About Me

My LEGO Technic Journey

My involvement with LEGO Technic began in 1989 with set 8832. Like many Technic fans of that era, I was immediately drawn to the mechanical side of LEGO. While standard LEGO sets were fun, it was the gears, steering systems, linkages, and working functions that really captured my imagination.

As my collection grew, so did my fascination with how things worked. One of my all-time favourite sets was 8858 Rebel Wrecker. It wasn't just a great-looking model; it was packed with functions and mechanical features that showcased everything I loved about Technic. Even today, it remains one of the sets that best represents what LEGO Technic meant to me as a young builder.

Throughout the studded era, I spent countless hours building, modifying, and experimenting. While I enjoyed the official models, I often found myself more interested in understanding the mechanisms and seeing what else could be created from the parts. The alternate models and C-models were often just as exciting as the main builds, and they encouraged creative thinking beyond the instructions.

The introduction of studless construction opened an entirely new world. Suddenly, models could be stronger, more compact, and much closer to real-world engineering. Techniques that were difficult or impossible with traditional studded beams became commonplace. The possibilities expanded dramatically, and so did the complexity of what could be built.

Over time, my focus shifted away from simply collecting and displaying sets. While I still enjoy building official models, the real enjoyment comes from MOCs (My Own Creations), modifications, and alternate builds. In fact, my collection of fully assembled sets is relatively small because most of my parts are actively being used in projects. Parts are a resource to build with rather than something to keep permanently locked into a display model.

Today, my approach to LEGO Technic is much more considered than it was when I first started. Rather than immediately building whatever comes to mind, I spend a lot more time researching, planning, and testing ideas. I enjoy studying the real machines that inspire my projects and trying to replicate their functions as accurately as possible within the limitations of LEGO.

Whether it is a truck attachment, a crane mechanism, a suspension system, or a specialised piece of equipment, my goal is to make it behave as closely to the real thing as possible. Functionality, realism, and engineering are now the driving forces behind my builds.

Looking back, the hobby has evolved significantly over the decades, but the core reason I enjoy LEGO Technic remains unchanged. It is still about understanding how things work, solving engineering problems, and creating machines that do something interesting. From 8832 in 1989 to the complex projects I work on today, LEGO Technic continues to provide the perfect combination of creativity, engineering, and problem-solving.

LEGO Technic 42242 Mercedes-Benz Unimog U 5023 – Mod – Rear Crane Mount

One of the things I enjoy most about LEGO Technic sets is finding new ways to modify and improve them. After building the LEGO Technic 42242 Mercedes-Benz Unimog U 5023, it quickly became obvious that it would make an excellent platform for future modifications.

My original plan was to add various attachments to the rear of the vehicle, behind the factory-fitted crane and tray. After experimenting with a few ideas, I found that this arrangement looked a little awkward and significantly limited what could be attached to the vehicle. The crane and tray occupied too much space and restricted the versatility I was hoping to achieve.

With this in mind, I decided to take a different approach. The original tray and crane assembly were removed, and after extending the rear tray (covered in a previous post), I designed and built a completely new mounting system for the crane.

The crane itself remains almost entirely unchanged. All of the original functions are retained, meaning it operates exactly as LEGO intended. The only modifications are to the mounting structure and the way the crane attaches to the rear of the Unimog.

The new mount is designed to be both strong and easily removable. It locks into the tray using a long axle, while two pins connect to the lower chassis. An additional two pins clip into the sides of the tray, creating a secure mounting system that holds the crane firmly in place during operation.

This redesign has delivered several benefits. Firstly, I believe it improves the overall appearance of the vehicle, giving it a more realistic and purposeful look. Secondly, the crane is now positioned in a way that improves its usability and working range. Most importantly, relocating the crane opens up far more possibilities for future attachments and accessories that can be mounted to the rear of the vehicle.

For me, this is where the LEGO Technic 42242 really shines. While it is an excellent set straight out of the box, it also provides a fantastic foundation for modifications, improvements, and custom attachments. The more I work with it, the more I appreciate just how versatile this Unimog platform can be.

LEGO Technic 42242 Mercedes-Benz Unimog U 5023 – Tray Modification

As part of my mods for this set, I wanted to add the ability to easily add attachments to the rear. I tried just adding these but the location of the crane and the tray made this difficult, this has lead to this mod.

I removed the crane attachment and tray. The tray has been rebuilt and extended to the full length. Due to the extra weight, this required some changes to the lifting point and setup for the tray. The side panels were used to extend this and some black beams used to extend the width.

The next stage will be to design a rear mount, to allow the crane and other attachments to be installed.

LEGO Technic 42242 Mercedes-Benz Unimog U 5023 – Steering Improvement Mod

One of the first things I noticed after building the new LEGO Technic 42242 Mercedes-Benz Unimog U 5023 was that the steering, while functional, had a fairly limited range of movement. Given that the real Unimog is renowned for its exceptional off-road capability and maneuverability, I felt the model could benefit from a little improvement in this area.

Last night I decided to investigate further and removed the complete front axle assembly to see exactly what was restricting the steering angle. After spending some time examining the design, a simple solution became apparent.

The modification involves removing the triangular liftarm pieces located above and below the steering pivot assembly. The upper triangular piece is replaced with a 5L thin liftarm, which provides the necessary clearance for additional steering movement.

To ensure that strength and stability were not compromised, I added a 1/2 bush to the lower section of the assembly where the lower triangular piece was removed. This helps maintain structural integrity while still allowing the increased steering travel.

The results were immediately noticeable. The front wheels can now turn significantly further than they could in the original design, resulting in a much tighter turning circle and a model that is considerably more enjoyable to drive and manoeuvre.

As can be seen in the accompanying photos, the modification is relatively simple, requires only a couple of parts, and is completely reversible should you wish to return the model to its original configuration.

For anyone who has built the 42242 Unimog and feels that the steering is a little restricted, this is a quick and worthwhile modification that noticeably improves the playability and realism of the model.

Review - LEGO Technic 42242 – Mercedes-Benz Unimog U 5023 with Crane

As a huge fan of the original LEGO Technic Unimog U400 (8110), I spent countless hours modifying it, creating attachments, and generally pushing the model far beyond its original design. When I first saw the announcement for the Mercedes-Benz Unimog U 5023 with Crane (42242), I knew it was a set I had to own.

I was fortunate enough to pick it up on the second day after release with a 20% discount, and after spending some time building and examining it, I think it's one of the strongest Technic releases in recent years.

The Build Experience

The build process is excellent. The bags are organised in a logical sequence, and the model comes together in a satisfying way as each stage adds another layer of functionality. The instructions are clear, and there are enough interesting mechanisms to keep the build engaging throughout.

The entire build took me just under four hours, which felt about right for a set of this size and complexity.

What I Liked

Appearance

When the set was first revealed online, I wasn't completely convinced by the colour scheme. However, seeing it in person changed my opinion considerably. The colours work well together and give the model a distinctive appearance while still looking like a working utility vehicle.

Features

Most of the functions work very well. The crane is fun to operate, and the tilting tray functions smoothly. The opening doors and bonnet are sturdy and feel secure during normal handling and play.

The engine is also nicely implemented. It spins freely and at a reasonable speed, giving a good sense of mechanical connection between the wheels and drivetrain.

Modding Potential

One of the strongest aspects of this set is its potential for modification. Even during the build, I was already identifying areas I wanted to improve and thinking about future attachments.

Like the original 8110 Unimog, this feels like a model that can serve as a platform for further development rather than simply a display piece. For Technic fans who enjoy customisation, that's a huge positive.

What Could Be Better

Steering

The biggest disappointment is the steering. While the model technically has steering, it feels more like a box-ticking exercise than a genuinely useful feature.

The steering angle is extremely limited, and the difference between full lock in either direction is barely noticeable. It's functional, but only just.

Chassis Strength

The chassis could be stronger, particularly in the middle section.

When operating the crane, the pump requires downward pressure, which causes noticeable flex in the centre of the vehicle. While this isn't a major issue during normal use, it highlights a structural weakness that becomes apparent when the crane is being worked hard.

As part of my own modifications, I am planning to remove the crane, relocate it into or behind the tray, and reinforce the central chassis section with additional beams.

Value for Money

Value is reasonable, but not outstanding.

At the discounted price of $160, I feel the set represents fair value and is approximately what I think it should cost. At the full Australian RRP of $199.95, it becomes much harder to justify.

Comparing it with the LEGO Technic 42209, which is probably the closest recent set in terms of theme and part count, you're paying around $50 more for only 215 additional pieces. That comparison doesn't particularly favour the Unimog.

Final Thoughts

This set captures what LEGO Technic is all about: interesting mechanisms, engaging building techniques, functional features, and plenty of opportunities for modification.

While the steering is disappointing and the chassis could be stronger, the overall package is excellent. The build is enjoyable, the functions are satisfying, and the model feels like a genuine platform for future improvements and attachments.

For me, this is easily the standout set of the second half of the 2026 Technic wave and a must-buy for anyone who appreciates what Technic should be.

End of Bag 1

End of Bag 2

End of Bag 3

End of Bag 4

End of Bag 5

End of Bag 6

End of Bag 7/8

Finished