nico71

Following months of work to reproduce this beautiful French car, with its particular features at this scale and the iconic shape. TLTD :It is built at 1/15 scale (same scale as my 2CV, Mehari, 205 GTI), with working steering wheel and optional Hand Of God, green 4-cylinder engine with moving pistons connected to the front wheels (obviously), openable 4 doors, trunk and double paneled hood. The LEGO Model :LEGO Technic 1/15 replica of the Citroën Traction, with working steering wheel and optional Hand Of God, green 4-cylinder engine with moving pistons connected to the front wheels, openable doors, trunk and hood, with detailed interior and beautiful iconic shape reproduced in original black color.Original Model :The Citroën Traction Avant is the world’s first unibody front-wheel-drive car. Designed by André Lefèbvre and Flaminio Bertoni in 1933 / 1934, it was produced by the French manufacturer Citroën from 1934 to 1957 with approximately 760,000 units produced.Whilst front-wheel drive and four-wheel independent suspension had been established in the mass market by Auto Union and subsequently others some years before, the Traction Avant pioneered integrating these into a mass-production, crash resistant, unitary, monocoque body. [wikipedia](images courtesy of POA)Specs (LEGO Version) : Citroën Traction at 1/15 scale (same as my 2CV, Mehari, 205 GTI) Dimensions : 33cm (L) x 13cm (W) x 12cm (H), Wheels : Ø49mm, Weight : 630gr Based on Traction 11B model from 1955 with curved trunk Steering with lever / rod mechanism and working steering wheel Optional Hand Of God Front Wheel Drive without differential (not enough place at this scale) Green 4-cylinder engine with moving pistons and working fan Torsion bar independent rear suspension (can be lock with adding a pin) Openable elements : 4 doors, trunk and double paneled hood (can be removed) A great attention has been taken to reproduce the particular shape of the original model, with a special treatment on the surfaces finish as well as the colors or certain colored element (pin, axle etc).Links :📲 More pictures, review, preview instructions [nico71.fr]🎁 Complete package including Parts + Instructions at [buildamoc.com]🎥 Video presentation [youtube.com]❓ A great history page on [Traction-Owner-co.uk]Video : Let me know what do you think ! I am working on a design secrets video on that one, expecting to publish in some weeks as there is a lot to talk about the design.

I have forgotten to post here my 1/8 Trailer : ------------------------------- A LEGO Technic tandem axle trailer to transport 1/8 cars (Bugatti 42083, Porsche 42056 or any other 1/8 Supercar). With storable ramps with locking mechanism, manual jack, adjustable towball height, openable and removable box. Available in three versions (5×7 frame, yellow frame, with wooden platform).(Ford F150 + Porsche GT3)Specs : LEGO Technic Replica of a Trailer BigRex 70Ch (Tandem Axle) Dimensions : 76.3cm x 36.6cm x 12.6cm (2.2kg) Dimensions of the car platform : With the box : 536mm (67stud) x 264mm (33stud) Without the box : 632mm (79stud) x 264mm (33stud) (the car can overcome the rear part as long as the rear wheel are supported) Two ramps with sliding axle to put in place (lenght : 27cm, approach angle of 8°) Ramps are stored underneath the chassis with locking mechanism Adjustable width of the Ramps Sturdy Chassis to support the weight of the car (symmetrical grid-built chassis to easily extend it) Adjustable height of the towball attachment point Manual jack with linear actuator and crank Openable and removable box (box inside size : 20cm x 7.2cm x 4.8cm) Adjustable wheel chocks Details : Lights, mudguards, chainss, guardrails, red/white stripping (Ford F150 + Porsche GT3)Inspiration model : BigTexTrailer 70Ch (Tandem Axle no Dovetail)Links :📲 More pictures, review, preview instructions [nico71.fr]🎥 Video presentation [youtube.com]❓ BigTex website [Bigtextrailer.com](Ford F150 + Porsche GT3 without additional box)Video (5x7 frame version presentation) :

Thanks ! Sorry for not responding early. Yes I have use the banana gear mostly for creating wheel of inertia so on Lego Pneumatic Engine. I have released a new creation ! In the same theme that I like : oilfield truck, so here is more a oilfield vehicle, the foremost delta 6x6, in a remote controlled 1/20 reproduction 6×6 drivetrain, articulated steering, suspensions of all axle, with openables/removable elements and many details. The model :The original model is an articulated truck, the 6x6 Delta, from the Canadian Manufacturer Foremost, which is mainly use in harsh terrain in oilfield, thanks to its low pressure tire, chassis-articulated steering and its payload. It can be equipped with many specific equipment, for logistical support, remote drilling operations, pipeline and powerline construction or maintenance.Specs : Scale 1/20, 60cm lenght, 16m width, 21cm height, 1.9kg weight. Remote controlled using Powered App from LEGO with bluetooth smartphone Control+ motor can be replaced by Power functions Drive : 6x6, 2 L motors in the chassis Reinforced Constant-velocity joint, portal hub and differential on all axle (no locking) Steering : Central articulation with two linear actuators powered by a L motor Rear suspensions : tandem axle with Panhard rod connected with oscillating arm (bogie design) Front suspensions : live axle with shock absorbers and Panhard rod No winch, but front and rear are equipped to receive it Openable elements : doors Removable elements : battery cover, cabin, bed Inspiration model (Foremost Delta 6x6 in Transporter version) :Links :📲 More pictures, review, preview instructions [nico71.fr]🎥 Video presentation [youtube.com]❓ Delta Page on Foremost website [foremost.ca] Video :

Interesting approach to reduce the play ! Did you have a ressource (picture, renders) of the system to be sure to understand and reproduce it to test ? Regarding the switchless machine, I have tested today to power it with a regular hand pump composed of 4x LEGO pumps + and air tank and it works well, it runs as fast as the compressor with about 2 bars, by pumping two times per seconds, so this option is valid to power the engine for people who do not have an other source of air.

I am interested because if you gear the input or ouput, it gives more play on the diff anyway, so when I search for the good timing point (which means rotate in one way, then other way, then other way etc) the play is a problem to find the correct spot. Maybe it works on your clock because it works in one way only ? For the switch, it is an interesting idea, because the force to push the pinched loop depends of the pressure, and vice versa. If you used new hose (like the one in 42100), the rubber is stronger and the needed force to pinch is higher, but it can accept more pressure in (and require also more force to pinch with high pressure). So it worse to have a look to it ! Maybe with an old pneumatic hose or silicone one which is very soft. Thanks ! Honestly I do not know, both have advantages and drawbacks. Classic switch are widespread, easy to set up, big dead spot, but accept a large pressure without consequence (and so reach high RPM). The switchless 'pinching loop' require more parts, have a small dead spot (it is more constant as the loop open / close gradually), but is sensible to the pressure and required more air flow. It can works at lowest pressure (because the dead spot is small) but do not like a lot fast RPM because of the pressure. I use camshaft with roller / pusher on the switchless version, but there are lot of other mechanism to test for the timing, in order to reduce the dead spot and increase the in air time. (slidding rod with connector, scotchyoke or something which look like locomotive valve gear). The main drawbacks for me is that it required 4 hoses for 1 cylinders, so if I want to push the concept forward with a L4 or V6 I need a lot of 9cm hose with the same material. Of course If I time the engine correctly (eg 180° or boxer), I can use the same hose for two cylinders but it requires a lot of hose anyway. I dream of a radial engine !

Thanks ! Yes I do not like too to modify the pneumatic parts. I prefer dealing with in order people can rebuilt the creations without the need to modify it. for the differential, I have though about but in fact it has too many play, which is a problem when you search for the good timing point (back and forth). I have used in on my Hot Bulb Tractor 10 years ago and it was a bit difficult to find the correct timing because of the play. Thanks ! I use grey bush to show that it can be removed to open the control panel. Shape and color tells the functions, which is important for a didactic model.

New creation !A LEGO Technic Pneumatic Switchless Machine with adjustable timing, working throttle, with idle mechanism, and openable controls panel. How it works :This engine is build around a single pneumatic cylinder, with air distribution using switchless valves. The switchless valves are composed of 2 hose loops by cylinder chambers, which are operated by pushers with a single camshaft, enabling to pinch the hose to restrict the air flow.The whole valve assembly can rotate around the camshaft, enabling a rotation angle offset between the camshaft assembly and the crankshaft, in order to adjust precisely the timing (ignition point of internal combustion engine). The yellow wheel on the front panel controls the timing angle, with a visual indicator as the yellow connector.The model is also equipped with working throttle, which works on the same principle as the switchless valve, by using a pinched loop to restrict the air flow. It is operated by linkage which is connected to the red throttle with rubber bands. Then, a idle mechanism, which acts as a adjustable endstop enables to set up the idle of the engine, which is operated by the red wheel. To finish, the control panel can be open to see the internal mechanism.Links : 📲 More pictures, review, preview instructions [nico71.fr] 🎥 Video presentation [youtube.com] 🧩 Rebrickable inventory [rebrickable.com] Video :

Hello, not so much new creations this month because I worked a lot on commissioned projects, but I have released new variation of updated instructions for old creations if you are interested. Honda S2000 (Red Version) 📲 More pictures, review, preview instructions [nico71.fr]🎥 Video presentation (black version) [youtube.com]🔰 Stickers available in Red and Black at Forwart's Sticker Shop [forwartsticker.com]💡 3D printed Rim cover made by TeClem8Creations [facebook.com]🎁 Available at Buildamoc (Lego Parts + PDF Instructions + Sticker Sheet) [buidamoc.com] 5 reels Braiding Machine (2022 version) This 2022 version is updated with the following changes : L motor instead of M and regular battery box (constant speed) (manual mode with crank available) More gearing options to modify the speed (slower of faster) Cosmetic change to fit the more common parts and simplify the build Completely new instructions with 2022 quality standard Links :📲 More pictures, review, tips for functioning and preview instructions [nico71.fr]🎥 Video presentation (original version) [youtube.com]🎁 Available at Buildamoc (Lego Parts + PDF Instructions) [buidamoc.com] Fell free to comment of ask questions 😀

Hey guy, new creation ! This is a Mini Slot Machine, based on a previous model I have done 10 years ago. The ball (the bet) is loaded in the machine on the top red entrance with the main lever, it goes though a probability path using multiple triangle parts to create two OR gates. If the ball falls in the correct path, it triggers the hatch of the ball container and you win, if not, you lose your ball. The interesting mechanism is the resetting one. Composed of levers, connecting rod, gearing and ratchet, it helps to reset the position of the hatch and lock it, thanks to the decoupled motion between the lift lever and the gear/ratchet. Enabling to lift and lock the hatch only when it is open. You can find more info , pictures and the building instructions here : https://www.nico71.fr/mini-slot-machine/

I have issued a last video about the Western Star, about what happened when the creation is done. I talk about the 3D model, instructions, review etc : The Western Star Truck is also available for sale on Buildamoc now, in a complete package (Genuine Lego Parts + PDF Instructions), with or without the mud pump, see : https://buildamoc.com/products/western-star-6900-twinsteer

Thanks for your message ! @gyenesvi The hood was a bit tough indeed. On the real truck, as you said it is more angular. I have not choose this option, because I want to use the elbow piece for the front grill, because other part like angled connector or just brick look too edgy. So to maintain the homogeneous of the shape, I have chosen the curved panel for the hood. The option would have been to use curved brick or some slope but it made the front grill and the hood more complicated (plus that I do not have the part but I could order them). So this is more a technic approach on it to maintain a low part count and sturdy design to play with it. Of course if the truck was made with regular brick, the level of details and accuracy would have been better, but I am not skilled enough for that (and I had still not the parts ^^) @Jundis I use this constructions rather than the angled connector because it need a bit more angled to touch the rear ladder and avoid the collision with the rear sterable axle. Indeed, the mudguard is not center on the two steerable axle. The front one is going one stud further because the axle steer a lot. And the rear part goes one stud less far to keep the proportion, and because the rear sterable axle steer less, so I have put this small build like a beam to compensate that and have the correct angle to touch the ladder. You can see it here : (despite the build does not touch really the ladder on this picture because it can rotate and I have not checked it correctly 😖)

Yes indeed, it just need to have AWD to be very capable. It is possible with small construction on the front but no diff and maybe a more complicated steering without variable turning radius (connecting rod and lever).

Thanks for posting the latest video ! 👍 Here are some additional info about this Western Star 6900 TwinSteer : The model : Specs Western Star 6900 Twinsteer in Lego Technic : Scale 1/20 Dimensions : 48.5cm (L) x 12.6cm (W) x 17.5cm (H) Weight : 1.4kg 1551 parts (truck), 584 parts (Mudpump) Remote controlled using Control+ Hub and PoweredUp App (Lego) (also compatible with Power Functions systems) Drive : 2 L motor with 12/24, 12/20, 20/28 (differential), 8×4 no locking differential Steering : L motor which drives both axle with different turning radius made using variable connecting rod Winch : L motor with worm gearing Suspensions : Tandem bogies with oscillating arms Removal hood with fake working inline 6 diesel engine Openable doors Diesel Mud Pump in container style with optional motorization Links and design process : I have documented a lot the design process on this creation in video as you may know, which includes how I have started the project, choosing the scale, the functions, making the chassis and the bodywork with some tips and tricks. 🎥 Part 1 : Where I build the chassis [youtube.com] 🎥 Part 2 : Where I build the bodywork [youtube.com] 📲 More pictures, review, preview instructions [nico71.fr] The load : The load is a mud pump powered by a 6 inline diesel engine, in a container style. The orange frame can be removed, as well as an optional motorization can be added (see video at 2min for that [youtube]). Instructions : I have separated the mud pump part list from the truck, so there is two rebrickable inventory, one for the truck, and one for mud pump, which is free. https://rebrickable.com/mocs/MOC-117722/Nico71/western-star-6900-twinsteer/#parts (for sale, 10€ exclude Tax) https://rebrickable.com/mocs/MOC-117726/Nico71/diesel-mud-pump/#parts (free) Composition : Building instructions in PDF for the Western Star 6900 TwinSteer (221 pages / 76mo) Building instructions in PDF for the Mup Pump (79 pages / 22mo) PoweredUp App Tutorial for the Western Star 6900 TwinSteer (23 pages / 6mo) There is also a picturing bill of material in the instructions, as well as on the preview on my webiste if you prefer. Final note : This build took me over 2 months to complete, mostly because I have to film a lot and editing to make the design process video. Apart that, I have made several version about the bodywork to find the perfect balance between design and accuracy. I plan to make a last video about it, more a bonus video where I explain the after building work, which is the creating 3D, instructions etc in order to complete the series. Regarding the truck abilities, as you can see it is not a trial truck, but handle surprisingly good on "slightly rough" terrain. Because of its size (wheel base), 8 wheels and weight distribution. In fact this is almost the same feeling about the performance on the real truck in the Snowrunner game : not very efficient, but helped by its size and weight. On very harsh terrain, the 8x4 drivetrain is not enough and the front wheel would need traction, which is not possible because of the scale. Nevertheless, I have replaced the differential by standard gearing to test and it is a bit better in pure-offroading despite the stress in corner. In any case, the ground clearance is the major limitation, after all, it's an off-road truck, but on a small scale (1/20). Interesting fact, it is almost the same scale has the Berliet T100 I have done, I will make a photo comparison, as it shows that the Berliet is very massive ! I hope you like this truck ! it was a nice project to me to documented my design process, and recreate such an iconic truck from this game 🙂

I do not know for now as I am making the instructions :) There are multiple reason : The first is that I have not this part in white, but I could have order it The second is that part is expensive and not common, (I try as I can to use cheap part to be cost effective as long as the build is nice enough) The back quarter shape will collide with the engine below and the frame of the cabin, (but I could modify the engine and the cabin accordinlgy, it will juste make a more complicated build) So quite answer : compromize... As usual 😊

Thanks ! I can not use here as it requires more space in width than the smaller joint.