Engine Test Stand Do’s and Don’ts

[HejsanKwaheri]

Finally getting to the stage of completing my engine assembly on the 93 LC. I was planning on building an engine test stand before installation to see if I made any errors in terms of leaking gaskets etc. I know I will need the harness and ecu to perform the task. Have others just removed the instrument panel so it is an easy plug and play to monitor vitals? Can I test it without attaching the transmission to it? Does the ecu need to know if in neutral etc? Have never rebuilt a vehicle engine before. Ag irrigation engines are elementary to this process fo me. Thank you for your advice.

 

[SteveH]

On an engine this computerized, I think it's more trouble than it's worth. This is a not an '81 small block Chevy!

 

[mudgudgeon]

Can I test it without attaching the transmission to it

You need the bellhousing to bolt the starter motor in place.

I've run engines on stands for various reasons in the past.
Honestly, probably quicker to trust your work and drop it in the engine bay, and pull it out again later if something is so serious there's no other option

 

[HejsanKwaheri]

Thanks for the input. As I compile the list for the stand I am slowly coming to that realization myself. Watched an informative video the other day on a guy’s assessment (car care nut) of the 80 series and nothing new that I have not come across on my complete 80 rebuild. Grew up around Detroit irrigation engines and sounds like the 4.5 enjoys a nice oil bath eventually as well.

 

[nab856]

You don't want an engine under power if there is a problem. Run a leak-down test first. It helps resolve issues before dropping the engine into the vehicle. All the engines I've used a leak-down test on performed extremely well when fired up.

 

[HejsanKwaheri]

Thanks.

 

[PIP]

I use an engine run stand with a Froude waterbrake dyno.

There's a bit goes into it to have something good enough to heat cycle an engine and avoid glazing the cylinder walls.

Running an engine without a cooling system (radiator don't work on a stand) and without a load doesn't tell you much.

 

[mudgudgeon]

Here's one i set up to run a diesel 1hz occasional too keep it lubed etc.

I spent longer setting this up than i would spend taking a 1fz-fe out . Made 100% with scrap i already had

I sold this engine, having it running made it easy to sell.

Old school diesel, so only needed a jerry of fuel, wire from battery to starter, one wire to fuel shut off. No EFI, so super simple.
I also set up the radiator on this so I could run it up to operating temp.

If you're gonna run an engine on a stand, keep the COG low!

 

[HejsanKwaheri]

Thanks for the input. I decided to trust my work, pair to the transmission and install once we are finished with fall harvest. If I have an issue I will have the time to pull back out and study it.