Unboxing and Testing the Impressive FMS FCX18 LC80 1/18 Scale Crawler
As an avid RC enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for the latest and greatest radio-controlled vehicles to add to my collection. When the team at FMS reached out and offered to send me their new FMS FCX18 LC80 crawler, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to put this mini off-road beast through its paces. After all, who doesn’t love unboxing a shiny new RC toy?
The FMS FCX18 LC80 is FMS’s take on the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser 80 series, built at a 1/18 scale. From the moment I laid eyes on the sleek blue body, I knew this was going to be a special crawler. But looks can be deceiving, so I was eager to dive in and see how it performed on the trail.
Unboxing the FMS FCX18 LC80
When the package arrived, I couldn’t wait to tear into it. Lifting the lid revealed a beautifully presented Toyota-licensed replica, complete with a detailed user manual and all the necessary accessories. The first thing that struck me was the quality of the components – this was no cheap toy, but a well-engineered piece of RC equipment. Check out my review on the LDRC 18499 to compare, because the FMS FCX18 LC80 is a massive step up in quality and specification.
Pulling the FCX18 out of the box, I was immediately impressed by the heft and solidity of the chassis. The metal frame and oil-filled suspension gave it a premium feel that belied its compact 1/18 scale. And the attention to detail on the body was simply stunning, with realistic panel lines, grille, and even Toyota badging.
- Detailed 1/18 scale Toyota Land Cruiser 80 body
- Robust metal chassis with oil-filled suspension
- Included 2S 900mAh LiPo battery and fast charger
- 4-channel radio with dual-rate steering and throttle controls
- Two-speed transmission with high and low gearing
- Portal axles for increased ground clearance and traction
As I continued to unpack the contents, I was pleased to find a comprehensive set of accessories. The included radio controller felt solid and responsive, with intuitive steering and throttle controls. And the 2S LiPo battery, along with a fast charger, meant I could get this crawler up and running right away.
One of the standout features I discovered was the two-speed transmission. Many 1/18 scale crawlers skimp on this, but the FMS FCX18 LC80 comes equipped with both high and low gearing – a real boon for tackling challenging terrain. Combined with the portal axles, this little rig looked primed and ready to take on some serious obstacles.
Putting the FMS FCX18 LC80 to the Test
With the unboxing complete, it was time to put the FMS FCX18 LC80 through its paces. I started by setting up a small obstacle course in my office, complete with ramps, tubes, and a few strategically placed blocks to see how the crawler would handle.
Powering on the radio and the crawler, I was immediately struck by the responsiveness of the controls. The steering was precise, and the throttle provided just the right amount of power to crawl over the obstacles. I could feel the oil-filled suspension working hard to keep the tyres planted, and the two-speed gearbox allowed me to easily switch between high and low ranges as needed.
As I navigated the course, the FMS FCX18 LC80 impressed me with its ability to tackle even the trickiest sections. The portal axles provided ample ground clearance, allowing the crawler to clamber over the blocks and tubes with ease. And the chunky, foam-filled tires gripped the surfaces tenaciously, inspiring confidence with every move.
Eager to see how the FMS FCX18 LC80 would perform in a more realistic outdoor setting, I headed out to a nearby wooded area with some natural terrain. Navigating over rocks, roots, and uneven ground, the crawler continued to impress. The metal chassis and robust components shrugged off any impacts, and the two-speed gearbox proved invaluable for maintaining control in the more challenging sections.
One aspect that I particularly enjoyed was the scale realism of the FMS FCX18 LC80. The detailed body panels, accurate Toyota branding, and overall proportions made it feel like a true miniature version of the iconic Land Cruiser. This level of detail not only looks great but also enhances the overall crawling experience, making it feel more immersive and true to life.
Standout Features and Capabilities
As I continued to put the FMS FCX18 LC80 through its paces, several key features stood out as real highlights of this crawler:
- Robust Metal Chassis and Oil-Filled Suspension: The metal chassis and oil-filled shocks provide a solid foundation for the crawler, allowing it to tackle challenging terrain without feeling flimsy or unstable.
- Two-Speed Transmission: The inclusion of a two-speed gearbox is a game-changer, giving you the ability to switch between high and low ranges for optimal power and control in different situations.
- Portal Axles: The portal axle design not only looks the part, but also provides increased ground clearance and traction, making the FCX18 a capable off-road performer.
- Detailed Scale Appearance: The Toyota-licensed body and accurate proportions give this crawler an incredibly realistic look and feel, making it a joy to operate and display.
- Comprehensive Accessory Package: The included radio controller, LiPo battery, and charger provide everything you need to get started right out of the box.
One area that could potentially be improved is the tyre choice. While the stock tires performed admirably on the obstacles and trails I tested, they felt a bit on the smooth side for true off-road crawling. Upgrading to a set of more aggressive, knobby tires could further enhance the FCX18’s capabilities.
Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with the FMS FCX18 LC80. It’s a well-engineered, scale-focused crawler that delivers an engaging and rewarding driving experience. Whether you’re a seasoned RC enthusiast or a newcomer to the hobby, this little rig is sure to put a smile on your face.
Where to Buy the FMS FCX18 LC80
If you’re interested in adding the FMS FCX18 LC80 to your RC collection, you can find it available on the FMS Hobby website. At the time of writing, the crawler is listed for $179 on the FMS website, which is a great value considering the level of detail and features it offers.
For my UK-based readers, the FCX18 is also available through Model Sport, currently priced at £140. This makes it an accessible option for RC enthusiasts across the pond as well.
No matter where you’re located, the FMS FCX18 LC80 is a must-have addition to any crawler collection. Its combination of scale realism, robust construction, and impressive off-road capabilities makes it a standout choice in the 1/18 scale RC market. Be sure to check out the links below to learn more and secure your own FCX18 today!
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So what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of RC with the impressive FMS FCX18 LC80, and join the Fatboys RC community for all the latest news, tips, and adventures. Happy crawling!
