Frequently Asked Questions:
What exactly is a dyno or dyno testing?
A dyno is a machine that will measure the horsepower and torque of an engine.
What do I have to do to my vehicle to dyno it?
Nothing really. All fluids should be topped off and any major mechanical problems fixed first. You can dyno test your vehicle in the exact setup you run on the street or track. In fact, the closer the vehicle is setup to normal use settings the better.
Will dyno testing my vehicle hurt it?
The short answer is no. A dyno places a load similar to making a full throttle run on the street or track. While it is possible to suffer some sort of mechanical failure on the dyno, the dyno won't directly cause it. Worn or weak parts will show up when you run your vehicle at it's maximum horsepower output for any amount of time whether it's on the street or on a dyno. In fact you are more apt to find a problem that could lead to engine failure while on the dyno because all engine systems are monitored very closely at all times.
What information can you get from a dyno session?
Most people just want to find out what horsepower and torque the engine is putting out. But there is an infinite amount of information available. Everything from fuel pressure to boost pressure to transmission slip to air/fuel ratio can be monitored during acceleration. The information is useful in either diagnosing performance problems or suggesting limitations from a current setup.
Why should I dyno tune my vehicle?
Dyno tuning an engine is the easiest and only real exacting way to make sure the changes you are making are positive. By adjusting fuel, air, and timing on the dyno, we can tune your vehicle to run as best as your engine can. Being able to watch the effects of changes in real time cut out hours of track or street testing that usually only gives marginal data at best. By dyno tuning your engine you can be sure you aren't missing out on any of the horsepower your engine could be making. In fact, for most of our customers with non-computer controlled vehicles we are able to find 10-20 rear wheel horsepower and improve throttle response. Consider this nearly free horsepower that you are losing now. Also, many people will get a baseline horsepower before doing power modifications to make sure the parts improve power as advertised. Click on this link to see what difference a dyno tune can make: Click for dyno tuning results
How much will it cost to dyno my vehicle?
The cost to do a simple horsepower test to see what your engine is putting out is $65. We will do three pulls on the dyno. You will get a printed graph of your engine's out put with horsepower and torque. If you are in need of dyno tuning or extended testing, the cost is $50 per hour. This includes monitoring of any parameter that you want or need. You would do the tuning of the engine yourself with guidance from LPS. If you wanted to drop your vehicle off and let LPS wring as much horsepower as we can out of it, the cost is $50 per hour.
What vehicles can you test?
Any front or rear wheel drive vehicle. We have done street cars, muscle cars, race cars, pickups (gas or diesel), suvs, exotic cars, and street rods.
Will my crew cab dually pickup fit?
Absolutely. You do not have to remove your outer wheels or do anything other than back on the dyno. There is a weight limit of 14,000 lbs though.
Can you test my race car and how will it help?
Yes. We suggest that you put on a set of regular street tires first, but that is the only thing that has to be changed. By dyno tuning your race car we can make sure that every thing from carb jetting to timing is perfect. Aside from finding every last horsepower in your engine, you will have a firm guideline for gearing. You will be able to see where your power band is and adjust the rest of your vehicle and driving habits accordingly.
Can you dyno test just an engine that is not in a vehicle?
Very soon. We are currently building a rolling chassis that will accept any engine. We will be able to break in a new engine that you build and tune everything to perfection. Part swaps will be extremely easy to see what combination works best.
What performance modifications do you offer?
Nearly anything you could want. From cold air intakes to exhausts to full blown race engines. If you have a project in mind or need more horsepower, just ask us for what we can do for you.
Do you do general vehicle repairs?
The only vehicles we do general repairs on are sports cars, classic or muscle cars, diesel and gas pickup trucks, and race cars. We specialize in diesel pickup repair and troubleshooting.
