SakeBomb Variable Brake Booster Controller Review
If you want to improve the brake feel in your track car, the Variable Brake Booster Controller is worth a look. It’s used to fine-tune brake feel.
What It Does
I got the unit to solve a modulation issue I had with my favorite brake pads – Raybestos ST-43. They are a full race pad with a lot of stopping power. With the ST-43 pads and my Big Brake Kit, I didn’t have enough “modulation space” between hitting the brakes and the ABS kicking in. Trying to find the sweet spot just before ABS got initiated was nearly impossible. The VBBC can fix that issue by changing the pedal feel which, in turn, adds space before the ABS kicks in. This simple chart from their article that explains how it works provides an excellent visual of the results you get from it.
Installation
It was super easy to install. There are a couple of plugs and barb fittings that come loose in the package. You’ll start by installing these. You’ll need to use Teflon tape (yuck) or thread sealant (yes) on these. Doing this part takes 5 minutes. Next, remove the hose end from your brake booster and attach it to the correct end of the controller. Attach the U-shaped hose in the correct orientation to the booster and the other end of the controller. Put all the hose clamps in place and turn the controller all the way to the + side. That’s it. Installation complete.
Problem Solved
On the first day with the VBBC, I didn’t have time to adjust it. I was too busy adjusting tire pressures, talking to people… you know the routine. The setting was fully on the + side and I didn’t notice any difference in my brakes.
The next day, I gave it one full turn to the negative side and pushed the dial down to lock it into place. Back on track. Braking into the first corner, I instantly felt the difference. There was more modulation available and a better brake feel! Every time I hit the brakes, I had more control, a greater ability to finesse the brakes. That’s it, I haven’t touched the VBBC again.
In the future, I may try more adjusting to see what difference it makes but one turn and one day on track made it worth it for me!
Bottom Line
If you aren’t happy with your brake feel and modulation, the SakeBomb Garage Variable Brake Booster Controller (VBBC) is definitely worth a look. I couldn’t be more pleased.
Ken
I’ve been trying to get in touch with the seller just waiting for a reply
Does it reduce the pedal travel?
KentBigDog
I don’t think it reduces pedal travel but I didn’t pay much attention to that. It gives you more moderation space.
Ken
Did this reduce the amount of dead travel in the brake pedal and does it reduce the sensitivity of the pedal?
I want to try one of these on my fiesta ST as the brakes are very sensitive so very hard to modulate
Are they fairly universal?
KentBigDog
Allowing more modulation is exactly what it does. You can talk to SakeBomb about the details but yeah, it should work on your car.
Rob Manser
Interesting what you say about it not making the pedal firmer. I thought it just controlled the vacuum coming through from the engine to the brakes? Less vacuum assistance surely means more brake pedal feel?
Brake Pads - Tracking a Mazda MX5 ND
[…] allow for the modulation I liked. They got into the ABS too easily. The addition of the SakeBomb Variable Brake Boost Controller fixed that […]
Seigo Ma
Does this give a firmer pedal at the limit?
KentBigDog
It doesn’t make the pedal firmer. With racing pads, it can be too easy to get into the ABS. This provides for better modulation of the brakes.