For those that modify sets what's the best/easiest way?

[murtaughf3]

I've always loved the technic sets and have been purchasing and stock piling some of the sets, now it's time to build. I'm currently in the process of building 42029, a set I've wanted for a long time. I'm wanting to modify this set, got a few ideas just not exactly sure which direction I'll be going.

With that said and being new to building technic. I'm wondering if it would be better to build it and then modify it a little at a time keeping the base model in tact and replacing and modifying accordingly. Or would be it best just to modify from the beginning? For those that modify lots of sets and build lots of mods what do yo think my best course of action would be ?

Either direction I decide to go I'll mostly be only changing the color, truck bed, and maybe a few other areas. The vast majority of the frame will remain stock.

[Blakbird]

If you are new to Technic and new to modification, I'd recommend building the whole thing stock and making sure you know how it works before you try to change anything. Without a thorough understanding of the model's functionality and/or lots of experience, you are as likely to break it as improve it. I would actually build several models first to get experience from multiple designers before starting to change things.

[Leonardo da Bricki]

Adding to what Blakbird said, changing the colors is quite easy. Just use the instructions and swap out the same parts of a different color. If you want to add Power Functions, a better set to start with is 42037.

[murtaughf3]

If you are new to Technic and new to modification, I'd recommend building the whole thing stock and making sure you know how it works before you try to change anything. Without a thorough understanding of the model's functionality and/or lots of experience, you are as likely to break it as improve it. I would actually build several models first to get experience from multiple designers before starting to change things.

This is my thought process as well. I've currently also have the new Fire Plane, Container Truck and Construction Crew. I figured it'd be best to be able to understand all the gear and similar connections before doing a full out modification.

[andrewganschow]

When I modify a set I usually look at the part of the instructions where the modifications will be made, see what that area holds together and does. I just put an L motor in the chassis of 42009 to run the outriggers separatly from the superstructure. Found an area that I could gut to fit the motor, then a clear path to route the motor cable, then a clear spot for a switch and battery. Modifications are all about observation of what your working with, limitations of that area, and structures that are attached or attach later to that area.

Edited June 16, 2016 by andrewganschow

[__________________________]

If you are new to Technic and new to modification, I'd recommend building the whole thing stock and making sure you know how it works before you try to change anything. Without a thorough understanding of the model's functionality and/or lots of experience, you are as likely to break it as improve it. I would actually build several models first to get experience from multiple designers before starting to change things.

Agreed, I have destroyed many sets by modifying them. Of course you can always rebuild the original set though, so there's no reason to hesitate to try something out!

I have dismantled 10220, 10242, 42008, 42009, etc by trying to modify them, it is a lot of work

[ctx1769]

Sariel's book " the unofficial lego technic builders guide" is a very good introduction to modding and building technics. I don't now if other members agree with me.

[__________________________]

Sariel's book " the unofficial lego technic builders guide" is a very good introduction to modding and building technics. I don't now if other members agree with me.

I agree