Would you use custom Technic parts?

[robuko]

I am not really a Technic Moccer but I am curious. If there was a custom option of buying cheap versions of rare parts like 19l flex axles, would you use them? I think I would for non structural parts, but not for structural parts.

[Rishab N]

Well theres always 19L ribbed hoses http://www.bricklink.com/catalogItem.asp?P=78c19

[VKTechnic]

Well theres always 19L ribbed hoses http://www.bricklink...tem.asp?P=78c19

Not in red

[Paul Boratko]

If you needed a certain size(s) in red, you could always cut this to the desired length... It's not like Lego has never asked the consumer to cut tubing before...

http://www.bricklink.com/catalogItem.asp?P=75c63

[anton1678]

I saw somewhere that lego pneumatics hoses work well because their colours are accurate.

They will be much cheaper then the 19L flex axles

Keep in mind that they fit with certain pieces well, such as the T junction and the extender, both in the Unimog.

[Balrog]

There was a big discussion about this a while ago. And Sheepo made some comparison between non-Lego pneumatic hoses and the respective colors of parts.

I personally like the idea of using pneumatic hoses as a substitution of flex axles. I would also use some third party flex axles if quality and color are ok. But that's about it.

Also, there are other means for third party parts, like 3D printing. And Efferman does a great job about it. Though these pieces are still very expensive.

[GoldVillage]

I saw somewhere that lego pneumatics hoses work well because their colours are accurate.

They will be much cheaper then the 19L flex axles

Keep in mind that they fit with certain pieces well, such as the T junction and the extender, both in the Unimog.

In talk of "flex" axles, does it exists any real flex axles? now im talking about the kinda axles/shaft that can spin while bent, could be a good replacement for the universal joints

[anton1678]

In talk of "flex" axles, does it exists any real flex axles? now im talking about the kinda axles/shaft that can spin while bent, could be a good replacement for the universal joints

No, unfortunately not.

U-joints are better because they are smaller and more bendy than a real flexible axle would be, but I agree, it could be a nice replacement if you want looks or something to fit though the technic holes.

[nerdsforprez]

I would use custom parts if they were cheaper, but, as already mentioned on this post, only for non-functional parts. For functional parts, I would continue to use LEGO parts. This may be a business venture for someone. We often throw around the example of the 19L flex axles, which I think is a fair one. Truth is, we would all like to continue using only LEGO parts, but..... they are so rare and expensive, we are almost forced to arrive at different solutions (because we certainly will not stop building!). If someone were to creat such custom parts, I would sign up.

[AndyCW]

I would certainly use custom parts. I have modified some lego pieces to suit my needs. Such a 3.5 and 4.5 axles, but I try to avoid it. I am considering some of Efferman's Shapeways parts to get desired gear ratios and suspension geometries.

v/r

Andy

[Erik Leppen]

I wouldn't.

I view rebuildability (by others) as an important aspect of Lego models. Relying on very rare parts influences that aspect negatively. So I try to avoid that.

[Jim]

I personally like the idea of using pneumatic hoses as a substitution of flex axles. I would also use some third party flex axles if quality and color are ok. But that's about it.

I'm with Balrog on this one. When good quality fugazi flex axles would be available, I wouldn't hesitate to use them.

I wouldn't.

I view rebuildability (by others) as an important aspect of Lego models. Relying on very rare parts influences that aspect negatively. So I try to avoid that.

I also appreciate your opinion on this matter. But when building supercars, using flex axles is almost imperative

Would be great if TLG re-released some of the black and white flex axles.

[Milan]

I would not.

I enjoy trying to make something with parts available. And I love how we get new parts each year.

[Balrog]

I wouldn't.

I view rebuildability (by others) as an important aspect of Lego models. Relying on very rare parts influences that aspect negatively. So I try to avoid that.

That is totally true. I think that is something everyone should think about when building. But, a part like flex axles can be substituted "relatively easy" and I think there is no shame when using a proper alternative for it to maintain the looks.

Would be great if TLG re-released some of the black and white flex axles.

TLG should not only re-release those flex axles that are hard to find, but all variations. That means, all available main colors and all sizes that are currently available for flex axles. That includedes lime green in 19L and so on which were previously not available.