Brake Pressure Sensor Installation & Analysis Guide

AiM Brake Pressure Sensor Installation & Analysis Guide

This guide explains how to install, configure, and analyse brake pressure sensors for MyChron 5 and MyChron 6. Brake pressure data is one of the most powerful tools for improving braking technique and kart setup. Designed for kart racers in New Zealand and Australia.

1. What the brake pressure sensor measures

The brake pressure sensor measures hydraulic pressure in the braking system. It reveals:

  • Braking force
  • Brake timing
  • Brake modulation
  • Driver consistency
  • Kart stability under braking

2. Sensor types

AiM brake pressure sensors come in different pressure ranges:

  • 0–50 bar (most common for karting)
  • 0–200 bar (high‑pressure systems)

For karting, the 0–50 bar sensor provides the best resolution.

3. Installation requirements

The sensor must be installed in the hydraulic brake line using a T‑piece or banjo bolt adaptor.

Tools needed

  • T‑piece or brake line adaptor
  • Spanners
  • Brake fluid
  • Bleeding kit

4. Installation steps

  1. Identify a straight section of brake line
  2. Install T‑piece or adaptor into the line
  3. Thread the brake pressure sensor into the adaptor
  4. Tighten fittings to avoid leaks
  5. Bleed the brake system to remove air
  6. Route sensor cable along chassis rails
  7. Connect to an analog channel on the MyChron

Important notes

  • Do not overtighten the sensor
  • Keep cable away from moving parts
  • Use cable ties every 10–15 cm

5. Configuring the sensor in RaceStudio 3

Open RaceStudio 3 → Device Configuration → Channels.

Recommended settings

  • Channel type: Brake Pressure
  • Sampling rate: 50–200 Hz (MyChron 6)
  • Sampling rate: 20–50 Hz (MyChron 5)
  • Enable smoothing: Low

6. What good braking data looks like

  • Smooth initial brake application
  • Strong peak pressure
  • Controlled trail braking
  • Consistent braking lap‑to‑lap

7. What bad braking data looks like

  • Jagged spikes: rear locking or instability
  • Slow pressure rise: front locking or weak braking
  • Inconsistent peaks: driver inconsistency
  • Sudden drops: brake fade or air in system

8. Using brake pressure for driver coaching

Brake pressure is one of the best tools for improving technique.

Key coaching points

  • Brake later without spiking pressure
  • Use a smooth pressure curve
  • Trail brake into the corner
  • Match braking to grip level

9. Using brake pressure for kart setup

Brake pressure data helps diagnose handling issues.

Rear locking signs

  • Sharp pressure spikes
  • Sudden G‑force drops
  • Jagged speed trace

Front locking signs

  • Slow pressure rise
  • Long braking distance
  • Low braking G‑force

10. Troubleshooting

Symptom Likely Cause Fix
No reading Wrong port or loose cable Check wiring
Erratic readings Air in brake system Bleed brakes
Low pressure values Weak braking or incorrect sensor range Check sensor type
Sensor overheating Mounted too close to brake disc Relocate sensor

Related guides

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