Multi Function Equipment Trailer (MFET) – Attachment for LEGO Technic Set 42209 - Volvo L120

When it comes to versatility and expandability, the LEGO Technic 42209 Volvo L120 Front End Loader offers a solid platform – but what if you want to push it even further?

Enter the Multi Function Equipment Trailer (MFET) – an original rear-mounted attachment that transforms the L120 into a true workhorse.

Designed for Function and Flexibility
The MFET builds on my new standard rear quick hitch system, making it easy to connect and remove with no tools and minimal fuss. Built primarily with Technic beams and panels, it provides a flatbed trailer platform that is both visually cohesive and functionally strong.

Key features include:

• Dual axle setup for strength and stability

• Low-slung deck with clean white and black tiling for a sleek industrial look

• Side-rail pin holes for tying down equipment or adding modular accessories

• Integrated toolbox at the front for simulated storage – a fun visual detail

Why a Trailer?
In real-world construction and agriculture, front loaders often tow trailers for moving materials, tools, and small machinery. With the MFET, your LEGO Volvo 42209 can now do the same. Whether you’re transporting mini MOCs, tools, or just building your construction diorama, the trailer adds a whole new layer of realism and roleplay.

Expandability in Mind
This is just the beginning. The MFET is designed to work alongside future modular attachments like:

• A tilting dump tray

• Flatbed crane insert

• Livestock gates or construction fencing

As with all my builds, the MFET follows the theme of increased play value through modularity.

LEGO Technic 42209 - Mod - Dozer Blade Attachment

I have recently been working on designing and building a front mounted dozer blade attachment for Lego Technic 42209, Volvo L120 Electric Frontend Loader. 

I came up with the idea for this after seeing some construction work on a highway near my home. It is attached using my normal front quick mount attachment points, it can be both raised and lowered and the angle of the blade can also be changed,

Overall it works well and allows me to push around loads, using the L120.

LEGO Technic 42147 C-Model Review – Hook Loader

The Hook Loader is an imaginative and practical alternate build of LEGO Technic set 42147 (Dump Truck). Though not an official B-model, this fan-made C-model takes the parts from the compact starter set and transforms them into a functional mini hook-lift truck with surprising personality and play value.

Design and Build

This model makes clever use of the limited Technic parts included in the original 42147 set. The color scheme—yellow, grey, and dark blue—is consistent and eye-catching, with the cab and lifting mechanism clearly defined from the loading bay.

The front end is tightly built, and the angular lights, sloped panels, and visible gearing give it a rugged utility-vehicle feel. The rear tray, made from Technic panels, is mounted securely yet is clearly designed to simulate a detachable container, staying true to the hook loader concept.

A standout element is the hook lift arm assembly. Built using only a few connectors and liftarms, it mimics the real-life movement of a hook loader very well—raising, lowering, and lifting the rear module. The black gear on the side controls this.

Build Quality and Stability

Despite the small size and part limitations, the model holds together well. The front is compact and strong, while the rear tray section is adequately reinforced. The arm assembly is solid and holds its pose without flopping.

Strengths

• Excellent use of limited parts.
• Clean, playable design with realistic shaping.
• Easy to modify or expand.
• Encourages understanding of real-world mechanisms.

Final Verdict: 8.5/10

This Hook Loader C-model is a fantastic example of what can be achieved with a small Technic set and a big imagination. It extends the life and versatility of 42147 far beyond the base build and is a great project for beginners and seasoned builders alike. If you're looking for an alternate build that adds both functionality and fun, this one's worth trying.

LEGO Technic 42209 - Mod - Rear Tow Mount Attachment

Recently I have been researching some different attachments for my LEGO Technic 42209 Volvo L120 Front End Loader. I have started to design some rear mounted attachments but firstly I needed to find a way to attach these to the L120. My goal was to build an attachment that required the least amount of changes to the standard L120 build (to make changing it back easier), while still providing a solid mounting point for my attachments and also looking good.

After looking at a few options, I came up with the below. The only change from "standard" is replacing 2 x 2L pins black with 2 x 3L pins blue, as can be seen circled in red below. These allow the beams to be attached to the chassis. A couple of pins were also used to attached it to the bottom beam. This will allow me to build various attachments but also easily swap it back to "standard" if I want.

LEGO Technic 42209 - Mod - Lift and Carry Crane Attachment

I have recently been working on designing and building a front mounted lift and carry crane attachment for Lego Technic 42209, Volvo L120 Electric Frontend Loader. 

I came up with the idea for this last night and after some research online, I built this today, it only took about half an hour. It is attached using my normal front quick mount attachment points. 

Overall it seems to work fairly well and allows me to pick up loads and driving around using the L120. I am impressed with how high it can lift items.

Video

LEGO Technic 42209 - Mod - Loading Claw Attachment

I have recently been working on designing and building a front mounted loading claw for Lego Technic 42209, Volvo L120 Electric Frontend Loader. 

Over the past couple of days, I have spent some time design and building this attachment, it is attached using my normal front quick mount attachment points. While the opening of the claw is not quite as large as what I would like, I found overall it seems to work fairly well and allows me to pick up loads and driving around using the L120.

I chose the colour schemes as I wanted a little bit of contrast to the yellow and black from the L120 itself. Overall this works quite well and I’m very happy with it.

Video

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

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.

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.