CEN Matrix 1/8 buggy

[PeterV]

http://www.rccaraction.com/pics/matrix-chassis.jpg



The CEN guys aren't fooling around—this C-hub machine looks ready to race. The Matrix has all the features to match the comp, including 4mm shock towers, CV-style axles (center axles too!), quad-disc brakes, low-CG 6-gear diffs, 3.5mm shock shafts, and hardened steel gears. All the plastic parts look tough too, with extra-thick rod ends and turnbuckles. A pro-level kit and RTR version with .26 engine and Airtroinics MX-3 FM radio will be available soon.
Item no. and price info to be announced.

[PeterV]

CEN says:

Matrix RTR Racing 1/8th scale buggy!

• Super Strength 4mm front and rear shock towers
• Full ball bearing drive train and steering
• CV axles front and rear
• 4 disc brake system
• Splash resistant fuel tank with added splash guard
• 22 degree caster blocks
• Front and Rear sway bars
• 3 shoe racing clutch
• Super Sleek Gun Metal anodizing with hints of Gold
• Lightweight racing rims
• Thread shocks for easy adjustment
• Fully adjustable down travel
• Low profile radio tray for low CG
• Ultra beefy Tie Rod ends for durablility
• Ultra strong 6 gear differentials
• Fast .26 Engine with (color?) cooling head
• High strength chassis stiffeners
• Fully adjustable suspension
• Thick lightweight chassis
• Tuned exhaust system
• All hard steel gears throughout the car
• Efficient Air filter
• Fuel filter included
• Thick shock shafts
• C hub design
• Tuned for racing out of the box
• Fully upgradable
• Captured rear hinge pins, no e clips needed.
• Sleek lightweight body
• Championship winning quality

[TRF TT-01]

Good features! What's the price?

[PeterV]

http://www.rccaraction.com/pics/Matrix_bodyon_big.jpg

[PeterV]

Sorry, "Item no. and price info to be announced."

[AudiTT-Quattro]

Looks competitive! Too bad it won't even be an option locally since parts support for CEN isn't very strong.

[Cain]

I know of some hobbyshops on the east coast that carried alot of CEN stuff, mainly the Fun Factor line and that touring car they came out with. This looks pretty nice. If it is durable and gets some race recognition, this could be an option.

[WheelNut]

Thats cool you can use pro-line bodies on it. Pricing on it will most likely be the determining factor.

[rcrcman]

HRP carries CEN................... any shop thats a shop at all is already setup with them, so availability shouldnt be an issue at all.

[CEN Racing]

Yes, being a fairly new name in the industry deters some shops from stocking parts. However, we have been growing exponentially and our part support is second to none. It is the hobby shops responsibility to order the parts, and it is our responsibility to provide them.

This 1/8th scale buggy incorporates the ideas and needs of all our customers with racing in mind. We strongly feel that this buggy will be a top player at the track. Thanks for your interest in our products.

CEN Racing

[Cain]

Anything else on the way from CEN, wouldn't mind seeing another 4wd electric buggy in the mix :D

[-=ADA$=-]

one question, why captured hinge pins on rear and not front, ive seen alot of popped e-clips on front hinge pins, but yet have to see one on rear.
And any close-ups available?? Looks nice but it would be nicer to see details.

[Spookypoop]

http://www.cenracing.com/cars/matrix/matrix.html

Looks alright, but if your going to do captured hingepins you might as well do the whole car, like Xray and Thunder Tiger.

[-=ADA$=-]

after closer look, ive noticed couple nice features:
wider spur gear (it wont be easy to strip gears)- good for newcomers.
it looks as there are used 3 bearings in wheel hubs (one larger)

and probably couple more that ill see later, but i really like that extra bearing on wheel shaft!!

[CEN Racing]

The larger wheel bearing allows for the rear pin in the axle to be free. The bearing is what actually holds the CV shaft pin in. What this does is offer extremely free and efficient suspension/drive in the rear.

CEN Racing

[timberwolf211]

Though I tend to think all 1/8 buggies are starting to look the same and not have much innovation to them; I like the looks of this one cause it seems to have ground clearence and not look like a touring car with big tires.

[CEN Racing]

Yes,

The Matrix is a true 1/8th scale racing buggy, built for all around use. Consumers that want to race will be very competitive. Also, consumers that want to bash, will experience great durability.

CEN

[thedarkness]

CEN I like the looks of the new buggy, Looks to be solid.Anywheer taking some pre-orders? If the price is right I want one.Also CEn you need any canadian testers haha.

[Ball Racing]

Looks like a Hyper7 and a Jammin mixed together.

[C.J.OO]

I really like the looks of that..
I wonder If CEN is looking for an Aussie Buggy racer.?.:D:D

[suckfish]

I bet CEN could use a New England driver? my schedule is free just say the word and I'll rip up the track with the Matrix !!

[winning edge designs]

It's all in the pill, "choose only one, the red one, or the blue, if you choose the blue pill you'll wake up tomorrow and forget any of this ever happened".......:), car looks good, it appears CEN has gotten some help in the appearance department, which seemed like thier only weak area, imo.........Jim

[CEN Racing]

Thanks for the comments guys! We will be starting a Pro-Team in 2006. If you think you have what it takes, email, fax, or mail your resume in to Andrew Smolnik. At CEN Racing.

Kind Regards,
CEN RAcing

[losmosis]

When, when? man I can't wait...hehehehehe It's gonna be fun fun fun...

[4DMNYC]

I gotta say...I've never been a fan of Cen products. I never liked the Genesis or any of their touring cars...but this buggy actually looks pretty awesome. I say good job Cen, way to take your products to the next level..hopefully the plastics are durable and the factory finish is better on this buggy than on all of their other rc's.

[CEN Racing]

4dmnyc,

Yes, this vehicle is developed by racers for racers so we have been extremely pleased with the results of our testing..... Production is starting very soon. In case it has slipped by, we are also implementing the Sanwa / Airtronics FM MX3 radio system with the vehicle. 75mhz

[4DMNYC]

woh^^^^ NICE...I gotta say guys, I'm realy liking this buggy. How soon before it's available?

[CEN Racing]

Production looks like it will start next month. Which means the Matrix will commeth around August.

This is the info, we have just recieved from our engineers.

We are still working on a FULL line of upgrades varying from carbon fiber to Aluminum etc etc... We would like to have these available relatively close to the original release date, if not at the same time..

CEN

[losmosis]

August is better than Dec. But I want one like yesterday..LOL

[CEN Racing]

Our Team Driver Andrew Smolnick pilot the Matrix into A-main in both the 2005 Mugen Seiki manufacture challenge and the 15th Annual Kyosho Challenge. Finished 7th and 6th.

His Matrix's chassis is pretty much stock except for the carbon fiber upgrades.

More information will be available on www.cenracing.com

[jlee]

Price available yet?.......

[CEN Racing]

RTR price will in the range of $400-450 RTR with FM Airtronics Radio, Pro-Kit will be in the $450-500 range.

[Legend_Car]

looks nice and a good price

[CEN Racing]

Definitely, Matrix is "the one". Andy Smolnick actually defeated the entire XRay XB8 team with his RTR chassis buggy.

[thedarkness]

Im suprised no one has asked this yet but will you be building and extended chassis truggy off of this platform as well.

[CEN Racing]

We are definitely working on it. It is already in the work and a prototype will be available very soon.

[elite]

I was just about to ask about a truggy......you stole my thunder thedarkness!! Will it be similar in price to the buggy (I would imagine so) and will it too be a month or so out?

Friend if mine just got a Genesis (most recent run) and is REALLY happy with it and it seems like you addressed alot of customer issues!

Im into the Storm CE and the Jammin truggy - but Id be interested to take a look at yours. Never owned CEN, maybe its time to start :)

[CEN Racing]

The truggy will be in the same price range and also include the MX3 radio system.

[mugenX5]

I got to see Andrew Smolnik with his Matrix buggy and Genesis MT this past weekend at the Monster Madness race and I all I can say is...wow! That kid can drive! I didn't get the name of the other CEN driver running the Genesis ( can't hear much over the intercomm with 10 screaming engines) but he did great as well.

Just want to say congrats to the CEN crew and hope to see you all next year.

[CEN Racing]

*Newsflash*

Andy Smolnick TQs 1/8th scale and Big Block Monster truck running his CEN Matrix Buggy and Genesis Truck. Andy took the TQ in Monster Truck over Tamiya's Jimmy Jacobsen and David Jun by more than 9 seconds in both the first and second round. Andy also won the Truggy class by 15 laps over Jimmy Jacobsen (Jimmy was not 2nd place) using his Genesis Monster truck. We would like to congratulate Andy on his success and thank him for his hard work and dedication. He really does a great job.

Also representing for CEN was William Copley whom did a fantastic job in Big Block Monster truck finishing 3rd with his CEN Genesis. William is the man responsible for the Genesis setup sheets and he has been tearing up tracks all over the Midwest for some time now. CEN would like to give William a big thank you and congratulate him on his finish as well.

Overall it was a great race for the CEN team and we can't wait for Andy to get back to Southern California so we can shower him in champagne. (Non-alcoholic of course)

[CEN Racing]

mugenX5

Thanks for the compliments. We are definitly doing out best to show everyone what our products can do. Matrix TQ the 1/8 buggy while Genesis TQ the Big Block class and took the win in Truggy class.

[LD3Furious]

I also was at Madness and got a chance to get a good look at Andrew's buggy. Looks real nice and he was super fast. Prolly would have won...I think something in the left front let go. And those rear camber links are just ridiculous!!! lol....these things are as thick as my pinkie finger...dunno if they'll be production units. Anyway...jus wanted to say Congrats as well...I like my current buggy (TTR S3) but no harm in looking ;).

[trakhak]

No mono block , or extended motor mount to reduce flex in a very critical area, rear chassis stiffener connects to a plastic subframe before attaching to the shock tower/bulkhead, hmmmmm...

[mugenX5]

I also was at Madness and got a chance to get a good look at Andrew's buggy. Looks real nice and he was super fast. Prolly would have won...I think something in the left front let go. And those rear camber links are just ridiculous!!! lol....these things are as thick as my pinkie finger...dunno if they'll be production units. Anyway...jus wanted to say Congrats as well...I like my current buggy (TTR S3) but no harm in looking ;).


No doubt he would've won, he was lapping people on the 5th or 6th lap.

[CEN Racing]

Matrix RTR C1 Racing buggy has reached the states and is now in stock!!!

We look forward to hearing the customer response! as we are confident in the Matrix!

CEN Racing

[CEN Racing]

Guys.. Check out these options parts for the matrix

http://image.rcuniverse.com/forum/upfiles/53195/Qn38443.jpg

[Scooby_WRX]

Guys.. Check out these options parts for the matrix

http://image.rcuniverse.com/forum/upfiles/53195/Qn38443.jpg

WOW!!!!!! Damn nice!!!!

[4DMNYC]

Yeah guys, very nice. I'm seriously thinking about picking one up for the spring to bash around with.

[gdc02]

A main MAXI race

1 1 76 45:19.33 Samuele Lenzi (Italy)
2 8 72 45:23.31 Miguel Villalobos (Venezuela)
3 4 72 45:34.60 Jose Zayas (USA) /Cen
4 9 71 45:23.99 Luis Perez (USA)
5 3 71 45:35.31 George Velazco (USA)
6 0 70 45:10.35 Daniel Ferreira (Venezuela)
7 5 70 45:31.82 Andrew Smolnik (USA) /Cen
8 7 70 45:32.26 Bobby Moore (USA)
9 6 69 45:00.96 Sean Kersten (USA)
10 2 49 32:33.78 Shawn Blackwell (USA) /Cen
11 ………… William Copley / Cen

[kawasakirider]

they aren't very fast according to my magazine that just did a review on it they say it does 62 kmh top speed and my lhs has a buggy called a rex-x that does 80 kmh im buying one they say its a good buggy and at the store they have every single part for every buggy they stock so i cant wait till my birthday its on the 15th ill finally be able 2 get my first nitro yay

[mugenX5]

they aren't very fast according to my magazine that just did a review on it they say it does 62 kmh top speed and my lhs has a buggy called a rex-x that does 80 kmh im buying one they say its a good buggy and at the store they have every single part for every buggy they stock so i cant wait till my birthday its on the 15th ill finally be able 2 get my first nitro yay


All in one breath. How about using these..........................when ending a sentence. Capital letters help at the start of a sentence too.

So which car are you buying, CEN or the other brand? From what I saw at the Monster Madness race, I was impressed. True, Andrews car did break ( maybe a cvd, drive cup or something) but it was probably due to the fact that he was laying down some SERIOUS power with his OPS engine ( I think thats what it was). I've broken drive cups in MBX5's, lost cvd pins, sheered pins, and a host of other problems with less power and cars that cost twice as much.

As I said before in this thread and the Nemesis thread, I wouldn't hesitate to buy one of these cars.

[kawasakirider]

Hey sorry about the missing ... and about the no capital things. Im getting the other brand

[Jay-r]

I got this from RCU accroding to CEN, The Pro Kit of the Matrix will be ready by Januray 06. Pics Courtesy of cenracing.
Some Pics of it:

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/rogeliochev/Zx70611.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/rogeliochev/Xc79054.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/rogeliochev/Sn40004.jpg

[Jay-r]

A good Read. CEN Matrix review by RC-Car Mag, courtesy of Cenracing.com.

http://www.cenracing.com/cars/matrix/rc_cen_matrix_test.pdf


Available Hop ups for the Matrix, courtesy of Cenracing and Bigsquid RC.

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/rogeliochev/matrix_up.jpg

[elite]

wow - cen is getting serious! I wish my someone would get one of these at my track - Id love to see this baby whoop some high priced buggy but!

[Mr. Schumacher]

The Pro version come with the "CAST ALUMINUM" & "PAINT IN RED" chassis braces??? Machined + anodized ones as optional parts??? Not impressed with that... :(

[CEN Racing]

Chassis Braces as well as every metal parts on the kit are 7075 material. They are machined and anodized as well.

[zakerid]

Chassis Braces as well as every metal parts on the kit are 7075 material. They are machined and anodized as well.
LOL... Impressed with the FACTS!!! :D

[Windsorguy99]

Chassis Braces as well as every metal parts on the kit are 7075 material. They are machined and anodized as well.


Just curious what machining process was used to make the chassis braces then?

looking at the top of the chassis brace where it attaches to the rear bulkhead, I can certainly see where he ssumed it to be a cast piece...(unless the interior profile was cut using an EDM sink process)...and the sheen looks more like powdercoat than anodizing...

That being said..there is a very real possibility that the pics are strictly of prototype level parts and the real deal will differ slightly...

The previous poster was only responding to the information and pictures that were posted...no need for anyone to get riled up at him...

[Cain]

Any more news on this buggy?

[peejay]

http://www.cenracing.com/frame.html


If you click "kits"
Then on the "matrix"
Then "upgrades."

There are pictures of all the upgrade parts, Including the Center Braces which are machined.

[Windsorguy99]

yes...those are the same machined braces showing on the upgrade parts picture posted earlier as well...

The brace shown in the pictures of the pro-kit does not appear to be machined...rather it looks cast and painted....again...could have just been a prototype?

[repete]

andrew did run an OPS engine for awhile last season....prolly the best engine on the market right now

[Cain]

So who has one of these buggys and is using them at the club level?

I am interested in possibly doing nitro again, and my choices to start off with would either be one of the cheaper ofna buggies or try out this new CEN buggy.

[dosser]

You can read more about it here....
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_3543888/tm.htm

[Cain]

thanks for the info. Sounds like the main issue is the gear mesh as it comes from the factory for the diffs.

Anyone know the transit time of the kit servos at 6V ?

Any plans to offer a kit version of this, non-pro version? I would really like to build it instead of working backwords tearing it down.

[Cain]

What all is included with the RTR package? Basically is there a fuel bottle, ignitor, failsafe,etc?

[mayhem3190]

I've seen two of these run and they are awesome. My friend did run a jammin and he got one of these and they are really fast!!!

[Cain]

Can you elaborate on what was really good about the vehicle in comparison to say the Jammin and a mayhem buggy? Pros, cons, etc?

Also, do you know what all was included with his package out of the box?

[peakman]

Cain, The RTR matrix comes with everything with the exception of fuel, glow ignitor and batteries for the radio and receiver. Some of the diffs have to be shimmed out to ensure that they have the proper mesh, and I should mention that these are the gears inside the diffs not the outer gears and once that happens then you can remove the shim and they are fine. I put 1 shim in each the front and rear diff and after aboug 4 or 5 tanks of running the car I removed them and the diffs were very smooth. The only kit that I am aware of is the Pro-Kit which should be available sometime later this month. Hope this helps.

[Cain]

peakman: Thank you. So I just what you listed. Any recommendations on a glow ignitor? I would want one that is long, doesn't do the screw in thing (spring loaded) and could test the plug.

Anyone know the transit time of the servos?

[Jay-r]

http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=620
Thanks RCU for the great review:)

Thanks CEN for making The Matrix![sm=thumbup.gif] another review which makes me proud to be a CEN Matrix owner

[Cain]

Ok found out what the transit time is.

Torque: 144oz at 6V
Transit: .18 sec at 6V

Thats very good for a RTR servo.

Does anyone know if the Matrix RTR comes with an electronic failsafe unit? Reason I ask is I saw an auction that was selling what they stated was an electronic failsafe unit from the nemesis and thought it may be possible its on the Matrix as well and I don't need to buy one.

[peakman]

The Matrix does not come with a failsafe unit.

[Cain]

how about a throttle return spring?

[t9dragon]

Here is a link to the Cen Racing web site

http://www.cenracing.com/frame.html

[Cain]

I am planning to use a different servo for steering, anyone go to another servo and if so what type of arm you used? will the Dynamite series of alloy one sided arms (3mm tapped) work on the Matrix or is there some modification I have to do?

Also, does the power switch by default has the charge lead already built in so you don't have to remove the receiver pack lead from the switch harness. if not, will pretty much any standard switch harness work like ones from hitec or JR?

By the way, on this buggy where is the switch exactly?

[mayhem3190]

My friend got sponsored by cen and he had a Jammin. The Cen's plastic parts like A-Arms and stuff are so much thicker and more heavy duty than the Jammin's. The only thing bad is the diff gears. The rtr gears strip easy. When he first got it, he could never get any traction. He took the center diff off to change the fluid, and one of the gears were chipped and the center diff wasnt even working. But other than that, they are awesome. At the fall Nitrofest at the farm 2, Ryan Lopez was flying with his and he had hardly even had any practice with it. I think that he finishes 4th behind Adam Drake, Chris Crews and someone else.

[Cain]

What did you notice handling wise between the CEN Matrix and the Jammin?

[mayhem3190]

the jammin seems a little better with off power steering and jumps a little better. the cen has good rough track handling and seems very stable.

[Cain]

Thanks for the info. durability is a big thing with me which from what I understand the vehicle has alot of.

Anyone know about the throttle return spring?

Anyone using a TigerDrive on this motor?

[adrianderekluna]

looks nice. for some reason the fuel tank looks fragile... is it just me?

i can't wait to drive one. when is it coming out?

[adrianderekluna]

were they shimmed accordingly?

My friend got sponsored by cen and he had a Jammin. The Cen's plastic parts like A-Arms and stuff are so much thicker and more heavy duty than the Jammin's. The only thing bad is the diff gears. The rtr gears strip easy. When he first got it, he could never get any traction. He took the center diff off to change the fluid, and one of the gears were chipped and the center diff wasnt even working. But other than that, they are awesome. At the fall Nitrofest at the farm 2, Ryan Lopez was flying with his and he had hardly even had any practice with it. I think that he finishes 4th behind Adam Drake, Chris Crews and someone else.

[Tinybaum]

I am liking this buggy, kida wished i waited for it, but I do like my truck

[CEN Racing]

Cain-

No return spring is installed but Airtrnoics MX3 FM radiois installed.

I am not sure about tigher drive will work or not but our Roto-Tech Starter will work for Matrix, Genesis, and Nemesis.

[Cain]

Thank you for the information. Reason I ask about the spring is that I saw a spring that looked like it was attached to the carb (thats what its called?) which looks like it would pull it shut.

I am looking into this Tiger Drive issue, it works for your other motors, if I find out that it does on this one I will post.

[mayhem3190]

One of the big gears on the inside the diff had a tooth chip. I think that the rtr's were just put together bad on that part. But Andrew Smolnick told him to change all of the diff gears and put lighter fluid and mess with the shims to get it smooth and it will fix the problem.

[Cain]

Well I got my matrix buggy on the way. Coming with some of the aluminum upgrades as well, for about $310 shipped RTR with those upgrades couldn't complain.

So what are some of the popular .21 engines that are being put in to the buggy?

[Tinybaum]

Cain,

Please post your review of this buggy when you get it. Buggy looks to be my next purchase, so i am very interested in hearing about this one.

What are some of the speeds that is expected from this thing?

Tiny

[Cain]

Cain,

Please post your review of this buggy when you get it. Buggy looks to be my next purchase, so i am very interested in hearing about this one.

What are some of the speeds that is expected from this thing?

Tiny

There is a review of the buggy on rcuniverse that I used to base my judgement on. If you need the link I will post.

For me with the weather as it is (snow on the ground and cold) I probably won't run the buggy for a bit but i wanted to get it so I could go through it and see what I find out about it.

[Tinybaum]

Ill have to look over on that site.. . . .thanks

When you bought the buggy how did you do upgrades to it when you bought it? Or where did you get it?

Tiny

[gdc02]

I raced my Matrix ARR for the first time Saturday at the Florida State
Nitro Series. There was 181 entires, about 80 buggys. Because there
were so many entires, there was only time for 1 round of qualifying. I
had a tire issue (right front tire feel off - doh) in qualifying, so I
only made the C-main. But I bumped up and finished 2nd in the A-main,
just 10 seconds behind JR Mitch. My car was dialed and I had the 2
fastest lap times in the 20 minute main, 1.4 seconds faster then
anyone else. The Matrix handles the bumps 100 times better then my
Xray ever did. I could drive the car harder then any car I have ever
driven.
Gene Hickerson

[Cain]

Great Job! Can you post your setup?

Also, anyone know what is the stock diff fluid configuration?

The buggy I got has the same upgrades already on it as the review on RCUniverse.

[Tabushi]

Anyone knows wich online stores in USA sell the Matrix and have good support for parts and upgrades ?.

Im from southamerica and usually my only sources are Horizon, Tower and SpeedtechRC ...

thanks,

Pat

[Cain]

Horizon I believe is carrying the buggy.

Does anyone know what version of the OS RG engine I need to be compatible with the buggy? Also, what backplate rotostart setup will work with the RG Engine?

[Jay-r]

Anyone knows wich online stores in USA sell the Matrix and have good support for parts and upgrades ?.

Im from southamerica and usually my only sources are Horizon, Tower and SpeedtechRC ...

thanks,

Pat

Hi Tabushi, try RC Customs.com, RC Discounts.com, Raidentech.com, RCPlanet.com(Lightninghobbies.com) and Horizonhobbies.com.
I got mine in ebay for $399.00+$25.00shipping=$424.00
Even though I havent run mine yet because it's currently in storage I am already VERY VERY HAPPY with it because of the response of it's owners/real world results in racing. Also it has great reviews from RC Driver mag, RC Car mag and RCU reviews.

[Cain]

There is another hobbyshop selling it on ebay for $375+$25shipped for a total of $400. I think its shipped priority mail too, not sure on that.

I was watching that link till I picked up my used version for $310 with the upgrades shipped. If I didn't get that, I would have bought that link. I got a DX-3 on the way for the buggy as well.

The nice thing I hope they carry over here is the fact that for the bigger races if your engine is the same stock model that comes with the kit RTR, you can run it at the big races.

[repete]

Cain..drop in an OPS Torque engine.

[Tinybaum]

Seems sweet, as soon as I get the things I want for my truck taken care of I do believe i will be purchasing one of these buggies. Being new i need to take it one RC at a time :D :D . . . .wonder if i can talk my girl into buying me that one too :cool: :cool:

Tiny

[Jay-r]

There is another hobbyshop selling it on ebay for $375+$25shipped for a total of $400. I think its shipped priority mail too, not sure on that.

I was watching that link till I picked up my used version for $310 with the upgrades shipped. If I didn't get that, I would have bought that link. I got a DX-3 on the way for the buggy as well.

The nice thing I hope they carry over here is the fact that for the bigger races if your engine is the same stock model that comes with the kit RTR, you can run it at the big races.

You're right Cain I just checked ebay and most of them are actually selling the Matrix for $375+$25shipping=$400, that's an awesomme deal especially for a GREAT car :)
here's the link: http://search.ebay.com/cen-matrix_W0QQfromZR40

to anybody looking for a great deal on ebay for a Matrix here they are!!!

[Cain]

If I do go with the OS RG Engine, what version should I use, the Pilot shaft version or the one with the other style shaft?

Heres my Matrix:

http://cgi.ebay.com/CEN-Matrix-RTR-1-8-Scale-4WD-Buggy-w-Upgrades_W0QQitemZ6028100284QQcategoryZ19168QQssPa geNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[Cain]

Got the info I needed and I will go with the pilot shaft version.


Anyone know off hand what the turnbuckle sizes and diameters are? I am assuming the diameter is a standard 1/8 scale size but want to make sure before I order up the lunsford equivalents.

[RacinRon]

I believe the Lunsford Kit is out now. Nitro House lists it along with the Racers Edge rear hubs in Alum.

[RacinRon]

Ignore the above post , wrong thread (Jammin CRT on my mind - oops!!)

[Cain]

No problem. Done that before too LOL!

I looked in the manual briefly but the only lengths I could fine would be what you want the turnbuckle assembled with the cups to be.

Can't wait till monday, I get my buggy!

[RacinRon]

Are you getting the new "Pro" version ?

[Cain]

nope. Don't have the cash for that but if you go to RC Universe and view the two reviews about the CEN Matrix and its upgrades, I am getting that exact buggy and the upgrades used in the review already installed.

[gdc02]

Cenmatrix

I Heard Kyosho 1piece Motormounts Could Fit The Matrix?
Is This True

[t9dragon]

Got the info I needed and I will go with the pilot shaft version.


Anyone know off hand what the turnbuckle sizes and diameters are? I am assuming the diameter is a standard 1/8 scale size but want to make sure before I order up the lunsford equivalents.

I talked to a buddy and he suggested that you go with the pilot shaft. So I guess you made a good choice.

[N2-4x4]

I saw a guy breaking one of these in at the track and it looks pretty good. The body fit was kinda weird the throttle linkage was made to stick out of the body.
It did get around really nice though.

[peakman]

Final qualifying resuts from CRCRC

1/8th A Main
Adam Drake - Jammin
Ryan Maifield - ?
Josh Wheeler - Xray
Kevin Wilson - ?
Jason Ashton - CEN
Justin Wheeler - Xray
Andrew Smolnick - CEN
Richard Saxton - TTR
Aaron Pucci - ?
Ryan Lutz - ?

1/10th truck A Main
Ryan Maifield
Jesse Robbers
Adam Drake
Alan Horne
Richard Saxton
Anthony M.
Joe L.
Curt S.
Chris King
Gomez

UNL Monster Truck A Main
Alan Horne
Ryan Lutz
Ryan Maifield
Adam drake
Richard Saxton
Matt Gosch
Sonny O.
Jamie Grayek
Matt B.
David F.

[gdc02]

does the kyosho 1 piece motormount fit the matrix ????

[Jay-r]

I just got the March 2006 issue of RCCA Mag.
they reported in the specification: Chassis being 3mm 6061 aluminum plate. ARE THEY RIGHT?
because based on CENRACING.COM/RCU review/RC CAR MAG and if I'm not mistaken RC Driver Mag they all have it as 3mm 7075 aluminum

can somebody clarify this for me please,
thanks.
Jr.

[Cain]

on CENs site it states its 3mm 7075

[gdc02]

Knuckles that fit the CEN Matrix:

Choose your color.

Racer's Edge: via 777 knuckles Hard anodized color
Fiorni Knucles via 777 Black or Blue
Hardcore knuckles work great Natural Silver
CEN Racing has CNC Knuckles RED

[peakman]

Option parts are available....not all but most of them.....Gene at machinesrchobbies has them in stock.

[Cain]

has anyone been able to get a response from CEN through there email system? I have tried messaging them a few times to see what I can expect for response time using email, but I have gotten no replys at all.

I don't mind calling, but if its an issue that a few days wait isn't a problem I am willing to just email if I can get a response back in say 3 to 4 days.

[peakman]

Quote taken from the S-grid posted by Andrew Smolnik

"The Matrix Factory Pro Kit will be at the distributors early March.

Our Truggy will be here in June. "

[Cain]

peakman: what forum are you finding that CEN responds best on?

[Cain]

Hey everyone.

I finally finished my full teardown and noticed 1 weird breakage on the kit. For part # GS060, it appears that the bearing support snapped off, and was lodged in the bearing. This was also seen by another driver and I am not sure exactly how this could have happened.

Anyone else seen this? is this an issue we should bring to CEN? I have emailed them again, but, will probably give them a call tonight about this as well since I have had no luck in receiving any email responses back from them.

[peakman]

Cain...probably RCU or give them a call if you are in need of a quicker response

Cain about GS060 I have about 4 gallons on my car without an issue

[Cain]

Thanks for the info. The others looked fine so I am figuring maybe a freak thing. I will probably just rebuy another and go from there.

[peakman]

Thanks for the info. The others looked fine so I am figuring maybe a freak thing. I will probably just rebuy another and go from there.

No problem....it's possible that it could have been something weird that might have happened.

[Cain]

I got a message back from CEN via email (hooray!) and they said to send it in to examine as they have gotten some reports of this breakage and want to check it out. They will send me out replacement parts as soon as they get the part I need.

So far so good. Too much snow here anyway so I am in no rush.

[peakman]

Quote from Andrew Smolnick regarding the Pro Kit.

"Part # for the Matrix Factory Pro Kit is CEG9553.

CEN Racing is now taking pre-order's from any and all dealers. Make
sure to let your local dealer know before they are all spoken for on
the first shipment.

"Sounds" like they are going fast. "

[ebxxxmaxx]

On the arr kit is there any servos that come with it ?

[dosser]

No!!
ARR= Almost ready to run

[CenMatrixDude]

I called the factory and they said the Pro Kit should be here this next week!

That is good news!

[dustyRC10]

Im picking up the matrix pro from here, i haven't actually recieved it yet, and i was actually going to wait for the spring to get closer to buy it, but at this price i couldn't refuse.

http://www.bizrate.com/robotic_radiocontroltoys/oid493553667__nwylf--.html

If the link doesn't work for some reason, just do a search on bizrate.com for cen matrix, and only one store pops up NITRORCX

[TTRS3kid]

wow thats a really good deal, are you sure it has everything? i think it might be a jip.

[dustyRC10]

well as soon as i get it in hand i'll let you know, should be a few days. It appears to be a yahoo store, so i'm hoping for the best. From what i understand, it should have chassis.without motor and electronics, in kit form.

[bobf24]

I think it might be a Typo, and its supposed to be a ARR kit, a buddy ordered one thgouh, try and take advantage of it while it lasts,

[dustyRC10]

yeah, kinda odd. If you go directly to the site, it think its around 4 and change, but if you use bizrate, its 199. It may a promotional thing with bizrate... I hope all works out

[bobf24]

well my friend isn't getting his kit, they emailed him back saying they were out of stock, and his order had been canceled, so I think they figured out the mistake,

[dustyRC10]

me too. But I actually picked up one on ebay for $230. I was going to fight it with yahoo stores Terms of Service agreement, but I haven't

[NIdaho Mudder]

I just tried that link an now it says 499.00

[dustyRC10]

yeah, its no longer 199. not sure what was up but its no longer valid

[CEN Racing]

We have been testing our NX-26 engine for our MATRIX TR TRUGGY...it has been working really good in the truggy. Our production engine for the Truggy will be a .28 that is very similar to our NX-26!

We just wanted our people to know that we are commited to running our engines and improving them. We may be developing a .21 engine for the 2007 or 2008 racing season. Time will tell.

CEN Racing.

[Cain]

So what is a good starting diff setup for the buggy? I am doing a complete teardown of my RTR Matrix and want to set the diffs at a nice starting level with oils I know.

[bobf24]

i'm running 5,7,3 in my diffs, but i've heard of alot of people running 5,5,5, or 3,3,3 depending on the track, i havn't tried either of those so i can't say which is better really, but I was really happy running 5,7,3 so i never flet like i needed to change them, if your on a really rough blown out track i dropped the center to 5, but same front and rear,

[Mika]

Hi guys
How do you like the CF towers on Matrix Pro ? Didn't last me too long.. switched to CNC ones which are very nice.. but slightly heavier. Do you see any benefit on CF towers? I like the looks for sure. TR Arena seems to have CNC towers in stock form instead.
I like the stock diffs now that they are run-in but have spare K diffs which I'm gonna try out when the season starts again.. Yeah, I know CEN is coming out with new Kyosho type diffs soon but it won't make a diff(erence) to mee haha..
I've been also thinking about those G Hickerson custom shock bodies.. anyone using those?
What comes to the chassis I have both S and L but I like the S kinda better ... I think it works better with the car.
One thing I'm also trying out next is a 48T spur from my ST (same size as 46T stock spur) and 14T bell to see if it's gonna make any difference..
Cya

[bobf24]

I never even ran the CF towers, I put the CNC ones on from new, I've never trusted CF for towers, I think if you are a very good driver and dont crash hard or very often they would be ok, but i'd rather be safe and run the CNC ones, the stamped RTR towers are actualyl pretty good too, a buddy ran them most season after he broke his CF ones, and didn't bend or break one,

the KMW short shocks are awsome, you will deffinatly be very very happy with them, i ran them all summer and absolutly love them, best shocks i've ever used,

[Mika]

Exact!
KMW were out of stock, where did you get yours ? Thanks

[bobf24]

i got mine from KMW, I got one of the very first production sets made,

[Cain]

If they made another version of the Matrix Pro, I would really like them to go with the CNC towers instead of the Carbon. Seems that the Carbon would be more of an option part than the CNC. If you really need to save the weight, then you upgrade to those. For most I think, CNC would be the way to go.

[Andrew Smolnik]

Cain,

I will make that proposal. I think it is a good idea. I do not run the Carbon Fiber shock towers unless I know the type of track I am racing at. Of course lighter shock towers are better, but on tracks with alot of jumps and alot of animation, running the CF towers can be risky.

I run the CNC Towers on most tracks.

However, I use the CF towers on flatter less animated tracks.

[Cain]

Thats great to hear. I really like the build on my Matrix. It just feels right and I can't wait to just get it out there and let it all hang out.

So what is going with new diff gears? Also, when they say grease in the diff, what kind is that?

[Mika]

That's great to hear Andy! Thanks!