I have been trying to find opinions on the new Banks Speed Brake. It appeared to be so new to the market that very few people have tried it. So….I bit the bullet and ordered one for my 2006 LBZ dually.

I installed it today (pictures attached). Installation was very simple and the instructions were very clear. I already had the six-gun with PDA so I did not have to install a docking station. It had just a few connections that were very simple. One on the Allison, one under the fuse box, tap in to a fuse, one to the main harness and one wire to the existing harness under the dash (all of them just plug in). The total install took only one hour!! It really was plug and play.

I first drove the truck without the fifth wheel. It worked as described. It was could easily slow me down on hills to whatever speed I selected. I kind of expected that considering no weight pushing me down the hills. I went back to the house and hooked up my Newmar Cypress that weights 14,000lbs+.

Let the real test begin……….

The unit has 3 settings, On, Speed Control and Off. It can be activated by your target speed or by putting your foot on the brake pedal. Light pressure (just enough to light up your tail lights).

I did not have time to drive 1.5 hours to the mountains so I went out and found the biggest hills I could. I tested it on a short steep hill (about ¼ mile 8% grade!) and on a ½ mile hill (4-5% grade). All test were done in tow/haul mode I just went around a big loop doing the same hills over and over and over again. I would try all the different settings and even turned the unit off and try to slow the truck down in manual mode. I must have used 10 gallons of diesel fuel (lots of time and experimentation).

Well…………………..I must admit I WAS VERY IMPRESSED! The Banks Speed Brake was able to slow the truck and 14,000 pound camper down to the target speed every single time in short order. Now I’m sure some of you will say “ the Allison will do that already” let me tell you, the Allison could not slow me down as fast or even as slow on ANY of the test and yes I put it in manual mode and kept down shifting. It could never slow as fast or even as slow. This thing was impressive! I found the best part was setting a target speed like 40 MPH and it would hold it at 40 MPH! I would top the hill at 60 MPH, let off the gas and it would start doing it’s thing. Very quickly I was at 40 MPH and it would adjust to hold me at 40 MPH!

For now, I’m very pleased and impressed with the Banks Speed Brake. I’ll keep you posted on my experiences good or bad. And no I don’t work for Banks. They just make quality good stuff!

For now the Speed Brake rocks!

Good write up. Thanks

dbike199
That sounds like a good mode for towing your camper. I have a 12500 lb camper so I know what it is like down hill. So far I have always been under control going down a hill because I don't live near any large mountain to worry locally.

Does this work by closing the turbo vanes?

dbike199
That sounds like a good mode for towing your camper. I have a 12500 lb camper so I know what it is like down hill. So far I have always been under control going down a hill because I don't live near any large mountain to worry locally.

Does this work by closing the turbo vanes?

Closing the turbo vanes, locking the torque converter, and it will up and down shift the transmission automaticly. The vane position will vary (that's the braking %) when in the speed control mode to maintain the set speed.:D

Closing the turbo vanes, locking the torque converter, and it will up and down shift the transmission automaticly. The vane position will vary (that's the braking %) when in the speed control mode to maintain the set speed.:D

Does this only work on the pick ups or will it work on a van?

Does this only work on the pick ups or will it work on a van?

If it's equipped with the LBZ/LMM engine it might though we haven't tested on one yet.

It has the LBZ, how will I find out if it will work?

It has the LBZ, how will I find out if it will work?

Give me a call here at Banks when you get a chance.

Closing the turbo vanes, locking the torque converter, and it will up and down shift the transmission automaticly. The vane position will vary (that's the braking %) when in the speed control mode to maintain the set speed.:D


Have you tested the durability of the turbo under such loads? It sounds like a great idea as long as the turbo design allows for the different load it applies.

Have you tested the durability of the turbo under such loads? It sounds like a great idea as long as the turbo design allows for the different load it applies.

We have. The turbos speed is faster then it would normally be at idle but much much slower then at full boost. The back pressure placed on the engine is well under what the turbo and the valve springs can tolerate.

I got mine today but the power pda is on backorder so Im gonna have to wait untill it gets here before I can play. If I want to upgrade to a power module do I order the six gun with the 6 way knob or do I have to order the one with the cradle to work with the speedbrake. I have the cradle that came with the speed brake

well I got a pda today just to find out the speedbrake software on the sd card was corrupted. so now I have to wait a till next week for a new card.

I got mine today but the power pda is on backorder so Im gonna have to wait untill it gets here before I can play. If I want to upgrade to a power module do I order the six gun with the 6 way knob or do I have to order the one with the cradle to work with the speedbrake. I have the cradle that came with the speed brake

You'll need a tuner with the EGT probe. Let me know when your ready and I get get you the right parts.

well I got a pda today just to find out the speedbrake software on the sd card was corrupted. so now I have to wait a till next week for a new card.


Pm Jeff & see if he can email the software to you. If you have a spare sd card at home it should work..

well I got a pda today just to find out the speedbrake software on the sd card was corrupted. so now I have to wait a till next week for a new card.

Try here:
http://downloads.bankspower.com/ (http://downloads.bankspower.com/)

Scroll all the way to the bottom of the page and you'll see the software for the speed brake:D

THANKS I got it now. Time to start installing.

THANKS I got it now. Time to start installing.

Give me a call if you need help tuning it:D

got it installed works great. the only thing I would like to change though is my fifth wheel weights 16,000 loaded so I like to run the truck in 5th instead of 6th because in 6th I get 1-2mpg less and egrs run higher. and I noticed that after engine brakeing the truck would not return to 5th it would stay in 1st and I would have to manully return it to 5th or shift into drive. So maybe this can be changed in a future update?
should I call the number in your sig. about getting a tuner and egt probe? I want to go ahead and get one

got it installed works great. the only thing I would like to change though is my fifth wheel weights 16,000 loaded so I like to run the truck in 5th instead of 6th because in 6th I get 1-2mpg less and egrs run higher. and I noticed that after engine brakeing the truck would not return to 5th it would stay in 1st and I would have to manully return it to 5th or shift into drive. So maybe this can be changed in a future update?
should I call the number in your sig. about getting a tuner and egt probe? I want to go ahead and get one


Which mode are you using? Is it the "on" mode or the "speed control" mode? Give me a call here and I can help you out:D

basicly if you have you shifter in manual mode running the gear of your choice and have the brake in on mode once you stop and then take off the truck will stay in 1st. if I have it in drive theres no problom. I did not try speed control

basicly if you have you shifter in manual mode running the gear of your choice and have the brake in on mode once you stop and then take off the truck will stay in 1st. if I have it in drive theres no problom. I did not try speed control

Are you putting it in manual mode or is the brake doing it? You don't need to put it in manual mode yourself, the brake will activate and de-activate it for you.

yes I need to have it in manual mode 5th gear because in 6th gear my truck lugs to much when Im pulling my trailer. and after a stop because Im in manual mode the speedbrake stays in 1st and I have to toggle the shifter back to 5th. Theres not a problom with the speedbrake I think works as you guys desigend it. I just think this is a scenario that was overlooked by testers

yes I need to have it in manual mode 5th gear because in 6th gear my truck lugs to much when Im pulling my trailer. and after a stop because Im in manual mode the speedbrake stays in 1st and I have to toggle the shifter back to 5th. Theres not a problom with the speedbrake I think works as you guys desigend it. I just think this is a scenario that was overlooked by testers

OK I see what's happening. The speed brake will up and down shift the trans even if your in the manual shift mode already. What's happening here is that the speed brake is turning off but your trans is still in manual shift mode (this is where you set it) so it's staying in the last gear it was in. When your ready give me a call and I'll set you up with a tuner that can interface with your PDA/brake system that will fix your engine lugging problem. That will let you leave it in automatic mode.:D

I know what he's talking about. Since the speedbrake basically puts the trans in manual mode and downshifts, it stays in whatever gear it's allowed to downshift to as if doing it by hand. Maybe you can add something to the program that will actually let you lock out gears from the PDA without having to put the trans in manual mode from the shifter. This will allow it up and downshift to the gear you select from the PDA.

edit: I type slow.

P.S. Jeff, PM inbound.

Also want to ad to my post above:

This thing works! Works well enough to the point it should also activate the brake lights when you let off the throttle and it starts to slow you down! Especially if you are using it unloaded. My wife doesn't like it though...hurts her neck! :p:

My dad also has one on his LMM along with the 6 gun. He's also very happy with how it performs. Pulling a car trailer up and down the local mountains, this really gives you peace of mind not worrying about your service brakes so much.

Is the PDA needed?

Is the PDA needed?
yes have to have it.

Well………….Thanksgiving morning I hooked up the fifth wheel and packed the wife and dog. We headed down to Myrtle Beech for a week. I really did not think I would use the speed brake in the flat lands towing. But boy was I wrong! I used it the whole trip and loved the way it smoothly interacted with truck. I normally set the cruse at 68MPH on the highway. I set the speed brake at 50MPH. Any time I tapped the brake to deactivate the cruise control the speed brake would quickly adjust my speed down to the target speed. If I was in an area where the speed was lower, say 55 MPH, I would toggle through my 3 presets and set the speed brake at 35MPH.

The main screen is easy to use and almost everything is at your finger tips.

Jeff,
The only thing I wish it had, was a way to activate and deactivate the foot control from the main screen. Rather than toggle through 3 screens to turn it on and off. I like the foot control but not all the time. It would be great to do this from the main screen.

Bottom line is I really like the way the Bank’s Speed Brake interacted with the LBZ Allison combination. It truly worked as described. It worked so well I’m now planning on taking a ski trip so I can see how well it does coming off the NC Mountains. I’ll keep everyone posted on my experiences with it.

Jeff,
The only thing I wish it had, was a way to activate and deactivate the foot control from the main screen. Rather than toggle through 3 screens to turn it on and off. I like the foot control but not all the time. It would be great to do this from the main screen.

I will second that I would like to turn the foot brake control on off from the home screen

I agree with the previous poster on the need to access the foot-brake ON/OFF switch without having to go through so many menu picks. It should be on the main screen as I find that I want to change the mode often depending on what kind of hill I am dealing with.

I bought the SpeedBrake as I had a scary experience coming down the Cajon pass on I-15 last year. I was towing a 14.5K pound 5th wheel and the brakes on the truck and trailer got too hot and I nearly lost all braking power. By the time I got it under control I was a total mental wreck and my wife was not much better!

Just a few weeks ago we came down the same pass with the same trailer in tow and I never touched the service brakes once. We descended at 55 MPH with no fuss or fear. I had the Banks brake in the speed control mode and it kept the truck/trailer at exactly 55 MPH the entire time. It was pretty cool to watch the PDA display of how much exhaust braking was being applied to control the speed.

I live in NW Oregon and I used the exhaust brake many times during our annual trip South for the winter. I used both manual and speed control modes of operation and the unit worked perfectly. The braking power is nothing short of amazing. My only complaint is the previously mentioned difficulty of turning ON/OFF the foot brake control. If Banks fixes that, I would call it damn near perfect.

Last year, after the event on the Cajon Pass, I looked into exhaust brakes for the LMM and there was nothing available. I then looked into upgrading the trailer with disc brakes. I estimated the cost of that to be about $2K. I almost did it but backed away when I learned that the integrated brake controller on the truck would likely not work with the disc brakes.

When I learned of the Banks SpeedBrake I was very pleased at its ease of installation (much easier than disc brakes on a trailer!) but was somewhat taken aback by the price. Then I remembered how much the disc brake upgrade would cost and I gave Banks my money. I am glad I did.

We are headed for Death Valley in a few days. There is a very long 14% grade (with curves) that you have to navigate if you come in from the west side. It will be another test of the SpeedBrake. I will report how it worked in a few weeks. That will be a real workout of the exhaust brake as that grade is just plain scary!

Hey Jeff,
Did you see the last 3 post? Any chance of seeing an firmware update that changes the ease of activating and deactivating the foot brake function???

What did this cost you?

I paid just under $900 direct from Banks. I already had a Six Gun with PDA so I did not need the complete package. I have read some post that it is expensive, but it is priced in line with other mechanical exhaust brakes that do not work as well. This thing truly does what they say it does! In my books it is worth every penny I paid for it!

Man I would love to have this but I just can't justify the price. Maybe if I towed in the mountains more. Thanks for the great write up, banks makes quality stuff.

I've sent the request to our engineering group. There's already been an update to the software that allows you to switch from Speed control mode to the "on" mode using the foot brake control. The advanced user manual says:

Foot Brake Activation
As with the ON mode, the Foot Brake
Activation feature allows the user
to customize the function of the
SpeedBrake to individual preference.
When SPEED CONTROL mode is
selected and Foot Brake Activation
is disabled, any use of the foot brake
will have no impact on SpeedBrake
activity. When Foot Brake Activation
is enabled, whenever the foot brake is
applied, the SpeedBrake will effectively
switch from SPEED CONTROL mode
to ON mode, closing the turbo
vanes to provide maximum braking
and downshifting the transmission
according to the selected Strength
setting.
Basicly if your in speed control mode, and the "foot brake" is turned on, if you touch the brake pedal (very slightly) it will automaticly switch from speed control to full "on" mode and give max braking force. When you release the brake pedal it will go back to speed control mode again.

Jeff, thanks for the response on the foot brake switch issue regarding the SpeedBrake.

I would like to add a bit more information on the foot brake switch issue...

For me, the main issue revolves around switching from "Speed Control" mode to "On" mode. I want the foot brake switch de-active in "Speed Control" mode and active in the "On" mode. As I switch between the two modes of operation often, I end up having to change the foot brake switch function just as often and it is a pain due to the layers of menus.

When I am in "Speed Control" mode, I do not want the SpeedBrake to do additional braking when I step on the service brakes. When the foot brake switch is active and in "Speed Control" mode, stepping on the service brakes will often times initiate a downshift and aggressive attempts by the SpeedBrake to provide additional braking. Then, when you let off the service brakes, the transmission will up-shift and go back to where it was. In short, having the foot brake switch active in Speed Control mode can lead to too many shifts which is hard on the transmission and rather annoying.

When operating in the "On" mode, I want the foot brake switch to be active as I do not want the SpeedBrake to initiate braking every time I let off of the throttle. Again, this leads to too many shifts.

So, for me, the role of the foot brake switch is to limit the SpeedBrake's aggressiveness and transmission busyness. In the "Speed Control" mode I want it de-active, in the "On" mode I want it active. If the SpeedBrake could remember the state of the foot brake switch for both modes of operation, that would be one way to solve the problem. The other way would be to have the foot brake switch control on the main screen. It would be really great if we could get both changes.

Jeff,
Stanbro summed up my experience very well. Great explanation.

I would prefer to be able to turn on or off the foot brake control from the main screen. Seems like a pretty simple program to me, but then again it might not be.

Thanks for looking into it Jeff!

Think it will ever be available without PDA? I have EFI and will not go with a PDA.

Think it will ever be available without PDA? I have EFI and will not go with a PDA.

The brake requires the PDA and it does work with the EFI tuning.

Turbobrake anyone??

Turbobrake anyone??

Here's a comparison between the two:

http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=268929&highlight=speed+brake&page=2

Here's a comparison between the two:

http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=268929&highlight=speed+brake&page=2

And were is the pricing comparison and you didn't do an actual product comparison??? Just trying to get all of the facts here.

I would like like to see a pricing comparison, and also maybe a performance comparison.

And were is the pricing comparison and you didn't do an actual product comparison??? Just trying to get all of the facts here.

I would like like to see a pricing comparison, and also maybe a performance comparison.

Actually we would love to do a performance comparison. Two problems came up though. One, we couldn't get one to test (the turbobrake seems very hard to get for some reason) and two, there isn't one out there for the LMM or LBZ platform which is what the test trucks were. If there's sombody local out there, who's in the So Cal area, that has an LLY/LBZ/LMM truck WITH a turbo brake and is willing to let us compare the two please feel free to PM me with your contact info. We'll do the test, with the trucks owner, and post the results. I guarentee that our brake will totally out perform it in every way. No question about it. Oh, the trucks owner will get the Speed Brake for free for letting us test the two. After it's over you won't want the old brake back anyway.

Actually we would love to do a performance comparison. Two problems came up though. One, we couldn't get one to test (the turbobrake seems very hard to get for some reason) and two, there isn't one out there for the LMM or LBZ platform which is what the test trucks were. If there's sombody local out there, who's in the So Cal area, that has an LLY/LBZ/LMM truck WITH a turbo brake and is willing to let us compare the two please feel free to PM me with your contact info. We'll do the test, with the trucks owner, and post the results. I guarentee that our brake will totally out perform it in every way. No question about it. Oh, the trucks owner will get the Speed Brake for free for letting us test the two. After it's over you won't want the old brake back anyway.


Anybody?

anybody at all? There's a free SpeedBrake in it for ya!

We are headed for Death Valley in a few days. There is a very long 14% grade (with curves) that you have to navigate if you come in from the west side. It will be another test of the SpeedBrake. I will report how it worked in a few weeks. That will be a real workout of the exhaust brake as that grade is just plain scary!

We are back home from our annual trip south to seek sun and warmth. We found a lot of both this year so it was a good trip.

The SpeedBrake proved to be a real asset to the big RV towing experience. I mentioned in a previous post (see quote above) that we were going to navigate a serious grade on the way to Death Valley. Well, we actually drove that grade going out of the valley and it turns out it is only 9%, not the 14% I suggested in my original post. To be precise, it is 6% for over 9 miles and 9% for about 6 miles. It also has several curves that you have to take at 30 MPH when towing.

I am referring to the pass over the Panamint Range on highway 190. Anyone who has towed something heavy over that pass will tell you it is to be taken very seriously. I talked to a fellow RV'er at Scotty's Castle who had come over that pass the night before and he was still shaken up about it. He made it very clear that he was not going that way again -- ever again. Amen. Needless to say, he didn't have an exhaust brake.

I am very pleased to report that the SpeedBrake worked better than I had hoped on that grade. I set it for 35 MPH in the "Speed Mode". In the 9% area of the grade, it couldn't keep us at 35 and our speed drifted up to around 40 MPH. I think I used the service brakes about 6 times and only for a few seconds each time. The transmission was in second gear and the engine was turning about 2500 RPM. It was quiet in the cab and both the wife and I were totally relaxed. The engine and transmission both stayed cool.

Last year, without the SpeedBrake, it was a very different experience! We went down the grade in 1st gear, with the engine spinning at about 4500 RPM, pumping the brakes every few seconds to control the speed. It was noisy in the cab and the transmission got really hot. I guess the tranny got hot due to the high RPM. Not sure, just a guess. While everything turned out OK, I was agitated when we reached the bottom. Then came the adrenaline crash and I felt very tired.

In summary, I am a happy camper with my SpeedBrake.

Here is something to think about when you consider the price: If someone were to say to you "Pay me $1,000 and I guarantee you will never lose your brakes.", would you pay it?

Why would you want to compare the two Jeff.. They're like apples and oranges.... Those are words from your mouth ;)

Your transmission got hot because it was in first gear.. there is no lockup in first gear so you're creating heat in the converter.



We are back home from our annual trip south to seek sun and warmth. We found a lot of both this year so it was a good trip.

The SpeedBrake proved to be a real asset to the big RV towing experience. I mentioned in a previous post (see quote above) that we were going to navigate a serious grade on the way to Death Valley. Well, we actually drove that grade going out of the valley and it turns out it is only 9%, not the 14% I suggested in my original post. To be precise, it is 6% for over 9 miles and 9% for about 6 miles. It also has several curves that you have to take at 30 MPH when towing.

I am referring to the pass over the Panamint Range on highway 190. Anyone who has towed something heavy over that pass will tell you it is to be taken very seriously. I talked to a fellow RV'er at Scotty's Castle who had come over that pass the night before and he was still shaken up about it. He made it very clear that he was not going that way again -- ever again. Amen. Needless to say, he didn't have an exhaust brake.

I am very pleased to report that the SpeedBrake worked better than I had hoped on that grade. I set it for 35 MPH in the "Speed Mode". In the 9% area of the grade, it couldn't keep us at 35 and our speed drifted up to around 40 MPH. I think I used the service brakes about 6 times and only for a few seconds each time. The transmission was in second gear and the engine was turning about 2500 RPM. It was quiet in the cab and both the wife and I were totally relaxed. The engine and transmission both stayed cool.

Last year, without the SpeedBrake, it was a very different experience! We went down the grade in 1st gear, with the engine spinning at about 4500 RPM, pumping the brakes every few seconds to control the speed. It was noisy in the cab and the transmission got really hot. I guess the tranny got hot due to the high RPM. Not sure, just a guess. While everything turned out OK, I was agitated when we reached the bottom. Then came the adrenaline crash and I felt very tired.

In summary, I am a happy camper with my SpeedBrake.

Here is something to think about when you consider the price: If someone were to say to you "Pay me $1,000 and I guarantee you will never lose your brakes.", would you pay it?

I am very pleased to report that the SpeedBrake worked better than I had hoped on that grade. I set it for 35 MPH in the "Speed Mode". In the 9% area of the grade, it couldn't keep us at 35 and our speed drifted up to around 40 MPH. I think I used the service brakes about 6 times and only for a few seconds each time. The transmission was in second gear and the engine was turning about 2500 RPM. It was quiet in the cab and both the wife and I were totally relaxed. The engine and transmission both stayed cool.


Did it ever drop to 1st gear?

I am very pleased to report that the SpeedBrake worked better than I had hoped on that grade. I set it for 35 MPH in the "Speed Mode". In the 9% area of the grade, it couldn't keep us at 35 and our speed drifted up to around 40 MPH. I think I used the service brakes about 6 times and only for a few seconds each time. The transmission was in second gear and the engine was turning about 2500 RPM. It was quiet in the cab and both the wife and I were totally relaxed. The engine and transmission both stayed cool.


I messed up the previous post. Did it ever downshift to 1st?

I messed up the previous post. Did it ever downshift to 1st?

The speedbrake will only shift into first gear when in the "on" mode, not the speed control mode. "On" mode will drop down into first in order to hold the lowest speed possible while keeping the torque converter locked. This will apply the maximum amount of braking force possible without floating the exhaust valves.

Well for the extra couple thousand dollars Id sure hope itd out perform the turbo brake, Id be upset if it didnt.

Well for the extra couple thousand dollars Id sure hope itd out perform the turbo brake, Id be upset if it didnt.

Couple thousand?? The base unit is around $900

Yeah but you cant just run it stand alone, you have to have the PDA, and whats that cost. Its a palm, so what ive seen is at least another $1000

i was pretty sure that you couldnt lock the converter in first gear. thought the valvebody would not alow it. i could be wrong though

Yeah but you cant just run it stand alone, you have to have the PDA, and whats that cost. Its a palm, so what ive seen is at least another $1000

???? Where the heck are you getting these prices???? You can get an e2 on e-bay for $50 All you would need extra would be a docking station. Total out the door is around $1200 or so.

Here's a good example: http://www.xtremediesel.com/bankspowerspeedbrakeall-electronicbrakingsystem.aspx

why is the price from 872 to 1070. are there different brakes.

Yeah but you cant just run it stand alone, you have to have the PDA, and whats that cost. Its a palm, so what ive seen is at least another $1000

I purchased mine on eBay. New in the box for $191 delivered.

I actually started this thread back in November after buying the speed brake. Well...................it's 6 months later and it works as well as I originally described. No problems and it just does it's job flawlessly.

The ONLY change I would like to see is a way that I could turn on or off the foot brake control from the main screen. Seems like a pretty simple program to me, but then again it might not be.

Any word on that Jeff?

why is the price from 872 to 1070. are there different brakes.

If you already have a banks tuner with the docking station then all you need is the brake modual. If you need it to operate by itself then you'll need the docking station as well.

I purchased mine on eBay. New in the box for $191 delivered.

I actually started this thread back in November after buying the speed brake. Well...................it's 6 months later and it works as well as I originally described. No problems and it just does it's job flawlessly.

The ONLY change I would like to see is a way that I could turn on or off the foot brake control from the main screen. Seems like a pretty simple program to me, but then again it might not be.

Any word on that Jeff?

That's something that's going to change shortly. I'll post the upgrade when it becomes available:D

I look forward to that modification! Thanks Jeff!

Still got mine still happy with it and yes its expensive but it will do the job.

PDA Question:

I have a Dell Axim X51, will this be able to be used as the PDA? If so, any thoughts on if the dock will work or will I have to get a Dell specific dock?

Ok so are these around $1200 for everything needed for my LBZ? I have a PPE tuner and Co pilot for mods. Im considering this or Pacbrake.

I have 06 lbz with edge attitude module. Anyone try Speedbrake with edge? Also have EGR blocker.

I just ordered mine direct from Banks. Pretty good package deal w/ shipping included. I hope this bad boy works as good as everyone says, because I have a trip up to colorado and will be hauling either 3 jeeps or one shortbed chevy, one full size blazer, and one suzuki based buggy. It ought to be a sight either way. :D

Just checking if dragonranch got your speedbrake installed, any issues using with efi?

I am still in Baghdad right now, but I will be home on the 28th and will be in the mountians of Colorado the 2nd through the 7th, so will definitely have a write up by then.

:D

Ok, it is installed (took my buddy half an hour abouts) and worked great. I grossed 31k at one time and came down Hoosier Pass in Colorado on Hwy 9 w/ no problem at all. It's an awesome product and works great. The interface on the PDA is super simple to read and it is very easy to change the settings once you figure out the button at the bottom. The only thing I didn't care for was the price. I don't see a need for this pricewise if I wasn't going to be pulling in the mountains like I did. Being there is no mechanical parts to wear out, it should last forever.

Even in the big passes it never raised my transmission temps out of the normal working range, though it was pretty cool most of the time (upper 70's to lower 80's during the daytime), so I don't know how it will perform if I was to run them at 95+ temps like might be seen elsewhere.

In short, A+ for sure.

Geez - wish I could get mine working.
So far Banks has sent replacements for the main wire harness, the module, jumper ?circuit protection harness"
Most recently the jumper harness for using a Speed Brake and Six Gun.

And lastly the OBD harness - which does not work at all!

Geez - wish I could get mine working.
So far Banks has sent replacements for the main wire harness, the module, jumper ?circuit protection harness"
Most recently the jumper harness for using a Speed Brake and Six Gun.

And lastly the OBD harness - which does not work at all!

Have you called and asked for one yet?

Have you called and asked for one yet?



It is a new one that does not work.

It is a new one that does not work.

What's the new modual doing?

Jeff,

Someone asked if this can be piggy backed with the juice is that possible or do you just need the sixgun, ottomind, economind, or a programmer? Hate to have this product limited if other guys want to run a different tuner, but want your speed brake...


Can you use this with cruise control now or not? Thanks.

What's the new module doing?



Since the installation, the truck jumps into neutral and displays "range shift inhibited" on the dash.

I then have to cycle the lever from drive to neutral and back in order to get it in drive again. Sometimes it is during an upshift, sometimes during a downshift and sometimes I could just be doing a steady speed on the highway and it jumps out.

If the brake is turned on it does it very frequently. If the brake is turned off it will typically only do it once after first starting the truck.

Occasionally it will also "bang", almost feels like the truck is being rear ended.

Once, coming down a 8-9% grade, 3.5 mile hill it jumped out of gear, banged so badly we thought the rear axle or trans failed and I was stuck in neutral all the way down the hill. I Could not get it back in gear and had almost no service brakes left by the time we leveled off at the bottom.
That particular time I had to shut the truck off, waited 30 seconds and then all seemed fine.

Since the installation, the truck jumps into neutral and displays "range shift inhibited" on the dash.

I then have to cycle the lever from drive to neutral and back in order to get it in drive again. Sometimes it is during an upshift, sometimes during a downshift and sometimes I could just be doing a steady speed on the highway and it jumps out.

If the brake is turned on it does it very frequently. If the brake is turned off it will typically only do it once after first starting the truck.

Occasionally it will also "bang", almost feels like the truck is being rear ended.

Once, coming down a 8-9% grade, 3.5 mile hill it jumped out of gear, banged so badly we thought the rear axle or trans failed and I was stuck in neutral all the way down the hill. I Could not get it back in gear and had almost no service brakes left by the time we leveled off at the bottom.
That particular time I had to shut the truck off, waited 30 seconds and then all seemed fine.


It almost sounds like a bad NSBU switch, but you have a lbz right???

It sounds like the plug on the transmission isn't fully seated. Check the plug on the trans and make sure they are fully connected.

It almost sounds like a bad NSBU switch, but you have a lbz right???



LBZ, correct



It sounds like the plug on the transmission isn't fully seated. Check the plug on the trans and make sure they are fully connected.

Did, more then once.

It happens occasionally with the brake turned off.
If happens consistently with the brake turned on.

And the newest OBD harness does not work at all

LBZ, correct





Did, more then once.

It happens occasionally with the brake turned off. (this right here says it's a connection problem)
If happens consistently with the brake turned on.

And the newest OBD harness does not work at all

Something some place is getting an intermitent connection. As an example we had a customer who was complaining about the shift range inhibited warning and the truck wouldn't go into reverse. This only happend when the brake was activated for the first time. I fount the T connection to the allison not seated. I pushed on it hard and it made 2 clicks as it went in. Problem solved.

Jeff,

Someone asked if this can be piggy backed with the juice is that possible or do you just need the sixgun, ottomind, economind, or a programmer? Hate to have this product limited if other guys what to run a different tuner, but want you speed brake...


Can you use this with cruise control now or not? Thanks.

Yes it will work with the Juice/Add though he'll have two displays in the truck. As for the cruise control, no, the brake won't turn on if the cruise control is active.

it made 2 clicks as it went in. Problem solved.



There are no "2 clicks". It is either all the way or not.

But just to be sure, I pulled the connectors apart (again) looked at all the pins & sockets (best that I could see the sockets) and they look good. I made sure they were connected correctly and went for another ride - still the same problem.

This time I also tried setting the brake "on" and then pulled the PDA out. Still the same problem.

There is no consistency as to when it will go into neutral. But - if there was a time that it mostly seems to be an issue it is during the 2-3 or 3-2 shifts. Does that help?

It is especially annoying pulling away from a stop light or making a turn on a busy road.

The main harness and the circuit protection harness have both been changed out already

Yes it will work with the Juice/Add though he'll have two displays in the truck. As for the cruise control, no, the brake won't turn on if the cruise control is active.


Wasn't that a software change? Because mine will work with the cruise on. I tried the brake in the cruise mode with the set speed 5 mph over my truck's cruise setting.

Wasn't that a software change? Because mine will work with the cruise on. I tried the brake in the cruise mode with the set speed 5 mph over my truck's cruise setting.

What version of the firmware are you running?

What version of the firmware are you running?




PDA 1.21
Brake part # 55422

Brake firm 2
Calibration type 2
Calibration version 1
Docking version 2

Yes it will work with the Juice/Add though he'll have two displays in the truck. As for the cruise control, no, the brake won't turn on if the cruise control is active.
For some reason.. I thought you guys had it, then removed it, but then added an option to let you do it, if the cruise was set at least 5mph difference... So on a long haul... When you need the speed brake you just flip off the cruise & then that activates the speed brake, then?

PDA 1.21
Brake part # 55422

Brake firm 2
Calibration type 2
Calibration version 1
Docking version 2

The version info is all correct. After talking with our tech support and engineering groups they all came up with the same conclusion: there's a connection problem in your plugs. What you need to do is disconnect the connectors and check the pins (on the Banks and GM connectors). Push on each one GENTLY. If the pin is seated correctly it won't move, if it pushes in however it's not seated and will have intermentent connection. If a pin is loose use a pair of needle nose pliers and pull back on the pin. Most of the time you can hear it click when it seats other times it will just tighten up.

For some reason.. I thought you guys had it, then removed it, but then added an option to let you do it, if the cruise was set at least 5mph difference... So on a long haul... When you need the speed brake you just flip off the cruise & then that activates the speed brake, then?

Exactly. The newest versions will only come on when the cruise is turned off. So just press the button to turn the cruise off and the brake will come on.

Exactly. The newest versions will only come on when the cruise is turned off. So just press the button to turn the cruise off and the brake will come on.
Does the cruise have to be active or just not using it? If the cruise is not in the off position, located in the on postion, but not active with the speed brake work?

On mine, the cruise could be in the 'on' position (but not activated), and still work. I don't know if I ever noticed if it didn't work when it was activated or not, I just know it did a great job when it did work.

Not to start any drama or anything - With turbo brake, is there any way that with the backpressure and vanes of the turbo changing that it could break something?
Like float a valve, or hurt the turbo vanes? I know sometimes the PSI can get up there.
I don't have your product (damnit, it's REALLY neat!) if you have any other questions feel free to PM me as I don't want to hi-jack this thread or you can answer me here.

On mine, the cruise could be in the 'on' position (but not activated), and still work. I don't know if I ever noticed if it didn't work when it was activated or not, I just know it did a great job when it did work.
Thanks for the post...

Not to start any drama or anything - With turbo brake, is there any way that with the backpressure and vanes of the turbo changing that it could break something?
Like float a valve, or hurt the turbo vanes? I know sometimes the PSI can get up there.
I don't have your product (damnit, it's REALLY neat!) if you have any other questions feel free to PM me as I don't want to hi-jack this thread or you can answer me here.

From what I understand is that it is monitored to keep from doing this and engineered to stay well with in the tolerances.

Thanks for the post...

No problem, glad I could help.

I have given up - pulled it out and sending it back.

It just will not work correctly in my truck.

I have given up - pulled it out and sending it back.

It just will not work correctly in my truck.
I thought you said it worked find on your??? It also does not work with the cruise control on like you said just fyi in case that was the problem.. I have talked with a few guys & they all love theres... What was not working with yours then????

I thought you said it worked find on your???



No - I said when it worked it worked good.



It also does not work with the cruise control on like you said just fyi in case that was the problem..



Mine did and that was not the problem




What was not working with yours then????



Whenever it was engaged it would constantly go into neutral, didn't matter - upshift - downshift - just driving steady.

Occaiaonly it would do something that ended up feeling like you were rear ended.

Hopefully they will make it right by you, I really like the system and know you would to if it was working correctly. Good luck with it.

Hopefully they will make it right by you, I really like the system and know you would to if it was working correctly. Good luck with it.


I would sure like it to work too, the cruise mode worked especially well right up until it just about dropped my trans all over the road.

I just gave up. I had tried numerous suggestions - replaced most of the parts at least once. The only parts not replaced was the docking port and the Palm, as I was having no problem with the Six Gun portion.

I checked every single pin connector twice, every connector multiple times.

The last suggestion was to take it to a Banks Certified installer.

We found one about 30 miles from me - called them up to see what they could do. Now realize this a Bank's suggested shop, supposedly the best within 200 miles of my zip.

I passed on this idea after our suggestion. Since there would be no diagnostic time from Banks I would have to pay. I figured OK - we'll see. When the shop owner asked me to bring my owners manual (SB) with me I had to query him a bit more.

They had never even seen the SB let alone install one. No way was I going to pay to educate this guy on a new system.

And as it turns out they have nothing that will allow them to see what is happening "live" with the system so they would probably just be parts replacement guessing anyway.

This is a not a difficult item to install, even someone with the most basic of skills can install it

Bottom line is, after 10 weeks of trying, probably 25-30 calls to tech support, numerous hours on the truck, more hours searching the net for solutions, I just gave up.

I am traveling from New Jersey to Indiana this week to pick up a 14,000 pound trailer (the reason for the SB). I just can't take the chance with it jumping out of gear on me.

sounds really good....need more money. Anybody know where there is a easy bank ....JD

That's something that's going to change shortly. I'll post the upgrade when it becomes available:D


Hey Jeff any word on the software update for the brake on/off switch on the main screen?

Hey Jeff any word on the software update for the brake on/off switch on the main screen?

It's the small "foot" symbol on the screen:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z8/cheapracer/banks_iq_002.jpg

It's the small "foot" symbol on the screen:
http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z8/cheapracer/banks_iq_002.jpg


What about with the orginal Palm application? Looks like the same download on the software page.

What about with the orginal Palm application? Looks like the same download on the software page.

Now I'm more confussed....I don't see teh one you listed above on teh Banks Web Page.

Still nothing for the LB7?

Your only option for an LB7 is a butterfly valve exhaust brake, or a variable vane turbo swap, in which case you have to by a charger and a controller...

Firstly, can I say I am not mechanically minded, at all! but was reading through this topic and got to the poster that 'truck jumps out of gear into neutral - and they have been having trouble'

As I tow by myself and will be towing a gooseneck with horses on board I thought of getting the SpeedBrake put into my Chev Silverado as it looked like another safety feature I could have on board BUT now a little worried if it can cause the above problem.

Happy to take on advise of those who know more than me, as said Im just trying to set up my trailing to be as close to perfect and safe as I can. No2 as I am in Australia, can I just go to a mechanic and have it all fitted?

Thanks Sandy

Firstly, can I say I am not mechanically minded, at all! but was reading through this topic and got to the poster that 'truck jumps out of gear into neutral - and they have been having trouble'

As I tow by myself and will be towing a gooseneck with horses on board I thought of getting the SpeedBrake put into my Chev Silverado as it looked like another safety feature I could have on board BUT now a little worried if it can cause the above problem.

Happy to take on advise of those who know more than me, as said Im just trying to set up my trailing to be as close to perfect and safe as I can. No2 as I am in Australia, can I just go to a mechanic and have it all fitted?

Thanks Sandy
This thread goes back to 2008. I am sure the problems have been fixed. What year and model is your truck?

Hi, sorry I did not see when it was started but thank you for answering, my truck is 2006 2500HD Silverado, cheers Sandy

Any good shop should be able to install the Banks.
Send a email to Banks. They should be able to answer your questions about using it on your truck.
If you do not have a local Banks dealer. Consider a exhaust brake. They should be available in AU.

ROnjhall, thanks but what is the difference between the Banks and Exhaust - sorry as said Im not car minded and just looking for the most simplest way and for safety, if you had a personal choice what would you do ?

The Speed Brake uses engines turbo vanes to create braking back pressure. A exhaust brake is a baffle in the exhaust pipe. When the baffle is closed it creates back pressure. Which acts as a brake.
Here is a link to PACBRAKE (http://www.pacbrake.com/index.php?page=home). Lots of info on how a exhaust brake works. It requires modification of your exhaust.
Another company that offers something similar to the Banks Speed Brake is www.fleeceperformance.com (http://www.fleeceperformance.com/catalog/c65dd396-df6b-464e-ac5a-4e7d021c6afc.aspx).

thank you shall go look at those !

Firstly, can I say I am not mechanically minded, at all! but was reading through this topic and got to the poster that 'truck jumps out of gear into neutral - and they have been having trouble'

As I tow by myself and will be towing a gooseneck with horses on board I thought of getting the SpeedBrake put into my Chev Silverado as it looked like another safety feature I could have on board BUT now a little worried if it can cause the above problem.

Happy to take on advise of those who know more than me, as said Im just trying to set up my trailing to be as close to perfect and safe as I can. No2 as I am in Australia, can I just go to a mechanic and have it all fitted?

Thanks Sandy

The entire installation of the speed brake is simply 1 plug on the allison transmission, 1 plug to your main harness, 1 plug under the dash to the OBDII port, then put the switch on the dash where you want it. You're done. No cutting, no welding, no wire splicing. There's is now a switched controlled version that's cheaper than ANY other braking system out there (I can get you one for $832 or so). You can see more info on it here: http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=383644

PM me if you have any questions:D

http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z8/cheapracer/BanksBrake_switch_NPR-1.jpg

that looks pretty simple ! for me that is.... like the little dial, simple and no as intimidating as the screen with all that info, knowning my luck I would be trying to read all that and run up the backside of something,...

Okay shall email you - I did reply earlier but shall get back to you via email - thanks for your help

that looks pretty simple ! for me that is.... like the little dial, simple and no as intimidating as the screen with all that info, knowning my luck I would be trying to read all that and run up the backside of something,...

Okay shall email you - I did reply earlier but shall get back to you via email - thanks for your help


Ok i'm back at my desk now:D

How does the factory exhaust brake on the 2011 models compare to this system? Will this sytem imporove the performance of the 2011 factory exhaust brake?

How does the factory exhaust brake on the 2011 models compare to this system? Will this sytem imporove the performance of the 2011 factory exhaust brake?

Brakeing power with the speed brake is far above the 2011 braking setup. The current speed brake for the LMM will not work on it though because of the change in the electronics. We will have a braking upgrade for the 2011 though, just takes a little time to get it working first:D

you can send me your new one to beta test and review when you think its ready...
Ive had a couple of trucks with mechanical exhauset brakes. I could give you a good comparison.

I just got this speed brake with switch does it matter where you place it? If i use the template I be drilling into the wood grain on the dash.
Were did you guys install the switch?
Cheers Den.

Hey!

When it comes to drilling into any part of my truck I definitely want to make sure there is nothing behind where drilling. I learned the hard way. I do not like drilling into the truck. But you just have to get around it. You need to put it where you feel comfortable with switch and access to it.

They do sell different plugs and caps where you can plug the whole so as to make it look like it belongs there.

Good luck with install!

How do you like full time RV ing? My wife and I are thinking about that once the children are gone and grown up.

Hey!

When it comes to drilling into any part of my truck I definitely want to make sure there is nothing behind where drilling. I learned the hard way. I do not like drilling into the truck. But you just have to get around it. You need to put it where you feel comfortable with switch and access to it.

They do sell different plugs and caps where you can plug the whole so as to make it look like it belongs there.

Good luck with install!

How do you like full time RV ing? My wife and I are thinking about that once the children are gone and grown up.
We love this life style home is were we park up,Going down to AZ next in CA now for the baby.Will say make shure to have a good look for the right coach to live in wish we looked at a lot of other 5ers floor plans and makes
Cheers Den.