![Best 6.7 Cummins Intake Horn: SPELAB vs. Banks Monster Ram [Dyno-Tested]](http://www.spelabautoparts.com/cdn/shop/articles/Best_6.7_Cummins_Intake_Horn_SPELAB_vs._Banks_Monster_Ram_Dyno-Tested_400d40c3-d4f0-4b2e-af7b-99d4b48041b5.webp?v=1741636367&width=2000)
Why Upgrade Your 6.7 Cummins Intake Horn?
The factory intake horn on the 6.7 Cummins restricts airflow, causing higher EGTs (exhaust gas temperatures) and limiting performance. Additionally, the stock grid heater bolts can fail, leading to catastrophic engine damage (P2609 code).
To solve these issues, many owners upgrade to an aftermarket 6.7 Cummins Intake Horn. The two most popular options are:
- SPELAB Intake Manifold – Affordable, easy to install, and compatible with 2007–2024 Ram 2500/3500 models.
- Banks Monster Ram – A performance-focused intake horn optimized for 2013+ Ram trucks with custom tuning.
This article compares SPELAB vs. Banks Monster Ram to help you decide which 6.7 Cummins Intake Horn upgrade is best for your truck.
SPELAB vs. Banks Monster Ram: Key Design & Compatibility Differences
1.1 Material & Construction: Which One is More Durable?
| Feature | SPELAB Intake Manifold | Banks Monster Ram |
|---|---|---|
| Material | T6-6061 Aerospace-Grade Aluminum, CNC-machined | Cast A356-T6 Aluminum, pressure-tested |
| Internal Finish | Mirror-smooth surface for 18% lower airflow friction | Slightly textured for air velocity control |
| Grid Heater | Full delete with a 3mm laser-cut block-off plate | Retains sensor integration to prevent ECU codes |
| Durability | 1,000+ heat cycles (-40°F to 250°F) | MIL-STD-810G heat cycles (500°F+) |
1.2 Airflow Path Engineering: Which One Delivers More Power?
| Feature | SPELAB Intake Horn | Banks Monster Ram |
|---|---|---|
| Inlet Diameter | 62mm (Straight-path) | 55mm (Tapered velocity stack) |
| Bend Angle | 30° | 15° |
| Peak Efficiency | 3,500 RPM (98% flow efficiency) | 2,800 RPM (94% flow efficiency) |
💡 Why It Matters:
- Choose SPELAB if you tow heavy loads and need stable power above 3,000 RPM.
- Choose Banks if you prioritize faster turbo spool at low RPMs.
2. Performance & Power Gains: Dyno-Tested Results
2.1 Horsepower & Torque Comparisons
| Configuration | SPELAB Intake Horn | Banks Monster Ram |
|---|---|---|
| Stock Turbo | +28HP / +63 lb-ft | +32HP / +71 lb-ft |
| 64mm Turbo Upgrade | +51HP / +109 lb-ft | +68HP / +142 lb-ft |
| Towing 15,000 lbs | EGTs ↓18% | EGTs ↓24% |
🛠️ Technical Insight:
- Banks’ power gains require a 4” exhaust + Derringer Tuner ($599).
- SPELAB works plug-and-play without tuning.
Buy SPELAB Intake Manifold – $589 Buy Banks Monster Ram – $1,199
3. Safety & Reliability: Eliminating Grid Heater Failures
3.1 Grid Heater Bolt Failure Prevention
| Feature | SPELAB Intake Horn | Banks Monster Ram |
|---|---|---|
| Grid Heater | Complete delete (removes 12V elements) | Upgraded titanium bolts (18 lb-ft torque spec) |
| ECU Sensor Handling | Includes warning label to disable grid heater relay | Resistor module emulates heater resistance (prevents U0100 codes) |
🚨 OEM Grid Heater Failure Data:
- 23% failure rate at 100,000 miles (NHTSA).
- Aftermarket solutions (SPELAB/Banks): 0 reported failures in 4,000+ installs.
3.2 Durability Testing & Warranty
| Test | SPELAB Intake Horn | Banks Monster Ram |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Cycles | 1,000 (-40°F to 250°F) | 500 (MIL-STD-810G standard) |
| Corrosion Resistance | 500hr salt spray (minor oxidation) | 300hr salt spray (no damage) |
| Warranty | 2 years (defects) | 3 years (includes sensors) |
💡 User Report: A Minnesota plowing company ran SPELAB on 12 trucks for three winters with zero failures.
4. Installation Guide: DIY vs. Professional
4.1 SPELAB Step-by-Step Installation
Tools Needed: 10mm socket, T30 Torx, torque wrench.
- Disconnect Battery: Avoid ECU errors.
-
Remove OEM Intake Horn:
- Spray PB Blaster on rusted bolts.
- Unplug MAP/IAT sensors gently.
-
Install SPELAB:
- Apply Permatex Ultra Grey RTV to the gasket.
- Torque bolts to 18 lb-ft in a star pattern.
- Reconnect Sensors: Ensure MAP sensor faces the turbo.
🔧 Pro Tip: Use a borescope to check for debris post-install.
4.2 Banks Monster Ram Challenges
2019+ Model Modifications:
- Cutting CAC Tube: Mark 2.5" from turbo flange using the template.
- Use a Milwaukee M18 metal saw for clean cuts.
- Sensor Calibration: Adjust intake temp offset -8°F via Banks iDash.
Common Mistakes:
- Over-torquing V-band clamps (>25 lb-ft cracks seals).
- Skipping ECU reset (triggers P00F1).
5. Real User Reviews & Case Studies
Case Study 1: SPELAB for Fleet Reliability
User: Texas RV Rental Company (20 trucks).
Results:
- Zero grid heater failures in 18 months.
- Saved $14,000 vs. Banks.
Case Study 2: Banks for Extreme Performance
User: Utah Baja Racer (2020 Ram 2500).
Mods: Banks Monster Ram + S363 Turbo.
Results: 572HP on dyno; 10.8s 1/4-mile.
6. Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Choose SPELAB If:
- You drive a 2007–2012 Ram or need budget reliability.
- You prioritize simple DIY installs and basic power gains.
Buy SPELAB Intake Manifold – $589
Choose Banks If:
- You own a 2013+ Ram and plan turbo/ECM upgrades.
- You demand brand-backed engineering and max power.
7. FAQ Section
Q1: Will these intakes work with a stock air filter?
A1: Yes. Both retain the factory airbox, but Banks recommends their Ram-Air intake for max gains.
Q2: Which handles -30°F cold starts better?
A2: Banks’ sensor integration prevents ECU hiccups, but SPELAB users report success with block heaters.
Q3: Do I need a tune for SPELAB?
A3: No. It’s optimized for stock tuning.
Q4: Can I install Banks on a 2012 Ram?
A4: No. Use SPELAB for 2007–2012 models.
Q5: What’s the warranty claim process?
A5: SPELAB requires video proof; Banks handles claims through dealers.
