Dyno Testing 101: How to Verify Your Engine's True Horsepower

Dyno Testing 101: How to Verify Your Engine's True Horsepower

By Michael Anderson

January 4, 2025 at 12:16 AM

Dyno testing provides crucial data about engine performance, but understanding how to interpret these results is essential for accurate comparisons.

Correction Factors and Their Importance

Dynos use correction factors to normalize power outputs under different environmental conditions. Temperature, barometric pressure, and humidity can cause power variations up to 5%. Without correction factors, dyno numbers only represent performance under specific testing conditions.

Dyno Accuracy and Consistency

DynoJet dynos are known for consistency due to fixed parameters, typically showing results within 1% across different locations when using SAE correction factors. Other dynos with adjustable calibration constants can show variations up to 25%, even between identical models.

Validating Dyno Results

To verify dyno claims:

  • Always compare against stock engine output
  • Calculate percentage improvements
  • Use reference points to qualify power claims

Example: A turbo kit showing 500whp needs context:

  • If stock output was 250whp: 100% increase
  • If stock output was 335whp: 50% increase

Red lifted truck on dirt road

Red lifted truck on dirt road

Understanding BHP vs WHP

  • BHP (Brake Horsepower): Measured at engine flywheel
  • WHP (Wheel Horsepower): Measured at the wheels
  • Typical power loss: 15% from BHP to WHP

Standard Conversion Formulas:

  • WHP to BHP: Divide by 0.85
  • BHP to WHP: Multiply by 0.85

Yellow Supra on service lift

Yellow Supra on service lift

This conversion applies to all drive types (FWD, RWD, AWD), as differences are minimal in real-world testing.

Man viewing financial data graph

Man viewing financial data graph

Common Sources of Misinformation:

  1. Intentional misdirection or confusion
  2. Unintentional spread of incorrect information

To avoid misconceptions, focus on:

  • Building technical knowledge
  • Understanding correction factors
  • Verifying claims with reliable data

Horsepower correction factors chart

Horsepower correction factors chart

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DSPORT magazine subscription gift card

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