If you think of an engine as an air pump, the more efficiently the air enters and exits the cylinders, the more potential there is to make horsepower and torque.
#DYNO CAR TUNING UPGRADE#
“The end result of any engine upgrade is the sum of the pieces fitted. We were able to chat to a few to fill in some of the blanks and misconceptions around the art of dyno tuning. In many countries, enthusiasts have to travel huge distances to put their car on a dyno we’re very lucky here in New Zealand to be surrounded by great dynos and the brilliant tuners who operate them. Best-case scenario: the tuner recognizes your car’s shortcomings and refuses to put it on the rollers until it’s sorted worst case: the tuner has no way of knowing that your motor set-up isn’t up to scratch, puts the car on the dyno, and it pops, leaving everyone out of pocket and a high likelihood of the situation devolving into a blame game. On the flip side, you might have chosen the best tuner in the world to take your car to, but, if your gear isn’t up to the task, then you’re going nowhere and wasting money.
#DYNO CAR TUNING HOW TO#
Remember, this person will be trusted completely with what probably represents a good chunk of your yearly salary - this isn’t someone driving your car around the block a couple of times this is someone teaching your car how to run, with all the ups and downs that come with that.
Although New Zealand is pretty good when it comes to tuners, it pays to bank on reputation and service, not on whoever is cheapest. In the same vein, don’t forget to ask around, check out reviews, and make sure you’re 100-per-cent happy with the person who will actually be tuning your car.
Tuners use a large range of dynamometers from many different manufacturers - 2WD, 4WD, engine, rolling-road, hub - all have their pros and cons, so make sure you do your research before committing. No matter what you’re building - a carbed classic, a reflashed street car, or an all-out race build - time on the dyno isn’t cheap, but it’s just about the best money you’ll spend on your car. The dynamometer and the tuners behind them are an essential part of the car-modification process.