Gale Banks Chat Log

208.11.5.68:(21:38:52) Jason : Your messages won't show up yet. We go live at 10:00PM EST. Stay tuned.

129.71.78.26:(21:44:27) jabo : Leaves...

207.217.174.128:(21:53:50) Gale Banks : Hi Jason

207.217.174.128:(21:55:36) Gale Banks : Hi ho, Jason. Gale and Anyels are in the room.

208.11.5.68:(21:57:06) Jason : Hey, I'm here.

208.11.5.68:(21:57:25) Jason : Looks like the server time is off by about 10 minutes.

207.217.174.128:(21:57:56) Gale Banks : Hi. You tell us when you want us to start.

208.11.5.68:(21:59:22) Jason : Looks like we've got a couple of people in here already if you want to start.

207.217.174.128:(21:59:42) Gale Banks : Gentlemen, start your engines!

209.103.35.90:(21:58:03) frank : Is it worth while trying to create a twin turbo setup for the older naturally aspirated 7.3L?

207.217.174.128:(22:02:18) Gale Banks : We'll answer Franks' question -- above. The answer is, only if your last name is Trump!

209.103.35.90:(22:03:01) frank : go ahead, TRUMP me!

208.11.5.68:(22:01:02) Jason : Does anyone have a good question to start us off?

153.34.169.164:(22:02:10) Andrew Humphrey : Yes i do, do you ahve to remove the bolts from the tranny to install the two piece down pipe?

207.217.174.128:(22:07:47) Gale Banks : No you don't. But firewall to engine distance varies tremendously -- you will have to bend the lip out of the way.

208.12.56.168:(22:03:09) Mike : I'll bite, when will Powerpacks be available for the '99s? What do you plan on doing for them?

207.217.174.128:(22:05:04) Gale Banks : To Mike first -- soon as I can purchase a mule vehicle -- hopefully within the next month. We'll get going. Hope to have product in the second quarter of 98.

207.114.143.126:(22:03:18) Brian : It's obvious you get more power from the PS why doesn't the factory?

207.217.174.128:(22:06:24) Gale Banks : Now to Brian's question. I've been asking this question for the last 40 years. You gotta think like a racer to find horsepower. Most factory guys are just doin' a job,

152.163.194.237:(22:03:55) BILL : do you think the cat converter effects performance on the powerstroke

207.217.174.128:(22:08:24) Gale Banks : It's backpressure is not as bad as you think. We've designed around it.

129.2.237.61:(22:04:25) Jason Verney : I am not exactly mechanically inept, and I was wondering who I could get to help install your Powerpack?

207.217.174.128:(22:10:33) Gale Banks : We have dealers all over the country. Or we can help you by phone. Ask for David FRantzich. 1-800 GET POWER.

207.194.24.81:(22:04:31) Scott McLagan : I've got a question for Gale: Some of us are cheap, some are poor, and some have wives to whom we have to rationalize every penny that gets poured into truck modifications. Could you suggest a progression from least to most expensive of the mods y

207.217.174.128:(22:12:05) Gale Banks : Start with Stinger. Buy your wife some roses. And get 61 hp and 109 lb-ft. You can upgrade later to Stinger-Plus or PowerPack.

199.227.90.31:(22:03:34) Smart : I was told by ford today i cant add any after market trubo's to our truck ... on our new 99 that will be in soon

207.217.174.128:(22:13:01) Gale Banks : I'll bet you'll want to add my turbine housing and improved intake manifolding.

153.34.169.164:(22:04:26) Andrew Humphrey : Also ever though of makeing a new intake for the ps that will enable it to plow snow, for like 96 or 97's??? it would be a good sellar if you sold it seperate, we would buy it instantly heheh

207.217.174.128:(22:13:40) Gale Banks : We're doing it right now!

207.217.174.128:(22:13:53) Gale Banks : And you can plow all the snow you want.

208.11.5.68:(22:14:05) Jason : Which intake Gale?

207.217.174.128:(22:14:51) Gale Banks : On our Stinger and Stinger-Plus applications, we will be offering a much improved connection between the turbcharger and the engine.

208.29.72.39:(22:08:40) Rob : This topic was debated of the board a few weeks ago. Which has more braking power a gas engine or a diesel engine?? And why??

207.217.174.128:(22:16:07) Gale Banks : Gas engines have better compression braking from the factory. But a diesel with no throttle on the intake and a brake throttling the exhaust will reign supreme.

207.217.174.128:(22:16:33) Gale Banks : Let me explain

207.217.174.128:(22:17:12) Gale Banks : In my opinion, compression braking is almost a misnomer as applies to gas engines. With the throttle closed they are as much a vacuum pump as a compression braking device.

153.34.39.41:(22:06:27) Mark E : Is there a significant trade off from power now to life later with a PowerPack upgrade

207.217.174.128:(22:17:45) Gale Banks : To marks' question about durability --

207.217.174.128:(22:18:21) Gale Banks : These engines last app. 300,000 miles. Our products are designed so that your engine will be as durable as my company. You trade off nothing.

207.115.1.109:(22:08:47) GeneT : Ordered my Transcommand yesterday for my E4OD. Whos ATF do you recommend for my otherwise stock setup?

207.217.174.128:(22:19:49) Gale Banks : Gene, we are constantly monitoring through our friends at Union Oil Research, both engine oil and ATF quality. Any major brand has roughly the same package.

152.163.194.237:(22:07:32) BILL : Do you own a powerstroke

207.217.174.128:(22:21:08) Gale Banks : Bill, I am the proud owner of a 1996 PS stakebed, sporting a full PowerPack. This thing will tow your house!

12.64.40.156:(22:12:12) YN : I am looking at a 1999 powerstroke, which I would run without load most of the time! What can be done for optimal fuel milage? Anything under 20mpg for a 2WD with 3.73 gears won't make economical sense to me

207.217.174.128:(22:23:13) Gale Banks : YN, first thing is I have no idea on the 99 fuel economy numbers yet. We alsays seek to improve fuel economy. Fifty percent of our engineering effort is alloted for that. I'll have your answer second quarter of this year.

152.163.194.237:(22:12:01) BILL : do you think the e4od trans will hold up to large torque increases?

207.217.174.128:(22:25:24) Gale Banks : Bill, trans durability is not an issue with our TransCommand installed. Sensing load it diminishes slip time as required, eliminating this failure mode.

206.206.165.37:(22:13:00) Brian J. : What was the basis for your upgrade use a free-floating turbocharger rather than a wastegated unit?

207.217.174.128:(22:27:28) Gale Banks : Brian, wastegates trade low-end response for power-reducing backpressure. With our airflow improvements, and the magic of electronic management, I got the job done -- got the repsonse and the power -- without a wastegate.

206.133.63.76:(22:12:22) Donnie : I know everybody wants twice the power and twice the fuel economy. Do you envision the ability to actually increase mileage on some of your packages with increased HP?

207.217.174.128:(22:29:28) Gale Banks : Donnie -- all of our packages increase mileage when you drive as you did stock. But we know the new power is sometimes irresistible. Once you get over that, you'll see the mileage!

206.97.53.42:(22:18:03) Ken M : Turbo Housing: With the new turbo housing, which is designed to react faster to increased throttle (correct?), will it give more boost at a constant throttel compared to stock? i.e. will switching to the Banks turbo housing give you more boost than the stock, at the same cruising speed, given all other factors remain the same?

207.217.174.128:(22:30:37) Gale Banks : Ken, yes slightly more boost at cruise.

207.217.174.128:(22:31:48) Gale Banks : BTW, has anyone noticed I don't sell chips without airflow equipment?

208.11.5.68:(22:32:19) Jason : You might explain the difference between your "kits" and just an add-on chip.

207.217.174.128:(22:33:49) Gale Banks : An add-on chip over-fuels the engine, producing excess exhaust energy -- raising boost and power, while pushing full-load EGT as high as 1600 F. 1350 is the max safe limit for this engine.

207.217.174.128:(22:34:40) Gale Banks : With proper airflow equipment, you can produce power increases and hold the safe EGT limit.

153.34.71.235:(22:21:51) Drew : have started testing on the 99 model yet?

207.217.174.128:(22:35:00) Gale Banks : Drew, 99 tests start next month.

207.217.174.128:(22:35:41) Gale Banks : But Ford engineering allowed up to view and measure last year, so we have a good idea of where we're going already.

208.29.72.39:(22:25:41) Rob : What is your opinion on the use of synthetics vs petroleum based engine oils in diesels?? Also extended drain intervals??

207.217.174.128:(22:37:47) Gale Banks : Rob, for many years I was quite active in the American Society of Lubrication Engineers. Synthetics are unmatched for engine life, but oil change intervals should remain as before.

153.34.39.41:(22:23:47) Mark E : At what kind of load would you recommend each package

207.217.174.128:(22:38:56) Gale Banks : Mark, anything within the design limit (ie: maximum combined gross vehicle weight) as rated by Ford.

207.217.174.128:(22:39:39) Gale Banks : May I add, more power does not give you heavier duty suspension or bigger brakes.

153.34.169.164:(22:23:42) Andrew Humphrey : I have finally convinced my dad to at least think about buying a stinger or plus kit, know of any dealers near ky???

207.217.174.128:(22:41:12) Gale Banks : Andrew, my Man, I'm sure there are. Call 1 800 GET POWER and ask for Ron Fleetham. He knows 'em all.

206.133.63.76:(22:27:14) Donnie : Do you think higher Cetance fuels such as Jet-A, or an additive enhancer but still high grade diesel damages the Powerstoke? Any R&D about effects of your packages with these type fuels?

207.217.174.128:(22:42:47) Gale Banks : Donnie, no R&D. But understand, the burn rate varies with the type of fuel, which would necessitate different injector timing. I suggest you don't scr*w with this.

12.64.40.156:(22:27:47) YN : What are your fuel economy numbers for 97/98 stock powerstrokes and how do you improve them?

207.217.174.128:(22:44:53) Gale Banks : YN, fuel economy pulling 17,500 lbs over 108-mile test loop increased 9.6% with PowerPack, from 10.63 mpg stock to 11.65 mpg with Banks. Hold on for part two.

207.217.174.128:(22:45:28) Gale Banks : Improvements are a result of improved volumetric efficiency and reduced air pumping losses.

207.217.174.128:(22:46:42) Gale Banks : Sucking air in and pushing exhaust out eat hp. All our products diminish that parasitic fuel consumption. One moment for felix now ...

209.30.118.208:(22:27:13) felix : Gale, I have '91 7.3 w/e4od. It shutters under light load and stedy throttle. Is it my torque converter?

207.217.174.128:(22:47:36) Gale Banks : Felix, torque converter is a possibility, but I'd be looking at the cracking pressure on your injector nozzles. Could be erratic fuel distribution.

205.235.135.134:(22:34:55) Cliff : If your Trans Command eliminates E4od problems why will FMC void my warranty if I install it??

207.217.174.128:(22:49:32) Gale Banks : Cliff, this is simple. FoMoCo won't void warranty just because you install an aftermarket part. That would violate the Magnuson-Moss Act -- and as a pratical matter, the TransCommand reduces transmission warranty problems for Ford. See my site -- click on "Warranties" button.

153.34.71.235:(22:35:39) Drew : is the 1350 F. limit on the cool side of the turbo?

207.217.174.128:(22:50:41) Gale Banks : Drew, no the 1350 limit is on the turbine inlet EGT.

129.2.237.61:(22:28:56) Jason Verney : What do you think of adding a Cold air induction to the PSD? I've seen advertizements for them in some performance magazines.

207.217.174.128:(22:52:16) Gale Banks : Jason V, the Power Stroke diesel already has cold-air induction. Banks products improve the flow by reducing pressure drop thru the filter. could you elaborate on the products you're talking about?

208.11.5.68:(22:52:43) Jason : Gale, Hypermax makes one that draws air from the cowl.

207.217.174.128:(22:53:53) Gale Banks : Jason, what do you do with the rain water? I understand they recommend you disconnect it when it rains. Also, at higher vehicle speeds, a negative pressure develops at the base of the windshield.

208.11.5.68:(22:54:20) Jason : Understood.

208.29.72.39:(22:38:42) Rob : What type of backgound do you have, ie education, experience????

207.217.174.128:(22:56:19) Gale Banks : Rob, double major in mechanical engineering and electronic engineering, California Polytechnic University. Taught turbocharged engine design at grad level at General Motors Institute. Sold first racing engine double-o-head cam, fuel-injected, Stude V-8 in 1958.

143.166.82.241:(22:45:54) skippy : After upgrading my PS with one of your kits, what things should I keep an eye on so I do not trash the engine, tranny, or the rear end? (exhuast temps, ect...)

207.217.174.128:(22:58:32) Gale Banks : Skippy, keep an eye on my competition and you won't have any of those problems. Seriously, we've done our homework. You'll have a durable engine with Banks. The TransCommand handles the automatics, sticks are no problem, rear axles are no problenm.

207.217.174.128:(22:58:58) Gale Banks : MAy I add ...

207.217.174.128:(23:00:17) Gale Banks : We are scrupulous about maintaining safe EGT under all loads and conditions when calibrating our OttoMind engine control module. They are diferent at every level, matched to every engine code.

143.166.82.241:(22:38:54) skippy : Gale, I am research modifing my 97, and have conserns about the manufacture's warrenties. I have read what is on your site, but can you give us any tips on how to handle a reluctant dealer?

207.217.174.128:(23:01:37) Gale Banks : Skippy, call us. If you have Banks product, we'll go to bat for you with the dealer. Once they understand federal warranty law, the problems always seem to go away.

12.64.40.156:(22:37:21) YN : I know you are going to throw me out of this room: what happened to gas turbos?

207.217.174.128:(23:03:11) Gale Banks : YN, by the next millennium, we intend to redefine hot-rodding in the US, through the use of turbocharging and all-wheel drive. We're currently building a Mercedes Benz SL pro-mod with four turbochargers.

208.29.72.39:(22:48:00) Rob : I know that the GM diesel is the butt of many jokes and Jason will probably cuss me for asking about it but I will anyway. What potential do you see in the later 6.5's (96 and newer)?? I have a 96 with the power pack and am interested in MORE POWER. Also have you heard any specifics on what is going to happen as far as using the Isuzu 6.3 or the Cat 3126 for future models??

207.217.174.128:(23:06:01) Gale Banks : Rob, we're working on OttoMind programming for the 96-up 6.5 that will produce more power. I'm running a 6.5 in my '89 Suburban, and testing our Sidewinder turbo as an upgrade. I don't know anything about the Isuzu, except that they had us quote buidling a prototype a 300-hp 6.5 recently.

209.103.35.90:(22:51:20) franko : GALE, do you have any "specials" excess inventory maybe on a turbosystem for the N/A 7.3L ala (1989)?

207.217.174.128:(23:08:15) Gale Banks : Franko, funny you should ask. We've just added the seventh building to our campus and in the rehash, came up with some excellent test systems. It'll be about a month, we'll publish a list of these slightly-used systems (sorry, no Power Strokes!)

209.112.144.58:(23:02:30) Charlie : Hello, I have a Banks non-wastegated turbo on an 88 7.3. How would you compare this unit with the Hypermax kit, especially in view of the availability of an intercooler in the latter?

207.217.174.128:(23:10:26) Gale Banks : Charlie, I designed my Sidewinder turbo compressor to produce 9 to 12 lbs of boost with minimum temperature increase -- thereby designing out the need for an intercooler. HyperMax does not have this advantage. Please understand, everyone, higher boost levels produced by the Power Stroke move you into intercooler territory.

208.11.5.68:(23:09:03) Jason : No more new questions please, we're almost to the end and I've got a few more good ones to post.

152.173.219.63:(23:02:50) Eldon_McF : Gale, do you think there will be more auto. and small light truck Diesels for the US in the future?

207.217.174.128:(23:12:26) Gale Banks : Eldon, I believe diesel should be -- and is becoming -- the fuel of the future. Lincoln built 3200 Continentals some years ago with diesel engines -- they were quiet and didn't smoke. Today's diesels can be civil and clean.

152.173.219.63:(23:16:52) Eldon_McF : Gale, I believe you are right there. just look at the poularity of automotive, small truck, & suv Diesels in other countrys.

208.11.5.68:(23:11:27) Jason : We've got two more good questions and then we'll call it a night.

153.34.165.172:(23:03:59) Will : At different times in any model year, Ford may make PCM calibration changes. How do you handle this variable with your kits, or is it a concern?

207.217.174.128:(23:14:16) Gale Banks : Will, we constantly monitor the Ford Oasis Communication System, watching for notification of these changes. And immediately engineer for them. Having some of my former students at Ford doesn't hurt, either.

209.64.191.30:(23:10:35) mike : I have 2 questions #1 on the ottomind chip can you make the chip plug in with clips like the plug that is pulled out. And #2 can you make a switch so that you can change from normal to power-chip if this is posible

207.217.174.128:(23:17:16) Gale Banks : Mike, thanks for the idea. I'm going to look at that tomorrow. And, #2, there are so many connecting points which can not be switched by a common mechanical switch, that switching would have to be electronic and quite expensive. Besides once you've experienced OttoMind, there's no going back!

207.217.174.128:(23:18:49) Gale Banks : I'd like to take the opportunity to invite all of you to visit my engineering operation in Azusa, CA. If you're coming out, contact me, we'll roll out the red carpet.

208.29.72.39:(23:19:36) Rob : There we go...next years round-up at Gale's place!!!!

207.217.174.128:(23:20:29) Gale Banks : Rob, let's do it!

208.11.5.68:(23:18:18) Jason : Gale, I think I speak for everyone when I say thanks for doing this with us. Of all the aftermarket companies, you are the only one who has ever contacted me or participated in my website. We really appreciate your time and efforts.

207.217.174.128:(23:19:30) Gale Banks : Thanks everyone, I've really enjoyed this.

208.11.5.68:(23:19:34) Jason : With that, I think we'll call it a night.

152.175.245.120:(23:19:50) Matt : Leaves...

209.130.132.203:(23:20:00) guy : Leaves...

207.70.232.43:(23:20:02) thoffman : Leaves...

152.173.219.63:(23:20:03) Eldon_McF : Thanks Gale, And thanks Jason!!

12.66.99.89:(23:20:10) T Wheel : Leaves...

153.34.169.164:(23:20:17) Andrew Humphrey : that was fun

209.112.144.58:(23:20:42) Charlie : Leaves...

208.11.5.68:(23:20:49) Jason : Goodnight everyone, I'll post a log of the chat session on the site sometime tomorrow.

209.112.144.58:(23:20:50) Charlie : Leaves...

207.217.174.128:(23:21:01) Gale Banks : Leaves...

209.64.191.30:(23:21:38) mike : Leaves...

208.29.72.39:(23:21:49) Rob : Leaves...

207.114.143.126:(23:21:50) Brian : Leaves...

153.34.169.164:(23:22:35) Andrew Humphrey : Leaves...

209.103.35.90:(23:22:39) franko : thanks jason.

209.98.55.61:(23:22:56) joe : Leaves...

209.103.35.90:(23:24:04) franko : Leaves...

152.173.219.63:(23:25:34) Eldon_McF : Leaves...

205.134.220.162:(23:26:41) chevy : Leaves...

152.163.232.25:(23:27:37) wedan : Leaves...

208.27.107.56:(23:27:40) Anonymous : Leaves...

208.214.113.22:(23:30:18) Jack Thorpe : right on time for the very end

208.254.24.74:(23:34:04) PT : Leaves...

128.206.62.54:(09:07:33) bowman : Leaves...