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What are the differences between the original version of the Schumacher cat xls and the one relaunch in 2017 as Masami version?

This is just a placeholder answer until the real experts chime in with all of the details.

Not much at all was changed. Schumacher re-res are some of the most accurate, for better or worse. The Masami accommodates LiPo batteries. The screws are JIS vs flathead. The Masami also uses nuts and bolts to secure the front diff instead of screws (this makes front belt adjustment easier). A couple of holes in the chassis were moved a tiny bit, but I forget the details on why. The steering link on the re-re is "wrong". It is the shorter one from the earlier CATs, but apparently that is what was on Masami's CAT at the 87 World's, so Schumacher included it in the re-re. That is an amazingly accurate detail, or just stupid, depending on your personal view. Factory Works will sell you the proper one for a runner. The tires are softer compound.

That is all that comes to mind. There are some real experts on here though that will have more details. @LurkingCAT has some excellent CAT info in this thread: https://www.rc10talk.com/viewtopic.php?t=50034&hilit=t402

@TokyoProf opens up a time capsule here: https://www.rc10talk.com/viewtopic.php?p=582241&hilit=CAT+XLS#p582241

Thank you so much!!

Cheers!!

Rafa