Hi Frank,
The allowed equipment list can change from year to year, so you always have to look at the current year's list of rules as the number one authority on what is allowed. You can read last year's rules here, to get an idea. The robot rules start on page 18:
Everyone will get the current year's challenge on the global release day, August 26. Also, throughout the season there is a page where they will post robot game updates. It's very important to check these regularly, because they do make clarifications and answer questions people have submitted, and these are always the final say on things. I can't emphasize enough how important it is to read everything ten times. You and all of the members of your team will need to know the rules very, very well. I have been coaching FLL for 7 years, and have had a few surprises where I thought I knew something, but really didn't. You do not want to have that surprise at a tournament! You will also get a coaches' manual when you receive your kit that has helpful info.
This page has links to robot game updates, project updates, helpful team resources, and the challenge once it is released:
Good luck!
Sonya