318ci Budget Engine Build -Part 4 Dyno Thrashing

Before the dyno session, it took a little time to get the tuning right. Thankfully, we had access to a F.A.S.T Air/Fuel meter that made it easy. The F.A.S.T. meter uses O2 sensors that are installed into the exhaust pipe(s), read the A/F, and tell you how to jet/tune. What a great tool.

When we were happy with the results of driving around with the F.A.S.T. meter, it was finally time to strap it to the dyno. We were afraid to do any track testing yet, because the car still has a puny 7¼ rear, and we knew a couple hard launches could be catastrophic. We'll address that later. Anyway, after the big wheel quit turning, the budget 318 gave us 220 rear wheel horsepower at 4,900 rpm. That's where the power stopped climbing, so that's where we stopped. Torque came in at 260 lb/ft at 3,650 rpm. So, we built a little 318 for under $1,700 that sounds great, runs like a champ, and will spin the tires from a stop at will. It's a 318-that sounds good to us.