FM Reinforcement Rails Review

[BoBo]

I was going to install it during the summer break from school; however, I couldn't wait, so I finally had it installed yesterday by PR Motorsports. To make a long story, I'm very happy with the product. You're not gonna notice anything driving in a straight line of course, but in the cornering department, the chassis flex is obviously reduced. I noticed that the chassis was stiffer and much quieter even with the hardtop. I also noticed that there were less vibrations inside the car when I go over speed bumps or potholes. This product is definitely a must for the track, autox runs, and mountain runs. However, I would still install it regardless of whether I used the car for the track or commuting because I like how the chassis is more responsive in turns, and plus these old wet noodle cars could use it.




This is picture with the FM Rails installed, I don't know why the installer painted the Rails when It's stainless steel. I told one of the reps at the shop to only coat the bolts and where the bolt goes. Regardless the install was definitely good.

[— Phatmiata —]

I actually like it black, looks good!! thanks for the review!

[BoBo]

^ Anytime and thanks. My next target is the Hard Dog hardcore M1 w/dual diagonal.The 6 point roll bar would further stiffen up my car compared to my basic Hard Dog hoop bar, but it's not happening anytime soon, I still have to save up LoL.

[new2mx5]

The flyin miata frame rails are by far one of the best mods I made to my ride, I was very surprised by the improvement and stiffening they provided. Here's a quick peek.

[Bummer]

When I put them on a few years ago, I noticed it didn't really eliminate the rattles, but relocated them. Also, a car that had been neutral went to understeer. It took a while to get the setup to where I was happy with it, again. They did change the car substantially. Please keep in mind, if you do autocross, these braces are not allowed in any of the "Street" classes, from Stock to Street Mod. Straight to "Prepared" category for you.

[— kung fu jesus —]

If you want to eliminate rattles, install doorbars. Seriously.

[TimTim]

When I put them on a few years ago, I noticed it didn't really eliminate the rattles, but relocated them. Also, a car that had been neutral went to understeer. It took a while to get the setup to where I was happy with it, again. They did change the car substantially. Please keep in mind, if you do autocross, these braces are not allowed in any of the "Street" classes, from Stock to Street Mod. Straight to "Prepared" category for you.

I second these thoughts. I installed mine on a 97 and they did begin to stiffent the car but it made weaknesses more apparent in other areas. The butterfly brace is a worthwhile addition but if the funds are limited, I would consider the door bars fu mentioned or contributing the money towards fender/ shock tower brace. The 97 showed substantial improvement in both NVH / highway shimmies/ and handling with the FM shock tower brace, it's a very rigid brace without flex points.

[m00se]

Can anyone compare frame rails to stitch welding the door area?

[BoBo]

The flyin miata frame rails are by far one of the best mods I made to my ride, I was very surprised by the improvement and stiffening they provided. Here's a quick peek.

I definitely agree with that, plus it's a good investment on keeping your factory rails from being crushed.

[BoBo]

I was doubtful whether or not Hector the mechanic from PR Motorsports rust proof the holes where the floor was drilled, and guess what? he didn't, He wasted all of the rubber coating spray that I gave him on my rust proof stainless steel rails. I just had this feeling after he painted my rails, so I checked under the carpeting. "If you want something done right you gotta do it yourself". Good thing I had blue silicone on hand for rust proofing, it took me a while to remove the rails but at least it's now protected from rust.