Engine test stand.

[Jeff XL79]

I'm considering building an engine test stand. It seems like it would be safer and easier to sort out issues if a stand was used.  It would have to be stable, strong. Fuel , battery power throttle control. Engine instruments and monitoring sensors. Ignition wiring and electrical systems could all be sorted before installation.  I've got some spare steel that would work. Any downside?

Jeff

[jrbirdman47]

Following. I'm thinking the same thing. I even went as far as thinking I'd use the actual engine mounts intended for the plane, bolted to a hard stand, in order to evaluate the mount set up as well.

[Kamcoman77]

I built mine from 2 x 4 & 4 x 4 lumber with a 3/4" plywood plate to bolt engine to. Very stable.

[jrbirdman47]

I like it. I was thinking of welding up a stand from angle iron but what you did makes more sense as I have plenty of scrap wood. Minimum effort and waste this way.

[Chuck in Indiana]

My engine test stand was ready to fly on first start..

[Jeff XL79]

I like the converted trailer idea but would like something that would be disposable.  I'll probably go the wood route. Just stake it down well. I'd really hate seeing my engine leave without me. 

Jeff

[IflyHG]

I like it too, especially the disposable part.  The other primary benefit of running a new engine on a test stand is it enables performing engine break-in under conditions ideal for break-in without having to fly or tie up your airframe.  Once the engine is broken-in and you have worked out all the wiring/cabling/sensor/instrumentation details you can perform initial taxi and flight testing under appropriate operational conditions without worrying about glazing cylinder walls and with more confidence in your power plant. If the test stand can be moved it can be a better place to keep your motor until you are ready to install it on your airframe.

[Kamcoman77]

I finally added retractable wheels (Amazon) to mine. I can keep the engine inside the shop during inclement weather and roll it outside to run tests.

[Jeff XL79]

I used the scrap i had and made a stand a lot more elaborate than I expected.  All i need is some weights and a cable to stake it down with. I'll pass this on when I'm done. 

Jeff

[Jeff XL79]

Rear view