Banks Twin-Ram 12-Valve Upgrade: Airflow Gains for Classic Cummins

After installing a Monster-Ram intake on his 2017 RAM 3500, Brandon De Leon decided he wanted a Banks Twin-Ram on his beloved 1996 Dodge RAM. At 223,000 miles on the odometer, Brandon has no intention of getting rid of his 12-valve truck. “I’m actually restoring it little by little, and I want it to run its best. After getting the Monster-Ram for my newer truck and experiencing the difference it made, I knew I needed to do something like that for my ’96. I know it’s an old truck, so when I saw that Banks still made the Twin-Ram intake manifold I grabbed it… before they decided to not make them anymore!”

“I had Banks do the install. Sure I could do it myself, but I kinda liked the insurance that comes with a factory install. The amount of research and development that goes into their products is really evident, even back then when the part was made! And the performance is night and day! She has so much more pep, and I know it may sound strange, but the sound of the truck changed. It’s ‘crisp’! Seeing how well just that one Banks part changed the way my truck ran I’m going to start adding more Banks parts to the ol’ girl, like replacing my intake with a Ram-Air system.”

Just a reminder: Banks is accepting reservations for installs now!

The 12-valve Cummins is known for its simplicity and power potential — and with a Banks Twin-Ram 12-valve upgrade, it gets a major boost in performance and driveability. Designed to balance airflow across all six cylinders, the Twin-Ram’s dual-plenum design delivers more even boost distribution than the stock manifold.

That means stronger throttle response, reduced EGTs, and increased overall efficiency — all without custom tuning or permanent modifications. Whether you’re building a workhorse or restoring a classic, this Twin-Ram 12-valve upgrade ensures your Cummins breathes better and pulls harder.

Unlike other mods that promise gains but require compromise, the Twin-Ram maintains emissions compliance and integrates cleanly into the stock system. For diesel enthusiasts looking to get the most out of their 5.9L, it’s one of the smartest upgrades you can make.

If your 12-valve still runs strong, the Banks Twin-Ram will help it run even stronger — with airflow that’s balanced, efficient, and powerful.

Related Source
• Explore the Banks Twin-Ram manifold
• Read more classic diesel builds on the Banks insider blog