Desktop Dyno
 

Has anybody use those desktop dyno before, and are they any good?

Looking threw a part store catalog and wandered if they were any good thinking of buying one!

Hey Chris, I use the Mr Gasket Desktop Dyno 2000. It is a pretty good program. It is a little optimistic though. It really takes some practice to get it to give you the correct results. All in all, I like it.

THANKS, i might just get one, i read that you try diff parts and combo's to get optimum power, Hey can you try diff trans and suspension set-ups too!

Simulations
 

I've got Dyno Shop, Engine Analyzer, and Dyno Sim. Engine Analyzer and Dyno Sim are somewhat better, but they also cost more ($129-149). All of these programs have their quirks. I guess if I had to pick just one it would be Engine Analyzer from Performance Trends.

Rev

I have to agree with Rev, DynoSim is the shizzit, but you pay for it....unless you d/L it. ;)

Desktop Dyno 2000 is pretty fun to use, so long as you don't give it every detail of the engine and then take the HP/TQ numbers as hard fact. We'll leave that to the ricers.

Its most useful feature is seeing how different combinations will move the torque curve around, and can give you a good starting point for future modifications. Makes you think twice before bolting a tunnel ram on a street car!

What I like?
 

What I like about Engine Analyzer is that it lets you specify exact exhaust flow #'s. The program also has a library of specific aftermarket parts that give numbers for those parts. Like flow #'s at different valve lifts for specific after market heads. Same for specific mufflers, intakes, etc. Also gives ball park figures for general generic type systems. The problem for me is tha the evaluations for after market parts aren't always very correct. I often look at these #'s with a jaundiced eye and change them as I see fit.

Desk Top Dyno/Dyno Shop only give general more generic type choices for components. Even Dyno Sim is just a refinement of those programs from Motion Software now affiliated with Competition Cams.

I really haven't had Dyno Sim long enough to fully evaluate it, but it does seem good at least. The truth is that all the dyno simulation programs can be fairly easily manipulated to give a range of results. They are fun to use, but in the end you must use objective measurements like track times/mph 1/4 mile to see what you really have under the hood.

Rev

i like to use desk top as a tool so i wont mis-match a combo and see where my power/torque curves will be..