2017 Ram Cummins Grid Heater Bolt Fix

Tom Sheehan’s 2017 Ram was a ticking time bomb. After 200K miles with a grid heater warning light, the heater bolt was literally hanging by a thread—one bump could’ve killed his engine. He installed the Banks Monster-Ram and avoided disaster just in time.

Tom’s bolt issue is solved, and:

  • Mileage boosted from 14 to 24 mpg
  • No more clogged grid heater means better airflow
  • Truck pulls harder, responds quicker
Close-up of clogged grid heater failure on Cummins

The Banks Monster-Ram grid heater fix addresses one of the most notorious issues facing RAM Cummins owners—failing grid heater bolts that can destroy engines. In Tom Sheehan’s case, his 2017 RAM showed the classic symptoms: a grid heater warning light and a loose bolt ready to break free. Had it fallen into the engine, the damage could have been catastrophic, costing tens of thousands in repairs. By installing the Banks Monster-Ram, he not only prevented disaster but also unlocked major airflow improvements. The Monster-Ram’s smoother design and larger diameter reduce restriction, increasing boost efficiency and dramatically improving throttle response. In Tom’s truck, mileage jumped from 14 to 24 mpg, proving the efficiency gains are real. Beyond power and economy, the Monster-Ram also ensures cleaner airflow by eliminating clogged heater grids that can choke the engine. For Cummins owners who rely on their trucks for heavy towing, daily driving, or long-haul reliability, the Monster-Ram is more than an upgrade—it’s insurance against one of the most dangerous failure points in the 6.7L Cummins platform.


Grid Heater Bolt Failure Risk on 6.7L Cummins Rams

The factory intake grid heater on some 6.7L Cummins applications uses hardware that owners have reported loosening or failing. If a fastener separates and enters the engine, it can cause severe internal damage. A warning light or visible looseness deserves prompt inspection by a qualified technician.

The Banks Monster-Ram replaces the factory intake heater assembly with a high-flow intake plate designed to eliminate the factory grid-heater bolt concern. In Tom Sheehan’s 2017 Ram, the grid-heater warning light and a loose fastener prompted the change after more than 200,000 miles.

This owner story describes one truck and its reported driving results. Fuel economy and performance depend on vehicle condition, maintenance, load, terrain, driving style, and other modifications; the reported change from 14 to 24 mpg should not be presented as a typical or guaranteed result. Check the Monster-Ram’s current fitment for the exact truck before ordering.