After about two years so far I've...
Moved the XT8 to a generic Chinese CG5 clone GEM mount with Orion tube rings and a 13" dovetail. Motorized the rig with a Sidereal Tech controller, homebrew motors, encoders, handpad. The darned rig actually works (mostly)
Upgraded the focuser with the Orion low rise two speed Crayford. (very nice but $$$)
Added a 6mm Orion "Edge" planetary eyepiece. So sweet!
(Eyepiece and focuser upgrades made a huge difference in enjoyment!)
Mogg-Adapted a Logitech webcam for prime focus
Figured out how to control the scope and stream video from over 802.11 (wi fi)
Projects in progress...
Converting to a strut OTA for the Synta mirror, secondary, focuser. (for transport)
Improving the CG5 clone with bearings, better motors and worm boxes.
Building a wireless motorized altaz mount with slip recovery
Making an autoguider out of an old camcorder.
Remote focus controls.