FM-A Chassis Tuning Guide

FM-A puts the motor ahead of the centreline, producing a front-weighted car that is easy to service from below. That layout can give controlled jump attitude, but it also makes front digging after landings the main setup problem to solve.

Work in a clear order

First make the drivetrain efficient; then set roller geometry and brakes; finally add damping for remaining pitch. Use the required motor direction for FM-A and re-run break-in when changing from a rear-motor chassis.

Choose damping that clears the motor

A conventional front lantern may not clear the motor area. Open-class racers may use a carefully fabricated arm or a low hikuo arrangement, but both are rule- and durability-sensitive. Begin with bolt-on brake and damper adjustments before fabrication.