Another Failure on RAM Grid Heater Bolt

Unfortunately, we have to report another failure on a RAM that could have been prevented with a Banks Monster-Ram. Abe’s 2017 RAM 6.7L had just 100k miles on the odometer when he decided to buy a Monster-Ram intake elbow as a preventative measure. He had heard about the dreaded grid heater bolt failure. But short on time, he decided to install the Banks system after a quick hunting trip. (Cue Alanis Morissette’s song about Irony.)

The Failure

Only five miles into his trip, Abe’s engine began to knock and stumble. After towing it to his local RAM dealer, the head was removed and the damage was obvious. The grid heater bolt not only broke off and rolled downhill destroying piston #6, but it also bent both intake valves and cracked the head. Luckily for Abe, the machine shop was able to repair the cracked bridge between the valves. Despite not having to replace the entire head, Abe is still looking at a repair bill well into five digits. As of this newsletter, Abe’s truck is still at the RAM dealer waiting for the repaired head.

A few years ago when we began to hear about this type of failure, we chalked it up to a wives’ tale. That changed when we spoke to Protech Diesel Center in Western Canada earlier this year. They alone have repaired more than half a dozen of these grid heater bolt-related failures. Brad, the shop’s owner believes it’s a much bigger problem than people realize.

He surmises the failure has been misdiagnosed or simply has not made its way around the internet thanks to a lack of communication between diesel mechanics. After we shared their story a few months ago, mechanics from all over the U.S. and Canada are now sharing photos of customers’ mangled pistons.

The failure could have been prevented with the Banks Monster-Ram

How it works

Today, the Monster-Ram is widely considered the best insurance a RAM owner can have against grid heater bolt failure. The intake system includes a high-flow billet intake plate, thereby eliminating the stock heater. Intake air pre-heating is accomplished by a supplied coil-style heater that screws into the top of the casting. Improved air mass and engine failure insurance… We’ve got you.