So, before you thrash the engine on the dyno, check over a few details. You'll get a better, more meaningful result and a better basis for future modifications. Therefore I suggest the following course of action:

If your car is due for an oil change anyway, why not take the opportunity to do it now. And don't forget a new filter.

To ensure maximum airflow, make sure the air filter is clean, or get a new one.

Check those spark plugs. Dirty? Worn? Think about getting some new ones.

Set the valve clearances.

Before you fit the new plugs you might want to do a quick compression test to make sure everything is in good order.

Make sure the coil, condenser and plug leads are in good nick.

Check your carburettor and top up the dashpot.

Check your timing.

Bring a copy of all the relevant engine data for your engine.

During the dyno run setup your idle mixture can be adjusted to the correct level.

I will also be distributing copies of an Excel spreadsheet which will allow later analysis of the RR data, so bring a floppy disk if you want to take your dyno data home. It will let you produce power graphs like the one below.

If you think I've missed anything, or you've spotted an error, please don't hesitate to let me know. See you there!

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