Being responsible for R&D at the XRAY off-road division, I was actively involved in the XT8 project. I can assure you that not even the smallest detail was overlooked.

With the huge amount of effort, time, and energy our R&D team put into this project, you can be sure that the XT8 is nothing less than the highest-competition, premium truggy capable of winning any race.  You will be amazed by the superior handling and reliability of the new XT8 and XT8E.

Martin Bayer
XRAY XT8 Designer

The XT8E features an all-new unique E concept with two different layout alternatives.

1.  Rear motor position with a single battery position on the left side

Standard e-truggy position places the battery on one side with the speed control, and the motor, servo and receiver on other side of the chassis.

Suggested for very low grip traction conditions or when more chassis roll is desired. The center of gravity of this layout is generally higher due to battery orientation.
 

1.  Front motor position with saddle pack batteries

Second alternative places the motor in front of the center differential opposite the servo, and uses a split, saddle pack battery layout. The motor has better cooling in this front location and the split batteries typically maintain lower temperatures during each run.

Suggested for bumpy tracks and when higher corner speed is required.

The new XT8E chassis is wider in the rear section to increase stability in high speed corners and on bumpy track surfaces. The chassis plate features machined grooves that match the servo saver posts to prevent any rotation, making assembly easier and securing the steering components during extreme chassis flex situations.

An optional graphite brace can be mounted on the chassis to decrease flex in the rear section to help increase stability.

The XT8E’22 chassis features new positions to mount weights for additional weight balance adjustment.

The chassis is CNC-machined from 3mm high-quality Swiss 7075 T6 aluminum; strategically machined in low-stress areas and then anodized to make it as light as possible without affecting strength or rigidity.

The XT8E’22 chassis features new positions to mount weights for additional balance adjustments. All the central positions are placed in an absolute chassis center for optimal weight balance.

Both front and rear suspension arms are redesigned with a new stronger, reinforced design to maintain rigidity in extreme conditions and higher temperatures. These stiffer suspension arms improve the XT8’s stability and predictability in high speed corners.

The servo saver features a new conical spring that is longer and stronger. The new spring ensures more precise steering and improved reliability.

The servo saver posts feature a new keyed design to prevent the posts from spinning on the chassis for easier assembly and to prevent the posts from twisting loose during a run.

To ensure servo saver reliability (especially in dusty conditions), the servo saver is moulded from graphite material which is more resistant and efficient in dusty conditions. The dual-arm steering system is simple yet effective, featuring an integrated easily adjustable servo saver, and a Swiss 7075 T6 aluminum steering plate.

Ackermann is easily adjusted by changing steering link mounting positions on the steering plate. Bump steer is adjusted by inserting shims between the steering plate and steering linkage.

The servo saver top deck was also redesigned. The new top deck features additional clearance to prevent binding even if it is overtightened so the steering will always move freely. Fits both XT8 and XT8E

To accommodate the two different electronic layout choices there are two different servo holders included in each XT8E kit. One to fit the single side battery layout, and the other for the saddle pack layout. Servo horn position is moved more forward and uses a shortened link.

To accommodate the two different battery positions there are two different battery holders included in each kit.

Saddle pack alternative – features all-new tweak-free split battery holders to mount the saddle packs. This battery holder will accommodate both standard and ‘shorty’ packs, with the shorty packs having the added ability to move front/back for additional weight balance adjustment.

To accommodate the two different battery positions there are two different battery holders included in each kit.

Brick alternative – features a battery holder for one large 4s battery pack or two standard 2s battery packs side by side. The holder is moulded from a harder material to reduce flex. In this configuration, the battery pack(s) is installed in this left side location together with the ESC.

The saddle pack battery layout features a new molded electronics mounting plate that is positioned next to the servo.  The speed control, receiver and transponder are all installed on this plate for easy removal and maintenance. 

The front shock tower features updated geometry with new shock mounting positions that are 8mm lower compared to previous models. The new shock geometry, combined with the improved arm stiffness, helps to improve the corner speed of the XT8’22.

Front shock absorbers were updated to match the new shorter front shock tower. Together with the lower shock towers, the shocks increase stability, corner speed and predictability on high-speed tracks.

At one of the world’s most competitive off-road races – the ROAR National Championship, it was XRAY’s Ty Tessmann who brought the ROAR National Champion title to the XT8 platform. Tested and successfully run in the highest competition races so you can enjoy the same winning platform.

Some information shown below may include details from previous kits, and it may vary slightly from current kit specifications.

The XT8 front C-hub suspension is using zero kingpin steering blocks with interchangeable steering plates and CVD drive shafts.

The super-lightweight composite zero kingpin steering blocks feature exchangeable steering plates to easily adjust the Ackermann.

The steering blocks feature an inset aluminum bushing that is molded into the steering block itself, ensuring a lightweight, precise and durable steering block assembly. This enables the kingpin screws to be firmly held in the aluminum threaded bushing while the end of the screw is self-locked in composite to prevent the screws from loosening during racing.

The molded-in aluminum bushings allow the steering blocks to turn freely ensuring precise steering reaction. The super-tiny steering blocks are molded from a lightweight yet very strong and durable composite material.

The unique C-hub suspension on the XT8 features Integrated Adjustable CasterTM which enables adjustment of the single C-block through the entire caster angle range; no optional caster blocks needed!

The C-block features an inclined kingpin design for increased steering and stability.

The C-hub suspension includes now steel caster bushings and ball mounts instead of composite versions, giving increased strength & reliability.

The rear uprights feature larger outside 8x16x5mm ball-bearings for increased reliability and life-span. To expand the set-up choices there are three roll-center adjustment positions.

The smart design allows the same upright to be used on both left & right sides. The rear uprights feature integrated geometry adjustments for camber, upper and lower roll center and wheelbase.

Two shims allow positioning the hub forward/backwards along the outer suspension pin to adjust wheelbase.

The side guards incorporate a larger bottom radius to make the truggy more stable on rough tracks, while increasing longitudinal flex. The side guards are moulded from special composite mixture for increased flex which helps to generate more traction.

The aluminum suspension holders feature Integrated Suspension Settings (I.S.S.™) which allows for super-fast & easy suspension geometry adjustment.

Using eccentric suspension bushings inserted into aluminum suspension blocks – as well as suspension shims – the XT8E suspension geometry can be completely adjusted:

• Caster
• Camber
• Front & rear toe
• Front & rear roll center
• Front kick-up
• Rear anti-squat
• Wheelbase
• Track-width

A complete set of various eccentric bushings is included for complete suspension geometry adjustment. The bushings are inserted into aluminum holders which are machined from premium Swiss 7075 T6.

The dual-arm steering system is reliable and has improved steering characteristics.

Molded graphite servo saver makes the steering more resilient & efficient in dusty conditions. The alu steering plate gives more aggressive steering characteristics, the composite upper top deck ads flex to help steering, and the steering pivot balls feature backstops for increased reliability.

Ackermann can be adjusted quickly & easily by changing steering link mounting positions on the steering plate.

Bump steer is easily adjusted by inserting shims between the graphite steering plate and steering linkage.

The XT8 features CVD drive shafts both front & rear.

All drive shafts are manufactured from world-renowned HUDY Spring Steel™, resulting in some of the world‘s thinnest yet most durable drive shafts used in off-road cars. All drive shafts and outdrives are hardened with a proprietary hardening process to provide unsurpassed lifespan & reliability.

The central larger & stronger outdrives feature protective rubber boots, thick 3mm pins, and protective locking rings.

The diff bulkheads are reinforced and strengthened for increased reliability. The bulkheads are an important chassis component, housing both the front & rear differentials and providing mounting points for the suspension mounts and shock towers.

The super-strong front & rear bulkheads can withstand rigorous impacts and other abuse during racing conditions. The bulkheads have minimized ball-bearing play, resulting in increased gear teeth lifespan and minimized gear stripping.

The high-volume gear differentials were designed for increased reliability & performance. Differentials feature high-volume cases, and larger internal gears with more teeth for improved differential movement. The larger volume of the differential and the shape of the gear teeth reduce oil overheating. To increase reliability, diff pins have stronger design. The differentials give increased traction and reliability, especially in long runs.

Internal diff gears increase differential reliability and reduce diff oil overheating. The 20T and 10T gears have a larger size and a greater number of teeth to ensure more precise fitment and engagement. Pressed-steel differential bevel and satellite gears are heat-treated and machined for superior precision and smooth operation.

Diff outdrives accommodate the stronger diff pins. The front longer diff outdrive adapters ensure that the drive shafts will not fall out, even in extreme crashes at full steering lock.

To reduce rotating weight, the super-lightweight diff outdrives are machined from HUDY Spring Steel™ which allows unnecessary material to be removed to further reduce weight without affecting durability. The inner portions of the outdrives are additionally hand-ground for maximum precision and fitment into the diff case.

All outdrives are hardened using HUDY’s own special hardening process for extended lifespan and reliability.

XT8 shock springs offer a mix of progressive & linear characteristics. XT8 springs are slightly progressive, but under more compression change characteristics to become more linear. This gives excellent feeling and feedback in all different track conditions.

These XRAY shock springs, like all other XRAY springs, are manually measured, selected and matched into pairs to guarantee precisely equal length and damping characteristics.

Two types of springs are optionally offered:

• Linear: Spring rate is constant during the entire spring compression. Springs with different spring rates are available as optional tuning parts.

• Progressive: Spring rate is not linear, but rather the spring rate get progressively heavier the more the spring is compressed. As the truggy initially enters the corner, the spring works like a softer spring to provide maximum traction. As the chassis begins to roll in the middle of the corner, the spring rate progressively increases until it works like a stiffer spring which allows the truggy to maintain maximum cornering speed.

Ultra-precise shock pistons with 6-, 8- and 10-hole options. The big-bore pistons are molded from tough, race-proven Delrin® material to provide smooth action and durability. The precision molding production process ensures perfect piston roundness, ensuring that the pistons move super-smoothly inside the shock bodies for identical, perfect action in all four shocks.

Ultra-lightweight 17mm wheel hex drive hubs with +5mm offset are CNC-machined from Swiss 7075 T6 black-coated aluminum.

The alu hex hubs are specially machined to reduce rotating weight while guaranteeing wobble-free wheel mounting.

To guarantee maximum reliability, all turnbuckles are manufactured from special HUDY Spring Steel™ material for turnbuckles with a tougher core. These turnbuckles are used for front & rear upright linkages, steering system, and servo saver.

A full set of 24 high-speed, blue-sealed ball-bearings are used throughout the drivetrain to ensure maximum efficiency. 

Spring steel anti-roll bars – carried over from the XB8 platform – are used to stabilize the truggy. The 2.6mm front anti-roll bar improves the corner speed.

The front & rear anti-roll bars are easily mounted to the diff cases and can be fine-tuned using the adjustable linkages.

Optional anti-roll bar wires of different thickness are available for fine-tuning your set-up.

The body is mounted on two strong composite body mounts with foam cushions both front and rear. There are two types of rear body mounts included depending on the type of the body used.

To help prevent rear bulkhead breakage during crash impacts, the rear wing mount features a wing holder brace that transfers crash impact energy from the wing and shock tower to the chassis instead of directly to the bulkhead.

The rear wing holder is a super-slim, 1-piece design that reduces weight and increases strength.

The complete wing mount is 40% lighter than the previous version, significantly reducing the weight behind the rear suspension and lowering the CG. The wing holder provides maximum stability while still allowing some flex during impacts.

The stylish and effective rear wing was designed to provide the appropriate amount of downforce and generate required stability for the truggy. Made from a strong special composite mixture, the wing was designed to survive severe abusive and extreme crashes while keeping its shape.

Rear wing holders are made from a special composite mixture to withstand abuse and crashes, and feature several different wing mounting positions.

HUDY Exclusive Silicone Oils are manufactured in Europe and each batch is laboratory tested and calibrated to ensure the highest possible consistency and quality from batch to batch. Based on the industry-standard cSt rating, the new line of oils will be easy to identify, adjust, and feel.

When following any set-up sheets by XRAY or XRAY team drivers, you can be sure that the oils you will get for your truggy are exactly same as those used by the factory racing team, thus ensuring very exacting set-ups and handling.

HUDY Chem Series.

The XT8 includes premium HUDY Graphite Grease - a high-performance, advanced-technology semi-fluid lubricant which incorporates both extreme pressure additives and finely-dispersed graphite for load carrying.

HUDY Graphite Grease is intended primarily for the lubrication of rotating parts and loaded gears. In addition to providing outstanding load carrying, it is formulated to have excellent adhesion and resistance from "flinging off" under extreme conditions. HUDY Graphite Grease reduces wear and increases parts life.

Click here for more information of the full HUDY Grease range

The XT8 features fully-adjustable front and rear suspension geometry: caster, camber, toe, anti-dive, anti-squat, ride height, droop, track-width, Ackermann and roll centers. For easy and fast adjustment we recommend using set-up tools and accessories from HUDY, the world leader of RC tools.

The extensive and impressive range of adjustment possibilities includes: 

• Caster
• Camber
• Toe
• Kick-up
• Anti-squat
• Ride height
• Downstops
• Track-width
• Lower roll center
• Upper roll center
• Roll center positions
• Bump steer
• Wheelbase
• Ackermann
• Adjustable shocks
• Adjustable front and rear diff
• Adjustable XRAY Multi-Flex™

The XT8 is one of the most adjustable off-road kits in the world. Whether you are a hardcore racing fanatic or a club-level sportsman, you can very easily adjust the XT8 to suit your racing style, race track type, and all track conditions. To fully understand the set-up possibilities we suggest the legendary HUDY Set-up book, loaded with over 50 pages of high-quality pictures and easy-to-read RC car set-up explanations. Whether you are a novice driver or an experienced racer, you can easily learn many set-up tips & tricks and improve your set-up skills, ultimately translating into improved racing performance with your XT8. The HUDY set-up book is available for download exclusively at www.hudy.net

Download Set-up Book

XRAY Instruction Manuals have become the industry standard, and are simply the best manuals you will ever get with an RC model car. Whether you are a first-time builder or an experienced racer, all instructions are straight-forward and easy to understand. The Instruction Manual contains large 3D illustrations that show all assembly details in the easiest and clearest manner.

Owning an XRAY model racing car is an experience unto itself. Not only will you own the most premium luxury model racing car in the world, but you will also become a member of the prestigious family of XRAY owners with direct support and service from the XRAY factory. XRAY brings you the most up-to-date RC Web site on the Internet, with daily racing news, and the latest product developments. If you have any questions, problems or comments, you can ask the XRAY Support Team or any XRAY Factory Team Driver on the XRAY Support Forum. You can even upload your own set-up sheets or download from the thousands of different set-up sheets available from around the world at the exclusive XRAY Virtual Set-up Sheet Database. And that is only the start of the VIP treatment you get by joining Team XRAY.