how to prepare for
a chassis dyno test

Taking the time to prepare for your chassis dyno test can save you frustration and money. You don’t want to have to cut-short your session over a $20 part or a water pump you knew was ready to fail.

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10-point chassis dyno checklist

Taking the time to prepare for your chassis dyno test ensures that your testing experience will run smoothly and that you get good value for your money. You don’t want to have to cut-short your session over a $20 part or a water pump you knew was ready to fail.

When you arrive for your dyno appointment, we’ll conduct a basic visual inspection of your vehicle for fluid leaks, worn or deteriorated components, tire pressure, and loose or improperly fitted parts. Please note that this is a very basic inspection that will only reveal issues that are obvious and in plain sight.

Ultimately, you’re responsible for ensuring that your vehicle can withstand the rigours of running at high speeds and RPMs on the dynamometer. Any unresolved mechanical issues that may surface under heavy load should be repaired before your appointment. Otherwise, there’s a good chance your session will be interrupted, and you’ll have to reschedule the test.

We’ve created a detailed checklist for you to review before your testing appointment. Reviewing this checklist and making any needed repairs before your test will help ensure that your chassis dyno testing experience goes smoothly.

“Great experience and informative at International Dyno Authority. Marc and his staff are awesome to hang with. Putting my car on the dyno was crazy fun!!! Thanks a bunch.”

Ian

dyno checklist

1. Sensors

Are any sensors faulty or not working? If yes, replace them in advance of the test. If your “check engine” light is on, we can help identify the problem through your ECU; however, certain issues may delay your tune.

2. Previous Tuning

If your vehicle was previously tuned, bring a copy of the Base File that’s in the ECU, and ensure the computer is unlocked. Re-mapping the entire engine from scratch can be more expensive than tuning or editing the existing map.

3. Wiring

Ensure that your wiring is properly grounded and protected. Dyno testing and premium tuning of vehicles go smoother and quicker when all wiring is neat, tidy, properly grounded and protected from heat.

4. O2 Bung

Is your O2 bung accessible? If it is, ensure that it is not seized and the threads are not damaged so we can easily access and install our O2 sensor.

5. Exhaust

Exhaust leaks can result in inconsistent tuning, and compromised components can come apart during the rigours of the roller dyno. Repair or replace any problem components – including loose or missing hangers.

6. Cooling System

Ensure your hoses are not showing signs of deterioration, that all hose clamps are tight, and that radiator fans are working. Dyno testing places a heavy load on your engine, and it will get hot. If your radiator fans are manually operated, be sure to tell the dyno operator in advance.

7. Fuel Tank

Make sure your tank is at least half-full. For a consistent tune, fill up with the same octane fuel you routinely use. If your odometer’s over 80,000 km, we recommend changing the fuel filter.

8. Drivetrain

Is your drivetrain in good condition? An increase in power means more load on the drivetrain. Inspect your wheel bearings, driveshaft, suspension, U-joints, and CV-boots for signs of wear or deterioration and make any necessary repairs. Make sure your clutch is in good condition and not slipping.

9. Tires

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated and have an adequate amount of tread. If you are planning on changing rim sizes, you’ll get a more accurate tune if you do so before the testing.

10. Fluid Levels

Check your engine oil, coolant, transmission oil, and gear lubricant levels. A fresh oil change is recommended. If there are any fluid leaks repair them in advance. We do not allow vehicles with fluid leaks into our shop.
Download checklist as pdf

Download checklist as pdf

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Marc Chartrand

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THE MAKING OF A 423HP BRONCO

Watch as we tune this Bronco almost to double the power of its initial baseline, producing an incredible 507.96 ft-lbs. of Tq and 423.24 HP at the wheels! On a snowy February day, Jayson Ziemba travelled all the way from Saint Clair Shores, Michigan, in his 2022 Bronco 2.7L twin turbo Badlands SAS Edition. Jason had found links to our two previous Bronco videos and, after several phone calls with us, decided to trust us with putting his highly modded ride on our chassis dyno for tuning.

how to prepare for
a chassis dyno test

10-point chassis dyno checklist