SERPENT COBRA SRX8 GTE 2023 4WD 1/8 EP

Serpent SRX8 GTE '23 1/8 4wd EP 

The SRX8GTE 23 is our most advanced electric GTE to date. The SRX8GTE 23 shares many new features from our recently released and highly evolved SRX8GT 23 nitro version. The SRX8GTE 23 shares design details, components from every evolution of SRX8 whether be on-road or off-road version, along with new ones never seen before on any previous model. Since the beginning of the 1/8th GT Electric category, Serpent has stood strong with class leading technology, designs and the absolute performance on the track. Without any doubt, the latest SRX8GTE 23 model, is the best we have ever created for the category and feel confident you will enjoy winning races with it. 

All New Bulkheads: 

We know, we know, everyone has aluminum bulkheads now; you re welcome, well kind of. We have learned so many things over the past 4 years. With that being said, it was time for us to go another direction, with nothing but sheer performance in mind. Some good things have to come to an end, in order for even greater things to begin. The all new bulkheads are made from a hybrid arrangement. 

This hybrid arrangement is a win on many, many fronts: 

1) We win huge in the weight department 

2) There is still heat dissipation on the pinion 

assembly due to the 7075-T6 pinion mount 

3) Pinion assemblies height adjustment can be done 

with minimal effort, less parts and in less 

time. 

4) All the parts needed for you to adjust the diff 

height are going to be included in the kit with 

no additional cost. This is both for the pinion 

and differential. 

5) Lower CG 

In the end, it was an absolute win for everyone. We have achieved even lighter weight, than when using the magnesium options we sold before; all the while winning on the 5 above mentioned areas. Those are the main areas that improve, however you will also gain on the track with even quicker acceleration and higher potential top speed. This alone, will give the SRX8GTE 23 a huge advantage, you have never been able to utilize before. With no doubt in our minds, your racing is going to go to the next level. 

Chassis: 

On the new SRX8GTE 23 model we have extended the chassis an additional 2mm for improved handling. This places the wheel base at 230mm +/- 2.5mm. In addition to the improved handing, there is now more space between the batteries and the motor shaft and pinion. The shape has also been updated to accept our new front/rear pivot bracket as well as increase strength at the narrow area at the front bend. 

The rear shape has also been changed to better align the droop screw at the rear for better alignment with the arm. With small improvements on the chassis, you can gain slightly better overall performance, improve wear and have an easier time adjusting your gear mesh. 

Mountable Chassis Weights: 

The SRX8GTE 23 chassis comes equipped with holes pre drilled into the chassis for optional weights. At Serpent we understand the need for being able to adjust the weight distribution of your racing machine. This SRX8GTE 23 will be no exception as you can add a 25-gram weight to the front and/or rear. The weights will be sold as optional s but the chassis is ready to accept them. 

All New Split Center Diff : 

Since the very beginning of the SRX8-E, SRX8T-E, and then ultimately the SRX8GTE we had a well designed and universal center diff and motor mount. Now the time has come to improve on an already great design. With easier access to the center diff, no matter the configuration, less overall parts and lower maintenance times the all new center diff mount was born. 

You can still use any battery layout and motor layout as you did before, but now the assembly process has been updated. The weight has also been reduced slightly on the mount and also the mountable sides. 

Lighter Motor Mount and Slide: 

When we updated the Split center diff design we also had to change the design of the already reliable motor mount. With the existing slide system and 1 screw holding already being a great staple, we kept that the same. However, the motor mount s shape has been also changed to accept the new split diff and has been lightened in the process to reduce weight. 

SRX8GTE Solid Center Axle Assembly V2: 

The SRX8GTE 23 model comes fully equipped with the latest V2 solid center axle technology. Originally we had only 44t diff gear mounted to an older hub design. This really limited the customers on the gearing choice across a variety of battery voltage options and tracks of various sizes. Now you will be able to choose between not only the tooth count of the gear, but also the type of material the gear is made of. 

A 44t nylon gear is included into the kit, but you also have 36t, 38t, 40t and 42t plastic gears to choose from that all fit the SRX8GTE 23. In addition to those plastic gears you will also be able to fit 36t, 38t, 40t, 42t and 44t Steel versions for super high traction applications like drag racing or where more durability is needed. 

New Light weight Rear Bodymount: 

The rear body mount on the SRX8GT was a carryover part from the original S811GT. Although it was a great way to save money on molds, we were somewhat married to that part at that time. Since the SRX8GT was such a hit as well as successful, it really has opened up the doors for more future upgrades. In regards to the body mount we wanted to reduce weight while keeping it strong, but also durable at the same time.. We went with a light weight molded lower, and a carbon fiber upper. The hybrid concept again lives strong in this body mount. We also wanted to incorporate the ability to put rearward facing posts to prevent body tucks during racing. With that being our criteria, a new lightweight more versatile rear body mount was born. As mentioned many times before, the SRX8GTE 23 has been born purely with innovation, performance, reliability and ease of use in mind. This new body mount checked all the boxes. 

New Front/Rear Pivot: 

A much needed upgrade at the front end is the all new Front/Rear Pivot block and updated inserts. On the previous GT there was no way to simply adjust the pivot without removing the entire block. 

The design was changed to have 2 more inserts to further refine the Roll Center. In doing this it allows even more adjustment in finer increments. The original 0 insert is still in its original position, while you have a 1 and a 2 insert to further raise the pivot pin without the need for a spacer. If you wish to raise it even more, you can still use the 1mm RC spacer as well. Also the chassis has been changed to increase the strength under the pivot block for even more durability. 

All New Adjustable Caster Blocks: 

When we asked the Racing team what suspension they wanted or what we needed to do, they simply said we think we have the best suspension . Although they were satisfied with the suspension, we had plans of our own to put it on an entirely new level. We wanted to do something not seen on a c hub style caster block, as well as make the caster so easy to adjust you could literally do it in the warm-up of a race if you had to. With a few versions under our belt and a bit of testing we were able to achieve a really nice result. 

The caster block is now fully adjustable from 0-10 degrees in 2.5 degree increments. You can change it within 2 screws per caster block and easily have it done in a matter of seconds. The left and right side caster adjusters are laser etched for easy identification. Aside from the looks, the caster block is super strong, maybe stronger now than before, so finishing races should not be a problem here. These new adjustment will make it even easier to fine to your cars steering to get the maximum result possible on the lap counter all the while spending less money to do it. 

New Steering Block: 

In upgrading the caster block, we also have to do an upgrade on the steering block in order to make our dream a reality. Although there is not a ton here new, the steering blocks retains the Delrin bushing to rotate on the new pivot balls designed for the adjustable caster block. These bushings are larger in diameter to give maximum support on the spindle and reduce the amount of play in the spindle assembly. The steering block will still incorporate all the original Ackerman arms, so you won t need to buy any extra or new ones there as your old ones carry over. 

You can still use your 0,1,2,3, and 4 Ackerman arms to fine tune your steering geometry to suit your needs or any track condition. 

All New shock body, piston and Shaft: 

Shocks are a big deal?.They control pretty much everything going on in a model race car. Anytime you can improve that aspect, you can improve the handling and performance of the car, let alone the lap time. It has been a long time since we were able to improve in this area, as so many cars used the older S811GT and SRX8GT shock. On the new SRX8GTE 23 car, we really wanted to improve this area. The plan was to reduce the friction on the shaft, increase the volume of the shock and give even more tune ability to the drivers. 

For the shock on the 23 models, we have gone from a 4mm shock shaft to 3.5, switched from a molded piston to a fully machined Delrin piston, removed the old large o rings and replaced them with 2 new X-rings. This new shock is super smooth, has more volume and overall a substantial upgrade in performance. 

Improved rear torsional flex: 

Part 1 

Flex is a big deal, and we were not shy about improving rear grip and cornering force here. We narrowed the rear top deck by a small margin to improve the flex at the rear of the vehicle. In doing so, overall grip and lap times have been improved. 

Improved rear torsional flex: 

Part 2 

At the front and rear of this Asphalt slaying machine we took some pride in trying to have as symmetrical flex possible. In testing it was shown to have a positive effect on lap times as well as handling left and right into a corner. This SRX8GTE 23 utilizes a top deck that is mounted directly to the center bulkhead as well as the rear bulkheads. The chassis uses the twist of the top deck mounted in the center of the chassis to control the twist of the chassis while still providing super stiffness front to back. With Controllable twist, you can generate more cornering force, while still having the front to back stiffness; you can further enhance the grip out of the corners. Don t be afraid to crack open the throttle out of the corners or push harder than ever before in the corners. This baby will take all you can give it. 

Heavy Duty Driveshafts: 

With the tracks continuing to evolve as well as the developments in new rubber compounds for racing, the load has never been higher on the driveshaft s than they are now. In order to meet the ever changing and demanding grip levels, we have upgraded the driveshaft balls from 9mm to 10mm. With the additional diameter, the pin has more surface material to operate on, reducing wear on the internal slot s surface This affect reduces a locking affect and increases smooth operation. 

While the diameter of the ball has been changed, the pin for the driveshaft has also been increased from 2.5mm to 3. The end result is a longer life, smoother operating driveshaft that is more consistent in a much broader array of conditions. When your lap times depend on being consistent, be rest assured this new SRX8GTE 23 is doing its part to help you. 

Rear Polycarbonate Differential Cover: 

When it comes to racing, rules can be expected to change over time as things begin to evolve. From the conception of the original Aluminum bulkheads on the SRX8GT to now, ROAR and IFMAR are requiring manufacturers to cover the rear differential. The main reason is safety for turn marshals, although there have been some other less flattering reasons for the rules creation as well. Either way, rules are rules and we intend to follow them and set an example for everyone else to follow. The polycarbonate cover can easily be removed by 2 small screws and also painted if you wish. It will serve to honor the rule governing bodies as well as add additional protection for the differential from debris in less than ideal conditions. 

Fully adjustable Suspension mounts vertically mounted Part 1: 

When racing in a large variety of conditions, we understood the need to have the suspension brackets vertically adjustable so you can fine tune your GT. These suspension brackets are made from 7075-T6 aluminum alloy. Although RC shims are no longer in the kit they can be purchased separately to even further adjust the roll center. 

You can adjust the front kick up, front anti-dive as well as the rear anti-squat or pro-squat, depending on what you need. Without any doubts, we had to carry this over to the new SRX8GTE 23 model 

Complete set of Inserts for Suspension Adjustment 

Part 2: 

The 7075-T6 brackets also allow you to fully adjust the front kick-up from0,0.5,1,1.5 and 2 degree in increments of 0.5degree. 

The rear anti-squat is no different as you can adjust that from 1,1.5,2,2.5,3 degrees, and the rear toe-in adjustment can be made, 2,2.5,2.75,3,3.25,3.5 and 4 degrees using the inserts provided in the kit. With so many inserts available to you as well as the ability to purchase the RC shims, there is absolutely no way, you will be limited in your quest to dominate your local track. 

Differential and Pinion Height Adjustment: 

Although it s still hard to believe, the SRX8GTE 23 continues to be one of a few cars with adjustable diff height without changing any other geometry as a bi-product. The SRX8GTE 23 not only has 4 adjustable diff positions, but it will also come with easy access differentials. The 4 adjustment positions will allow the racer to fine to his model race car from the lowest grip, all the way to the highest grip conditions. Both the front and rear bulkheads share the same. 

Diff inserts, and input assembly holders, to minimize extra parts and to maximize your racing fun. The diffs both front and rear can be removed and replaced in a matter of seconds. This gives you no reason not to freshen up, fine tune or rebuild your differential. 

0 Degree Steering System: 

A continued tradition to the SRX8GTE 23 is the flat steering system. Since minimal kick-up angles are used there was no need to have the angled steering system seen on our Off-road cars. We took the successful steering system from our SRX8 and SRX8e and created a version specifically for our GT car. Not only did it allow us to continue to use our existing Ackerman plates, but it also allowed us to lower the CG of the bulkheads and further enhance this cars ability to corner with less body roll. Keeping the most consistent Ackermann curves helps to ensure you are getting exactly what you expect with no surprises, when you approach a turn, travel through and then exit. The end outcome is more efficient cornering with less tire wear. 

HTD High Volume Differentials: 

We manned up here, and went back to the drawing board and completely re-tooled our differential approach. The internal gears are a staggering Mod 1.25 which puts them at the largest in the market place. With a maximum engagement surface on the tooth for earth shattering oil shearing, coupled with larger volume housing, these differentials reduce any fading or loss of performance. 

The internal ratio is industry 10/20. Make no excuses now boys, these babies will deliver the performance when you need it most. 

Aluminum upright with carbon brackets: 

The aluminum uprights open the door of infinite possibilities. Not only can we adjust the Camber link position in new areas we have never before, they also retain the original geometry you might already like. This new design gifts us the freedom to quickly change the geometry on future versions if necessary. The latest geometry has been tested vigorously and proven race result after race result, it works. More traction and better tire wear over long mains. 

Adjustable Flex suspension arms: 

The front and rear suspension arms, both feature arm plates that can be added, removed or swapped out for Carbon fiber. 

This feature can be used for a host of reasons, which can include looks and or performance. Depending on your grip level and track surface, you can adjust the stiffness of the SRX8GTE 23 arms. Generally stiffer arms have a more linear feel but can reduce grip. 

This happens by forcing the shock to do more work. A softer arm can increase grip by reducing the shocks importance, but can also give the car a less direct feeling. All of these adjustments can have a huge impact on your lap time and results. 

Oversized Front Bumper: 

We supply an oversized large foam bumper in the kit. The bumper is firmly mounted between the upper and lower bumper. This solid mounting allows you to take more direct impact and ensure your car will be properly protected. The bumper can be trimmed to fit most if not all bodies currently in the market. 

High Air Flow Rear Diffuser: 

Also the rear diffuser is still a standard part in the SRX8GTE 23. Testing showed amazing results with this upgrade. More stability, ease of driving, better air flow in and out of the body and faster lap times. The performance is most noticeable on super high speed tracks through on the main straight and even on tracks with high speed switch backs. 

Ball Raced Sway bars: 

If you have a good thing, let s keep it going... That is exactly what we did with the ball bearing raced sway bars. We introduced this first the 1.8thoffroad and then followed that up into GT. Both the front and rear suspension will get the same treatment. 

The sway bar will be securely fastened and the left and right play can be adjusted. You can be rest assured there is not un-necessary friction and your roll bar is fully operation when driving your race car. 

Captured adjustable sway bar pivotballs: 

In addition to the ball raced roll bars. The arms have a captured pivot-ball for the sway bar. This design allows you to adjust the play of the ball as well as make sure you have no binding in any direction when your suspension operates. The plastic nut, keeps the ball retained into position. You can replace the plastic cap with an aluminum optional version if you like a more secure nut. 

Adjustable and lockable Body posts: 

The Gt also comes with fully adjustable front and rear body mounts, and platforms. The platforms are oversized to make sure the body had plenty to rest on and held in place with a sold metal pin. The posts themselves are extra-long so that they can be cut to length depending on what body you prefer. 

The posts themselves have many holes in them to select the height you need and are locked into position by way of a 10mm cap head screw. This locking will prevent the body from adjusting in a collision or crash. 

Fully Machined Servo Mount: 

In order to fully utilize our steering system and make sure this model does exactly as you command. The steering servo is mounted to a beautifully crafted 1 piece servo mount made from 7075-t6 aluminum. That mount then is directly mounted to the chassis to create the most solid foundation a servo could ask for. If precision is something you want in your RC model, look no further, this SRX8GTE '23 is for you. 

Low CG battery mounting: 

When Center of Gravity (CG) and weight distribution have huge effects on how an RC car will perform, why not maximize it. In the GT class where you race on high grip asphalt and the cars ability to corner depends on how well it can utilize the tires. We simply say? lower is better , generally speaking the higher the grip the bigger the advantage of low CG. This SRX8GTE 23 has the batteries mounted directly on the chassis; it can t get better than that. The batteries are secured in place by plastic mounts and then fixed into position with Velcro straps. Just remember, race cars are built for performance, not luxury. 

New Optional Upgrades: 

Optional Internal Ratio: 

Every year new engines are being developed as the Engine manufactures squeeze more power or RPM out of a .21 sized nitro engine. It could also be that more short tracks are running GT than ever before. Either way, it was very important that we keep up on what is happening in the market. The GTE has an internal ratio of 13/44, and it was great for a majority of conditions, however, times have changed and a larger range is needed. On the SRX8GT 23 model we made an optional ratio 12/44, creating a class specific ratio which will also fit this GTE version. Although it seems like a minor change, the on track performance can be quite huge. The outcome would be more acceleration with reduced load on the engine. This will allow you to utilize different ratio splits, or even different fuel mixtures that can result in longer run times. In the end, it s another win for the proud owner of this all new SRX8GTE 23. Disclaimer: Gears pictured are straight cut gears, gears included in the kit will be Zerol Cut Spiral gears. 

Lightweight Outdrives and Centering Cross Pin: 

When lap times matter most as any level racer would agree, consistency lap after lap would be of top priority. Being the first company to introduce this system into 1/8th onroad GT we are confident they will not only improve lap time, but life of your differentials. Creating more of a solid axle effect, while still allowing differential action, these all new lightweight outdrives and 1 piece crosspin are a huge improvement in performance. Reducing binding on the internal gears and outdrives, the diff runs smoother longer without any premature damage. These are an absolute game changer for GT enthousiasts. 

Optional Turnbuckle Top Decks: 

Performance driven by demand and innovation is of top priority here. As drivers competed with the SRX8GTE in previous years, they were looking for ways to adjust the flex at the front and or rear of the past GT models. After careful consideration and a nice way to execute the all new Turnbuckle top decks were born. With minimal new parts and ease of assembly, you can quickly change the flex of the front and rear in a matter of minutes. With this all new option you can take your SRX8GTE 23 to all new heights no matter what traction condition you are racing in. 

Optional Carbon Fiber Battery Holders: 

When it comes to cool, these all new Carbon Fiber battery holders really take the cake. Customers and racers wanted something more flashy but also functional. With the velcro system, you put a lot of pressure on the chassis and makes getting neutral flex more difficult to achieve. With the swinging carbon holders, you can secrure the battery but allow it to have some float. This float allows the chassis to have more controlled flex so you can extract more performance. Not only do they look smashing, they can improve the performance. 

Optional Aero Front Bumper: 

The faster you go the more down force and aerodynamics matter. At Serpent we understand that as well as anybody. In order to achieve the down force and flow of air we wanted, we constructed an entirely new High airflow front bumper. This bumper does a fantastic job of channeling the air under that chassis. 

Not only does it improve air flow, but increases downforce. We were able to achieve higher top speed as well as corner speed with our all new aero bumper. 

Conclusion: 

GT and GTE racing has now become one of the largest growing classes in RC racing. Serpent as a company is proud to have been part of its growth over the last, 5 plus years. With the demand performance in the category, and as the class continues to grow, we are excited to continue to push the envelope in the design and innovation in the market. For decades we have understood the need to produce race winning cars, concepts, ease of assembly, durability and so much more. With so many new innovations on the SRX8GTE 23 , we are proud of what has been created and are confident it will elevate your racing game. Regardless of your skill or how often your race, If sheer performance is what you demand and expect, the all new SRX8GTE 23 is everything you have ever asked for. 

We are sincerely grateful you have chosen the explore this great machine and look forward to seeing you at the races. 

Sincerely, 

Billy Easton 

Serpent Engineer