[Lasse]

Thanks for very informative reply.

Originally Posted by Devious

IMHO, the windows version of Dynomation had a couple of important improvements over the DOS version, and the new version 5 is a nice improvement in several ways. It offers improved cam input with ramp rate and rocker ratio alterations. The older versions seemed to like more lift and duration than worked in reality, and the version 5 seems to address this a bit. The modeling looks to be closer to real world than before (compared to actual dyno results from past engines built), with good graphing that lets you see trends better than the old DOS version.

I think I will make an order for Dynomation 5. I can upgrade my old DOS version only for $200. Windows version upgrade is $100. Not bad for good software.

Originally Posted by Devious

Larry Meaux's inexpensive PipeMax program is very good at optomizing intake and exhaust details - especially if you already have good dyno data. Basicly it does all the length/diameter/taper calculations I used to do the hard way. PipeMax36xp2

This looks promising. And price is very affordable.

Originally Posted by Devious

If you have experience with the DOS version of Dynomation, you understand that there are issues with most any engine simulation if you incorrectly model aspects of an engine, or if you expect too much from them. They are good to help optimize certain aspects of an engine that you have had on a dyno or track, or if you are looking to see trends on an engine design that you are just starting to work with from scratch.

I agree. You can't use these software as dyno.
Software doesn't see all variables of engine (frictions, quality of burn and internal aerodynamics for example). I think this is true with allmost every computer simulation. They just can't notice everything they should. But I think these software can help designing engines.

Originally Posted by Devious

At this point, I dream of owning or having access to a good CFD software package and rapid prototyping equipment that wouldn't cost me my left..... leg. I figure we are about 5-10 years from this.

You must turn to student, so you can get student version of SolidWorks with FloWorks at very affordable price.

I have done some basic research with FloWorks. I modelled intercooler and tried several locations for input and output pipes for it. For result I got better flow distribution in intercooler core. FEM-software is also very nice in designing engine parts like connecting rods. Even if you don't design them by your own, you can understand why something is better than other.