For diesel truck owners, achieving optimal performance is a constant pursuit. Whether you’re towing heavy loads, seeking better fuel economy, or simply wanting a more responsive drive, the right tuning solution can make a world of difference. Banks Power stands as a leading name in this field, offering a range of products designed to enhance power and drivability without compromising engine integrity.
This roundup focuses on key tuners and accessories from Banks and other reputable brands. We will examine their specific functions, from comprehensive power modules to specialized throttle controllers and monitoring systems, helping you identify the right components to meet your performance goals and improve your overall driving experience.
Our Recommended Diesel Performance Tuners
- Precision Parts Banks Power Derringer Tuner (Gen 2)
- Precision Parts Banks Power Pedal Monster Kit
- Banks Power 63341 Pod Suction Mount
- Banks Power 64330 PedalMonster, Standalone
- Banks Power – 2020 GM 2500/3500 6.6L L5P Derringer Tuner
- Bd Diesel – High Idle Control Ford 6.7l Power S
- Edge Insight CTS3 3-Inch Color Touchscreen Monitor
- Banks iDash DataMonster SuperGauge with Derringer Tuner
Precision Parts Banks Power Derringer Tuner (Gen 2)
This Derringer Tuner is engineered for the 2017-2019 GM L5P Duramax, providing a significant power increase that is 50-state legal. It works as an inline tuner, meaning it modifies signals from the engine’s computer to optimize performance without altering the factory calibration. This approach helps maintain the vehicle’s factory warranty while still offering noticeable gains.
Compatible with the 1.8-inch iDash gauge, this system allows for real-time monitoring of critical engine parameters. You can keep an eye on temperatures, boost, and other data to ensure your truck is running optimally under increased load. It’s a sophisticated solution for owners who need more power for towing but require emissions compliance.
Precision Parts Banks Power Pedal Monster Kit
The Pedal Monster directly addresses the common complaint of sluggish throttle response in modern trucks. It connects via the OBD-II port, allowing it to precisely control throttle sensitivity without taxing the pedal’s internal circuitry. With three distinct modes—City, Sport, and Track—each offering ten sensitivity levels, you can fine-tune the pedal feel to match your driving style perfectly.
Safety is a core feature, with ActiveSafety circuitry that monitors for faults and automatically returns the throttle to a stock setting if an issue is detected. It also includes a reverse safety feature and adjustable low-speed trim for better control in parking situations. A key benefit is that the Pedal Monster can be used alongside any other tuner, making it a versatile addition to any performance setup.
Banks Power 63341 Pod Suction Mount
This suction mount is a simple but vital accessory for organizing your dashboard. It is specifically designed to hold Banks’ iDash or SuperGauge monitors securely in your line of sight. Having your gauge mounted properly allows for safe and convenient monitoring of your engine’s performance data while driving.
The robust suction cup provides a strong hold on your windshield or dash, minimizing vibrations and keeping the display stable. This ensures that your readings are always clear and easy to see, contributing to a safer and more informed driving experience when using performance monitoring equipment.
Banks Power 64330 PedalMonster, Standalone
The standalone PedalMonster unit offers the same core function as the kit—dramatically improving throttle response—but is sold without an additional gauge. It is the only throttle controller that uses the OBD-II port for its operation, which provides a more advanced and safer control system compared to older models that tap into the pedal wiring.
This unit includes all the essential safety features, such as the ActiveSafety circuitry that acts as a failsafe and the reverse safety function. The adjustable low-speed trim is particularly useful for managing sensitivity at crawling speeds, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. It’s an effective upgrade for anyone wanting a more immediate connection between their foot and the engine.
Banks Power – 2020 GM 2500/3500 6.6L L5P Derringer Tuner (Gen 2)
This version of the Derringer Tuner is tailored for the 2020 and newer GM L5P Duramax trucks. Like its predecessor, it is an inline tuning module that provides a substantial power increase for towing and general driving, all while being 50-state emissions legal. This allows you to gain performance without voiding your factory emissions warranty.
Paired with the 1.8-inch iDash, this system not only adds power but also gives you a powerful tool for monitoring engine health. You can track multiple parameters at once, ensuring your truck remains within safe operating limits even when working hard. It’s a comprehensive performance package for the latest GM HD trucks.
Bd Diesel – High Idle Control Ford 6.7l Power S
This High Idle Control module is a specialized tool for Ford 6.7L Power Stroke owners. It allows you to manually increase the engine’s idle speed, which is particularly beneficial for several scenarios. A higher idle can help warm up the engine faster in cold weather and provide increased electrical output for powering accessories.
For owners who use their truck as a mobile workshop or frequently run a PTO, maintaining a higher idle is essential. This product offers a straightforward solution to gain control over your engine’s idle speed, contributing to better vehicle maintenance and accessory performance.
Edge Insight CTS3 3-Inch Color Touchscreen Monitor
The Edge Insight CTS3 is a high-end monitor that provides a clear and customizable view of your truck’s engine data. Its vibrant 3-inch color touchscreen makes it easy to read multiple gauges at a glance. This device plugs directly into your OBD-II port to read and display information from your vehicle’s computer.
With the optional EAS (Edge Accessory System) capability, this monitor can be expanded to control other compatible devices, making it a central hub for your performance upgrades. It is an excellent tool for diagnosing issues, monitoring engine parameters under load, and keeping track of vehicle health, which is crucial when running any performance modifications.
Banks iDash DataMonster SuperGauge with Derringer Tuner
This product combines Banks’ powerful iDash DataMonster SuperGauge with a Derringer inline tuner into one integrated system. The iDash serves as both a command center for the Derringer’s power levels and a comprehensive monitor for over 70 different engine parameters. This gives you complete control and visibility over your truck’s performance.
The system allows you to select different power settings on the fly while monitoring the effects in real-time. This integration ensures that you are always aware of how your engine is responding to the increased power, promoting safer operation. It represents a top-tier, all-in-one solution for those who want maximum performance coupled with extensive data monitoring.
What to Look For in a Banks Power Tuner
So, you’re thinking about getting more out of your diesel truck, and a Banks Power Tuner is on your radar. I get it; the promise of more power, better throttle response, and improved towing is a big deal. But before you just pick the first one you see, there are a few things I always consider. It’s not just about the biggest horsepower number; it’s about how the tuner fits your truck and your life.
First up, you need to think about compatibility. This is the most critical step. Not every Banks tuner works with every diesel engine. Are you driving a Duramax, a Power Stroke, or a Cummins? What’s the model year? A tuner made for a 2023 Ram won’t work on a 2012 model. I always double-check the specific fitment on the manufacturer’s website or with a trusted retailer to avoid a very expensive mistake.
Next, consider what you’re actually going to use the truck for. This is where your power goals come into play. Are you just looking for a little extra pep for daily driving and better fuel economy? A simpler, less aggressive tuner might be perfect. If you’re towing heavy loads through mountains, you’ll want a tuner with a dedicated, safe towing mode that prioritizes transmission and engine safety over max power. And if you’re building a performance machine, you’ll be looking at the high-horsepower monsters. Be honest with yourself about your needs.
The interface and data monitoring capabilities are another huge factor for me. Some of the basic modules are “set it and forget it,” which is fine for some folks. But I prefer the ones that replace my factory gauge cluster or plug into a dashboard mount. Being able to monitor real-time data like Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT), transmission temp, boost, and fuel pressure is not just cool—it’s a safety net. It lets you know if something is starting to go wrong before it becomes a catastrophic failure.
Finally, let’s talk about support and warranty. Tuning your truck, even with a reputable brand like Banks, can be a gray area for your vehicle’s factory warranty. Reputable companies are often better at providing transparent information about this. Furthermore, look into the company’s customer service. If you have an issue or a question, can you get a real person on the phone? Reading through an 8 Best Banks Power Tuners Review for Diesel Performance can give you a sense of what real-world users are experiencing with reliability and support. A tuner is an investment, and you want the company behind it to be there for the long haul.
FAQ
Will a Banks Power Tuner void my truck’s warranty?
This is the million-dollar question. The short answer is, it can. Modifying your engine control software often flags your vehicle in the dealer’s system. While the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects you to an extent, meaning a dealer must prove the tuner caused a specific failure to deny a claim, it can lead to disputes. Banks designs its products to be as safe as possible, but the risk is never zero. I always recommend having a frank conversation with your service manager and understanding your dealer’s policy before making a purchase.
How difficult is it to install a diesel performance tuner myself?
Most modern plug-and-play tuners are surprisingly straightforward. For many models, you’re simply plugging a module into your OBD-II port under the dash. The unit then reads your stock tune, you select your desired power level through a simple menu, and you’re done. It often takes less than 30 minutes. The real “work” isn’t physical; it’s taking the time to read the instructions thoroughly and understanding what each power level does.
What is the safest power level to run on my truck daily?
The safest level is almost always the lowest or “towing” setting. These maps are calibrated to provide a nice bump in power and throttle response while keeping critical temperatures like EGT and transmission fluid well within safe limits. I run my truck on a higher setting only when I need the extra power, and I constantly monitor my gauges. For daily driving without any extra monitoring, sticking to the conservative tunes is the smart move.
Can I use a Banks tuner with other performance parts like an exhaust or intake?
Absolutely, and this is where you can really optimize your setup. Banks actually designs many of its components to work together as a system. Adding a freer-flowing intake and exhaust can help your engine breathe better, which often allows the tuner to make more power safely by reducing backpressure and lowering EGTs. When you’re looking at an 8 Best Banks Power Tuners Review for Diesel Performance, you’ll often see them paired with other Banks products for a complete upgrade path.
Do these tuners really improve fuel mileage?
They can, but it’s highly dependent on your driving habits. The tunes that optimize for fuel economy typically adjust shift points (on automatics) and fuel mapping for efficiency. You might see a 1-2 MPG improvement during steady highway cruising. However, if you constantly use the extra power and have a heavy foot, you’ll likely see your fuel mileage stay the same or even decrease. The best fuel economy gains come from disciplined driving paired with the eco-minded tune.