Should You Install a Throttle Sensitivity Booster?

I was admittedly a little skeptical about doing this install, but as you will see it's a very simple way to add a little responsiveness to your Jeep. In this video I give you a close up look of the BD Diesel Performance throttle sensitivity booster, show you how to install it and then we hit the road and I give you my impressions.
BD Diesel Performance Throttle Booster: www.northridge...
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[@kevinmcbride9036]

Pulled the trigger and picked one of these up....first off my jeep has 5.13 gears ,35" tires ,and trail dash programmer. I set this to full response and it brought my jeep to life......I LOVE IT

[@familylife9623]

Kevin Mcbride Has it affected your MPG and if so by how much

[@kevinmcbride9036]

Family Life I don't really track my mileage....not a daily driver since I have a company vehicle.....believe me...the response is definitely there...it's a lot nicer to get going....I wouldn't think it would really effect your MPG.

[@MARC11B]

The Pedal Commander (same thing) Has buttons on the outside, so adjusting is on the fly. Also they are programmed via a computer.

[@solveetcoagula1891]

I once saw another video for something like this and someone commented that if you turn on your ignition and depress your gas pedal and slowly lift and then turn off the key and turn it back on, it helps recalibrate the pedal. I did this once in my jk... it definitely helped... makes me wonder about things like this.

[@jonm4467]

Always look forward to your videos. Keep up the good work man!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you very much!!

[@CarlosMartinez-th6ti]

I installed a Pedal Commander on my jeep and I love it. Same concept with Economic, City, Sport and Sport + modes....what a difference. When my wife drives it only let her use it in City mode, Sport mode make you jump out your seat.

[@SwellRunner]

I recently installed the sprint booster in mine (same concept I believe) and love it. Really changed the driving dynamics. I don’t hot dog it, but it’s nice to have better throttle response.

[@TrailRecon]

Agree 100%! This has completely changed the dynamics driving of my Jeep!

[@RubiconUnlimited]

Fun little upgrade, anything to help move these wranglers a bit quicker is always welcome!

[@raulangelfonseca9955]

I'm running the Pedal Commander and just from your vid I like my better. The Pedal Commander has UI that you can change settings on the fly and you 4 modes with each one having 4 power option.

[@chaseburgess4862]

Hey man love your vids, I live less than a mile away from you and just put 2 and 2 together. I’ve been drooling over that xj I see on my way to work sometimes and just realized it’s yours! I’d love to meet up some time and show you what I’ve been doing on my own jeep, sick work man!

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks! You should check out the San Diego Jeep Club on facebook. We are doing runs and meet ups all the time and you can almost always catch me out there. Would be great to meet you and talk Jeeps!

[@capeofstormz5974]

I bought a generic version on Aliexpress and it works great. I was quite surprised. My e90's throttle response used to lag but it's very responsive now.

[@fwschnaar3179]

Great Video again.... I have the PedalCommander, and Love it. One nice thing about it... Is You can change Your Driving Modes on the Fly. And for Off Road when Your in ECO Mode it really takes away the Throttle Response... Regardless I’m sure the BD Diesel Performance product is Equally Cool! Keep the Great Videos coming! 😃

[@TrailRecon]

I may opt for the options controller down the road so I can adjust this one. Thank you!

[@5thGenNativeTexan]

Having a 2011 JKU with the doggy 3.8L, and running 35" Nitto Trail Grapplers, I can tell you that the swap to 5.13 gears made a huge improvement in both everyday driveability and offroad response, over the stock 4.10 that were standard in my Rubicon. Don't forget to tune the computer with the new gear range. ;) .......... PS, I still smile seeing the Vector Offroad mounting bar on the dash. As simple as it seems, it's been one of the best interior upgrades I've made. Although my friends laugh when they see what all I've got mounted on it, making the area around the driver look like an airplane cockpit with my tuner display, my GPS, my ham radio head, my phone, etc... Everyone who gets in the Jeep immediately make a comment about "where did you get that mounting bar?"

[@TrailRecon]

Agree, I love the vector bar! Such a functional and super easy product.

[@asperbergers7136]

This and a tuner sounds like a nice option

[@anthonycoffey4699]

Can't wait to hear how this controller works in conjunction with re-gearing. Seems like a sound product to help with Daily driving a jeep.

[@TechGearNinja]

If you really want throttle response, get the LS3 conversion. LOL. Love the videos man, keep up the great work.

[@TrailRecon]

Or a 5.7l Hemi conversion... I wish!!

[@TechGearNinja]

TrailRecon that would be unbelievable

[@MrMoxes]

I guess us old guys, with throttle cables have to live without. Ha Ha. Still pretty cool.

[@jarredmay7496]

lol have a TJ was thinking the same thing

[@MrMoxes]

Jarred May XJ Here. I guess we'll just have to settle for bigger TB.

[@marypoppins9596]

Just shorten the cable lol

[@MrMoxes]

LoL Yeah, wide open, all the time.

[@titolynch]

Great video as usual Brad. Funny, today my brother told me about this upgrade. Don’t think I’m gonna need it since I put a supercharger and I think the response will be super fast. Really looking foward on the new upgrades and trips, I just love this channel.

[@TrailRecon]

A supercharger would absolutely be preferred method for better throttle response... or a Hemi conversion! Thank you!

[@TheBeardedJeeper]

Great review I have been wanting to try one of those for a while now

[@karl8616]

Hey man you should totally consider an aftermarket exhaust. I’m running the pypes high clearance on my jk and I love it! Sounds awesome and is tucked up outta the way. Plus it’s the best bang for the buck!!

[@developmentdivision122]

6:25 looks like you could use a new exhaust!

[@mikeburch2998]

I installed a Pedal Commander about a year ago. It's really awesome and I'm glad I did it.

[@billynunns]

Once you regear it'll be even better. With my regear and the throttle sensitivity corrected the jeep does respond better. It won't downshift as bad once you do the regear.

[@TrailRecon]

I can't wait to regear, I know it will make a world of difference!

[@albrhm]

Pedal commander much better as it is plug and play... no set up and it has the four stages of speed... Eco mode, city mode, sport mode and sport+ mode... look it up in the Web... I'm so happy with it and it does it perfect... cheers

[@OVRLNDX]

Another video full of interesting content !

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you brother!

[@tnordy]

I’d be interested in the change to your gas mileage. Maybe you can update in one of your next install vids. Good work. Thx

[@TrailRecon]

Just filled up today and reset my average mpg... we'll see how it goes.

[@jayceeleon]

TrailRecon update?

[@danielgolite]

Drove a JK Wrangler for the first time recently when I was using it as a car loaner from a dealership and was really surprised at how hard the accelerator pedal was to press down to keep the vehicle at speed. Why is this? Not surprised to see this type of product for sale. Not a Wrangler owner (yet) but like your videos.

[@bigospig]

Gets on the freeway, realizes will have to get off the freeway to use the throttle. ;)

[@ratled1]

HEY, your Jeep IS a performance vehicle, it just has a different set of performance objectives!

[@TrailRecon]

You are absolutely correct... it's all about off-road performance!

[@stephanebauvet275]

Hi. Is this compatible with a Toyota Land Cruiser 80 4.2 Turbo Diesel. Itas a 1995 model. Thamks Stéphane

[@raptorsoverland9388]

i did not try this one and i don`t think though ( In some rugged mountain roads I think it is dangerous ) I hope you experience it for a longer period And to pass on your experience if you kindly please And thanks for sharing

[@user-ts8yz4pw5u]

Will this damage my ECU in my truck ?

[@johnboytoo1]

This is probably good on road, but offroad I would guess you want a LESS sensitive throttle response/tip in... i.e. don't want 20% tip in when trying to crawl over some rocks.... when we put larger tires on the jeep, the gearing was terrible, so got a tuner to both change tire size and help to recover some of the performance... but just recently found the crawl tune on the tuner and tried it the last time off road - EXACTLY what was missing, no fighting for a very fine adjustment of throttle to climb up that rock without going too much!!!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you for your comment! I'm looking forward to testing this out on the trail, I'm hoping it's not going to be too twitchy when I need to crawl.

[@danhambrick6331]

Hey B-Rad,how about showing the XJ a little love man....

[@TrailRecon]

A few things in store for the XJ, but need to get the Wrangler ready for these upcoming trips first.

[@sharetasker4292]

Can you review the Hikeit Throttle Controller?

[@MrNitroAddict]

Great video as always! I have a similar device on my truck but with a remote built in. Just like you, I prefer to leave it on the highest setting (Race) all the time. Mine has three modes - Crawl, Street & Race with each having 7 steps - 3 down, normal and 3 up for a total of 21 stages. However, I notice that leaving it on the lowest setting (Crawl, 3 down) completely kills wheelspins and improves traction while off-roading or crawling. You can slip up on throttle modulation and still get away with it. Even if I stand on the pedal it revs up slow and smooth. So it's one less thing to worry about when in a rut. If yours has the option to reduce sensitivity to below stock, try this the next time you take the jeep out. While this goes against the 'throttle it out' school of thought, I have a feeling you'd enjoy it!

[@TrailRecon]

That is a great point about crawling and wheel spin and something I'll be keeping an eye on when I hit the trail. Thank you for your comment!

[@phillipcraggs6202]

these things are always confusing to me. 'Sensitivity Booster' does it reduce throttle lag? Or does it just open the throttle more with less travel from the pedal itself? It can't open the throttle more then full... so with this you don't have to push the pedal as far to get full throttle? it sounds like snake oil to me. great job and thanks for sharing thou, I love watching your vids.

[@snowismas]

yep waste of money. If you need more throttle then push your foot down more.

[@axelrod21]

I know I am late but these and the others work on the same principle. Like you said it opens the throttle with less travel or more depending on how the controller is set and to help cure sense modern drive by wire system have a little lag and can have more set by the manufacturer. So this helps defeat the lag imposed by the system and auto manufacturers. :)

[@rexcarroll6019]

Hi Brad. I have the Pedal Commander on my JK and it does basically the same thing as the BD Diesel unit. A few things to consider that weren't covered in your video. 1) You are definitely going to need to install the on/off button on the BD Diesel unit. The last thing that you want while crawling over rocks or along a narrow shelf road is a twitchy throttle. The Pedal Commander has adjustment and on/off buttons on the command module 2) Turning the unit on/off or making adjustments while driving can cause the Jeep's ECU to throw codes. Turning it on/off or making adjustments (Pedal Commander) should only be done with the engine off or in idle with the transmission in Park 3) Using a throttle response controller in conjunction with an engine performance module (Superchips, Banks, Jet, etc.) is not going to work well. It will cause the Jeep's ECU to throw codes.

[@TrailRecon]

Great information about not turning it on and off while driving. I'm considering getting the switch to adjust it, but want to run it though it's paces first. Thank you!

[@gregormiller4037]

Great post, nice mod. Doesn't disconnecting the battery mess with your future CC/smog check?

[@youknowit158]

Great video Doc! I'm looking at getting a Sprint booster in a few months...

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! I'm curious how the Sprint Booster would compare in a side by side.

[@Jon_Ringo]

I have heard that you shouldn't use these with cruise control. have you had any issues?

[@mandersen]

I wonder if this and the settings from an AEV Procal (or similar) would conflict with each other?

[@steventure7939]

What boot are you wearing in the thumbnail? Been looking for a lightweight 8" boot that's comfortable enough to work the clutch all day long.

[@rareearthfab5511]

I have seen a few people use similar devices and I realize all it does is change the percentage of throttle opening per linear peddle travel and rate of opening (according to documentation) but I wonder if it affects you off-road at all? My Jeep is a standard and having smooth throttle control is pretty important. Have you had it off road yet with it? What are your thoughts?

[@brentking4538]

HI Brad, do you still have the throttle controller on your Jeep?

[@jamesbonanno3359]

Alright Brad, this is an upgrade I never considered. Now I've watched the video and I find myself Googling reviews, cost and availability. Definitely something I wish to order now. You are going to have me in divorce court. Stay safe on the trails.

[@TrailRecon]

LOL! I claim no responsibility for angry spouses! It's a really nice upgrade!

[@RVHabit]

Everyone that tries these throttle sensitivity boosters seems to like them.

[@truckerrickakamanowar]

Hey Brad! So as of today what are your thoughts on this throttle controller?

[@TrailRecon]

I'm not running it any more. Great on-road, too sensitive of road. I think having the external button to adjust the sensitivity would be a good option.

[@truckerrickakamanowar]

@@TrailRecon copy yeah got that info from your last video. Thanks for the reply and your excellent video(s)

[@mauiman52]

Brad, thanks for the video. I was wondering if you could post your experience with that device once out of the trail? My experience with a Superchips Flashpaq and a 91 Tuning was, that on the road it was great, but on the trail i was missing the sensitivity of the stock setup throttle response and my driving style on the trail was not as smooth anymore. I reverted back to stock in the end.

[@TrailRecon]

I will be sure to revisit how this controller has worked for me after running it through its paces for a while. Thank you!

[@thelayoverpodcast87]

Hey Brad, another great video. What influneced your decision to go with 5.13 gears? Versus a different size ratio?

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks! My decision to go with 5:13's comes from several recommendation from guys I wheel with that are running them currently.

[@SatoriZei]

Is this like Pedalbox or pedal commander ?

[@JM-mp4dm]

hikeit all day

[@ajlafferty9694]

Another Great video Brad

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@timlamplugh6507]

Brad are those custom handles on the door hinges like grand handles

[@TrailRecon]

They are Kargo Master hinge steps for getting up on the roof rack.

[@Airkoay]

Brad, you have any opinions on the Pedal Commander and Sprint Booster version? This is the first time I heard of BD Diesel Performance. It looks like this one is about $50 or more cheaper than the other brands.

[@TrailRecon]

I have watch other reviews on those booster, but I don't have any first hand experience with them. Would be interesting to do a side by side comparison.

[@mattb.2359]

I have a 4th gen 4Runner, and when stock the v6 doesn't have much throttle response. So looking for options for power, the Pedal Commander came up amongst the forums as being well-liked. So I wound up buying one, and have been in love with what it does. Eco mode is more what I use just putting around town and the highway, but once in a while I will put is in City or even Sport mode the have the throttle response. I have used the Sport + mode once, just to see what it was about, and boy was it a little bit more than what I bought it for. At least to me, the Pedal Commander is worth the money,. It is just an option for more "power", besides a proper supercharger. Hope this helps. Matthew

[@mattb.2359]

And you do not have to pull the unit apart every time you want to change the setting.

[@Airkoay]

Wilhelm Leipzig I've heard a lot of good things about Pedal Commander. I wanted to buy one on their website, but they no longer carry the standard version which was cheaper. The only ones they have now are the wireless, bluetooth version. Which is fine, but it's like $80 more. Almost bought a used one on eBay recently, but someone else outbid me:(

[@mattb.2359]

May I​ ask what you drive. Make, model, and year, and engine size and fuel?

[@BattlePhrog165]

update.... it was removed not long after this video.

[@aaronmott818]

How u know

[@MrCee-eq9fe]

What boots are you wearing

[@kingsoulsurfer41]

Is it good for 87yj

[@DAVIDGREGORYKERR]

Just make sure that you download your EMU/ECU settings before disconnecting the battery so when you have completed your work and reconnected the battery you should re-upload the EMU/ECU settings back to the EMU/ECU otherwise you will have problems with ignition or not getting enough fuel to the engine.

[@TrailRecon]

I have disconnected my battery a dozen times for various projects and never downloaded the setting and never had any issues.

[@vovaya]

Not an expert, but I believe it is just change response curve.

[@kirkyoung6962]

I’m sorry to me variables in this equation I’ll stick with the pedal commander 😂

[@harut82]

Why is your exhaust pipe so sad?

[@vgullotta]

Man, I think 5.13s are going to be too much, I think you'll be happier with 4.56s or 4.88s than the 5.13s. I don't know, maybe you don't go over 70MPH, but I remember my buddy threw 4.88s in his TJ and man, he couldn't go over 65MPH on the highway. It took us forever to get up to the Rubicon one year cause he was sooooo slooooowwwww lol

[@tommy603]

Vinny Gullotta Jk on 37s is nice with 5.13s

[@4everjeeper]

hahaha normal tailpipe for a jeep

[@TrailRecon]

LOL! If it's not banged up, you aren't trying hard enough!

[@4everjeeper]

how true, im looking to get a high clearance setup but don't want it very loud

[@TrailRecon]

Me as well and, I don't want loud or any drone!

[@snowismas]

Honest question. Is this a shill video?

[@TrailRecon]

Nope, if I didn't like this booster I would have removed it and mentioned why at the end of the video.... Northridge4x4 knew that going from the beginning.

[@BattlePhrog165]

@@TrailRecon update.... it was removed not long after this video.