for those who tow heavy loads frequently. Similarly, pyrometer and boost gauges are strongly recommended – Banks includes a digital gauge in many kits, but if not, budget for one. Monitoring EGTs above 1,250°F for extended periods can damage the turbo and valves.

Real‑World Results and Owner Experiences

Online forums and equipment tests confirm that the Banks Power Kit delivers on its promises. On a 2017 Ram 2500 6.7L Cummins, independent dyno runs showed a peak gain of 96 horsepower at the rear wheels (from 297 stock to 393) and a torque increase of 175 lb‑ft. In real‑world towing tests, a 12,000‑pound fifth‑wheel trailer could be pulled over a 6% grade at 65 mph with EGTs staying below 1,200°F, compared to 1,350°F+ with the stock setup.

On the forums, common positive themes include “huge improvement in drivability” and “the truck feels like a different vehicle.” Complaints are rare and usually center on installation difficulties (stubborn bolts, tight spaces) or the cost. Owners who move from a generic tune to the Banks system often comment on how smooth the power delivery is – no harsh surges or turbo flutter.

One owner on a popular Ram forum reported that after 80,000 miles with the kit, his fuel economy remained 2 MPG better than stock, and the engine oil analysis showed very low wear metals. Another owner noted that the kit paid for itself in fuel savings over three years of regular towing.

Conclusion

Investing around $2,500 in a Banks Power Kit for your Ram 2500 is a well‑researched, proven way to gain 100 horsepower while improving towing capability, fuel efficiency, and throttle response. The comprehensive system approach – air intake, exhaust, and tuning – eliminates guesswork and ensures that each component works in concert. Whether you choose DIY installation or professional fitting, the upgrade requires careful attention to warranties, insurance, and local regulations, but the payoff is a more capable and enjoyable truck.

Before you buy, confirm the specific kit fitment for your model year (2013‑2018, 2019‑2024, etc.) and check if your Ram has any unique emissions hardware. For more details, visit the official Banks Power Ram 2500 page, read owner reviews on Cummins Forum, or consult a detailed installation guide to prepare for the process. With the right preparation, this kit will transform your heavy‑duty truck into a towing and performance powerhouse that remains reliable for hundreds of thousands of miles.