LSA SLC Build Log

Ken Roberts

Supporter
Here is a wiring diagram I found showing the pinouts at the calipers. Could you find a source for the connectors Bob?
upload_2018-6-29_7-28-30.png
 
Hi Bob
(Another Bob here !)
I have been trying to source a good EPB solution for a while for a kit I am builing (Gardner Douglas T70). Found the Hispec caliper but not impressed with their support or the price, also not entirely sure how good it is as there is limited info out there and pad size not too big (granted its not got to do much most of the time).
So I thought about repurposing a tried and tested solution from an OEM, sadly most of them are probably over complicated for a Kitcar, getting into CanBus messages etc. So was interested to see your take on using the Tesla calipers with the controller you selected. Seems a perfect solution, if I understand correctly the controller will current limit so avoiding burn out but at same time getting a consistant application despite pad wear etc. So really interested to see how it worked out. Is it wired and working, would you do anything differently ?
did you use 1 controller for each caliper or 2 seperate ones ?
Thanks
 
Bob

Thanks for getting back. How much current do they pull each when set "almost" at minimum?

Also what diameter and thickness are your rotors/discs? Mine are 330mm x 28mm, looking at spec of some Tesla rear discs I see they go up to 365mm and 32mm thick in some cases. Clearance I am sure will be ok, just wondering if there will be enough travel, I guess worst case the pads get replacement before they would normal be due.

My next challenge is to find a new pair of calipers. In the UK if you want your home built car registered as new you have to use all new parts and provide the evidence (bills). You are allowed 1 major item to be reused but it has to be refurbished as new, in my case that is the transaxle. so will have to find a source of new Tesla/Brembo parts but they seem very difficult to come by in the UK. In fact searching globally nothing is coming up so far. Tesla parts look to be available to trade only, and probably their approved fitters etc.
Cheeers Bob
 
Works really well !! Used one controller for each side so if one fails you still have one working.
I have the "force" amperage set almost at it's minimum setting and it's great !

Bob - would you be open to summarizing your parking brake upgrade along with part numbers and sourcing info to add to the SLC wiki? I think this would make a fantastic addition and, frankly, between the hand brake and e-stopp solutions, neither is all that great. This looks like it could benefit the entire community.
 
Bob

Thanks for getting back. How much current do they pull each when set "almost" at minimum?
The controller is adjustable from 10 to 30 amps. I used #10 wire (didn't need to) and the 10amps locks the rotor SOLID.
Also what diameter and thickness are your rotors/discs? Mine are 330mm x 28mm, looking at spec of some Tesla rear discs I see they go up to 365mm and 32mm thick in some cases. Clearance I am sure will be ok, just wondering if there will be enough travel, I guess worst case the pads get replacement before they would normal be due.

My next challenge is to find a new pair of calipers. In the UK if you want your home built car registered as new you have to use all new parts and provide the evidence (bills). You are allowed 1 major item to be reused but it has to be refurbished as new, in my case that is the transaxle. so will have to find a source of new Tesla/Brembo parts but they seem very difficult to come by in the UK. In fact searching globally nothing is coming up so far. Tesla parts look to be available to trade only, and probably their approved fitters etc.
Cheeers Bob

I used the stock Camaro rotors that came with the kit. I also could not find "new" parts. Replacement pads are available, but electric calipers were nice used units from the West Coast.
 
I have the HiSpecs, so let me know if you need any measurements
Scott, when you say you have the HiSpecs, how far down the road are you? all wired up and working ? :)
Was wondering how good their control unit it is, I asked the Customer Service guy a few questions and the answers left me with some doubts, I am sure it will work, but did sound like a bit of a compromise.
2 areas they were not clear on was the 2 optional connections.
Would be good to see if your experience is a positive one.
 
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