The real complaint here is pedal lag. On an L5P Duramax, that soft tip-in can make the truck feel lazy leaving a stop or rolling into traffic. Banks PedalMonster fixes that by reshaping demanded torque through selectable response curves, so the truck reacts quicker and feels more connected to your right foot. In this setup, PedalMonster is added to an existing Banks Derringer Tuner and iDash Pro system, which lets the driver view and control the module through the iDash once firmware is updated. You get sharper launch, faster response, and a more immediate feel without turning the truck into something unpredictable. Reverse safety is built in too, so aggressive response is disabled while backing up. The result is simple: less delay, better control, and a Duramax that feels awake instead of waiting.
The video covers installation of a Banks PedalMonster on a 2019 Duramax L5P. The truck already has a Banks Derringer and an iDash DataMonster, so the procedure shown is specifically for that configuration rather than for a standalone PedalMonster or other wiring variants. The presenter notes that Banks includes application-specific wiring diagrams, and that the instructions differ depending on whether the unit is connected directly through the OBD-II port, paired with a Derringer and switch, or integrated with an iDash system.
Inside the box, the kit includes the PedalMonster module, two integrated pigtail connectors for the accelerator pedal connection, a jumper harness intended to link the PedalMonster into the existing Banks system, printed instructions, and zip ties for securing the wiring. The presenter also points out that the product is made in the United States and that the instructions include QR codes linking to Banks installation videos.
Before starting, the presenter recommends disconnecting the truck's electrical system. Because this Duramax uses two batteries, both negative battery terminals are removed with a 10 mm socket. This is presented as a standard precaution whenever working on vehicle electrical components.
The basic tools needed are minimal: cutting snips for trimming zip ties, a panel removal tool or small hook or pick for removing trim, and an Allen wrench for tightening the iDash mount after rerouting its cable. The installation also requires removing the underhood fuse-panel cover so the new wiring can be routed cleanly.
The first physical step is removing the fuse-panel cover to create a path for the wiring. On this 2019 truck, the presenter uses a small hook tool at the lower edge of the panel and pulls firmly to release it. He notes that the process is likely similar on 2017 through 2019 L5P trucks, although he does not confirm compatibility with 2020 models or pre-2017 trucks.
Once the panel is removed, the area provides access for routing the Banks harness from the cabin-side components toward the existing underhood wiring. The presenter emphasizes being careful but acknowledges that the panel may require a somewhat aggressive pull to release the clips.
Because this truck already uses an iDash connected to a Derringer, the next step is to remove the iDash from its mount and identify the correct cable. The gauge is mounted with a suction cup, and the wires are fed behind the dash area. Two cable sets are present: one runs to the Derringer under the hood, and the other runs down under the dash. The installer must identify the cable that goes to the Derringer, because that connection will be interrupted and rerouted through the PedalMonster.
The correct cable is described as a six-pin connector. It is unplugged from the back of the iDash by pressing the release tab. The Banks-supplied six-pin jumper harness is then plugged into the back of the iDash in its place. After that, the iDash is resecured to its mount, and the new jumper wire is routed downward so it can later connect to the PedalMonster module.
At the accelerator pedal, the factory connector must be removed from the throttle pedal assembly. The OEM plug uses a white safety retainer clip. To release it without damage, the white retainer is first pulled outward until it clicks, then the small black release button is pressed so the connector can be pulled straight off.
The Banks PedalMonster harness is then installed inline between the factory pedal and the factory vehicle harness. The female Banks connector plugs directly into the accelerator pedal sensor port, and the locking tab is engaged. The male Banks connector then plugs into the factory OEM harness that was just removed. Once the lock is pressed down, the PedalMonster is physically inserted into the pedal circuit.
With the pedal-side harness connected, the remaining Banks communication cables are attached to the PedalMonster module itself. The jumper wire that was rerouted from the iDash and that ultimately ties back to the Derringer is plugged into the left port on the PedalMonster, following the Banks instructions. The locking tab is oriented upward on the six-pin connector. The cable associated with the iDash DataMonster is then plugged into the right-side port, also with the locking tab facing up.
After all connectors are attached, the wiring is bundled and secured with the supplied zip ties. In this installation, the presenter ties the harness near the OBD-II area and routes the wires out to the side and upward into the fuse-panel area. He does not claim this is the only routing method, only that it worked cleanly on this truck. Once the wiring is secured, the fuse-panel cover is reinstalled by engaging its locating lip first and then pressing the clips back into place.
A key part of the installation is software compatibility. The presenter states that the PedalMonster requires iDash firmware version 1.19. On this truck, the iDash initially shows firmware version 1.17, which means the PedalMonster will not function until the firmware is updated.
To verify the version, the iDash is powered on and the user navigates through the settings menu to system information, then to the iDash information screen where the firmware version is displayed. After inserting the SD card containing the update, the installer goes to Settings, then Firmware, then Firmware Update, and selects the iDash update. The update process runs twice: once for graphics and once for the firmware itself. After the unit reboots twice, the display shows version 1.19, confirming that the system is ready to recognize the PedalMonster.
Once firmware 1.19 is installed, the PedalMonster becomes visible in the iDash menu under screen settings and Banks module selections. Before the update, that menu item was not available. Afterward, the PedalMonster can be selected and displayed within the gauge layout, allowing the driver to monitor and adjust its operating mode through the iDash interface.
The presenter notes that calibration had already been completed using the Bluetooth app. With the system active, the iDash can display the PedalMonster status and mode selection. The available modes shown in the video include City mode, Sport mode, and Track mode. The display also reacts when the throttle is blipped, showing the PedalMonster's response. The presenter again highlights the usefulness of the Banks instructions, especially the QR codes that open supplemental installation videos.
The final step is a road test. During the test drive, the truck is placed in Track mode. One operational detail mentioned is that the PedalMonster disables its aggressive response while the vehicle is in reverse, preventing abrupt throttle input when backing up.
On the road, the presenter describes the throttle response as immediate and dramatically different from stock. Increasing the setting to the highest Track mode makes the pedal noticeably more sensitive, and he characterizes the change as transforming the truck's feel. His conclusion is that the PedalMonster significantly sharpens accelerator response on this 2017 to 2019 2500-series L5P Duramax application when used with a Derringer and iDash, provided the wiring is routed correctly and the iDash firmware is updated to version 1.19.