Warning: Tuning devices mentioned here may not be legal for sale or use in California on pollution-controlled motor vehicles. Please visit SEMA SAN for state-by-state emissions requirements.
We understand you may have reservations about bringing your car to the dyno, with thoughts like:
- “But my engine is stock...”
- “It doesn’t need tuning—the previous owner said it was just tuned.”
- “It has a chip, but I’m not sure what kind...”
Often, hesitation comes from a lack of information about engine calibration. We hope this guide helps you feel more informed, so your dyno session becomes a rewarding experience.
Enjoy the read, and we look forward to seeing you!
-Jei ChangFAQ's:
What's the purpose of dyno tuning?
Dyno tuning ensures your engine runs efficiently and safely, yielding optimal power and performance. It helps determine whether modifications improve airflow in and out of the engine. We fine-tune everything from startup, idle, and part-throttle to wide-open throttle (WOT).
Can you tune for better gas mileage?
Yes! With modern electronic fuel injection, combined with the steady-state capabilities of our Dynapack 3000, we’ve seen improvements of 5-10% in MPG on 4-cylinder Honda engines. In some cases, even more! By reducing the factory fuel trim tolerance from +/-50% to around +/-5%, the engine runs smoother, uses less fuel, and delivers consistent performance.
Will I see gains if my car is stock?
Yes, most factory tunes are conservative. If your car has a device that can adjust fuel, timing, or cam parameters, you’ll likely see measurable gains—even on stock engines.
What's the purpose of a baseline dyno?
A baseline provides reference data, including horsepower, torque, air/fuel ratio, boost/vacuum levels, and environmental conditions. This gives you a starting point to compare future modifications and measure their impact.
What's the purpose of a baseline dyno?
A baseline provides reference data, including horsepower, torque, air/fuel ratio, boost/vacuum levels, and environmental conditions. This gives you a starting point to compare future modifications and measure their impact.
Can I compare dyno graphs from two shops?
It’s not recommended, as different dynos—even from the same manufacturer—can produce varying results. For consistency, it's best to use the same dyno for future comparisons, but we welcome you if you choose to switch to Blacktrax!
How long will it take if my car was tuned elsewhere?
This depends on the complexity of your setup and the quality of the previous tune. Our tuner will evaluate the existing map and decide whether to improve it or start fresh. There’s always room for refinement.
Can I break-in my new engine on the dyno?
Yes! We recommend starting the engine at our facility, monitoring sensors, and tuning idle for proper break-in. After heat cycling, we can change the oil and apply light load using our steady-state dyno to build a solid basemap, ensuring proper piston ring seal. For reference, Dodge runs every HEMI engine on a dyno for 42 minutes before installing them into vehicles.
What about race engines? Do race engines need a 500-mile break-in?
Not necessarily. The 500-mile break-in is more of a precaution. On race cars, we perform the entire break-in process on the dyno, from cold starts to WOT. Race engines leave our facility ready for competition, including clutch bedding and full system testing.
How do your dyno rates work?
Can I break-in my new engine on the dyno?
Yes! We recommend starting the engine at our facility, monitoring sensors, and tuning idle for proper break-in. After heat cycling, we can change the oil and apply light load using our steady-state dyno to build a solid basemap, ensuring proper piston ring seal. For reference, Dodge runs every HEMI engine on a dyno for 42 minutes before installing them into vehicles.
What about race engines? Do race engines need a 500-mile break-in?
Not necessarily. The 500-mile break-in is more of a precaution. On race cars, we perform the entire break-in process on the dyno, from cold starts to WOT. Race engines leave our facility ready for competition, including clutch bedding and full system testing.
How do your dyno rates work?
We offer flat rates for common standalone ECUs, with hourly rates available if additional time is needed. Return clients receive an hourly rate for touch-ups.
- Naturally Aspirated Engines: $700–800 flat rate (up to 3-4 hours; additional time billed at $220/hr)
- Forced Induction Engines: $1,200–1,500 flat rate (up to 5-6 hours; additional time billed at $220/hr)
- Custom Engines & Management Systems: Contact us for a quote
- Touch-ups for Return Clients: $220/hr (2-hour minimum)
How do I schedule an appointment?
We prefer appointments via email. Before booking, please review our checklist to avoid delays during your session.
APPOINTMENT CHECKLIST:
1) Arrive On Time
Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to ensure everything runs smoothly. If your vehicle is trailered, consider arriving even earlier.
We have a strict schedule and reserve the right to turn away customers due to tardiness or time constraints. Your punctuality is appreciated—thank you!
2) Wheel Lock Keys & Requirements
Bring your wheel lock key. Rear-wheel drive cars need sufficient clearance for a floor jack and differential access (rear diffusers are prohibited).
3) Electronic Devices/Controllers
Ensure fuel controllers, MAF deletes, and boost/timing controllers are properly connected and working. Provide any necessary USB or serial cables for the tuner.
4) Fuel
Fill your tank with high-quality fuel (91 octane or higher). We also offer tuning for race fuels, methanol, E85, E100, and flex-fuel setups.
5) Operating Conditions
How is the car running? Are there any significant issues we should be aware of? Please let us know before your appointment.
6) Visual Inspection
Check wiring, vacuum lines, and coolant hoses for leaks. Top off fluids and perform a nut-and-bolt check on your engine, drivetrain, and suspension.
7) Plugs
Spark plugs are cheap. If your spark plugs have over 30,000 miles, replace them before tuning and ensure proper gapping. We can install new plugs, but it will cut into your dyno time—please notify us in advance to place your order.
Common Plug Gaps:
- Forced Induction: 0.026”–0.028”
- Naturally Aspirated: 0.030”–0.035”
Colder Heat Range Plugs Commonly Used on 4cyl Japanese Engines:
- NGK Copper - BCPR7ES
- NGK Iridium - BKR7EIX
- ND Iridium - IK22 = 7 heat range
- NGK Iridium - BKR8EIX
- ND Iridium - IK24 = 8 heat range
- NGK Iridium - BKR9EIX
- ND Iridium - IK26 = 9 heat range
8) Intake and Intercooler Piping
Ensure your air filter is clean. Inspect intercooler piping and connectors for leaks or cracks. Tighten all clamps and welds. For forced induction setups, we recommend high-temp silicone connectors or Vanjen clamps.
9) Exhaust System
Check for leaks or dents that could restrict flow. For turbo engines, ensure wastegates and manifolds are sealed to maintain stable boost. If your exhaust configuration changes after tuning, we recommend a touch-up tune.
10) Fluid Leaks
Inspect for fuel, oil, or coolant leaks. We reserve the right to refuse dyno service if leaks are detected.
A WORD FROM BLACKTRAX
Our goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable tuning experience. Please minimize distractions during your session, as unnecessary interruptions can lead to errors and impact tuning time. After your session, the tuner will provide a detailed overview along with recommendations for optimal performance.
To book an appointment, please Contact Us today.
Thanks for reading, and we look forward to seeing you at Blacktrax!
