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| | | Dyno Testing…Perception or Reality
Dynamometer testing has been around for many years. The first dynamometers were analog. The operator would “make a pull” and write down all of the data. Computers entered the scene and simple statistical items were then recorded by the computer rather than the operator.
During the late 1980’s the computer evolution continued and the capabilities of graphs, overlays and other pertinent information became readily available. The dynamometer as a tool became more user friendly and streamlined. Inexpensive dyno systems now entered the market. As a result, the amount of dyno testing in automotive aftermarket increased dramatically.
There are many shops that have some form of a dynamometer and profess to be able to “test” an engine. However, in our experience, we have found very few that actually now how to test an engine and provide accurate, repeatable results.
To draw valid conclusions from dyno testing there are test procedures that must be followed. Simple factors like oil and air temperature have a significant impact on test results. For example, testing an engine with an oil temperature increase from run to run of 160 deg. to 205 deg. could yield a power increase of 1 ½%. This is not a real gain in performance but rather a poor test. In the testing that we do here at Enders, Kevin is on a quest for true power increases, not just bigger numbers on a graph.
Each dynamometer facility is somewhat unique and therefore different numbers are produced. It is important to understand that the only test numbers that can be compared are those that are provided from the same facility. So when a customer calls to purchase an engine and the first question they ask is “How much power does it make?” we know that an education process is in order. We generally do not quote power numbers. Why? Because we do not use “Bar horsepower numbers” to sell racing engines, we use results and reliability. Bar Horsepower Numbers are the numbers that fly around the bar after the races. And, besides, bigger may be better at the bar, but not on the racetrack.
The dyno serves many functions but the two most important are; verifying the performance of an engine and quality control.
What constitutes a valid dyno test?
A test is deemed valid when there are three runs back to back with no more than ½% difference in corrected horsepower at each RPM test point.
What variables combine to make a valid test?
They are;
1. Proper test cell ventilation
2. Proper engine air supply
3. Proper dyno exhaust
4. Proper oil cooler set-up
5. Proper test procedures
6. Accurate data acquisition system that utilizes “smart averaging” versus “random sampling”
Valid testing procedures followed provide REAL results.
Dyno testing reveals more than just the horsepower and torque numbers. It can tell you whether the engine will be smooth to drive, where the strongest band of power etc. If the dyno operator keeps accurate notes any change in performance can be detected from rebuild to rebuild and evaluated accordingly.
Each of the procedures outlined above are followed each and every time an engine is tested at Enders Racing Engines. This allows Kevin to see very small changes and draw valid conclusions from his testing. Our testing provides real data that is verifiable not meaningless generalizations that send us off on a wild goose chase.
Just because an engine has been extensively tested or put on the dyno for “magical tuning increases”, if the proper procedures (which are unknown to 80% of all dyno owners/operators) are not followed, all of the testing in the world will not provide realized gains.
Think of a dyno as if it were a heart monitor. The heart monitor doesn’t make the heart better or worse it just tells you how the heart is performing. The dyno is just a tool for verifying performance, not a magic wand that transforms a hunk of metal into some super powerhouse.
The bottom line is this…Are you looking for BAR HORSEPOWER or RACE RESULTS?
For the customer that is on the outside looking in it can be difficult to tell whether the parameters are met for valid testing. There are tell tale signs in terms of mistakes made in the actual test cell. We have seen cells with blue tarp walls. Cells that are placed under a stairwell (only spot left in shop) with no outside air intake. Cells that utilize four inch flex pipe sealed to their tail pipes running into truck mufflers. These cells will not provide repeatable results.
Here are a few questions you might ask yourself when considering a test facility.
Is dyno testing a part of their core business or is it a new hobby?
Do they have race results to back up their horsepower number claims?
How long have they truly been involved with dyno testing?
If you are looking for bragging rights or just big numbers on a graph you will be very satisfied with the services that the average dyno facility provides. If you are looking for race results, direction and the honest performance characteristics of your racing engine then you have to work with a dyno facility that provides that information. And this we believe is what separates the winners from the losers.
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