Introduction
Xcel 3/4 Modifieds are designed (like their smaller predecessor) after a full-sized dirt modified. They have a full adjustable suspension and offer many of the characteristics of their bigger cousin but in a package that is easier to maintain and much more cost effective.
This is where the similarities start to go a different direction. Xcel 3/4 Modifieds are gear toward more experienced drivers who want to drive an 8-cylinder car and have the speed and experience it gives, but do not want to spend upwards of $40K to for a big block modified to get started.
More manageable in size make everything simpler. Every aspect of the new design has been engineered for cost, safety and speed.
Just like a crate sportsman, some aspect will remain stock. Unlike a crate sportsman weight to speed ratios will show this car is going to be considerably faster.
Cost isn’t just a passing thing: Many of the components of this chassis were specifically chosen for value and strength. The 13″ steel wheels are readily used in other series and a very low cost option compared to the aluminum counterparts. We partnered with Winters to find the right combination of trans/rear power train components. Best part is all of the components are readily available.
Where is the development of this car at as of now?
Here is a rough timeline of the Xcel 3/4 Modified.
| 11/2021 | Concept/Design | |
| 02/2022 | Prototype | |
| 05/2022 | Prototypes (3) | Work on readying three prototypes for testing |
| 06/2022 | On Track Testing | Test and Tune cars adjusting making final adjustments to design |
| 06/2022 | Production | Offer sales and run exhibition races to showcase new series growing the car count as new cars are purchased. |
Where are you at right now?
- The frame has been designed and prototypes created. The table jigs have all been developed along with the designs and are fully functional for future builds that will be faster and more efficient.
- The motor(s) are in shop and when all of the components are solidified are ready to install
- The drive shaft is development and has been going back and forth to the fabricator for final design
- Body style has been determined. Body will mirror Xcel Modifieds, minus the roof.
- Hoosier wheel sizes and rubber grade has been determined
- Steering, suspension, drive train and other areas are chosen and most if not all are in-shop
How many are there going to be on the track this year?
That is an excellent question that unfortunately we cannot answer honestly right now. We could embellish and tell you fantastic projections and you would probably balk.
So, let’s be real and just say there is sincere genuine interest (not just from current Xcel owners) and we have at least three ordered, with at least 4 more on order.
As with all things new, people want to see the thing before committing which is why we are working on getting from concept to prototypes.
Realization is that it will take time to build out the program and we are committed to doing just that. The first year that the car is on the track will generate excitement and used to showcase what it can do.
We will say that like a kickstarter, there are benefits to getting in early as the price will go up once development is done. Those who are in early are paying a reduced rate – you could too!
This page will update as the progress is gained. In addition, we will post information on our THIS WEEK.. page and share news and video as the car is realized.
CHASSIS: 1 1/2″ 095 Tubular | Jig Built | Powder Coating Included
BODY: 04D Aluminum | Each body built in-house by Xcel Chassis | Many color choices
XCEL DIMENSIONS: XXXX” Front to back | XXX” Wide WEIGHT: XXXlbs (no driver)
POWER: General Motors 5.3 Liter LS V8 (327cu.in.)
RADIATOR: XXX Radiator
FUEL: 87 Octane Gasoline | 4 Gallon fuel cell
SAFETY: Fire suppression system with fuel shut valve
DRIVE: Winters Falcon Transmission | Hi/Lo with Reverse
REAR AXLE: Winters Xcel Chassis Quick Change Rear
FRONT SUSPENSION: 3-Link | 6″ Coil Over Bilstein Shocks (by Xcel Chassis)
REAR SUSPENSION: Wishbone Link | Aluminum Birdcages | Adjustable Panhard Bar | 6″ Coil Over Bilstien Shocks
REAR BRAKES: Wilwood High Volume Master Cylinder | Wildwood Dynalite Caliper | 9″ or 10″ Rotor
SHOCKS: Xcel Chassis Spec 6″ Travel Steel Bilstein Shocks
TIRES: Xcel Chassis Spec Hoosier Tires
WHEELS: 13 Steel Wheels
ELECTRICAL: Xcel Chassis Spec Wiring Harness | Motor Rev Limiter | Xcel Chassis Seal
STEERING: GME 12:1 Ratio Power Steering
SAFETY HARNESS: 5-point Seat Belt
DRIVERS SEAT: Kirkey High Back Aluminum Racing Seat w/ Cover
FIRE SUPPRESSION: Recommended 2021 – Required 2022
Xcel 3/4 Chassis Frame
Frames are cut and bent in shop from 1-1/2″ 095 tubing and then fit on a jig and welded to ensure uniformity.
Each frame is then quality checked, and a number welded for identification.
When the frame is complete it is sent out to a local partner of Xcel Chassis for powder coating.
If a frame is damaged during competition, Xcel Chassis can determine the best course forward. For example, straighten a bent area using the jig, or replacing a clip. If the frame is beyond repair maybe recommending replacement or another course of action.
Suspension
Suspension in and Xcel feature adjustments for ride height, weight transfer and spring rates.
Bilstein has partnered with Xcel Chassis and designed a spec shot specifically calibrated to the car size and track requirements.
The same shock is on all four corners, and each is stamped by Bilstein so they cannot be tampered with. Spec shocks is one of the key methods Xcel keeps cost in check.
Rear Suspension
- Wishbone Link
- Aluminum Birdcages
- Adjustable Panhard Bar
- 6″ Coil Over Bilstien Shocks
Front Suspension
- 3-Link Aluminum Spindles and Hubs
- 6″ Coil Over Bilstien Shocks
Motor
GM 5.3 Liter V8 Small Block
- 327 cu.in.
- Xcel Sealed Motor Program
The Xcel Chassis 3/4 Modified will feature a spec version of the GM 5.3 Liter V8. The power to weight ratio with this engine will lightning fast for sure.
Cockpit
Drivers enter and Xcel Modified via the top of the roll cage.
With different seats and adjustments drivers of all sizes from youth to large adults are regularly competing.
Adjustments in the car include seat size, pedal lengths and steering column angle.
Electrical switches are kept to a minimum and mounted in the dash along with a temp gauge.
Driver will have forward and reverse gears.
Safety
Racing is inherently dangerous. Xcel 3/4 Modifieds are built with safety as a foremost concern. The welded 1 1/2 inch 095 tubular steel is created in a way to absorb impacts prior to getting to the cockpit.
Xcel has been upgrading and improving safety features as long as there have been cars on the track. Learning from incidents new procedures and upgraded chassis improvements do what can be done to lessen the chance of injury.
In addition to the car design, systems like fuel cells designed not to leak in the event of a roll over, task specific fuel connections and emergency fuel shut offs are part of the program.
Drivers are required to certify belts and safety equipment annually. Head & neck restraints are mandatory. The Xcel 3/4 Modified will come with a fire suppression system as part of the car.
The Rest
This area will be updated. The rest.. is still being decided
Check back and you will see a progress determines the finer points that they will be inserted here and on the other tabs in this section