Best 6.7 Grid Heater Parts and Upgrades for Cummins Engines

The 6.7 grid heater and associated intake heater components are critical for cold-start performance on Cummins-equipped trucks. This guide compares reliable grid heater upgrades, gasket sets, and relays that fit 6.7L and related Cummins engines. Below is a quick summary of the five selected parts followed by focused product sections and a detailed buying guide.

Product	Type	Primary Fitment / Note
Banks Power 42798 Monster-Ram Intake and Killer Grid Heater Upgrade	Intake/Grid Heater Upgrade	Improves intake flow and heater performance
Banks Power 42799-PC Monster-Ram Intake and Killer Grid Heater Upgrade	Intake/Grid Heater Upgrade	Alternate Banks Power configuration for similar goals
JZGRDN Intake Heater Grid Gasket Set 3969988 AP0058	Gasket Set	Replaces OE 3969988 / AP0058 for Dodge/Cummins
AP0058 Intake Heater Grid Gasket Set 3969988 (Karbay)	Gasket Set	Includes two intake heater grid gaskets; OE reference
uxcell Air Intake Heater Relay No.5187880AC/56029173AB	Relay	OE numbers 5187880AC/56029173AB — fits many Ram models

Banks Power 42798 Monster-Ram Intake And Killer Grid Heater Upgrade

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This Banks Power module is presented as an upgrade to stock intake and grid heater systems. According to the manufacturer, it outflows stock over 88.3% and is designed to improve flow of oxygen-rich air into cylinders. The product claims to optimize air pressure and distribution inside the intake path.

Intake upgrades like this typically alter airflow dynamics and may integrate with or replace factory grid heater elements. When evaluating fit, confirm compatibility with your vehicle’s intake manifold and existing heater housing. Installation may require basic hand tools and adherence to factory torque specs.

Banks Power 42799-PC Monster-Ram Intake And Killer Grid Heater Upgrade

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The 42799-PC variant from Banks Power targets the same goals of improved intake airflow and grid heater performance. It lists the same performance metrics: outflows stock over 88.3%, enhanced oxygen-rich air delivery, and optimized air pressure distribution.

Differences between Banks models can include fitment details, material finishes, or inlet designs. Verify the part number against your vehicle’s model year and engine configuration. Both Banks parts are positioned as performance-oriented upgrades and may change intake heating characteristics compared with OEM components.

JZGRDN Intake Heater Grid Gasket Set 3969988 AP0058

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This JZGRDN gasket set lists Part Number 3969988 / AP0058 and notes compatibility with a range of Dodge/Cummins 5.9L and 6.7L engines across 1989–2006 model years. The listing references multiple valve and injection configurations, including 12V and 24V designs.

Gasket sets are critical for sealing the intake heater grid and preventing boost or vacuum leaks. The product is framed as a direct-replacement style part. When replacing gaskets, inspect mating surfaces for corrosion, warpage, or carbon buildup before installation to ensure a reliable seal.

AP0058 Intake Heater Grid Gasket Set 3969988 Compatible (Karbay)

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The Karbay AP0058 kit contains two intake heater grid gaskets and cites OE references 3969988 and MS 97248. It lists vehicle applications spanning B-Series 5.9L engines through ISB and common-rail variants, helping identify when the gasket is appropriate for older Dodge/Cummins engines.

Replacement gasket kits like this typically include stamped or composite gaskets intended to withstand heat cycling and boost pressure. Match the kit contents to the number of grid heater plates on your intake horn and confirm the gasket shape aligns with the intake flange profile.

uxcell Air Intake Heater Relay No.5187880AC/56029173AB

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This uxcell relay lists OE numbers 5187880AC and 56029173AB and specifies fitment for a variety of Dodge/Ram models with 5.9L and 6.7L turbo diesel engines from 2008–2014, including 2500–5500 series trucks. The listing emphasizes component quality and that the relay is designed to match original fit and function.

Relays control power to grid heaters and are common failure points in cold-start systems. When diagnosing heater issues, test relay operation and coil continuity before replacing the grid heater element. Confirm the relay socket and terminal layout match the factory relay to avoid electrical misfit or damage.

Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right 6.7 Grid Heater Parts

This buying guide covers key considerations for selecting grid heater upgrades, gaskets, and relays for 6.7L Cummins and related engines. The aim is to help balance fitment, durability, performance, and installation complexity.

1. Confirm Exact Fitment And Part Numbers

Start with the vehicle VIN and engine variant. Many components use overlapping OE numbers (for example, 3969988/AP0058). Verify part numbers against your engine year, intake horn type, and number of heater plates. Mis-matched gaskets or relays lead to leaks or electrical faults.

2. Understand Component Function

• Grid Heater / Intake Upgrades: Aim to improve pre- and post-start air handling and heat distribution. Some are aftermarket intake modules designed to change airflow characteristics.
• Gasket Sets: Seal the intake horn to prevent boost leaks, vacuum issues, and heater element air bypass.
• Relays: Provide switched power to the heater elements; failures can prevent heater activation.

3. Material Quality And Thermal Durability

Gaskets must resist heat cycling, exposure to exhaust blow-by, and boost pressure. Look for materials rated for automotive intake temperatures and for manufacturing tolerances that match OEM flange surfaces. For relays, check contact ratings and weather resistance if mounted in exposed compartments.

4. Performance Claims Versus Compatibility

Aftermarket intake upgrades (Banks Power items) advertise increased airflow metrics. Evaluate whether you need airflow gains versus maintaining OEM heater behavior. Some upgrades may alter how the grid heater warms intake air, which can affect cold-start emissions or drivability in specific climates.

5. Diagnostic Steps Before Replacement

1. Check for stored engine codes related to intake heater circuits.
2. Measure relay function and voltage at the heater connector with a multimeter.
3. Inspect gaskets and mating surfaces for leaks or corrosion visually and under boost.

6. Installation Considerations

Gasket replacement often requires removing the intake horn and cleaning mating surfaces. Use specified torque values and new fasteners if recommended. Electrical relay swaps are typically plug-and-play but verify pinout and secure mounting. For intake upgrades, ensure there’s clearance and that associated sensors or hoses can be reinstalled.

7. Warranty, Supplier Support, And Returns

Check the seller’s return policy and any warranty coverage for parts exposed to heat and vibration. Aftermarket suppliers vary in support for fitment questions—select listings that provide clear OE reference numbers and installation resources.

8. Compare Across Perspectives

• Reliability Focus: Prioritize OEM-equivalent gaskets and relays with exact OE numbers (e.g., 3969988, 5187880AC) to minimize fitment issues.
• Performance Focus: Consider Banks Power intake upgrades for airflow improvements, but verify how they integrate with the grid heater system and emissions equipment.
• Cost/Value Focus: For routine maintenance, direct-replacement gaskets and relays may offer the best balance of price and longevity.

9. Maintenance Tips After Installation

After replacing gaskets or relays, run the engine through a cold-start cycle and visually check for leaks and proper heater activation. Periodically inspect the intake horn flange for signs of exhaust soot, which can indicate a failing seal. For relays, monitor heater circuit voltage during cold cranking.

10. When To Seek Professional Help

If you encounter persistent heater circuit faults, intermittent relay operation, or intake leaks that require machining, consult a qualified diesel technician. Electrical diagnosis and intake surface repairs sometimes require specialized tools and experience.