To build a dynamometer, decide on the type of engine testing needed. Engine-only dynos are simple and require less space and equipment, while drive-thru dynos require more attention to detail. Engine-only dynos measure power and torque at the flywheel, not at the driver wheel, making them less accurate for testing a vehicle’s true performance. Dynos that test behind-the-wheel performance require more equipment and space and cannot be fully operated indoors due to exhaust ventilation issues.
The best way to build a dynamometer is to first decide the main type of engine testing that the unit will be used for. Engine-only dynamometers are easy to build, don’t take up much space, and can handle a wide variety of engine types. For drive-thru, in-car dynos, the construction of the test rig will require a greater attention to detail than an engine-only dyno.
The main advantage of an engine-only dynamometer, beyond its simplicity, is that engine-only dynamometers require less space, less equipment, and usually just the assurance of adequate ventilation. To build a dyno that only tests engines, the builder must purchase a desktop or laptop computer with dyno software that is suitable for testing traditional or commercial engines. The builder must also purchase the dynamometer accessory that plugs into the flywheel of the engine and connect that accessory to the computer. When designing the dynamometer, the manufacturer must provide fuel and cooling for the engine, while ensuring that the environment is well ventilated or that the hoses carry exhaust gases from any interior spaces.
The main drawback of an engine-only test unit, and a good reason not to build such a dynamometer, is the fact that engine-only units measure power and torque at the flywheel, not at the driver wheel. vehicle. The difference between the two readings is usually quite significant, especially if the purpose of the dyno is to tune a performance or race vehicle.
This drawback is problematic because behind-the-wheel power metrics are more useful and test the performance of a vehicle’s entire drivetrain. Performance metrics taken at the flywheel test only the direct output of the engine and are often only useful for quality testing engines prior to sale or installation. Such dynamometers are not accurate enough to test a vehicle’s true performance on the road or track.
A few more pieces of equipment are needed to build a dyno that tests power and torque behind the wheel. A builder will need to clear space for a propulsion mechanism to drive the wheels of the vehicle during the test. It is not advisable to build such a dyno entirely indoors, as it is nearly impossible to provide adequate exhaust ventilation for a fully operational vehicle during a dyno test. To build a dyno that tests behind-the-wheel performance, a builder will still need to purchase a laptop or desktop computer with dyno software capable of comparing multiple test runs.
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