Getting your suspension tuned properly can mean the difference between a mediocre and a great riding experience. Here, we’ll examine how shock dynos can help you optimize your suspension tuning.
Table of Contents
Is there such a thing as a Shock Dyno?
Shock dynos simulate the forces and speeds experienced by suspension systems in the real world. With its detailed graphs, mechanics and tuners can measure and display performance data which can be used for:
- Perform accurate suspension diagnostics
- Adjust with precision
- Check for improvement in performance
- Make sure quality is maintained
- Examine different settings
Related Articles: Orlando Road Safety Overview
The Technology: An Overview
Shock dynos such as the LABA7 series are equipped with advanced features, including:
- Continuous data logging at high speed (thousands of readings per second)
- Linear motion accuracy through Scotch Yokes
- Monitors temperature between -70 and +380°C
- Measures forces up to 10,000 N (based on model)
- The stroke length can be adjusted based on the type of shock
Why you should use a shock dyno
1. Efficient diagnostics
In a shock dyno, common problems can be identified, including:
- Blockages in oil passageways
- Shims with cracks
- Cavitations
- Disconsistent dampening
2. Evaluation of performance
By comparing before and after results, you can gain several advantages:
- Adjustment visual representation
- Improvement documents
- Demonstrating the value of service to customers
- Verifying quality assurance
3. Optimization based on data
Through shock dynos, rather than simply relying on rider feedback, we can:
- Measuring performance improvements objectively
- Instant visualisation of adjustment effects
- Ensure settings are documented consistently
- The ability to repeat successful tunes with precision
How Tuning Works
Step 1: Conducting the first test
- Adapt the shock for use on the dyno
- Test baselines at different speeds
- Calculate force-velocity and force-displacement charts
- Analyze initial performance characteristics
Step 2: Conducting an analysis
Take a closer look at the data to identify:
- Measurement of compression
- Behavior after rebounding
- Consistent damping system
- Improvements recommended
Step 3: Modifications
Considering the analysis:
- Automatically increase the date
- Adjustments should be tested
- Examine previous results
- Maintain a record of all changes
How to use a shock dynamometer effectively
Controlling the quality
- Ensure that customers receive a satisfactory return before returning
- Provide warranty documentation
- Determine whether dampers on the left and right are consistent
- Check for improvements after servicing
Aspects of maintenance
Here are the steps to ensure accurate results:
- Perform regular calibrations
- Make sure the hardware is clean
- Make sure the thermometers are working
- Make sure the software is up-to-date
Application Development
Racing as a profession
The shock dyno is used by racing teams for:
- Customizing suspension for specific tracks
- Comparison of performance between different vehicles
- Establishing consistency between set-ups during practice and during racing
- Recommendations for suspension settings
Innovating and researching
The purpose of shock dynos is for:
- Design, manufacture, testing, and distribution
- Assuring quality
- Assurance of performance
- Evaluating a new design
Frequently Asked Questions( FAQs)
Is it possible to shock a dyno?
Shock dynamometers, or shock dynos, are specialized tools for evaluating and analyzing shock absorbers. Using simulations, this data can be used to optimize vehicle suspension systems based on the conditions they experience during real-life use.
What are shock dynos and how do they work?
When a shock absorber is compressed and extended at multiple speeds and stroke lengths, shock dynos measure the force required to compress and extend the absorber. A shock’s compression and rebound forces are recorded. Compression measures the force needed to push the shock together, and rebound measures the force required to pull it apart. With this information, technicians can precisely tune shocks based on their behavior during operation.
Is there a variety of shock dynos available?
Shock dynos come in a variety of types, including:
Scotch-Yoke Dynos: These are known for their versatility and cost-effectiveness, and can be used for testing a variety of shock absorbers.
Dynos using a crank: Like Scotch-Yoke, but less accurate because of additional lateral forces produced during testing.
Using magnets to test actuators: Using electromagnetic forces to test.
The hydraulic shock dyno: is used to simulate shock performance.
How does a shock dyno work?
A typical component of a system includes:
Handles for crossbars
Crossbars preloaded
Brackets for installation at the tops and bottoms
Thermometer
Stop button for emergencies
Switch for powering up
Micro-USB port for data transfer.
What is the importance of using a shock dyno?
It is crucial to use a shock dyno to ensure that shock absorbers are performing at their best. It helps manufacturers and tuners improve the handling and ride quality of their vehicles by making informed adjustments based on precise measurements. Additionally, real-world testing is crucial to complement the results of dyno testing, since it helps provide insight into shocks’ performance in the real world.
Interpreting shock dyno data: what should I do?
It is common for shock dynamo data to be presented in tables and graphs that demonstrate how force changes with shaft speed and stroke length. It is important to look for consistency in damping changes over a range of settings, hysteresis (energy loss during cycling), and overall performance under different temperature conditions.
Are there any training requirements for operating a shock dyno?
Despite the need for a little basic training before using a shock dyno, many of the modern ones are designed to be user-friendly, requiring only a minimal amount of training before testing can begin. It is vital to have a solid understanding of the model being used in order to obtain accurate results.
Are all shocks capable of being tested on a shock dyno?
As a result of its versatile design, the Scotch-Yoke dyno is suitable for testing most shocks. Shocks with unique characteristics may require special setups or equipment.
Final Thoughts about Comprehensive Guide on Shock Dyno
Suspension tuning is no longer possible without a shock dyno. The program provides:
- Data that can be used to make informed decisions
- Across a variety of configurations, consistent results
- Professionalism assurance
- Warranty- and development-related documentation
When used properly, a shock dyno can significantly improve suspension performance. Professional mechanics, race team engineers, or enthusiasts can benefit from shock dyno testing’s insights into suspension tuning.
A successful suspension tuning relies not only on having the right tools – it’s about interpreting the data and making informed adjustments based on both objective measurements and rider feedback. With Lift Kits FOX, you can ensure that your vehicle is equipped for exceptional performance throughout its tuning process. With a shock dyno, you can make confident decisions.
