05/12/2024
I’ve been meaning to make a follow up video for some time. But I’m lazy, and I also feel this approach to a custom front sensor is fairly public knowledge at this point. Anyway, here’s a simple overview of how the custom front sensor pad has evolved from my previous video post of adhering a sensor to the front controller lid. In short, that’s a horrible idea. It was just an interesting experiment upon the initial release of aftermarket sensors.
Since then, things have evolved way beyond my initial post. Custom front and rear pads with foot hooks are now a standard. The only issue with foot hooks is accommodating someone’s stance that isn’t typical. This involved modifying the sensor or buying one that can be cut to suit their needs.
I’ll list the materials needed to “properly” make your own customer pads:
1) (2) foot pads
2) Replacement grip. Original grip needs to be removed on front pad to install sensor and drill hole for the cable to pass through.
3) aftermarket sensor ie; Stoked stock or Exile
4) A metal plate to support front pad and protect your controller lid from impact.
5) Connector for front sensor
6) Heat Gun/Hair dryer
7) Drill with a bit wide enough to accommodate the sensor ribbon.
Using heat is key to the success of your install. I recommend eyeing out your sensor placement. Use a marker to indicate where the ribbon from the sensor will need to pass through the front pad. Drill a hole through for the ribbon. I like to take the sensor and gradually remove the backing while applying heat. Make sure to press the sensor in with no air bubbles underneath. Once the sensor is on, you can apply the grip tape. Don’t forget your shrink wrap for the connector. From there, it’s business as usual. Your front pad is complete. Pass the cable through the metal plate and install like any other front pad.
I do recommend disabling moving faults initially if you’re on VESC; just for preliminary testing. Please look at your ADC readings. If you’re on a FM board, use the light bars upon testing and make sure both zones are functioning individually and then together.
Shrink wrap your cable connector and make sure your grip tape is completely sealed so water cannot get in and waterlog the sensor. I do not feel customer sensors are meant to get wet at all. I have had inconsistent results. It’s really the biggest drawback I can share at this point.
Initially sensors were inconsistent. Things have improved performance wise over the last several months.
Please proceed with caution. My group and I have over 10k miles of experience. This can be very dangerous if done incorrectly.
Shoot me an email at [email protected] if you have any questions 🤙🏼
