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How To Prepare Your Vehicle For Dyno Tuning

21 April 2021

Ethan Andrews

Car manufacturers detune engines to increase their lifespan, enhance driver safety and allow them to be used in varying conditions. People that need more power from their engines often conduct dyno tuning. It involves the use of a dynamometer to adjust the ECU settings to increase the horsepower and torque of a vehicle. In this article, you will learn the various inspections, repairs and improvements required before taking your car for dyno tuning. 

Engine Servicing

As the oil in your engine begins to wear out, it losses its lubrication properties, therefore exposing internal engine components to excessive wear and friction. As a result, the vehicle could develop overheating problems or an engine knock. On the dynamometer, the mechanic pushes the car to its limits. Therefore, the engine will be under tremendous strain. Consequently, it would be wise to change your engine oil to ensure the engine components are well lubricated. Additionally, change or clean the air filter to ensure the combustion chamber has sufficient air. 

The Need For An Engine Overhaul

Your mechanic will take the vehicle for a test drive and conduct a compression test to determine the engine's condition. Typically, compression readings of around 130-150 psi are considered acceptable. However, the vehicle could need an overhaul if it has compression readings of less than 100psi. Remember, the tune will increase the vehicle's power, putting more pressure on the internal engine components. You risk blowing the engine if the internal components are worn out. 

Cooling System Inspections

Your mechanic will inspect the cooling system to ensure it does not have problems such as a clogged radiator, worn out radiator cap, leaking hoses or damaged water pump. Once you tune the vehicle, the engine will generate intense temperatures. As such, you require a robust cooling system to cool down these temperatures and prevent overheating. 

Exhaust Considerations

Depending on the nature of your tune, the mechanic could recommend a larger exhaust. For instance, if you need to tune your vehicle for street or track racing, you will require a large exhaust to push exhaust gases out of the engine. This prevents the engine from chocking, thus improving the power of your car. Thanks to modern technology, a large exhaust does not have to be loud. 

As observed, vehicle dyno tuning requires ample preparation. You should not attempt to conduct DIY dyno tuning. Instead, take your vehicle to an experienced mechanic. They will assess your vehicle vis-à-vis your needs and tune it without compromising the engine's longevity. 

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