White Brake Sponge 15492: Choose a Thickness
The white Brake Sponge Set, Tamiya item 15492, supplies 1, 2 and 3 mm material. The three thicknesses let you change where and when a brake contacts the course, but the package is not a chart of guaranteed stopping distances. Use the car's actual ride height and one repeatable section of track to select a piece.
Start with clearance, not a colour claim
Tamiya specifically says the 1 mm sponge can be used on very low parts such as the underside of a chassis. Before applying anything, place the car on a flat board with its running batteries and tires fitted. Measure the gap below the intended brake stay and note the location. A thicker pad mounted higher can contact later than a thinner pad mounted lower, so thickness alone cannot predict braking effect.
Change one setting at a time
Cut and mount one piece cleanly, with no loose corner near a wheel or gear. Record its thickness, mounting point and car clearance. Run several clean attempts over the same slope or jump, noting contact, landing and any derailment. If you change pad thickness, do not also change tires or motor in that comparison. The existing brake-grade guide explains how white 15492 differs from the milder blue material; this article is about choosing within the white pack.
Check fit and rules
Tamiya's product text names MA, MS, AR, VS, Super-II and Super XX; its page also tags VZ and ME. Follow the current chassis and event guidance for your own car. A pad that drags continuously on a flat or comes loose after one lap needs repositioning or replacement. Recheck clearance after tire wear or a new stay changes ride height.
Check current availability and the exact variant on the product listing before ordering.
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
Is 3 mm always the strongest brake?
No. Contact depends on stay position, ride height, compression and course shape as well as thickness.
Can I use 1 mm under a low chassis?
Tamiya cites low chassis locations as one use for the 1 mm piece, subject to actual clearance.
Sources checked 26 September 2026: https://www.tamiya.com/english/products/15492/index.html, https://www.tamiya.com/english/mini4wd/setupguide/setupguide.htm. Recheck product availability before ordering.