Dyno runs

So before our next outing we took the opportunity to run the car on a dyno. The reasons stem from our ideas for a new motor build and part of that process should be based on what we have now. Certainly the current unit is not that fast, but it is easy to drive and reliable so has provided a great basis to start from. We needed to know not only how much power but more importantly the overall power characteristic.

The dyno run was booked with Northampton Motorsport (See links), we had used them some years ago to set up Rabs MK1 escort rally car - they did a great job then so seemed an obvious choice. We arrived for the first run of the day, we were greeted by a young chap who got the car strapped down. Following on the car was warmed through whilst the guy running the dyno set up a few base parameters - even double checking with us as he had immediately noted the short 4th gear ratio we have fitted. We took 3 runs averaging 98.5HP at the wheels - torque was pretty flat throughout, again reflecting our thoughts regards the easy driving nature of the motor. It also confirmed our thoughts over optimum gear change points, looks like anything over 6000Rpm in third is wasted effort.

We finished up and had a great chat about ignition system requirements for the new motor, including the likelihood of needing a programmable unit.

Again I cannot recommend these guys highly enough, if you want a good honest tuning company to assist your developments go and see them....we'll be going back for sure.