Category: Banks Insider

Turbo Lover: Part One

Have you ever heard a sound that gave you goose bumps just by hearing it? Ever since I was a kid that magic tone for me was that of a turbine whine. To me it just sounds like power incarnate. I mean…what’s more powerful sounding than a jet taxiing and taking off? That is the sound that suckered me into buying my first turbocharged car: the underrated Merkur XR4Ti. I like my vehicles to be different, and this one sure fit the bill. Aside from looking like the forbidden love child of Saab and a Ford Escort, it had a blown Pinto 2.3 liter engine that whined louder than a dentist’s drill. Turbo lag was BIG, but when it finally built up the power its demeanor turned from that of a timid koala bear to a raging donkey and squished my unassuming passengers deep into their seats. Sweeeet!

April 20, 2005

Diesel Hot Rods

Discover the untapped power of diesel. Tired of the sky-high cost of racing gas and the limitations of traditional gasoline engines? It’s time to rethink performance. Turbodiesel engines offer unparalleled torque, impressive fuel economy, and a remarkable ability to handle immense boost. Imagine the thrill of a diesel-powered hot rod, delivering jaw-dropping acceleration without breaking the bank. It’s a game-changer for automotive enthusiasts seeking a new level of performance and efficiency.

April 19, 2005

Pay the Piper…or Hire Another Band

Just the other day, I was fueling my vehicle at a service station. While I was there, the station attendant emerged with a handful of numbers to change the posted fuel prices. He didn’t change the gasoline prices, only the #2 diesel. It went up 4 cents per gallon. At that station, #2 diesel was then selling for 6 cents a gallon more than 91-octane premium gasoline, and 22 cents a gallon more than 87-octane regular gasoline. I remember thinking, that’s nuts!

April 19, 2005

Blue Oval Fever

From Econolines to Explorers, Fords have been a lifelong passion. My deep-rooted connection to the Blue Oval began with early memories of family road trips and evolved into a career in automotive engineering. This hands-on experience, from rebuilding engines to racing Fords, fuels my enthusiasm for the brand. Whether you’re a die-hard Ford fan or considering a vehicle upgrade, discover the thrill of the open road with a Ford built for adventure and performance.

April 15, 2005

Giving Something Back

Looking to revolutionize the diesel industry? Join us as we develop a cutting-edge light-duty diesel curriculum at WyoTech. With millions of diesel pickups on the road and a growing demand, this is a prime opportunity for students seeking a high-performance career. Learn how to design and build diesel engines that rival gas-powered vehicles, including hybrids and hydrogen-powered options.

April 15, 2005

Why a Blog?

My job title at Banks is, “Corporate Journalist.” Pretty high falutin, huh? Not really. I’m just a scribe. I record a lot of what goes on around here. I document projects and vehicle buildups for corporate sponsors, provide info for magazine editors, write blogs, Blah, blah, blah.

I’m swamped trying to keep up with all that is going on at Banks. I remember thinking recently that we need to get the information I collect to the public faster. Then, out of the blue a few weeks ago, Gale asked me what I thought of the idea of launching a blog about Banks. I couldn’t get “yes” out fast enough.

April 14, 2005

Beware the Blog!

Unleash your vehicle’s full potential with insider insights from Gale Banks Engineering. Tired of ordinary? Dive deep into the world of high-performance automotive engineering. From concept to creation, witness firsthand the innovation driving the industry forward. Our team of gearheads is spilling the beans on top-secret projects and groundbreaking products. Get ready to experience automotive engineering like never before.

April 14, 2005

The Race Shop

Most companies call it Research and Development. Here at Banks, we call it the Race Shop. I think of it as the toy room.

But calling it the Race Shop is not a bit far-fetched. This shop has not only turned out several true-blood race cars, but it has also produced several world record holders. That is a pregnant statement. The emphasis, here, is on several.

January 24, 2003

Winning Dodge

Well, here’s one for you Dodge boys (and girls). Specifically, I’m talking about the members of Turbo Diesel Register, otherwise known as TDR.

The TDR is actually based on a quarterly publication that started in 1993 with a stated purpose to be “an open forum for the exchange of information from the manufacturers to the owners,” and “to give Dodge diesel owners more satisfaction in the ownership of their truck.”

January 17, 2003

At the Install

Upgrade Your Ride with Expert Installation

Looking to boost your vehicle’s performance? Banks Engineering’s expert installation team can help. Our state-of-the-art facility handles everything from trucks to motorhomes, offering professional installation of Banks Power products. With ASE-certified technicians and a proven track record, you can trust us to get the job done right the first time. Enjoy predictable costs, faster installation times, and comprehensive testing for a worry-free upgrade. Schedule your appointment today and experience the Banks difference!

January 10, 2003