[MOC] Snowspeeders

[lostcarpark]

So for a while I wanted custom Snowspeeders for my Hoth diorama. When I saw Brickdoctor's version, I just couldn't resist having a go.

I built the first one for a show we held in Naas, Ireland, basically off Brickdor's LDD file, but with a few mods (mostly for parts I didn't have to hand):

T-47 Snowspeeder by James Shields, on Flickr

However, for larger Hoth displays, I wanted to have a fleet of them. And as I only have LDD on my desktop computer, which resides in a different room from my LEGO, building from LDD is a pain (as if it wasn't already, given the weird way LDD orders instructions). So I built the extra ones by copying the first. Working this way, it makes sense to get a production line going, so I only have to dismantle once.

Snowspeeder Production Line by James Shields, on Flickr

Here's the completed snowspeeder squadron, ready to defend Echo Base:

Echo Base Defenders by James Shields, on Flickr

One handy tip. Brickdoctor recommended red LEGO rubber bands to hold the wings together. I used these for the first one but found them a little too long (it's possible mine had stretched from prior use). I found some "loom bands" in the bottom of a tub of used LEGO, and they were actually perfect for the speeders. They're a little thinner than the LEGO ones, and really stretchy, so easy to pul over the desired parts.

Once I had my squadron, what's the first thing I do? Why crash one into the snow, of course, recreating Luke's famous scene with the tow cable...

Snowspeeder Down! by James Shields, on Flickr

Finally, I'll leave you with my version of the box art of one of my favourite LEGO sets...

45000 Rebel Snowspeeder by James Shields, on Flickr

[LOBOT-OMY]

INCREDIBLE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Just love this mate, congrats to you.

[sander1992]

That looks really good. 

The shape is tremendous. 

Great work!