fbpx

STREET TUNE AND/OR DYNO DAY PREPERATION

 

Introduction

Our Mustang MD-500 load-bearing dyno is rated for 200 MPH and 1,500 HP. It simulates real-world driving conditions by applying load and resistance to your entire drivetrain—engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, axles, and wheel bearings. Typical tests run 4th gear or higher at 120+ MPH, which is stressful on your setup. Any weaknesses will be exposed.

If you are also getting a street tune keep in mind we will be driving your vehicle. This means it needs to be roadworthy. 

For safety—yours, ours, and everyone around—your vehicle must be in top condition. Review the checklist below and use common sense. 

  • No leaks of any kind
  • Good tires, brakes, and alignment—no pulling or jerking under braking
  • Functional suspension—no broken components
  • Seat belts must work
  • No broken wheel studs
  • No loose items (trucks: empty the bed)

Yes, we know it’s a hotrod. But pretend you’re handing it off to your mom for a day. This keeps us all safe and ensures we get through the session without issues.


Tune-Up Recommendations

We strongly recommend a basic tune-up before dyno tuning:

  • Engine oil: Change every 3,000 miles
  • Air filter: Change or clean if older than 12,000 miles
  • Coolant, transmission fluid, and differential fluid: Change if older than 30,000 miles
  • Spark plugs & wires:
    • Boosted applications: Replace every 20,000 miles
    • Naturally aspirated: Replace every 50,000 miles

Ignore manufacturer intervals—they don’t prioritize performance longevity like we do.


Pre-Dyno Checklist

General Vehicle Requirements

Tires must be safe—no dry rot, bald spots, or excessive age. We will decline unsafe tires at our discretion.
No overheating—engine and transmission temps must remain stable.
Gear selector, clutch, and transmission must operate smoothly.
All electrical systems must be functional (fans, fuel pump, alternator, etc.).
Battery must be fully charged—put it on a smart charger overnight or replace if in doubt.
All fluids must be topped off—engine oil, coolant, transmission, differential, and fuel.
No leaks—oil, coolant, fuel, exhaust, or vacuum.

Before You Arrive

Remove aftermarket amp fuses—we need to hear your engine, not your stereo.
Clean out the interior—no trash, food, or mystery stains. We’ll be sitting in your car for hours.
Clean the windows and mirrors—we need clear visibility.
You must have an exhaust system—no open headers.
Fuel injector sizing—if you’ve modified the engine, ensure your injectors can supply adequate fuel. See our tech article on fuel injectors for details.
Aftermarket fuel injectors require proper data—”I have 60 lb injectors” is not enough. Provide the calibration data in a spreadsheet.
For aftermarket EFI (Holley, Terminator, Edelbrock, AEM, etc.):

  • Bring the required cables/dongles.
  • Provide the correct tuning software or link us to the download.

OBD port must be accessible inside the vehicle—no under-hood locations.
Run at least 1/2 tank of 93 octane fuel (unless using E85—contact us first).
Ensure steering and suspension are in working order—no bad tie rods, ball joints, shocks, etc.
No broken wheel studs.
Brakes must work properly—pads, rotors, calipers, and master cylinder in good condition.


Additional Requirements for LS Swaps & High-Performance LS Builds

Be prepared to spend time and money getting your LS build dyno-ready. If troubleshooting isn’t your thing, our $1,600 Dyno Prep Package includes 10 hours of labor and up to $500 in parts to finalize your setup. This does not include dyno tuning.

Common Issues to Address Before Dyno Day:

  • Scan for trouble codes (Autel AL319, Hyper Tough HT300, or Zurich ZR8 recommended).
  • Verify live data from key sensors:
    • Oil pressure: 25+ psi when warm
    • Coolant temp: Stable at 180-225°F
    • O2 sensors: Must switch properly (see our YouTube reference)
    • Mass airflow (MAF): 6-10 g/s at idle
    • Manifold pressure (MAP): 35-45 kPa at idle, up to 55 kPa for BIG Stage 4+ came, and near 100 kPa at WOT
    • Throttle position (TPS): Should not fluctuate erratically

Aftermarket MAP sensors required for boost:

  • 2 Bar (GM #213-1520) for up to 15 PSI
  • 3 Bar (GM #12223861) for up to 30 PSI

Fuel system setup matters:

  • Properly sized injectors—don’t guess. Use a fuel injector calculator.
  • No cheap injectors (eBay/Amazon “LS3 injectors” under $100 are junk).
  • Fuel pressure must be consistent (cheap stock LS1 regulators can’t handle much more than 255 LPH fuel pumps).
  • Aftermarket fuel pressure regulators: Summit SUM-220066 ($120) or Radium RAD-20-1623-00 ($170) recommended.

Final Thoughts

Yes, this is a lot. Now you see why we charge $1,600 to do it for you.

But if you’re willing to put in the time, you’ll save thousands. Follow this checklist, get your car dialed in, and we’ll see you on dyno day!