I have a 97 powerstroke w/5 speed manual, with 200,000 miles on it. Compared to newer models this thing is weak, I just want a reliable performance boost to make this thing fun to drive. I have been really interested in the performance kits from Banks. They said that their products will not decrease the life of the engine, but I would rather have a underpowered truck than one that doesn't run. Has anyone installed one of their systems and cant live without it now? Also, would I have to make any other upgrades to the powertrain due to the extra power?

 

In my opinion, you can usually get the same if not better results for much less money by adding mods seperately instead of buying a kit from Banks. My recommendation form mods to start with are as follows (in this order):

1. Tymar air intake-this is much less expensive than other intakes and filters VERY well. There was actually a recall on the 1997 airboxes and if you have the plastic bolts your box was not replaced. Total cost for my 1997 Tymar intake was $109. It will flow all the air you will ever need.

2. Exhaust system-I'm not sure if it's still in effect, but there was/is a group purchase going on through FTE for exhaust. The turbo downpipe on the 1997 is really squashed and you will see a significant improvement even just replacing the downpipe. Exhaust should be replaced with 4" which is good to about 450HP.

3. Gauges-before you start adding additional power to the engine, gauges are a must in order to monitor engine temps and boost. Too much heat will destroy your engine. The intake and exhaust will reduce your temps and will enable you too add more power to the engine.

4. Chip or tuner-check out the various deals on this site. There are always specials going on with tuners and chips for good prices.

You might want to consider upgrading the flywheel/clutch before you start adding power. The stock flywheel is a dual mass flywheel and is junk. Mine started falling apart at 115K and I replaced it with a LuK and a new clutch for less than the flywheel only from Ford.

There's a ton of inexpensive stuff you can do for more power, smoother idle, etc. You might want to do a search on shimming the fuel pressure regulator, 10K mod, and HPX mod. To get power above and beyond a chip/tuner you can always use propane injection. What kind of power are you looking for?

 

I also have a 97f250, I have several upgrades from Banks.I would first start with a 3.5" downpipe and 4"exhaust.Then add a performance intake and guages before purchasing any Banks kits.Banks also makes a Transcommand for the tranny which is designed to firm up the shift points and change the line pressure because of the added torque and horsepower,this will prolong the life of your tranny.Try purchasing Banks kits in stages,this way once you are satisfied with the power increase you can stop spending your money.I personally feel the money spent with Banks was well worth it.

 

I'm interested in how this would work with his and my 5-speed transmission. Does it attach to the driver's arm?

 

My mistake, the transcommand is for the automatics,you specified yours is a manual.Sorry.

 

Just raggin' on ya. Where are you in PA?

 

That might be a good idea to send to Banks for their R&D!

 

I did not know about the recall on the airbox. So the entire thing needs to be replaced?

 

WilkesBarre.

 

ForemanES, the recall was for the bolts only I believe, but that airbox is junk. I suggest making replacement of the air intake a priority.

bender97f250, my mother grew up in Forty Fort. My wife is also from Tamaqua. I haven't been up in that area for a while, but am very familiar with it.

 

What kit did you end up with? I might just start with the git kit

 

I was born and raised in Hazleton (a true coalcracker) moved with the wife because of our jobs.Love it here,except for the long winters. Its a small world!!

 

My first purchase from Banks was the GitKit,its good for 40rwhp and 88ftlbs torque.

 

Is Tymar a better filter than my K&N?

 

I wont go there,but I will say I personally have not had any problems with my K&N as far as any dusting.Also K&N is the filter of choice by Banks. Hope this does not start another filter debate.