If you do general out-of-chassis engine service, engine rebuilding and overhauling, or salvage and restoration work you have probably repaired or modified components that have affected an engine’s performance. The best way to qualify your workmanship or to evaluate the performance of an engine prior to or after a repair is by using a dynamometer.
Testing the performance of an engine before repairs, restorations or component changes can verify if the engine is meeting its specifications prior to your work. Engine dyno testing allows you to show customers previous existing problems and/or poor performance. Documenting pre-existing engine conditions can eliminate problems with the engine and your customer. Engine dyno testing also allows you to prove to your customer that their engine is meeting or exceeding its specifications after a repair, restoration, or component change. The dynamometer verifies your work and gains customer confidence in your services.
If you are a performance/race engine builder, an engine dynamometer can isolate and quantify many performance parameters from overall vehicle performance. For instance, many modifications that increase power only help at high RPM and can actually reduce power at low RPM. Testing the different combinations at the track could take days or weeks; an engine dynamometer can help you nail down the right combination with just a couple of twenty second sweeps.
If you do salvage work, showing proof of an engine’s performance specifications through the use of engine dyno testing allows you to charge more for that engine and gives you a competitive sales advantage over other salvage yards. Providing diagnostic engine data along with mileage numbers, verifies the quality of a used engine. Read the rest of this entry »