Banks Power is at the forefront of power-enhancing products for diesel and gas-powered vehicles, continuing a legacy of innovation and performance that began in the 1960s. Founded by innovator Gale Banks, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering – setting world records and winning championships across an array of disciplines.
In recent years, Banks Power has expanded its product line to meet the evolving needs of modern vehicles. The company offers cutting-edge electronic tuning solutions, advanced intake and exhaust systems and innovative cooling technologies for a wide range of trucks, SUVs and motorhomes.
Records and Accomplishments
Banks Founder and President Gale Banks is one of the most recognized names in aftermarket performance. His expertise has been sought after by military and commercial sectors, leading to collaborations on projects that push the limits of diesel and gasoline engine technology. His marine engines have propelled racing boats to national and world championships. Banks Power is the only company to hold records at Bonneville Speed Week in both automobile and truck classes including:
- World’s Fastest Passenger Car
- World’s Fastest Pickup
- World’s Fastest Motorhome
- World’s Fastest Diesel Drag Racing Pickup Truck
Banks Power continues to be involved in motorsports, with recent successes in off-road racing and land-speed record attempts.
The Leading Edge
“I’m a futurist,” said Banks. “My entire career has been about what’s next. Through the decades, we have opened new markets in marine engines, turbocharging, truck and motorhome power systems, turbocharged tuner cars, diesel power systems, electronic tuners and exhaust brakes. Plus, I’m proud to have worked for many major car and engine manufacturers in defining their future products.”
Banks’ innovative spirit has resulted in a jaw-dropping number of technological advancements. His achievements include:
- Pioneering work in turbocharging marine engines in 1969
- Premiere of twin-turbo small-block Chevy engines in 1978
- Invention and patent of the Banks OttoMind electronic fuel-management module in 1997
- Transmission-control systems
- Exhaust-scavenging systems
- Invention and patent of the iDash DataMonster, the only instrument to calculate, log and display an exclusive suite of engine parameters, including manifold air density
Driving Innovation
First and foremost, Banks is an engineering firm. Established in 1958, Banks Power has grown to 100+ employees on a 12-acre campus. The Mechanical Engineering Department is staffed with world-class automotive experts who design and test the latest high-performance equipment.
In the Race Shop, special-project vehicles feature cutting-edge diesel and gasoline development, multiple turbo applications, mind-boggling horsepower and head-turning style.
Sophisticated electronic engineering technologies are applied to engine improvement in the rapidly growing Computer Systems Engineering Department. Banks Power designs turbocharged engines from the centerline of the crankshaft and out.
The legacy and technological leadership of Banks Power in the diesel aftermarket is unquestioned. Banks has no rival with its long history of breakthrough innovations in high-performance diesel-engine development, including turbocharging and drivetrain.
Banks Power has proven its design, engineering and manufacturing prowess in whole vehicle development/modification, including Project Sidewinder, Banks/GMC Syclone and the big-block twin-turbo Pontiac Firebird.
A recent achievement of Banks Power is the development of the Ram-Air Differential Cover, which addresses cooling issues in heavy-duty trucks.
As the automotive landscape shifts towards electrification, Banks Power is also exploring ways to apply its expertise to hybrid and electric vehicle technologies, ensuring its relevance in the changing market.
Performance Testing
Banks Power uses advanced equipment and facilities for testing and re-testing existing products, production prototypes and experimental designs for performance, durability and compatibility.
Their commitment to research and development is evident in the state-of-the-art facilities in Azusa, Calif. Here, the team uses advanced simulation tools, dynamometers and real-world testing to ensure their products deliver scientifically proven performance gains. Ongoing testing ensures functionality, product endurance and quality control.
Protected by AMSOIL
When it comes to protecting the components they innovate, Banks Power trusts AMSOIL – AMSOIL is the official lubricant supplier of Banks Power. As an example of what that means, Banks Power bundles their Ram-Air* differential cover with four easy-packs of AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 100% Synthetic Gear Lube to use as the first-fill lubricant.
Gale Banks is a living legend in the automotive industry. From his early work innovating marine engines to his current status as a leader in automotive performance, Banks Power continues to push engineering excellence and innovation in the power-enhancement industry.
Video transcript: Engineered for What you Drive and How you Drive
Whatever you drive. However you drive. AMSOIL specially engineers lubricants to maximize power, performance, and protection in your vehicles so you can work hard and play hard with confidence. Order online at amsoil.com
What the video shows
In the first of four episodes filmed at AMSOIL headquarters in Superior, Wis., Gale Banks learns how synthetic motor oil is made, which additives go into it and why, and what separates a superior synthetic. He was preparing to launch a Banks diesel crate-engine program.
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Brad Nelson is an AMSOIL Technical Writer II who develops content about lubricant technology, product performance and vehicle maintenance. He works with engineers and product specialists to translate testing, application requirements and approved performance claims into clear customer guidance. Nelson’s work includes AMSOIL Blog articles, AMSOIL Magazine features and technical explanations concerning motor oils, gear lubricants, vehicle systems and maintenance practices.
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