Banks SpeedBrake ???

[Slufoot733]

I am considering adding an electronic brake to my '08 F-350 6.4 to help control downhill speed in the mountains. But I'm confused; it seems the Banks Speed Brake requires the Banks IQ to function. Is the Banks IQ a 'tuner' or just a data center? Will the Banks Speed Brake work without the IQ? Or would another brake system be better? I am not interested in making any mechanical changes to the truck. I understand the 'electronic' units create braking force by controlling the position of the turbo vanes.

Additionally, I just heard today that Ford has a dealer installed programmer that does basically the same thing, Does anyone know about this?

Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Kevin

[2007dura]

The speedbrake can work with or without the IQ. You can order it with a switch, 5 or 6 positions I think, or with the IQ you can adjust it more.

[mazboy]

you can call banks directly and speak to one of their representatives....800-601-8072. if i can get the money i'd like one too.

[Rancher Will]

I use Banks Engine Brakes on my trucks and they work as advertised.

Here is one caution. When you order a Banks Brake (I always orded by phone) get an agreement that if the shipped parts are defective in any way, then Banks will agree to pay any additional charges.

One of the Banks Brakes that I received had a defective controler that had to be replaced. There was no way to tell what our problem was when it was first installed and the extra cost of determining the problem was not re-imbursed by Banks. Banks did send a replacement controler but we had aditional costs of almost $100 to find the problem before Banks replaced the Controler.

[thor]

banks is a good product but there are others as well .do some research on the net .there are some that work in the exhaust system that creates more back presure on the decompression strike to slow you down the are called exhaust brakes.some of the new trucks are exhaust brakes not engine brakes.they work very well.good luck

[gitrdun]

I have been using Banks speed brake for 3 years and I love it.

[drknapp]

I have had one now for about 6 months. I've had a few initial issues with it due to installation problems, but the performance of the brake makes it worthwhile. I've taken two trips with it so far, the last was 2900 miles. It really lowers the stress factor when you are going down hill.