LEGO Technic 42177 MOD – Lift and Carry Hook Attachment

 

2025 – My LEGO Technic Year in Review

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to look back at a massive year of building, modding, experimenting, and expanding what’s possible with LEGO Technic. Despite a slow start, the year turned into one of the most creative and productive periods of my Technic journey.

A Slow Start – But Worth It

Just like in 2024, the first few months of 2025 were quiet.

Family life, commitments, and everything else demanded my attention, so Technic projects paused for a while. But that break actually helped reset my focus, and when I returned, I came back with far more clarity and direction for what I wanted to build.

Quality Over Quantity

Across the whole year, I built 14 models, but this time, it wasn’t about churning out builds.

Only 4 were built as “A-models.”

The rest were C-models or full MOCs, crafted from the parts of sets I already owned.

More than ever, I found myself looking at new Technic sets not as finished products, but as platforms, raw material with potential. What they could become mattered more than what the box showed. This shift shaped everything I built in 2025.

Pushing the Limits of 42177

The Mercedes-Benz G 500 (42177) became the backbone of my Technic projects this year. What started as a standard set evolved into a completely re-engineered platform with interchangeable rear attachments, a redesigned tray, and a fully functional PTO system.

The rear PTO, added retrospectively, became the heart of the system and unlocked endless attachment ideas.

I designed multiple rear-mounted modules, including the G-Class Ute conversion, a new tray layout, and various snap-on functional units.

One of the highlights was the Rubbish Loader Attachment, driven by a small linear actuator via the PTO, complete with a purpose-built loading ramp to keep the load contained. A simple concept, but one that dramatically increased functionality and play value.

42177 wasn’t just a model this year, it was a platform for innovation.

Non-LEGO Brands – Some Hits, Some Misses

2025 also saw me explore a few non-Lego brands.

Results were mixed: some offered interesting parts or fresh building styles, while others didn’t meet the quality, clutch power, or durability I expect for Technic builds. Still, it was a worthwhile experiment that gave me a better understanding of what’s out there beyond LEGO.

TechBuildDB – A Huge Step Forward

Another major milestone was the development of TechBuildDB, my custom tool for managing MOCs, attachments, notes, and design logs.

What started as a basic idea evolved throughout the year into a proper web app with features like:

Record creation and editing

Photo uploads

JSON export

Indexed navigation

A cleaner UI designed specifically for Technic workflows

It’s becoming an essential tool for planning and managing my builds, and it will only get better in 2026.

A Shift in Design Philosophy

Somewhere along the way, I realised my whole approach to Technic had changed.

Rather than building display models, I focused on:

Designing platforms

Creating attachment ecosystems

Prioritising functionality over aesthetics

Building mechanisms inspired by real machines

Ensuring everything was modular, durable, and easy to swap

This mindset gave me far more creative freedom, and it made 2025 one of my most rewarding Technic years yet.

A Milestone: My 200th Blog Post

This post marks a big moment, my 200th blog entry on PaulB Technic.

There’s no better way to celebrate that milestone than with a full-year reflection on everything I’ve built, learned, and experimented with.

It feels like the perfect way to round out the year.

Looking Ahead to 2026

If 2025 was about building foundations and exploring new ideas, 2026 will be about expansion.

Plans include:

More attachments for the G-Class platform

A second-generation PTO system

Possibly an all-new base vehicle

Further development of TechBuildDB

And diving deeper into new Technic mechanisms and building styles

2025 has been a year of growth, not just in models, but in creativity, mindset, and engineering.

Here’s to an even bigger, more innovative 2026!

Early MOC / MOD: LEGO Technic 9395 B Model MOD - Wheelie Bin Truck with Power Functions

 

Early MOC / MOD: LEGO Technic 8043 Loading Claw Video

 

LEGO Technic 42177 MOD – Rubbish Loader Attachment

One of the most enjoyable parts of working with my LEGO Technic 42177 MOC Ute, is discovering just how versatile the platform can be when you start adding custom attachments. My latest upgrade is a Rubbish Loader Attachment that connects neatly to the rear of the ute and adds a surprising amount of function, character, and play value to the model.

This attachment is driven by the rear PTO, which powers a small Linear Actuator responsible for lifting the loading arm. It’s a simple yet effective mechanical setup that feels right at home on this MOC, smooth, controlled, and fully mechanical.

Powered Lift via Rear PTO

The core of the system is the compact LA mounted in the center of the attachment. The rear PTO transfers rotation from the truck’s side-mounted grey control to the actuator, giving you a fully functional lifting mechanism. This makes the rubbish loader feel consistent with the rest of the Technic ethos: realistic motion, mechanical authenticity, and solid feedback during operation.

Smart Loading Ramp Design

A key feature is the loading ramp, designed to keep the rubbish load stable while lifting. The geometry of the red and yellow arm ensures the bin or payload stays in place as the mechanism raises. No slipping, no bouncing, just clean, controlled motion. It also makes the attachment surprisingly practical in play, as you can actually scoop, lift, and tip various items.

A New Level of Playability

With this attachment, the 42177 MOC Ute gains yet another functional layer. It sits securely on the rear mount, uses the existing PTO system, and feels like a natural piece of equipment your Technic utility truck would realistically use.

Most importantly, it adds fun. Kids (and adults) can now drive up to a pile of parts, scoop them up, lift them into the tray, and repeat. It turns the ute into a multi-purpose workhorse, and complements the other attachments I have already built.

Conclusion

The Rubbish Loader is a small but meaningful upgrade that shows just how adaptable the 42177 MOC Ute platform can become with a little creativity. By integrating clean mechanics, practical function, and a playful design, this attachment strengthens the model’s identity as a true modular utility vehicle.

WebApp - TechBuildDB

TechBuildDB - The Ultimate LEGO MOC Management Tool

If you’re serious about LEGO Technic building, you know the struggle: hundreds of parts, dozens of builds, and a constant flood of ideas. Keeping track of which builds are still “in research,” which are mid-design, and which are fully built can become overwhelming. That’s where TechBuildDB comes in.

What is TechBuildDB?

TechBuildDB is a lightweight, easy-to-use database and management tool designed for LEGO Technic enthusiasts. When  you’re building custom MOCs (My Own Creations), TechBuildDB lets you organize, track, and plan your builds in one central place.

Key Features

1. Detailed Build Records
   Every MOC has its own record with fields for:

   • Name of the build

   • Date created or last modified

   • Status (Research, Design, Build, Improvement, Published)

   • Power Functions included

   • Pneumatics or other specialized components

2. Status Tracking
   Knowing the progress of your builds is easy. Filter or sort by status to see which builds are complete, which need improvement, or which are just ideas.

3. Search and List Views
   Quickly find any build in your database, even if you have dozens or hundreds. TechBuildDB makes it easy to search by name, component, or status.

4. Photo Uploads
   Capture your builds with photos, plus take photos for ideas when out and about. Keep before-and-after images or multiple angles for reference.

5. Cross-Device Access
   Since TechBuildDB runs in a web-based interface, you can access your database from a computer, tablet, or even your phone. This is perfect if you’re constantly building in different locations.

6. Export and Backup
   Export your entire database as a JSON file to save your work, share with friends, or import into other tools.

Why TechBuildDB is a Game-Changer

For LEGO Technic enthusiasts, organization is just as important as creativity. Many builders find themselves losing track of parts, forgetting ideas, or struggling to remember which builds still need work. TechBuildDB solves this by putting everything in one easy-to-navigate place.

Whether you’re a casual builder who likes to tinker on weekends or a dedicated Technic hobbyist pushing complex MOCs, TechBuildDB streamlines your workflow so you can focus on what really matters: building amazing creations.

Getting Started

Setting up TechBuildDB is simple. You can start by creating your first build record in minutes. Add a name, select a status, and optionally upload a photo. From there, the database grows with your ideas and creations, helping you stay organized and inspired.

Download Here

LEGO Technic 42177 MOC – G-Class Ute Update (December 2025)

Over the past few weeks I’ve been refining my LEGO Technic 42177 G-Class Ute MOC, pushing it even further into the role of a true multi-purpose workhorse. December has brought two major upgrades that significantly improve both the look and the playability of the model: the removal of the tray sides, and the addition of a fully functional rear PTO.

Tray Sides Removed – More Space, More Possibilities

One of the first changes this month was removing the tray sides. It might sound simple, but it dramatically changes what the G-Class Ute can do.

Without the tray sides: Larger attachments can now be mounted without hitting the panels.

Attachment swapping is far easier, no twisting or angling pieces just to make things fit.

The ute has a more realistic utility look, with an open work tray that suits a modular equipment system.

This change alone opened the door to more ambitious rear-mounted tools and accessories… which leads to the biggest upgrade.

Rear PTO Added – A Game-Changing Upgrade

The most significant improvement is the addition of a rear Power Take-Off (PTO), driven by a grey knob on the left side of the vehicle. Turning this knob powers a red rear PTO output ready to drive mechanical attachments.

This feature wasn’t in the original plan. In fact, it was added retrospectively, after the ute had already been heavily modified a few weeks ago, making the process more challenging.

Because so much of the rear section had already been redesigned, several components no longer lined up with where the PTO needed to run. That meant:

- Multiple attempts to align both the input and output shafts

- Reworking bracing and support so the mechanism remained strong

- Adjusting the aesthetics so the PTO didn’t stand out or look bolted-on

It took a lot of trial and error, but the end result is worth every minute spent on it.

The new rear PTO has transformed the model. It turns the G-Class Ute into a proper modular machine, more like a scaled-down Unimog, with the capacity to run mechanical tools straight from the vehicle.

I already have several new PTO-driven attachments planned. Even better, I’m intending to revisit some of my older attachments and redesign them so they can make use of the new PTO connection.

With the tray now fully open and the PTO functional, December’s update sets the stage for a whole new wave of attachments. Expect more detailed designs in the coming months, each taking advantage of this new capability.

The 42177 G-Class Ute continues to evolve, and this update marks one of the most significant improvements so far. More power, better modularity, and increased play value… exactly what a Technic MOC should deliver.

Lego Technic Build and Storage - December 2025

 

Video - The Future of Lego Technic

I have created a video, on my views on the future of Lego Technic.

LEGO Technic 42209 C Model - Mod - Loader Claw

Recently I have built a C model of LEGO Technic set 42209, this is a backhoe. After using this for a few days, I found the rear bucket was not that great, I have I have replaced it with a loading claw. This needed a few parts to be changed.

The video below shows this in use 

LEGO Technic 42177 MOD – Rural Road Drain Cleaning Attachment

The Mercedes G Class Ute built from LEGO Technic set 42177 has quickly become my favourite platform for modular attachments. With the rear tray-mount system now well-established, using the same two fold-up connection points across all my accessories, it’s become incredibly easy to design and swap functionality on the fly. Today, I’m showcasing the newest attachment in the lineup: the Rural Road Drain Cleaning Attachment.

Why a Drain Cleaner?

Living in rural areas, drains and culverts are always filling with debris, leaves, sticks, gravel, and whatever else washes down in a storm. Real-world council trucks often have dedicated jetting or scoop tools for clearing roadside drains, so creating a Technic-scale version felt like the perfect next step for the 42177 G Class Ute.

Plus, this attachment brings a whole new kind of mechanical interaction to the model, something practical, functional, and very satisfying to operate.

Attachment Overview

Just like the existing implements, the drain cleaner locks securely onto the tray via the fold-up twin point connection system. It installs in seconds.

When folded down for operation, the attachment extends over the side of the ute and places the cleaning head right where you’d expect a drain to sit.

1H 2026 Lego Technic Sets Photos

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42225

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