Banks Brake® '04.5-05
Application: 2004 1/2-05 Dodge Cummins | Manual transmission
A total system solution with enhanced transmission control for exhaust braking, Banks' direct-mount, no-maintenance exhaust brake has electronics that monitor critical engine and transmission parameters to maximize braking efficiency. It dramatically cuts downhill speeds without using the wheel brakes. This keeps brakes cool and ready for emergencies, and saves thousands in brake maintenance. Optimizes exhaust flow when not engaged. Easy install; needs no drilling, cutting or modifications to stock wiring.
Includes: Cast, large-bore brake housing assembly; High-force 4-1/4" vacuum actuator; Belt-driven vacuum pump with serpentine belt for quiet operation; Mounting hardware.
Test Setup
An ’06 Dodge Cummins pickup was equipped with the Banks DynaFact® data acquisition system to measure vehicle speed, engine RPM, exhaust backpressure, transmission line pressure and braking horsepower.
Test runs on a 7% grade in the vicinity of Southern California's daunting Cajon Pass were done with the gear selector in both Drive and 2nd. Tow/Haul mode was used in all cases, per Dodge’s recommendations. 55 mph was established at the top of the hill, and the foot brake was applied only if it became necessary to keep the vehicle at a safe speed (no greater than 65 mph). Multiple configurations were tested: stock, Banks Brake with Computerized Brake Controller and SmartLock® (CBC), PacBrake, Jacobs and BD.
All of the brakes tested were a direct mount configuration. Each of the competitive brakes was controlled by the vehicle ECM (an option that became available starting in the 2006 model year). In addition to road testing, flow bench testing was conducted on each of the brake assemblies.
Dodge 5.9L;
2004.5 thru 05