Paul B Technic

That is coming along well.

LEGO Technic 42209 - Mod - Loading Forks Attachment One of the things I love most about LEGO Technic is how it invites experimentation and customization. While the official sets are impressive on their own, it's the aftermarket creativity that really unlocks their potential. That’s exactly what inspired my latest project—a new Loading Forks Attachment for the LEGO Technic 42209 Volvo L120 Electric Wheel Loader. Designed Around My New Quick Hitch System This attachment is the first in what I hope will be a long line of add-ons for the 42209. It makes full use of my recently developed quick hitch system, allowing for fast and easy swapping between tools. Whether you want to go from a bucket to forks or something entirely different, the hitch system adds flexibility and realism to play and display alike. The design maintains full lift and tilt functionality and integrates smoothly with the set’s existing controls. Because the forks are built to LEGO Technic proportions and structure, they remain lightweight enough not to overload the lifting mechanism, while still being strong and stable for play scenarios. Expanding Usefulness and Play Value The official set is already a compact powerhouse with a great parts selection. But adding swappable attachments like this takes it even further—opening up new play scenarios like: Pallet lifting and material transport Warehouse simulation Forklift vs. loader comparisons You’re no longer locked into just one configuration, and that modularity means more hours of engagement, especially for younger builders or display-focused AFOLs (like me). What’s Next? This Loading Forks mod is just the beginning. I have several other ideas planned that will take advantage of the same hitch setup, including: A snow plow A log grabber A dozer blade And more… By building onto the base 42209 set, I aim to create a whole ecosystem of tools that will make it one of the most versatile small Technic sets in your collection. Video - https://paulbtechnic.blogspot.com/2025/06/lego-technic-42209-mod-loading-forks.html

LEGO Technic 42209 - Mod - Quick Change Hitch I have recently purchased and built the LEGO Technic 42209 Volvo L120 Electric Wheel Loader, with a view to designing and building some different attachments for the front of this. After looking at the current way it had the large bucket attached, I decided to make some modifications to this, both to improve the function and also allow me to be able to easily mount different attachments. This has included adding 2L lift arms to the end of the axels with stoppers, to allow me to easily pull these out. I have also replaced the thing lift arm on the bucket tilt arm with 7L beams in light grey. This allows me to easily swap attachments.

Impressive.

Nice looking build and I love the trailer.

That red version looks really good.

That is a cool detail, hopefully it works well and brings "something" different to this line.

That is a very cool solution.

That has a good shape, some of the colours are a bit interesting, any plans to change those?

I love that improvement.

Thank you, that makes sense but I feel it is a poor choice of design, the light could have been more towards the sides or in the middle of the roof.

Review - LEGO Technic 42209 Volvo L120 Electric Wheel Loader The LEGO Technic 42209 Volvo L120 Electric Wheel Loader is a compact yet intricate model that captures the essence of Volvo's real-life electric construction vehicle. Comprising 973 pieces, this set is designed for builders aged 9 and up and is priced at AU$149.99 RRP, I was able to get mine for $119 from my local Kmart. 🔧 Build and Features The construction process begins with the central pivot, utilizing universal joints to transfer motion between the front and rear sections. This setup allows for articulated steering, mimicking the manoeuvrability of the actual loader. The model incorporates a dense arrangement of gears to facilitate various functions, including the raising, lowering, and tilting of the shovel. The engine cover opens to reveal three spinning electrical generators, adding to the model's mechanical authenticity. Despite its compact size, the loader is capable of supporting a reasonable amount of weight in its bucket, demonstrating the robustness of its design. My 8 year old son assisted me with some of the build process and he found this enjoyable. 📦 Unboxing Experience The set comes in a box approximately the size of a large shoebox, containing eight numbered polybags, an unnumbered bag, four loose tires, and the large bucket piece. The instruction manual is straightforward, catering to its intended age group, and the sticker sheet adds realistic detailing without being overwhelming. 🧠 Educational Value This model serves as an excellent introduction to engineering concepts for young builders. The assembly process offers insights into mechanical linkages and gear systems, providing a hands-on learning experience that aligns with the educational goals of the LEGO Technic series ⚠️ Considerations Non-Motorised: The model is not motorised, which may be a drawback for those seeking powered functions. Set 42030 from 2014 was fully remote controlled. Stability: Care is needed when handling the model, as certain parts, like the warning light on the roof, may move too easily. Picking up via the roof seems to be the best option. Design Issues: While building this and in my testing since, I have noticed a couple of things. - The warning light is very close to the gear on the roof, which is used to turn the steering, this often gets in the way. - When lifting the bucket, you have to keep adjusting the tilt for this, the same happens when it is dropped down, you have to adjust it, or the bucket won't get to the lowest position. - The rear section has a lot of black and I feel a few pieces being swapped to yellow would have worked better. 🏁 Conclusion The LEGO Technic 42209 Volvo L120 Electric Wheel Loader is a well-designed set that balances playability with educational value. Its intricate mechanisms and realistic features make it a rewarding build for young enthusiasts interested in construction machinery and engineering principles. More Photos: https://paulbtechnic.blogspot.com/2025/06/review-lego-technic-42209-volvo-l120.html

That looks great :)

Great to see the progress on this one.

Some thoughts on a C Model for it: https://paulbtechnic.blogspot.com/2025/06/mini-review-lego-technic-42044-c-model.html

It is always sad when we lose someone, especially when it is so sudden.

That is really coming along well, it is giving me some ideas for a MOC of my own.

Nice change :)

This is very cool, love the cat in the background.

Well done for explaining this so well.

LEGO Technic Off Road Utility Truck (ORUT) MK2 - Rear Mount Lifting Work Platform This is a new attachment for my LEGO Technic Off Road Utility Truck (ORUT) MK2, Rear Mount Lifting Work Platform. This is mounted to the rear of the tray and uses my standard rear mounting / lifting setup. This has two features, the arm has a two stage lift, firstly the knob on the side of the arm provides the first stage of the lift, secondarily the rear small LA is used for the main arm raising function. Video - https://paulbtechnic.blogspot.com/2025/06/lego-technic-off-road-utility-truck_10.html

I have had some issues with the video hosting, so I have moved all of these to YouTube now - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZoPGFrDsl87NyQQJ6GhKpA

Great to see the mods and improvements.

That looks very cool, the colour works really well.

Very interesting idea to drive the pump off the tracks, I am keen to see what you come up with.