Hey Jetmech64,

I like your project, I've thought about doing something similar but can never seem to find the extra time. I am assuming you want to record the data to your computer, and not just watch the events on a computer screen. I recently purchased a data recorder for a bench I'm building that is a very good value as far as daq systems go. It is manufactured by a company called Innovate engineering and you can find all sorts of info if you google "Innovate DL32". The DL32 is the model number of their recorder and I believe it will handle all the channels you will need to monitor. They offer additional ad ons if you need more channels, I purchased the SSI4 to allow me to record what I need. I would suggest looking at their site and searching their "forum" for specific questions. Their software is very user friendly. You can both record the events and view them "realtime". The realtime is great as you can monitor what's going on by just looking at the readouts on the screen. Their software can be downloaded free on their forum....go get "Logworks 3" and play with it. You can also download the manual for the DL32 from their site as well....I looked briefly at mine and It sounds like the unit comes with a "probe" that will work for measuring cylinder head temperature....check it out to be sure.

Don't let "Scar" scare you.....you don't need to spend $50,000!!! This unit retails for around $500.00. You will have to purchase some extra sensors, but you're not looking at a huge expense there either.

I also disagree with his recommendation of running the engine without a prop, and just using a flywheel & cooling fans. If you're wanting to measure power you are going to have to put a load on the motor somehow. I feel a propellor is the best way as if you design it to use the propellor you can "dyno" different propellors as well. The flywheel design will work if you have a water wheel, inertia wheel, or an electrical means of applying load but this type of design could get the price into the "rediculous" zone.

Keep us updated with your progress!!!

Jeff