How Banks got into diesel | Speed School Podcast Ep 13

Gale Banks wraps up his multi-part interview with Walt Ware, former President of Garrett AiResearch by revealing their biggest achievements. Did you know Walt was responsible for turbos in all Ford 7.3L Power Strokes? He was also responsible for creating the world's first robotic turbocharger assembly plant. The two also discuss how and why Banks transitioned from gas diesel to diesel performance in the early 80s. Banks Sidewinder Turbo Systems were available as a dealer-specified option at GMC dealers throughout the mid-80s. You could buy a GMC pickup or Suburban with a turbocharged 6.2L diesel engine a full year before RAM offered the Cummins turbo diesel! This is just one of the many stories the pair cover in this week’s fascinating episode.
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[@bankspower]

Who should Gale have on as a guest, next?

[@andrewsmart2949]

diesel brothers or smokey nagata

[@_vanna_white102]

Lmao if he was in the same room as the diesel brothers theyd leave after 5 minutes with their tales between they're legs 😆 🤣

[@funone8716]

Elon Musk

[@paulsalvestrin7253]

Walt! Man i could listen to him and Gale forever. What a combination and i don't think you would find to guy's with more knowledge than them.

[@andrewsmart2949]

@@paulsalvestrin7253 why be a trollbot and say something from behind an empty fake profile LOL

[@Colevid19]

After the years these guys have been “in the business” yet they talk about it with the same enthusiasm and passion, it’s very inspiring.

[@Not_Built-Right]

That's what they do eat , breathe, sleep, engineering gods of creation just imagine if they weren't stifled by the people whom have hidden agendas and don't like real talent because they feel like dummies around people of their calibre.

[@johnnypipe]

These two have forgotten more than most of us will ever know. Excellent podcast.

[@DynoDieselWagon]

True that

[@danielmarkle8823]

That is the perfect comment for this podcast

[@masongiles8443]

Could not have said it better myself

[@JB-sp6do]

These guys have so much valuable info, everytine they do this I'm totally blown away! Thx so much for telling ur stores, I feel like so much can be learned from u guys besides the historical value to the stories y'all tell!!

[@tatdexter2334]

Facinating! I never met Walt during my time as a fresh engineer working in PHX (1980-88) but his name would come up often...usually in a favorable context. :) I ultimately ended up working with missile flight controls after surviving the merger-mania of the 80's (5 different managing companies in 8 yrs and never had to change my desk). Drove my 2L Pinto, w/T04 Banks kit I installed, over 200k miles and loved it. Much gratitude Gale & Walt.

[@stevenpederson1645]

I bought an 82 chevy with a 6.2 L in 82. I never heard of the Banks dealer turbo kit upgrade. Just learned of it today. I home shop made a intake manifold and exhaust headers for a turbo charged 6.2 and stuffed it in a early 80's van. Knowing that there was a Banks kit in existence could have made things a lot easier.

[@stevebuttrum]

So you were the original the first to actually turbo that engine lol absolutely awesome

[@CrazyTacky]

@8:50; after watching Banks for years on youtube, this finally reminded me of where I've read about his company before. As a kid I loved reading about the new speed records and the cars used to achieve them.

[@icare7151]

I remember the entire Oldsmobile diesel nightmare. Our neighbor had the diesel in a GM station wagon, the SUV of the day. After several failed diesel motors, no more diesel station wagon.

[@justinvanburen8259]

Amazing people with amazing stories!!! I could just listen to them all day!!

[@toughbowtietruck]

My first diesel truck was a 1993 K-3500 municipal truck with the J code 6.2 and 4L80-E transmission. I always wanted to turbo it with a Banks kit but ended up in Duramax land instead. Now I'm buying Banks parts for the Duramax.

[@brandonstaelens664]

Both of your guys knowledge level absolutely astounds me. Its the only thing about getting older that excites me

[@mikeschoettler8851]

You 2 Gentlemen are real legends walking Thanks for everything you have done for the automotive world .....This really. Needs to be a movie PURE GOLD!!!

[@georgedreisch2662]

Watching this further, this seems increasingly like a meeting of the minds and foreshadowing something to come…

[@eliminator1978]

These podcasts like this are just awesome. Love hearing the trials and tribulations these guys went thru to be the greats they are.

[@minivanin]

Fantastic stuff. I have really enjoyed this particular series. I love turbo history...or really any performance history.

[@alyluvsdinos]

Im literally watching this video while searching for a replacement 7.3 for my truck after 600k miles lol thanks Walt & Gale for the great video and incredible products 👍👍

[@williamwittwer4809]

Absolutely love listening to these two Legends! Keep up the great work guys! Your knowledge and stories will live on forever

[@bobrichards318]

Absolutely loved watching this and hearing the knowledge and history between both.

[@dustinmccord2046]

I could listen to these guys all day

[@mikeschoettler8851]

This is the greatest video, I have ever seen on KZbin

[@frankr6702]

This series of interviews is great

[@MolinesR-uss]

I have owed a 7.3 power stroke awesome engine thanks Walt!!!

[@AlphaCharlieFour]

This was awesome. It really made my week.

[@ohnomrwalnut9173]

I loved this... so much I never knew. Thank you!

[@iBANGgears]

You guys are rockstars!! 🤘🤘 love this interview!

[@Youralwayswhining4367]

Great to listen to these ole boys shoot the breeze

[@jeffhutchins7048]

What's funny is that the IDI TURBO, manufactured in '93 and '94, with an ATS turbo would run off and leave a first generation Power Stroke...STOCK to STOCK.

[@jamesemmeneckersr.1875]

The 7.3... my daily is a 2000 F350...currently at 482,000. Still runs right up to governor. I would hop in it right now and drive anywhere... Amsoil 15 - 40. I change the crankcase religiously ..every 50,000. Filters every 25,000. That's 95 recommended changes to my 9. Hmmm Cost savings over $8k.. Time savings PRICELESS ! Thank You Wally..

[@jkreviea]

Gale was 81 at the time of this podcast. His mind is far sharper than most people half his age.

[@jakekistka1983]

You guys are legends. Thank you for sharing your stories they are so inspirational

[@josephblair8593]

Best engine i have ever owned was a 1994 7.3 idi factory turbo.

[@devoncecile7385]

I built my own 6.9 international navistar build with capability of 40lb of boost turbo system I use it in my custom built truck that weighs 18,000lbs curb weight best motor I’ve ever had I put 6:1 gearing in the back axle and I have the best torque I’ve ever seen

[@justinhartsell4418]

Helping design the 6.5 is nothing to brag about😊😊

[@Fl-diesel-Mechanic]

3208 is 10.4 liter I love that engine

[@mikem3950]

Wow, Funny I now work at the Garrett turbo division which is now a hollow shell it was once... I look at the hallway walls of pictures of the men that made Garrett a force to be reckoned with.

[@TeamTopKick]

Cat 3208 is 10.4L/636ci considered a medium duty diesel not light duty and yes it is parent bore block.

[@kayvonmansouri]

These guys just spew information and wisdom

[@paulbrooks9327]

Simply an Awesome pair 💪💪👍

[@Sheisthedevilyouknowwho-ft9we]

Yup, I know the feeling "that will never work" the naysayers say 56:56

[@PlaneSaddles]

I'm fighting breaking in to laughing that for a podcast talking about California and Detroit based business, the "big town" closest to me (Midland, TX) gets a mention. Lol

[@mikeray1544]

When I was a Chrysler line tech in the 90's the little Turbo units were cool, had head gasket issues but usually lack of maintenance prob....but customers liked the Turbo car products....shame they sold it all off to EU...

[@davidcarper5411]

Thus stuff called Torque, is what pulls any mfg into performance

[@brostein6]

I love the ego in the intro, but Mr. Banks is a true scientist in his field.

[@bill2178]

love it its too bad it has to end

[@GavinY]

Amazing how America was it's own market for so long and still is

[@chloehennessey6813]

Mentioned Grand National? That is a story that needs to be told please!

[@Mtlmshr]

I love the candid nature of your conversations your both having, however who or what are you both looking at offscreen? It’s a bit distracting, as if your looking for approval from someone or something? Ya I know I’m being silly with this!

[@andrewsmart2949]

3208 was 210hp N/A in most applications,the 1175 was 175hp with smaller injectors and exhaust manifolds,turbo version was usually 250hp

[@michaelbrown5601]

I think Walt and Gale should visit Boeing and help restructure things. These guys are proven winners

[@Poorexampeofhuman]

I wish I had the resources to implement my ideas and inventions I think I was just born in the wrong era but at least I'm able to observe the the work great refiners or perfectionist of the ice engine. I feel my task is just to keep their masterpieces are perfecting of industry running that's what I dedicated my life too. Work on the the classics we're storing them back to the way they came from the dealer regardless of the package that had whatever the guy got or woman got when they paid it from the dealer and got their card that's how I want it to be at the car show now new cars and truck I wish I could be Mr. Banks

[@wdwickham]

😢660d 6x6 I haveuu been 7u7

[@jamesgraham9448]

Amazing conversation.. have a 7.3 turn... in a excursion would love advice .. hit me up please thanks

[@xmo552]

Nobody ever messed with me They only fired me. Ha.

[@dondotterer24]

I guess we will find out how many ignorant customers that are out there if he sells any. Can't wait for the test. Everyone should make a guess on the HP LOSS and the closest should win something. LOL

[@dougsg21]

😎👍

[@setituptoblowitup]

Wow talk bout influential

[@johngould2665]

Sorry it was a 1991

[@jimjoe9945]

Jesus is the way, the truth, the life.

[@40calDeathPunch]

This is real history. Today is nothing but arrogance and failure.

[@nadronnocojr]

Legends come and go , gods of industry stay forever in our hearts and minds , this was an honor

[@sam2902]

I could listen to Gale and Walt talk forever! Awesome episodes!

[@johnnystanley4469]

Just awsome video , so much incredible knowledge and life experience that literally span decades, tied in with so much inovation, thank you Gale for sharing this with us ,love this series , forever a loyal customer and fan.

[@bankspower]

Thank you for the kind words, Johnny!

[@brahmstein]

Excellent podcast! I’m listening to it driving my 2000 super duty 7.3 6 speed manual. Thanks Walt for helping put together an engine that’s never let me down. It’s not the fastest Diesel ever made but you can always tell when engineers build something with pride. Thinking of the end user and not what’s the fastest way to make a few extra dollars on the backs of the men and woman who rely on their trucks to put food on the table. Thanks you Gale for taking us all on a ride into the back stories of the industry. Keep this up and I may only buy Banks products from now on. 😂

[@bankspower]

Thank you for listening and the kind words!

[@xmo552]

@@bankspower Are the old draw through turbos so bad? I've been researching them lately and it seems you did tons of that stuff early on.

[@DynoDieselWagon]

2000 7.3 owners UNITE !

[@johnhughes2043]

This series with Walt is off the chart amazing! To listen to two practical engineers stories and how they’ve gotten where they’ve gotten to is a treasure. From the oil patch to P&W to Garrett and Banks Engineering, Walt and Gale are the kind of men I could listen to for days on end. Solving problems with slide rules a pencil some paper, head scratching along with desire is what the backbone of American industry truly was. Sadly some of this has gone by the wayside. Not to these guys though! Thanks

[@madweazl]

Pretty rare that I watch a 15 minute long video much less one hour but this was a treasure.

[@Snowlep337]

"The first turbo in a pickup truck said Banks on it" And thus, history was made....

[@jamesford2942]

The automotive industry history is now making a lot more sense after hearing these stories.

[@stevansaunders18]

These are amazing! The back room stories are the best. Both Walt and Gale are brilliant not only mechanically but business men as well. And both have achieved seemingly impossible things in the industry.

[@evanlacava9213]

Awesome interview. Love these 2. Godfathers of Booossttttt ❤

[@tk00903]

I worked for a Cummins shop from late 70's thru mid 80's and was very keen on this engine. We powered a one ton gm truck with the bt-6. Had to fabricate everything except motor mounts. Got it all done and found the transmission was worn out and had to rebuild it. This truck had a steel bed, winch with cable, gin poles, chains and boomers. When tested again, it did everything but spin the tires off. Good times!

[@jeffabernathy3131]

Awesome, simply just an experience to listen to true car/truck performance guys. I'm honored to have been able to hear them talk. Thanks, Mr. Banks, to you and your teams and your efforts.

[@jbarnett8062]

Please tell Walter he left a very positive impression on my brother while at Detroit Diesel ! What a legend in the business! Thank you both.

[@leosun8469]

I could literally listen to these experienced geniuses all day, everyday and soak up this knowledge. Thank you very much for sharing this knowledge and stories like this.👍🏻

[@williamj1969]

Gale thank you for producing these podcasts. Documenting this history is such a treasure for those of us interested in your work and the work of others. I look forward to more conversations between you & Walt. I’ve listened to all 3 at least 3 times straight though and really appreciate you & Walt taking the time to produce them. I’m sitting on the edge of my seat waiting on #4. You guys are a treasure.

[@MrWillykin]

My 6.2 Banks turbocharged Beast is still my "daily" driver. He must have done something right.

[@darylsmioth1904]

My dad had the Banks turbo on his 86' Ford 6.9 diesel and that thing ripped compared to stock.

[@martinpoulsen6564]

Wow... those aren't stories - that's history written. Several decades worth. Thank you gentlemen, to you, your teams and competition. You already saved us for immense amounts of unburnt or not cleanly combusted fuel, not even counting the actual fuel savings. Keep pushing, and may many more find inspiration to follow your footsteps.

[@Sir.VicsMasher]

I noticed you no longer sell your twin turbo kit/ manifolds for small block Chevy. Is it due to the EPA crackdown?

[@bankspower]

No, it's due to a manufacturing partner going out of business.

[@Sir.VicsMasher]

@@bankspower Thats unfortunate, hopefully you find a new partner soon.

[@gothicpagan.666]

That 2.3 Pinto turbo unit made it to the UK in the form of a Sierra (Lima in the states) and in the hands of Andy Rouse won the British touring car championship, for Ford replacing the 3Ltr Capri. The next competitive Ford was Sierra Cosworth with the 2Ltr Cosworth YB, fed by a T4 then T3 unit. YB is the 2.0Ltr pinto short motor, with few changes to the bottom end but then fitted with a Cosworth designed & originally built, 4 valve,belt drive DOHC making around 205-210bhp in the showroom to 530-540 bhp in race trim. Incidentally; Andy Rouse was also a development engineer and driver in these cars, resuling in another championship win. And all because of a exhaust driven spinning top

[@pault4513]

Technically those 5.9 cummins 7 Lt cats were medium duty engine I was med duty tec at a freightliner dealership from 1983/2010 and was their med duty specialist And spent from 1973 till the closing at mack trucks ( mack western) till it closed where our engineering lab twin turboed a cummins KT 450

[@negan454ss]

Gale looks sharp as a young man!!!! Guy involved with the Eco boost development .

[@allistairc123]

This was gold. I was supposed to be showered and to bed an hour ago But i couldnt turn it off. Great too see lives being so fulfilled. The best of people.

[@Copper_Anubis]

So many gm cars would have had cult followers if not for the .. as long as it's not faster then the vette.. Bs ..Smh. And trying to stuff 8 and 6s in to front wheel drive configurations.. a turbo 6 online. Or a longitudinal front would sold so many more models.

[@Poorexampeofhuman]

We need more relationships like this! Relationships such as this provide humanity with solutions that are NOT possible without Take notes humanity, So much more here than just being a gearhead.

[@apex107lrp]

These two have forgotten more than most of us will ever know...about turbocharging. What they both seem to forget is that the two economic recessions in the 1970's were each precipitated by OPEC raising oil prices. They were "President Carter's recession" only in that he was in office at the time. I guess businessmen whose careers were built on burning petro-fuels have blindspots for such "inconvenient" facts. The other point to remember is that fuel economy and exhaust emissions regulations were a major, if not the major, driving force for rapid technological advances in engines and control systems designs. I'll take the cleaner air, better economy AND big performance increases, thank you.

[@blueridgewarden2838]

Carter was hard on everyone.

[@craiggardner5347]

REALLY ENJOYED THIS! thanks to you both.

[@tylerwilkins2096]

Could you imagine if the government just got out of the way what cool engines we could have

[@PNW_K5DIESEL]

I could be wrong but I believe that when the 6.5 dropped in 92 that you could only get it with a turbo since in 92 and 93 you could get the naturally aspirated 6.2 or the turbo 6.5 depending on GVW and options. When the 6.5 went electronic in 94 they dropped the 6.2 so in 94-95 you could get a naturally aspirated 6.5 but only in the 1/2 ton and light duty 3/4 tons and had the 4L60e transmission. After 95, at least in the trucks, they only have a turbo but in other applications like marine still had a naturally aspirated version. Maybe I am wrong with my info but that is what everything I've seen said.

[@jmwarden1]

Elon Musk would be an exciting candidate

[@MrGoofymike30]

just listening to the history of almost everything we know today ,is amazing . this is where it all started.. with these guys

[@tjboylan20]

Jeez Banks got into Diesel when my mom was 3, I’m 20 and I can’t get enough of Gale’s work i sit here for hours studying diesel mechanics as a hobby

[@wcm68tn]

If you haven't already decided on a career, it sounds like you would be very happy working with diesel engines.

[@tjboylan20]

@@wcm68tn I’m now 2 years finished in my civil engineering degree, it’s just a bachelors so I can still do mechanical engineering work if I want to. I’m still thinking about it. I’ve always been interested in every type of mechanics, I thought about automotive engineering but there just isn’t any programs that specifically focus on Diesel.

[@Spencersmithfilm]

My older brother owned a 7.3 that was bored and stroked, 4 door long bed on monster tires. That thing was a blast to drive! I've been into anything diesel or turbo since I could drive. Thanks to both of you and your amazing careers in this crazy industry. Thank you Gentlemen

[@bendixon2898]

Goodonyah guys loved Walt"s story telling, what a life.

[@CliffBoren]

I am running (in age) right with the both of you, to see the joy in your faces while reminiscing over your youth, brought joy to my heart. Thank you both.

[@tintdr]

This was a great video, thanks for the history fellas, and your time and dedication to the industry. Came here looking for parts for a 2020 2500 Cummins and learned allot. 👍👍

[@jamest.5001]

U think an aluminum block and head Cummins would be cool, maybe improve the head flow, and give it a larger bore, with coated pistons and head , along with runners, larger valves, and improved injectors, it should loose 100's of pounds, with more bore , around.150" larger, with more compression, more boost with a decent intercooler, I just like the simplicity of the i6 Cummins, But the Detroit 6-71 is cool, just too big for a light truck, if a 6-53 was made, 2stroke turbo diesel, 😆

[@tomprovenza7857]

This was great. I owned a 87 T Type Buick Regal, still have a 2000 7.3 Powerstroke and just picked up a 24 L5P Silverado. So much impacted by these two

[@jhb3711]

Awesome video and discussion. Loved hearing the stories of all their accomplishments and the products that we all came to love and respect over the years.

[@christopherwhite8877]

Man what a history lesson from the two of you. Thank you so much for taking the time to do this interview.

[@michaelgaddy8271]

How awesome! This is an amazing experience for me, to put things together on my own personal time-line. Thank you so much!