Late-model diesel MAP sensors live in a bad spot. With EGR in the system, the intake stream carries exhaust soot and sticky oil vapor that gradually coats the sensor’s electronics. Once that buildup starts, the sensor no longer reports pressure accurately, and the ECM ends up making the wrong calls on air-fuel ratio and injection timing. That costs power, fuel economy, and eventually the sensor itself. Our MAP Spacer Kit fixes the root problem by relocating the sensor up and out of that contaminated airstream. The sensor still reads manifold pressure, but it is no longer taking the full hit from the soot-and-oil stream moving through the intake. That means cleaner readings, less fouling, and fewer sensor replacements on late-model Cummins, Power Stroke, and Duramax trucks.
The video explains a gradual problem affecting late-model diesel engines: contamination of the MAP, or manifold absolute pressure, sensor.
Mounted in the intake manifold, the MAP sensor provides pressure data used by the engine control module to calculate important operating parameters, including fueling and injection timing.
Because the MAP sensor is exposed to the intake manifold environment, contaminants associated with the EGR system can accumulate on it.
Exhaust soot combines with oil vapor in the intake stream, gradually coating the sensor. Over time, this buildup can become severe enough to clog the sensing element.
As contamination accumulates, MAP sensor readings can become inaccurate.
Because the ECM relies on manifold pressure data for engine management, incorrect readings can affect operation. According to Banks, a contaminated MAP sensor can contribute to reduced power and lower fuel economy.
Banks developed its MAP Spacer Kit to move the sensor away from the main contaminated airflow path inside the intake manifold.
By relocating the sensing element out of the direct stream of soot- and oil-laden air, the spacer is designed to reduce contamination and help maintain accurate MAP readings.
The MAP Spacer Kit is intended to reduce the need for repeated cleaning or replacement caused by contamination.
Instead of leaving the sensor directly exposed to the intake stream, the spacer helps protect it from buildup, extending the period it can remain clean and functional.
Banks offers MAP Spacer Kits for several major late-model diesel platforms.
Applications mentioned in the video include Cummins, Power Stroke, and Duramax engines.
