6
Softer Springs
: Engage the clutch at a lower rpm and provide a smoother power band but often less vigorous acceleration. If the
engine doesn’t have enough low-end power try running more preload (the same size spring with more angle) or a stiffer (thicker wire
size) spring.
Stiffer springs
: engage at a higher rpm and allow the car to launch harder but this is often accompanied by wheel spin and
momentary loss of traction. You should also be careful not to go too stiff with the clutch springs as this can cause the clutch to slip and
prematurely wear out the clutch shoes.
Clutch Shoes
: The L8IGHT is equipped with two aluminum shoes that allow smooth progressive clutch engagement. Two composite
shoes are included for your tuning as note. Both composite and aluminum clutch shoes are available for use in the 8IGHT 4-shoe
clutch. Two of each of these are usually best for tuning and wear characteristics but both can be used seperately or in fours. If the
track surface is very loose or rough we have found that four plastic shoes will allow more slip and smoother acceleration. Running all
four aluminum clutch shoes will have the quickest and hardest hitting clutch action with the most punch. This isn’t as good on slick or
rough tracks where you need a longer smoother clutch engagement with less wheel spin.
Gearing
: The stock gearing for the 8IGHT is 14/48 which is a good all-around ratio for acceleration and top speed. If you are running
on a smaller track or need more low-end power/acceleration, a 13-tooth clutch bell is recommended but be aware that although the
acceleration increases the top speed will be less. Similarly, if you are running on a longer track with sweeping corners you may want to
try using a 15-tooth clutch bell for added speed without over-revving the engine. Be very careful not to over-gear the engine as it will
cause poor acceleration, overheating and prematurely wear out the clutch shoes and bearings.
Brake Setup:
The standard suggested brake bias for the 8IGHT is 60% rear - 40% front. If you need the model to rotate more under braking, adjust
the linkage for less front brake and more rear brake. If the L8IGHT is loose entering turns under braking, adjust the linkage for less rear
brake or more front brake.
Outdrives and Traction:
When your 8IGHT is new it will have more chassis roll and be a little loose on throttle due to the lack of friction in the outdrives and
crossbones. After about 45-60 minutes of running, these parts wear into each other and the 8IGHT will gain traction and stability.
Replacing worn out outdrives and crossbones with new parts will provide more corner speed.
Clutch:
The 4 shoe clutch system is far advanced over the norm allowing much greater tuning with
easily made changes. This includes both the clutch shoes and the clutch springs. (Photo 21)
Springs
: You have four different color coded clutch springs to choose from. As seen in the table
the softest are the .036in “Black” and slightly harder “Green” springs that have more preload
(angle). The harder springs are the .040in “Gold” and hardest “Silver” (more angle).
Clutch spring table
LOSA9112 .036in Black - Soft
LOSA9113 .036in Green – Medium (Soft with more preload)
LOSA9114 .040in Gold - Hard
LOSA9114 .040in Silver - Hardest (Hard with more preload)
20
19
21
Down
Up
