Shannon Ocean's been up to weird stuffs:



Soren's stylized microspace:



And my own.

..............................................................................

Finally the last weekend I got the time and the mood, to review in detail the models submitted to the First TBs TechChallenge, list all the differences from the original TLG model and to come up with the results.

So at first and for those participating who may also want to check their own submissions, here are the official instructions for the 8046 Helicopter, and the 2nd booklet building instructions (B-model), if you want to check the partlist in detail.


Because we ended not having a large number of submissions to this Challenge, there was a chance for a little change in the original plans and TBs got one 8046 box for each contestant, except for the winner who is getting the signed 8049 set.
Even Scott with his funny Copter interpretation, submitted to this Challenge, got one 8046 box!

I've received already received the prizes to send, a few weeks ago and should be sending these immediately so that hopefully you can receive them, still before Christmas. Meanwhile you may look at them in the photo below.



The results were evaluated comparing the LDraw models sent by each contestant, with each step in the official building instructions. After thinking about several possible methods and what would be possible to do with the LDraw tools suite, I decided for a manual comparation from the last step going backwards until the first one, while taking annotations of the differences found in each step.

The tricky part in this challenge and the one causing more mismatches counted in the submitted LDraw models, were related with the method used to build the winch (either the parts used and the method to generate the friction so the the string would not run freely).
The drum was quite difficult, because the part used was not even directly available from LDraw Parts Tracker, however it was available from the parts still needing for clean-up. Nevertheless someone managed also to model this correctly.

I've counted as mismatches in occurrences like: wrong parts, missing or extra parts; misplacements and color mismatches. However I didn't count for the 'Axle 3 with Stud' color mismatch, once at the time the Challenge was raised, no one was sure about the new color used for this part, by TLG.
You may find the detailed results at this files [XLS, PDF], but I guess there are no doubts about the winner, once the score differences (Mismatches Count) are quite substantial.

And so... the winning submission, is the one from Nathanael Kuipers.



Nathanael scored one single wrong part and his getting this Challenge 1st prize. One 8049 set (Tractor with Log Loader) from the first boxes getting out of the production line and signed by the Designer of this model (Lars Jensen).


Congratulations to everyone and thanks for participating this first TBs Challenge!

Also I'd like to thanks all those who made this Challenge possible :

• Philo, for modeling the missing parts at LDraw and some advice.
• Alexandre and Jetro for advice, fruitful discussions and last minute LDraw tutorials, targeting some of the specific skills needed for those aiming to take part in this Challenge.
• TLG Technic team, for the support and providing the nice prizes.
• And finally of course, all those who were engaged with this Challenge, either by sending their submissions or joining the initiative by leaving their comments to the respective posts.

Now, I just hope we can make something similar again, for the next year.

The 2009 season is over, and the first 2010 TECHNIC sets have already hit the shelves in some countries, for the Christmas purchases.

So that's time for a set of retrospective polls, about which are your preferred 2009 LEGO Technic sets and which ones have you actually bought this year.

Because what you prefer is not always exactly what you get, we decided for two polls like it was done one year ago. However this time they will run simultaneously, so that we get more confident if later want to compare the results from both.

So the polls are:

• Vote for the best 2009 LEGO Technic set
• Which 2009 LEGO Technic sets, have you bought?

About the models, you should already know. Nevertheless, lets recap them:

8063: Tractor with Trailer

8256: Super Kart

8258: Crane Truck

8259: Mini Bulldozer

8260: Tractor

8261: Rally Truck

8262: Quad Bike

8263: Snow Groomer

8264: Hauler

8265: Front Loader


As usual in this type of TBs polls, you may select multiple entries at each one.
So lets try to find which were the most favorites in 2009, and probably which ones sold better.


See the polls in the right column and... Take your vote!
You may also leave any comments to support your choices, if you have some remarks to add.

As it seems at least some of you also have interest about LEGO Technic Supercars...

So, I found this for you... A 1:7 scale Supercar, made by jamesbond0096 (Marvin G.).
Maybe one of the most complete LEGO Technic Supercars I've ever seen. A nice video indeed! Enjoy.



The car features:

• All Wheel Drive (AWD)
• 5-Speed Gearbox + Reverse
• Working V12 Engine
• Working Brakes for each wheel (handbrake + footbrake)
  
• Electric Headlights
• Differential Lock (for middle diff)
• Pneumatic Convertible Roof, with onboard electric pump
• Independent Adjustable Suspension (Lowrider)
• Gullwing Doors
  

This is a large Technic car with very detailed and advanced functions. For instance it uses the old Flex System to command the wheel brakes and has an interesting convertible roof where the trunk opens first, the roof comes out and then the roof closes again.
But you may find a lot more from the YT video above, or the images and details at MOCpages.


Found also very interesting another Disk Brake system for Technic Cars, created by Marvin and explained at one of his MOCpages folders.



A nice creation, but as the author explains it wears the parts if taken into functional usage. Nevertheless I see some other ways for improvement and to make it useful.


Still, there are a lot more Technic Supercars out there. Stay tunned!

Yesterday, our last contributor was doing his annual online investigations and together with a few other fans, started a series of findings.

In resume,

There were found images for a presumably new 8041 Race Truck set, which show the box, the B-model (a Race Car) and even partial instructions for the B-model, were found at technic.lego.com/nl.

To me, it looks this might be some semi-exclusive or a late 1H release, rather than a 2H set.
If you zoom significantly the box image, you may find a kind of a logo with something written like "Limited Edition", or similar.
As we have seen in some other themes, like: Star Wars, Pirates, Indiana Jones,...


Below, the main highlights for this model, at the moment:

• The Race Truck has steering and tilting cabin functions.
  
• New 1x5x11 Panel Plates in black, included.
• The Rhinoceros logo from 8285 returned in the stickers.
• Still have some doubts about the blue part(s) used for te seat.
• It seems to be a lot of free space on the drives side, which may ease to make some motorization and to place a battery.
• Interesting to see how the new 7L gear rack was used, avoiding a new 11L part.

I guess this model could turn into a very successful sales case, specially among those fans initiating into TrTr or Technic Racing competitions. With a few Power Functions parts, it should be easy to modify for such competitions.


A more detailed image from the B-model.


But it does not end here. In fact it is not even where it started.
From a Dutch store there was also found some info about what probably are the LEGO Technic 2H2010 sets (descriptions bellow, freely translated).


8051 Motorcycle

The long awaiting SUPER FIG WALL is now in place. Just in time for X-Mas! We also have a pile of sets awaiting your stocking stuffer needs. Feel free to come down and pickup (no tour needed). Just ask to go to the gift shop.

Today TBs is publishing the 2nd contribution here, from a Guest Blogger.
This time a review from one of the new 2010 LEGO Technic sets, written by Ryan (merman), who is one of our assiduous readers and also a member from LOWLUG forum.


Ryan writes:

One of the most appealing models of the first half of 2010 to be seemed the 8047 Compact Excavator. I live in downtown Amsterdam where they are building a new metro-line and the whole city is a humongous mess. This also means a lot of construction vehicles and I see these cute little compact excavators all over the place. The machine is quite funny since the whole thing looks way out of proportion with the cabin that is just too big and the relatively small arm and bucket. Lego nailed that aspect of the original wonderfully in set 8047. Another reason for me to buy this set is the presence of the treads (which I love) and the fact it has a new gear (that caused quite some speculation online), new panels and the new 4L axles with stop.

I bought the set at the local Toystore for ‚¬21.99, which I think is a little overpriced. This has little to do with Lego, but everything to do with the fact in The Netherlands there are about 4 major toychains, of which the biggest two are controlled by the same company, thus controlling the price level.

The box is the same size as last (or actually: this) year's 8261 Rally Truck: rather square and maybe a little oversized. The box has the excavator's bucket on one side in 1:1 ratio to show the actual size of the model. On the back you see the b-model, which I haven't built yet but looks very creative. The box can be opened by pushing in two 'buttons' on top of the box. I still don't like these things, since I always ripple the cardboard and it is hard to tear on the dotted lines. Inside the box you find two instruction booklets: one for the main model and one for the B-model. I like the fact these smaller sets have instructions for both, in fact, I still believe Lego should do this with the bigger sets too. I don't like building from a computer screen which is highly uncomfortable.


The set has no stickers and the booklets came out perfectly: no ripples or tears. There are 4 bags with parts, one containing the 56 treads and one bag containing another smaller sized bag with pins and bushes (so the choking hazard parts). The bucket is also contained in one of the bigger bags. On the first eye (and also confirmed after having built the excavator) all parts were present and no broken or damaged parts. To be honest: I bought a lot of (Technic) sets the past couple of years and I have never ever encountered one that had parts missing or severely damaged. It is amazing how well organized Lego is with filling their bags and boxes.



The set already is famous for the brand new light bley Gear 20 Bevel with Clutch which at this point seems to be unique for this set (and I see some possibilities I will elaborate on at the end of this review). The set also has two new dark bley axles 4 with stop, that are used very effectively and is a rather welcome addition to the parts assortment of Technic. It also has two new small panels numbers 1 and 2, that have the new curved design and pinholes in two directions. I already loved these panels in last year's sets since they are very esthetic and useful. These panels fit the studless building type perfectly. Then there are two axles 3L with stop in the new brownish color. The color of these parts is less annoying than I thought it would be and probably chosed to avoid mixing it up with the 4L axles with stop that are also dark bley. Then there are three of the new 3L pins with axles holes. Thank God they have friction (which is essential in set 8047!). Below you see a picture of all the new parts (not the right amount of each part).



Now let's get into building. Let me apologize on forehand for the rather messy table I built on (we have a very small house!). Building starts with the lower part containing the treads. This part of the building process is pretty straightforward lacking much surprised, but building the lower part of treaded vehicled in Technic always has been a little repetitive. This is also the part where you build the little adjustable stop to prevent the excavator from moving. During and after building the lower part the model looks like this:



The most exciting part is building the actual machine. You start building the chair that uses the new pin 3L with pinhole and a light bley pin joiner perpendicular bent (a part I love and that is not used as extenisvely as I'd wish). Beneath the chair there is an axle used to transfer the motion of the bucket and also perpendicular an axle with a crown gear used to move the bucket. A pretty clever and compact use of axles. The chair is attached to the turntable as seen below. This is also where the first worm gear kicks in (there are two in this set).



The next phase of the model is building the back part that uses the new #1 and #2 panels and also included the knobs you use to move the arm and bucket. The right know is stuck through a 5.5 axle with stop causing part of the axle to stick out. This looks a bit untidy. After this part some of the yellow side beams are attached to make the model sturdier.



Right after this construction of the arm begins. This makes use of the second work gear shoved over the new 4L axle with stop (very useful here!) and it also makes use of the brackets mainly used for Linear Actuators. After seeing the creative use of these parts in 8258 I cannot imagine ever having done without. The bracket is attached to an axle containing the new Gear 20 with Clutch. This way the gear can turn freely. The question is whether this set actually really needs such a new gear since some changes to the design could have made the use of the old tan gear 20 possible. Still, it is a nice addition to the parts range.



The following step is the construction of the remainder of the arm. Like sets 8419 and 8294 the bucket will move with the lower part of the arm. Even though this is about the only way with mechanical (gear/Linear Actuator) contruction, it is hard to play with the excavator in precision. I find it rather understandable and therefore acceptable in smaller sets like these. This part uses bended dark grey liftarms also present in some City contruction sets. Even though they have the same angle as the yellow 4x6 bended beams, these grey liftarms look a lot better.



The building process is concluded with the construction of the cabin. I like the fact the beams of the back of the cabin are placed perpendicular to the rest of the design. The cabin also uses the new brown axles 3L with stop and two more pins 3L with pinhole. After about 40 minutes of building (including taking pictures) the excavator is finished and looks like this. There are also some small spare parts.



Playability/Design: overal this model has three functions. You can manually lower the stop situated near the tracks. Then there are two knobs to raise and lower the arm and one to move the bucket. This last function is rather stiff to move, especially if you have move the bucket a little to far and the function gets jammed. The contruction is a little weak where the arm is fixed to the machine, only using four light grey axle joiners perpendicular 3L. Using a 9L axle in stead of a 5L axle for the arm may have been better contruction-wise but caused some throuble with the small 3L Technic beams on the sides. This set used 4 9L axles, again a part I cannot imagine ever having done without.

Veredict: I would definitively recommend this set. It has good playability, 252 parts (of which 56 are tread links) and a good parts pack also. You get 10 new parts in total and a total number of 17 gears (of 7 different types). 

Then my little theory about the new Gear 20 Bevel with Clutch: I have a feeling that with some good smart thinking and creativity this gear would enable you to send three seperate functions through a turntable. The key with this new gear is the option to put a perpendicular transmission to it. If you'd combine this with the two-function construction used in set 8258 I believe a third seperate function could be possible. It can be the space to further transcent movement is limited, since the inside of the turntable is too limited. I dare you to experiment with this!



Thanks Ryan, for writing this nice review for all us!

So you have asked for a fully remote controlled Excavator!?...

Not that remotely controlled in the sense we have been thinking of it, but here it is a video from two awesome Excavators that shown in LEGOWORLD this year.



This is a model based on the CAT 318C Excavator (not an exact copy) made by 2LegoOrNot2Lego, in a video from Barry Bosman (barebos or barman), the man authoring and modeling several "proposals" for new Technic parts. Both LOWLUG members.


It is operated with a RC with 8 functions, which also holds a compressor made of LEGO parts. The boom, stick and bucket are operated pneumatically, while drive and slewing are controlled by electric motors. The model is at a 1:17,5 scale.

The image on the right side is a photo from the same 2LegoOrNot2Lego Excavator. It was found at his BS folder, where you can also find a lot more from the same model. Quite obvious but realize these were taken before the CAT stickers being applied. At YouTube, there is also another video with the model in this stage, made by its author.


The second Excavator on the video is a model from Barry, a Kubota KX41-3v still not finished (WIP). It is a full electrical control model where the boom/stick/bucket are actuated by 3 Linear Actuators. I would be curious to see the axles routing more in detail.
This just makes me to believe, that sooner or later we may get some similar flagship, from TLG itself...


And finally the CAT 318C in a logging machine version. It looks to be the preferred subject of the moment...


The truck seen also on the video is another story, for a new post not so far away.

The last TBs poll where you were asked to tell us 'Which LEGO Technic flagship, would you like next?' as finished.
It got a massive participation over two weeks, with almost 1.000 votes.

Although the results caught me completely surprised, despite the most voted choice being also my personal preference.
And I say surprised because in the first days, the Supercar option took some advantage over the Excavator and it was increasing still for some time. Suddenly in the second week, both the Excavator and 'Some other construction machine' started an hiking race, that ended with the Supercar option in third place... which I ever imagined it was going to win.

Nevertheless, here are the results to whoever wants to take a look and some conclusions also.




We didn't get as many suggestions in the comments, as the number of votes in the last option. However there were a few interesting ideas that came up:

• The return from the Technic Universal Sets. It could even be one dedicated to constructions with pneumatics.
  Wonder whether tis is appealing enough, to be put on the shelves and make kids to ask for it.
  Probably if not really the year's flagship but some kind of return into this flavor of Technic sets.
• A Mech or some kind of Walker (again, it may even be a pneumatic model).

Now lets hope that you are guessing right, or otherwise TLG to put these on the pipe.

A few days ago, we have started the '8049, Tractor with Log Loader' review, with Part I.
So lets now continue for Part II.


Having finished to build the main model, there were a few parts left, as seen from the photo below.



Did you noticed anything unexpected?
So do I, when first opened the box... ...well in fact even before that.

Those with most attention, may have wondered why didn't I post any picture from the box backside, in the 1st part of the review?...
That's where the surprise gets revealed in first place!



Yes! 8049 comes with some extra parts (including one very welcome small pneumatic pump) and instructions, to build and integrate an air compressor, inside the trailer chassis. Thus making this set even more complete in terms of pneumatics assortment, for those who want to initiate into the topic.

But that (the pump), was already there in a few photos... if you look through very carefully.

Also it is worth to mention, this is the second Technic set ever, to include such a feature, after the venerable Air Tech Claw Rig (8868).
To build it you will need however, also some parts from the 8293, PF Motor Set. Those also in the photo below.



The instructions for doing it, are in the end of the 2nd instructions booklet as expected, and you must start by removing some parts from the trailer chassis, before you can install the compressor inside.



Then it proceeds to the parts assembling for the compressor it self.
Funny to see they have used the Engine Crankshaft (2853) part, to create the displacement.




Below some photos from the compressor, after integration into the chassis.



And finally the renewed and complete trailer, for the Log Loader, where the PF Battery Box replaces the grill to separate the crane section from the cargo.



It is interesting to see how such a small displacement from the crankshaft, is enough for the PF M-motor together with the small cylinder and 1:1 gearing, to produce the pressure required and fast enough, to operate the both pneumatic cylinders, in the crane arm.

Here a small video, where you can see it working.



Great playability, for such small set!


Final thoughts

It was great fun, to prepare and write this review! Even more knowing many of you would be anxious for it and probably not imagining that we would get such a great set.

This will be a mark in the LEGO Technic timeline for several reasons and definitely an evidence that beyond the LEGO Technic core target group (boys aged 9-13), there is a team also willing to please their adult fans with fantastic sets and give answer to their wishes.
But we should not forget, this was only possible when they found that boys really liked being able to play with pneumatics in this particular model. And so it should always determine what we can get and expect from LEGO Technic.

This is also a must have set, for those who never had the chance to play with LEGO pneumatic elements. Here you get almost a bit of everything needed to start! and just need to buy two or three boxes if you want more...
It still misses the air tank and the small pneumatic cylinder, but maybe we get to see them again into a Technic set, soon.

Guess this will be selling like bananas!...


The Ratings

as set value for money
for innovation
for set design
for functionality and playability
for quality (no issues with the exemplar received, like missing parts, parts color variation, defects, etc...)

Overall rate: Highly Recomended


Edit:
One of our readers sent me a note about this review, and he is absolutely right.
I didn't made it in this detail initially, but when we have a motor running a pump, we get a motorized pump, not a compressor. For a compressor we need to add an air tank to "compress" air into it. That is were the name "compressor" comes from.


Last Update: 2009.Dec.14 08:25 CET

Today ZED posted additional information at BS, through catalog scans that clarify all the questions raised yesterday, about his first images from 2010 LEGO Education new elements. But also adds info about more to come.

The overall information about the newly announced Renewable Energy Add-on Set (9688) and Activity Pack for Renewable Energy Add-on Set (2009688), is contained in the images bellow.



So lets go through it, more in detail,

• 9667 (LEGO Solar Panel)
  "The Solar Panel provides sufficient power to operate the LEGO Energy Meter and motors. It delivers: 5V, 4mA in direct light from a 60W incandescent bulb positioned 25cm from the solar panel (>2000 lux); and 5V, 20mA in direct light from a 60W incandescent bulb positioned 8cm from the panel (>10.000 lux)."
  
  Thinking in terms of Technic models, as for the former Solar Panels from LEGO Education eLAB (9912), this seems to be not much effective, for other usages than a laboratory experiment. They should hardly move a loaded motor and using multiple panels to increase voltage and current wouldn't be affordable for sure.
  Also they are quite ineffective for indoor usage as we can conclude from the figures announced.
  Wonder whether it won't deform if exposed at 8cm from a 60W incandescent bulb...
  
  
  
• 9668 + 9669 (Energy Display + Energy Storage = LEGO Energy Meter)
  "This element displays input and output in volts, watts, amps, and energy storage level in joules. Combine with 9669 Energy Storage to from the LEGO Energy Meter.
  
  This Ni-MH battery with connector is designed to be combined with the 9668 Energy Display. When combined, the two elements form the LEGO Energy Meter. Storage capacity: 150mAh.
  
  ...LEGO Energy Meter, which works as a sensor when connected to the NXT. The Energy Meter collects the following data: input/output in volts, amps, watt, and energy storage level in joule. These data can be used for programming or viewed in the data logging window...
  
  Building and exploring renewable energy through real-life LEGO models.
  
  Exploring energy supply, transfer, accumulation, conversion and consumption"
  
  From the description this energy storage unit, seems to be an huge evolution from the former Electric Capacitor (9916). Still don't see much possible applications for Technic models, which is not exactly the same as for MINDSTORMS.
  Here and from the images/examples in the catalog, it seems the Energy Meter could for instance be used to provide data to the NXT about the power readings and based on that it could also control the panel inclination, in order to maximize the panel solar efficiency.
  So I guess the PF connector on 9668, would be used to connect both the solar panel or the E-motor (generator).
  
  The Energy Storage announced capacity, is also not that much (150mAh), if compared to the other LEGO rechargeable batteries. So this should be targeted just for laboratory energy experiments/demonstrations and never to be seen as competing for the other's applications.
  
  
  
• 9670 (E-motor)
  "The E-motor is a 9V motor with an internal gearbox. Its 9,5:1 gearing ratio provides a maximum torque of 4,5 Ncm and approximately 800 rotations per minute without load. It also functions as a very efficient generator."
  
  Lets first make a comparation between this motor characteristics and those from M and XL motors.*
  
  

  	RPMs	No-Load Current	Torque	Internal Gearing
  PF XL-motor	220	80mA	40 N.cm	36:1
  PF M-motor	405	65mA	11 N.cm	24:1
  E-motor	800	-	4,5 N.cm	9,5:1

  
  The new E-motor is a low-torque/high-speed motor. Due to the high-speed and low internal gearing ratio, probably it has only one internal orbital gear stage, per opposition to the M and XL motors, which have two stages both. To better understand about the internal gearings from these motor, you may refer to the "Inside the PF M-motor" post published here a TBs a few months ago.
  
  With this characteristics, E-motor is suitable to work either as a motor or an electricity generator.
  In fact every motor does, but their normal characteristics (high-torque) make them unsuitable to work at a Wind Power Generator. Just because the wind wouldn't be sufficient to make the blades turning with such "generator" behind.
  On the other way this one shouldn't be very useful as a LEGO Technic motor (unless for instance to build an high-speed fan) exactly because of its characteristics (low-torque/high-speed), when what we demand is exactly the opposite (high-torque/low-speed) - Eventual characteristics, for the the so desired S-motor...
  
  It shouldn't be a coincidence that on page 14, we can see this new E-motor is not marketed as a Power Functions motor, like the M and XL versions on the same page, are!
  The prefix 'E' (Energy) is not suggesting any alignment with the other ones, which use size prefixes (M and XL).
  Also the 4x6x4 form factor, curved only at the topside, suggests a very specific use like in the Wind Power Generators.
  
  Because of these considerations, I guess this is not a motor aimed to be also used in future Technic sets, hence not branded with the Power Functions tag as none of the other element above.
  
  

In addition to this, it looks that the NXT will also get a successor for its actual rechargeable battery version,



So the NXT rechargeable battery specifications, change from 1400mAh (9798) to a 2100mAh Li-Ion Polymer battery (9693).
Battery capacity increase, is always welcome. Just wish the price wouldn't increase in the same proportion...

Following the trend on the Power Functions line and actual safety requirements, this is going to be a DC charged battery and then use the new 10V DC transformer (8887), instead of the former 9V AC version (9833).


*) M and XL motor characteristic data, taken from Philo's measurements on his "Lego ® 9V Technic Motors compared characteristics" webpage.

The 8045 (Telehandler) was the only 1H2010 Technic set, whose respective B-model was still unknown until a few days ago.
Finally one box was seen at a shelf from a store somewhere, and the last photo taken.



A cute Motorcylce with Sidecar and very nice design from the parts included with 8045.

Now we can say, we are ready for the first 2H sets images!...



Once this was set was meanwhile made available at S@H (US), let me take the opportunity and add here the B-model official images.


Last Update: 2009.Dec.02 23:37 CET

By DeviantArt username Malaveldt:




And Norsehound AKA Michael Ptak:

Set reference: 8049 Set name: Tractor with Log Loader Theme: LEGO Technic Release date: 2010.Jan Technic Designer: Lars Jensen Number of parts: 525 + few spare parts Model under review: Main model Weight: 220 + 320gr (0,49 + 0,71lb) Approximate set dimensions (Tractor + Trailer): Height - 14,7 + 32,0cm (5,79 + 12,60") Width - 13,0 + 12,8cm (5,12 + 5,04") Length - 17,5 + 25,5cm (6,89 + 10,04") Approximate box dimensions: Height - 6,0cm (2,36") Width - 28,0cm (11,02") Length - 48,0cm (18,90") Stickers: No Building instructions: 2 booklets (76 and 64 pages) B-model: Log Handler (instructions available for online download, only) Recommended for ages: 9 -16 Building difficulty level: Medium Estimated building time: 2 - 2,5 hours LEGO Shop@Home Price range: $59,99 (US) / 49,99‚¬ (EC) Price per part: 11,4 cents / 9,5 euro cents Amazon.com: $59,99 Amazon.de: 46,95‚¬ Inventory (Bricklink): Link Inventory (Peeron): not yet available Other user reviews (Brickset): Link

When first announced, this set was received with great excitement by the fans community, because of the included pneumatic elements not seen for awhile. So today it is time for a well deserved review, here at TBs .
The 8049 (Tractor with Log Loader) is one of the latest LEGO Technic sets and the largest Technic set for the 1H2010, which should hit the stores very soon. The largest in 2010 for the moment, till we get to know something about the new sets for the 2nd half.


The package and contents

After TLG to have revised their strategy regarding boxes size, due to environmental and transport economy/efficiency reasons, this one comes into a reasonable box size for the parts included.
The box type used is one of those where you need to punch out at one of the edges, to get it open. Collectors... take care if won't want it damaged!




Inside you will find three numbered bags with parts, which include some other bags inside for the smaller parts, one additional bag for the pneumatic parts and eight loose tires for the tractor and trailer.

The instructions are presented in two square booklets, respectively with 76 and 64 pages, and fortunately this time, I got these in perfect condition from the box interior.
As usually for the time being, the number of steps used in the instructions seems to me, a bit exagerated. Hope it is really helpful for the youngsters, otherwise it is just a waste of time and resources. Fortunately it doesn't get into boring levels, because the model is not that large and the construction itself is also not repetitive. Detailed steps are however welcome in what concerns the routing of pneumatic hoses, which are introduced one by one and my turn a bit complicated to follow for the average builders, when several are introduced simultaneously.
At the end of the second booklet you will find the inventory of parts included with this set (spares not accounted), which could be of convenient use.



Don't know whether there were some intentional actions taken by the building instructions team, regarding the Pantones used or the printing quality, to improve readability and ease the distinction of Black a Dark Bluish Gray colors (a common and well know issue). However I didn't have any difficulty to distinguish them, while building this set. One thing that might have helped too, was a good mix in the usage of both color parts across the model, which made them to appear almost always together in the several instructions steps.


The new parts

In terms of new parts there aren't much of them included with this set, however still a few which are always welcome.



We get one 7L Gear Rack, from the same new design type of those 13L with axle and pin holes, as used in the 8258 (Crane Truck). Most likely this is the same part used for the steering in the new buggy (8048) and thus presumably included with that set too.

There are also three of a new pin type (Pin Long with Center Pin Hole), which may turn into a very useful part.
Myself have many times wished something to attach in the middle of a 3L long pin, whenever wanted to connect beams but at the same time keep them separated by 1L, and there was no space available for the double version. Hence I will call it the spacing pin.
This design has also the advantages of allowing a cross axle, or the connection to a beam going in the perpendicular.
As you can see from the photo, the end pins used in this new part are from that type with friction.

And finally nine Axle 4 with Stop (87083),  used as axels to hold the wheels on the tractor (4), on the trailer (4) and one used like a winch to attach the trailer to the tractor.
Quite handy for fixing wheels in free rotating axles, at small/medium scale vehicles, like this.


The part assortment

This is a set which I'd say to have a very good balance of parts in what regards the usage of colors.
While not making extensive used of some most used colors, it takes a very good color mixture and and nice looking balance. I'm naturally referring to usage of the Lime and Red colors. It made me even to get a better impression of the Lime color.

For a Technic set, it also includes some unusual SYSTEM parts, like: a 9 x 13 grill, curved slopes, clips and even some 2x2 round bricks in Reddish Brown for the log.

Definitely all the furor being caused by this set, goes for the included pneumatic parts which were here reintroduced into a pure Technic set, for the first time since 2006.
Not that it was a very large hiatus in the usage of these parts, but more for the fear felt in the community of them being replaced by the newer Linear Actuator parts.
This is a very good opportunity to get a good assortment of these pneumatic parts (pump, large cylinders, valves, 'T's and pneumatic hoses) probably through the acquisition of multiple boxes. Specially for those recent fans who have been wanting to introduced themselves in the pneumatics constructions, but can't afford to get the parts at BrickLink due to the exaggerated prices being practiced.
Hopefully BrickLink prices will also drop considerably, due to the supply reestablishment as as the demand goes down.


The set


For those used to complain about TLG frequently repeating the same type of machines and vehicles in the Technic theme, this is probably a very good example of something where nothing similar was released for more than a decade.
It was back in 1996 the last time a log handling machine (also with pneumatics) was done as an official Technic set. It was the 8443 (Pneumatic Log Loader) - Also a very good set for the time and the parts then available.



I'd say the scale, type of machine and functions, make it a natural choice for the usage of pneumatics and even more to justify their reintroduction.


Building experience

It took me a bit more than two hours to build this set, while taking the photos and some notes for this review.

The first booklet starts with the construction of the tractor, that uses just parts from bag with number 1, plus the respective tires.
Naturally it starts with the chassis, which uses most of the new parts included into this set, as you can see from the photo below.



The new pins are are the sides of the chassis and there is a third one in the central part from the backside.

Looking a it, there are a few questions that come to my mind:

• Weren't it possible to use 12t double bevel gears in place of those two yellow knob wheels, that transmit movement from the HOG on the top, to the steering axle?
  Does it violates any forbidden design rule?
• Wonder why it is used a pair of half bushes in each front wheel axles, instead of one standard bush, which are also used in this set anyway.
  Unless they are used at larger quantities in the B-model, which I doubt to be the case.
  

After almost 40 major steps, here we get the tractor complete.



It looks quite nice with its vivid colors. I just wonder if it was too much complicated to make something extra, to fit under the tractor hood!?
However we all understand that for a set targeting this size, every part counts and tis was not exactly the main purpose aimed with this set.
Personally I've also enjoyed the way the tractor cabin was built and its final look, making used of non-straight and less conventional angles between parts.


The construction proceeds to the trailer, whose main interest is obviously the pneumatic functions.
There were used the bags numbered 2 and 3, as well as the one with the pneumatic parts and the remaining tires.

The assembly starts with the chassis and the first pneumatic elements, to easily get into the crane arm as seen from the images below.
As mentioned before the instructions steps for installing the pneumatic hoses are well detailed and make it a lot easier when compared to the way it was done for some older sets, or at least less error prone.
The pneumatic hoses are also supplied precut to the correct lengths and colors. This removes a little bit of the building experience, but on the other hand it also avoids eventual errors for the less experienced, which are very likely to happen to some, with all the associated frustration.



The pneumatic hosing used in this set also seems to be more from a vinyl type, than the silicone used in some older sets. This has the big advantage of avoiding the dust to easily fix on the hoses, hence improving the handling experience and model shinning look.
Despite nothing innovative, the house routing through the usage of a perpendicular double split connector is also a very nice detail, to avoid getting loose tubes around the crane arm.

In the end we just need to attach the trailer to the tractor, where the trailer fits through an axle with stop in the hole from the spacing pin, at the tractor's back.
And here it is a photo from the whole set together.



The set comes with with a log made of brown round bricks, but I'm sure you will find a lot more, to add into your play area. Probably even some real small wooden logs cut from tree branches, taken from your backyard.
A cute set I would say. And long live to the LEGO pneumatics!


Functionality and playability

In terms of playability the 8049 main model is a three-in one, whereas boys can play with the tractor alone, the trailer and its pneumatic functions or the whole set together. It doesn't have a lot of functions, but those it has are of great playability.

Pneumatic Technic sets, are among my favorites exactly because of their extended playability. Pneumatics are ideal to get parts moving fast, in models where positional precision is not a requirement.
Easily you can achieve simultaneous movements, by actuating the air pump with one hand, and operating more than one pneumatic valve levers with the other hand. Depending on the models, many times with small skilled finger shifts, it is even possible to control multiple valves quasi-simultaneously, achieving gracious movements and a great joy.

Some have also mentioned their concern about the convenience to manually actuate the pneumatic pump in this set, because of the way it is positioned under the trailer chassis. Its positioning along a longitudinal axis may turn difficult to keep the model steady, while pumping air into the cylinders, thus making it move forward. This is that kind of things we can only be sure about, when testing the real thing. So I did!
The conclusion is that this was effectively taken into consideration during the design process. As you can see from the photos below, there is an handy and strategically positioned vertical 5L beam, where you can hold your thumb while actuating the pump with the index and/or middle fingers. This way the trailer keeps steady in its place.



Another frequent comment is about the option taken for the claw operation. Understandably some are questioning why using gears to open/close the claw, and not to have also included one small pneumatic cylinder to make it work like in the former 8443?
Certainly it would have also required an extra valve, another 'T' and some more hosing, but definitely it would have been a better and more natural choice. Also a good opportunity to increase the assortment of pneumatic elements reintroduced, and not to speak about the benefit in terms of playability.
At this point it is not difficult to imagine, what's gonna be the most common modification, that AFOLs will to do this set.


B-model

Still within the forest machines theme, the 2nd model suggested by the TLG for this set is a Log Handler vehicle. This one, a much closer successor for the 8443 above mentioned, in terms of form and functions.
As mentioned in the initial data at this review, the instructions to build the B-model are not included in the supplied building instructions, but available for download online.

Despite still not having built this model, I already feel in-love with it! It looks great and could probably have been also a main model in itself.
Most likely I'll make it a target for another TBs review, to come. So I'll leave the details for a next opportunity.


The verdict ant some additional nuts, will come on the 2nd part.
To be continued...