FMS FCX24 RTR Power Wagon 1/24 Scale RC Rock Crawler Review

Radio-controlled vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, and the mini and micro class of rock crawler is one of the fastest-growing segments inside the hobby. Everything from 1/18 to 1/32 machines fit this class, with varying degrees of realism and performance. The FMS FCX24 Power Wagon might not be the most realistic machine, but some special goodies like a 2-speed gearbox and portal axles help it stand out. How does it fare in the real (scale) world?

Design and Build Quality:

FMS has a solid line of scale RC rock crawlers in its arsenal, with the 1/12 scale Jeep YJ Wrangler “Mashigan” standing at the larger, more expensive end and the 1/24 scale FCX24 Chevrolet K5 Blazer and Power Wagon bookending the line on the smaller, less costly side. The Ready to Run (RTR) FCX24 boasts a realistic design mirroring the iconic Power Wagon, and the attention to detail is evident in the appearance. The body and chassis are made from relatively high-quality materials for the price point, ensuring durability during rugged off-road adventures. Still, we managed to hamper the usability of the poorly-designed body clips within the first few days of use. Clipless systems are available in the aftermarket but should be standard, but thankfully the body itself has easily withstood countless rollovers without sustaining any damage beyond shedding the optional roll cage-mounted spare tire, which pops right back on.

The detriment in the FCX24 Power Wagon’s design is the proportions. The body is far too big to be true to scale, and the oversize tractor-style wheels and tires are fun to look at but not accurate for a 1/24 scale machine. Some may care, others won’t. We flip-flop on the looks, but at least appreciate the overall build quality.

Performance:

Overall, the FCX24 Power Wagon performs very well, especially considering its $149.99 price point. The rig is equipped with a 130-sized brushed motor which provides ample if not slightly underwhelming torque for crawling over obstacles. The proportional control system allows users to modulate speed and steering with precision, offering a more realistic driving experience, and feedback from the 2.4GHz transmitter is immediate and easy to control.

We love the miniature size of the transmitter, too, given the small locales on and in which we use the FCX24 (like in an office or on a couch). Flipping the switch on the remote to go from low range to high range makes for a drastic difference, with the former providing a true crawler gear that can creep along at a snail’s pace and the latter bringing surprising speed to the little machine. We don’t find ourselves using high gear all that often, but it’s a blast when we do.

Off-Road Capability:

The standout feature of the FCX24 is its exceptional off-road capability for a stock 1/24 scale RC rock crawler. The combination of grippy tires, low range, and solid suspension articulation allows the rock crawler to conquer challenging terrains with ease. Whether it's crawling over rocks or traversing uneven surfaces like an assortment of office items randomly strewn across a floor, the FCX24 Power Wagon delivers.

The portal axles help significantly with ground clearance at the axle and differential housings, which makes it very capable even in bone stock form. If there’s one demerit to the FCX24’s capability it comes in the form of the turning radius, which is rather poor due to the permanent locked differentials. We hope to improve this aspect of the FCX24 Power Wagon experience by way of some community-sourced modifications, which will come by way of our trusty Dremel.

Battery Life and Charging:

The included rechargeable 7.4V 380mAh Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery provides a decent runtime, allowing for extended play sessions without frequent interruptions. The inclusion of LiPo at this price and size point is interesting, so be sure to read up on safe battery care, use, and storage should you pick up an FCSX24. The quick charging time ensures minimal downtime between adventures. Users can also opt for spare batteries to extend their playtime further.

Other Features and Conclusion On the FCX24:

The FCX24 comes equipped with user-friendly features that enhance the overall experience. The included LED lights add a realistic touch and make night-time driving an exciting option, and they can easily be toggled on/off with the transmitter. Additionally, the solid build quality and water-resistant electronics make the FCX24 a good choice for outdoor use despite its small size. Keep in mind that users leaning more into the outdoor, larger-scale side of the hobby may want to seek out an appropriately-sized rig. All-in-all, the FCX24 presents a good package while allowing users to customize it right out of the box, which is easy to do with the included decal options.

All-in-all, the FMS FCX24 Power Wagon is a good little RC rock crawler for the price. It certainly needs some work that the aftermarket or modification realm can make a reality, but the portal axles and two-speed transmission make for a unique proposition in a segment largely crowded with traditional drivetrains.

Yay:

• Portal axles and excellent traction make for a truly capable crawler.
• Proportional control system for precise throttle and steering.
• LED lights are a nice touch for added realism and night-time driving.
• Durable construction with water-resistant electronics.

Nay:

• Frustrating body mounting method.
• Some users may find the scale realism lacking.
• The turning radius is poor at best.

The Takeaway:

The FMS FCX24 Power Wagon RC Rock Crawler is a unique proposition in the small-scale RC rock crawler world, delivering solid performance for the price in spite of its sub-optimal appearance.