by Michael Decipha Ponthieux
Posted: 2014-01-04 Last Updated: 2022-02-19
Engine dyno's are the most accurate means of dyno calibrating an engine and
is highly recommended when possible. I only recommend DEPAC Dyno Systems,
for all engine dyno's. DEPAC is by far the most advanced engine dyno instrumentation available used
by the OEM's and all the professionals that seek intricate engine information not available by any other means.
Any engine dyno that does not utilize DEPAC instrumentation is severely lacking.
Dyno tuning is NOT NECESSARY for common engine combinations. The mis-conception that dyno tuning is needed to tune all vehicles
stems from the early days of efi when actual control algorithms were not fully understood. With the ability to fully datalog all necessary
live data and by understanding how to properly calibrate a vehicle - dyno tuning has little to no benefit.
The following is a break down of the pros and cons of common tuning options.
Dyno Tuning Benefits
Tuner can physically listen/feel the engine
Engine can be monitored more carefully in a controlled environment
Higher HP engines can be operated safely as compared to street tuning
Finding MBT is much faster than having to read plugs after a pull (although should still be done)
MBT can be exceeded safer (with no detonation) due to less loading (true for most dyno's)
Part throttle timing can be closer to MBT (usually)
Tailpipe AFR sniffer can verify accurate AFR readings (so long as no cats are present)
Speedometer calibration can be verified faster (rather than counting mile markers)
Dyno Tuning Disadvantages
Wheel slippage / Converter slippage can skew results
You can only simulate driving conditions (actual conditions will be different)
Dyno's cannot always accurately load an engine, bad data in = bad data out
Driveability issues may not be present on a dyno as they are on the street
You cannot dial in cold startup enrichment or air flow
Vehicle is not operated in its natural environment
Street Tuning Benefits
Actual street loading is the most accurate way of calibrating an engine (in vehicle)
Street tuned vehicles will have better driveability
Owner is not 'locked down' to a tune, ability to make their own changes (if desired - not recommended)
Time constraints are not a concern
Location is irrelvant no trailering needed
Vehicle is operated in its actual enrivonment in its actual intended use
Tune changes can be made for any engine changes with ease
Street Tuning Disadvantages
May be dangerous to operate higher HP engines at WOT on the street
May take longer to dial in a tune completely due to communication
Accurate AFR data may not be available if no wideband is present
Part-throttle timing may not be as optimal as compared to dyno tuning (not often but in some cases)
Track Tuning Benefits
Most accurate method of tuning for maximum performance
Only method to finding the most optimal ignition timing and AFR for a specific combo
1/4 mile ET and MPH cannot be disputed
Track Tuning Disadvantages
May take longer to dial in due to track's turnaround time
Inconsistent driver may lead to faulty tune adjustments
Changing track conditions can significantly affect ET and MPH
Whats the best option ?
There is no 'best' method. The most ideal option is up to your specific circumstances.
I highly recommend engine dyno tuning when applicable. Often times that is not an option for the majority of performance enthusiast.
In most cases I recommend chassis dyno tuning if you have a knowledgeable
tuner near you. If location constraints prohibit chassis dyno tuning, remote / online / street tuning is a highly effective alternative.
Typically an online / remote / street tune will have slightly better driveability than dyno tuned vehicles only. It's not uncommon for most dyno
tuners to operate a dyno tuned vehicle on the street to verify the calibration is operating as expected. In these cases, chassis dyno tuning
has the same benefits of street / online / remote tuning. All tuners should give you complete unrestricted access to your tune, if they do not,
you should reconsider utilizing that tuner. For those more technically savvy I HIGHLY recommend DIY tuning. However, a professional should
be consulted or prepare a 'base' calibration for those inexperienced tuners that are limited by time constraints.