MOC - LEGO Technic 42213 C-Model – Straight Boom Bucket Lifter

One of the things I enjoy most about LEGO Technic is seeing how far a set can be pushed beyond its official A model. 

This C-model design and build by me, using the parts from LEGO Technic set 42213 is a great example of that creativity: a Straight Boom Bucket Lifter that manages to feel purposeful, mechanical, and genuinely different, despite working within a limited parts palette.

Concept and Layout
At first glance, the model presents as a compact utility vehicle with a long, straight boom and front-mounted bucket. It sits somewhere between a telehandler and a compact loader, but without trying to directly imitate either. Instead, it leans into clean geometry and functional simplicity.

The proportions work well: short wheelbase, purposeful stance, and a boom that visually dominates without looking awkward. For a C-model, that balance is not easy to achieve.

Mechanical Features
Despite the inevitable constraints of a C-model, this build packs in a surprising number of functional elements:
- V6 Engine, mechanically linked to the front wheels. Watching the pistons cycle as the model moves adds a classic Technic feel and reinforces that this is more than just a static display.

- Rear Wheel Steering, controlled via the spare wheel mounted at the rear. This is a clever and intuitive solution, giving the model improved maneuverability and a satisfying, hands-on control method.

- Opening Engine Cover. A small detail, but one that adds a lot to the realism and invites interaction.

- 4-Wheel Suspension. The suspension gives the model a planted, mechanical look and helps it feel more “alive” when handled.

- Boom Lifting Mechanism, with locking in the raised position. The straight boom lifts smoothly and, importantly, can be locked in place, essential for a model that’s clearly meant to be posed and played with.

Design and Build Experience
The design and build process itself is enjoyable and thoughtfully structured. There’s a strong sense of working with the parts rather than fighting them, which is impressive given the limitations inherent in a C-model.

That said, those limitations do show in a few areas:
Certain compromises are unavoidable due to part availability.  Some structural sections feel more “good enough” than ideal. A few aesthetic choices are clearly driven by necessity rather than intent.

None of these detract significantly from the overall experience—they simply remind you that this is a clever reinterpretation, not a clean-sheet design.

Final Thoughts
Overall, the Straight Boom Bucket Lifter C-model is a strong and satisfying build. It looks good, functions well, and, most importantly, feels different from the standard models you’d expect from the set.

It’s a reminder of why C-models matter: they’re not about perfection, but about ingenuity, reinterpretation, and squeezing every last bit of potential out of a box of parts. I really enjoyed the challenge of designing and building this.

Mobile LEGO Building Station

From Sewing Cabinet to Mobile LEGO Building Station

Space has always been the limiting factor for my LEGO Technic projects. I don’t need a permanent desk covered in parts for weeks on end, but I do need a solid, usable workspace that can appear when needed and disappear just as easily.

Enter an unlikely hero: a sewing cabinet.

Specifically, the Semco Sewing Cabinet from Spotlight. Designed to neatly store a sewing machine and accessories, it turns out to be an excellent starting point for a compact, mobile LEGO building station with just a few small tweaks.

Why a Sewing Cabinet?
Sewing cabinets are built with:
- Stability in mind
- Fold-out working surfaces
- Internal storage
- Lockable castors
- A strong “pack-away” design ethos

All things that LEGO builders, especially those short on space, can appreciate.

Just as importantly, it looks like normal furniture. That alone gives it a very high Wife Approval Factor (WAF) before you even touch a brick.

The Modifications
The beauty of this conversion is how little had to change.

1. Folding Shelf Relocation
The cabinet comes with a folding shelf mounted on the side. For sewing, that makes sense. For LEGO building, it didn’t. I removed the folding shelf from the side and re-mounted it on the front of the cabinet. This instantly transformed it into a proper forward-facing work surface, far more natural for LEGO building and much easier to access.

2. Door Angle Improvement
By default, the cabinet door didn’t quite open far enough to feel comfortable as a work platform.
I added a longer bolt to the existing door stop. This allows the door to sit firmly at a 90-degree angle. No new hinges. No drilling new holes, just a longer bolt doing a better job.

3. Minimal Parts, Maximum Gain
One of the most satisfying aspects of this mod: All original hinges and hardware were reused. The only additional component was a longer bolt. Simple, reversible, and no permanent damage to the cabinet.

The Result
What I now have is:
- A stable LEGO Technic workspace
- Plenty of room for active builds
- Internal storage for parts and tools
- A station that packs up cleanly in minutes and that can be rolled out of the way when not in use. 

And critically, it doesn’t take over the house.

Living With It
This setup works especially well if:
- You build in bursts rather than constantly.
- You share space with others.
- You want LEGO to coexist with normal family life, not fight it

When I’m done, everything folds away, the cabinet closes, and it looks like… a cabinet. Not a LEGO explosion zone. That alone makes it sustainable long-term.

Final Thoughts
This was one of those projects where the result far exceeded the effort involved. A couple of small changes turned a sewing cabinet into a mobile LEGO building station that fits both my needs and the household.

If you’re struggling to justify a permanent LEGO desk, or you just want something neat, practical, and unobtrusive, then this is a conversion well worth considering.

Sometimes the best LEGO solutions don’t start in the LEGO aisle.

The Standard Setup, before my modifications

Lego Technic 42213 - C Model 8865 Nostalgia

8865 Nostalgia is a thoughtfully designed C-model that pays clear homage to the classic Technic 8865 Test Car, successfully capturing both its look and feel while using modern parts from set 42213.

🔧 Functions & Features

For a C-model, the functionality is impressively complete:

- Front and rear suspension, providing a realistic stance and movement

- Driver’s side steering wheel, mechanically linked and functional

- Open/close pop-up headlights, a standout nostalgic feature

- Adjustable seats, allowing front-to-rear movement

- Rear-mounted V6 engine, nicely visible and mechanically satisfying

- Rear axle differential, adding to the realism of the drivetrain

These features are well integrated and don’t feel forced or compromised, which is often a challenge in alternate builds.

🛠️ Build Experience

The build process is very enjoyable from start to finish. The instructions are clear, logical, and well laid out, making the model easy to follow without frustration. The progression feels natural, with mechanisms introduced at sensible points rather than all at once.

Even when assembling more compact areas, the design remains builder-friendly and doesn’t rely on awkward part placement.

👀 Final Model & Accuracy

Once completed, the model looks great and does an excellent job of capturing the spirit of the original 8865. The proportions, mechanical openness, and functional emphasis all echo the classic Technic era, making it instantly recognisable to anyone familiar with the original set.

⚠️ Downsides

The only real downside is the large number of leftover parts. While this is not unusual for a C-model, the quantity here feels more noticeable and slightly detracts from the sense of efficiency in the final design.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Overall, 8865 Nostalgia is a well-designed, enjoyable, and nostalgic build that successfully reinterprets a classic Technic icon using modern elements. Despite the leftover parts, the build is satisfying, functional, and visually faithful.

That said, after completing and appreciating the design, the model will ultimately be broken down and reused as parts for my own C-model project — which is perhaps the highest compliment: it’s a great build, and an even better parts donor for further creativity.

⭐ Recommended for Technic fans who appreciate classic design philosophy with modern execution.

LEGO Technic 42177 MOD – Mercedes G-Class Ute – Road Scraper Attachment

One of the things I enjoy most about LEGO Technic is taking a solid base model and slowly turning it into a versatile workhorse. 

My MOC Mercedes G Class Ute, based on set 42177 continues to prove itself as an excellent platform for utility-focused modifications, and this time I’ve added a Road Scraper Attachment to the growing lineup of implements for the G-Class Ute MOD.

LEGO Technic 42177 MOD – Mercedes G-Class Ute – Rear Loading Crane Attachment

One of the strengths of my LEGO Technic 42177 G-Class Ute Mod is how well it lends itself to adding ute or truck type modifications, and this rear loading crane attachment is a great example of that flexibility.

Mounted neatly on the ute tray, the crane transforms the G-Class Ute from a rugged off-roader into a compact service vehicle. The design uses a multi-link articulated arm, allowing it to fold down for travel and extend outward for loading and unloading duties. The geometry gives it a convincing range of motion, with realistic pivot points that feel true to a small truck-mounted crane.

The crane sits alongside practical tray details, reinforcing the “working vehicle” look. It integrates cleanly with the existing chassis and proportions of the 42177, without overwhelming the model or throwing off its balance.

Overall, this rear loading crane attachment adds both visual interest and play value. It’s a simple but effective way to expand the functionality of the G-Class ute Mod, and shows just how versatile the set can be when used as a base for custom attachments.

LEGO Technic 42177 MOD – Mercedes G-Class Ute – Rear PTO Driven Press Attachment

I have recently been working on designing and building a rear PTO Driven Press Attachment for my Mercedes G-Class Ute. Below is a video about this.

Lego Technic MOC - 6 Wheel Lowboy Equipment Trailer

I have recently been working on designing and building a equipment trailer, which can be towed behind my Control+ Race Truck. This video shows it in use.

 

LEGO Technic 42177 MOD – Mercedes G-Class Ute – Reel Mower Attachment

One of the things I’ve been enjoying most with the LEGO Technic 42177 Mercedes G-Class Ute MOD is turning it into a genuinely versatile work vehicle. This Reel Mower Attachment continues that theme, adding a practical, mechanically interesting implement that feels right at home behind the G-Class.

Functional, Mechanical, and Very “Technic”

The reel mower is driven directly by the larger rear wheels, with the gearing stepped up so the blades spin noticeably faster than the wheel speed. This gives the attachment a very satisfying mechanical feel when the ute is pushed along, you can clearly see the reel spinning smoothly, just like the real thing.

The power transmission is simple, reliable, and robust, which fits perfectly with the utilitarian nature of this MOD.

The PTO-Driven Lift System is one of the highlights of this build. Using the existing PTO on the G-Class Ute MOD, the mower can be:

- Raised for transport

- Lowered into working position

This adds a lot to both play value and realism, making the attachment feel like a proper piece of equipment rather than a static add-on.

Build Experience

The design and build itself was good fun, striking a nice balance between the looks and the technical functions.

LEGO Technic 42214 C Model – Control+ Race Truck

This build is a C Model of LEGO Technic set 42214 Lamborghini Revuelto, and for me it represents one of the most enjoyable challenges I’ve taken on with a Technic set so far.

After completing the A model, I decided to completely break it down and challenge myself to design a Control+ powered C model. This was my first custom C model using the Control+ system, and that alone introduced a whole new set of design considerations.

Key Features
Despite being a C model, this Race Truck retains many of the standout features of the original set, and adds some new ones.
- Control+ drive and steering, using the same electronics as the A model
- Front and rear working lights.
- Opening cabin doors.
- Tilting cabin, adding both realism and play value.

Design & Build Process
The biggest challenge early on was ensuring the Control+ functions worked exactly as intended. With the Control+ hubs, and cables for the lights to think about, I spent a fair bit of time testing and refining the drivetrain and steering before moving on to aesthetics.

Once I was happy with how the Control+ system behaved, I focused on designing the cab and bodywork. The cabin, in particular, required quite a bit of experimentation. With a limited parts palette to work from, I had to be careful to make the best possible use of what was available while still achieving a clean, functional design.

After completing the cabin and being satisfied with its proportions and functionality, I moved on to finishing the rest of the body, including the rear wing, which really helps sell the race truck look.

Performance & Play Value
I’m genuinely impressed with how this model turned out. I managed to use the available parts efficiently, with very few spare pieces left over, which is always a good sign in a C model build.

In testing, the truck actually performs slightly better than the A model. The reduced weight gives it a bit more responsiveness when driving, and there’s also a fun and unexpected behaviour when reversing: if the steering is locked hard to one side, the rear wheels will spin, which adds a surprising and entertaining element to play.

Final Thoughts
Overall, this build was a great experience and a rewarding challenge. Designing a Control+ C model pushed me to think differently about structure, packaging, and function, and the end result feels both fun and refined. 

It’s another reminder that LEGO Technic sets aren’t just about what’s in the instructions, but what they can become.

If you enjoy taking sets apart and reimagining them, this is exactly the kind of project that makes Technic so satisfying.

Spare Parts

Video

Review - LEGO Technic 42214 Lamborghini Revuelto Super Sports Car

Great Fun, but Everything That’s Wrong with Modern Technic

LEGO Technic 42214 is, in many ways, a great set. It looks good, it’s fun, and it delivers a strong play experience. At the same time, it also highlights many of the issues I have with modern LEGO Technic, especially when viewed through the lens of an old-school Technic builder from the 1980s and 1990s.

The Positives:
The instructions are clear, logical, and easy to follow. At no point did I feel lost or unsure of what LEGO was asking me to do, which makes the build accessible and frustration-free.

The finished model looks very good on display. The shaping, proportions, and overall presentation are strong, and the addition of lights is something I genuinely love, they add a lot of character and help bring the model to life.

As my first Control+ set, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised. The set is genuinely fun to drive around and has a high play and fun factor. Once completed, it’s hard not to pick it up and just start using it.

The Negatives:
From a pure Technic perspective, the build peaks very early. After around step 65 out of 395, you could realistically add the wheels and call the functional part of the build done. From that point onward, bags 3 through 8 are largely focused on adding bodywork and panels.

As a result, the building process becomes increasingly repetitive. There’s a lot of “more of the same,” with little in the way of new mechanisms or engineering challenges. I had to actively resist the urge to just throw the wheels on early and start playing with it, which says a lot about both the strength of the play value, and the weakness of the build experience.

Overall Thoughts:
At around a 20% discount, and considering just how much fun it is to drive around, LEGO Technic 42214 is well worth it. It delivers a strong end result and an enjoyable play experience.

That said, as someone who grew up with Technic sets from the ’80s and ’90s, it’s hard not to feel a bit disappointed. This set perfectly illustrates how modern Technic has shifted its focus, looks have increasingly taken priority over functions. While it’s undeniably fun, it also serves as a reminder of what Technic used to be, and what I still hope it can return to someday.

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.