Preparing Your Car For The Chassis Dyno

Getting ready for your dyno appointment might be a little intimidating but it doesn’t need to be. This guide should give you an idea of what you need to prepare before your dyno appointment.

 Any car that you have been able to drive full throttle down the road should not have a problem on any dyno. Usually the problems only occur on new builds that have not yet been tested – as the dyno is the first test, naturally any issues show up.

The Basics:

  • Ensure the tyres are all inflated correctly. Ideally set them to the highest figures specified by the manufacturer for high loads.
  • Ensure the vehicle has good quality fuel, (the fuel that you will be using) and that you have a full tank.
  • Ensure all fluids are at the correct level (engine oil, coolant, transmisison)
  • Ensure there are NO leaks of any kind. This includes exhaust leaks.
  • Ensure the coolant is bled and radiator fans are working.
  • If radiator fans are operated by a switch, be sure to tell the dyno operator that the fans are NOT automatic.
  • Ensure the drive-train is in good condition, including wheel bearings, suspension and related components.
  • If any sensors are faulty or not working, repair or replace them prior to your appointment.
  • Spark plug gap, make sure to have the plugs gapped to the specs based on your power goals / boost levels if turbo.
  • Make sure wheel lug nuts are torqued to spec, tires are not old or cracked. 

 

For Forced Induction Vehicles:

  • If possible - perform a boost leak test and fix all leaks prior to your appointment. Boost control tuning and in some cases fuel tuning will NOT be accurate if performed with a boost leak.
  • Ensure fuel pressure is set.
  • All vacuum and boost hoses must be zip-tied or secured at their ends. Any hoses that are suspect to chafing or wear should be re-routed or replaced prior to the appointment.
  • Ensure boost control and wastegate correctly plumbed.
  • Ensure turbo and exhaust components are tight and properly fastened.