- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 496
- Set Year: 1993
- Set Number: 8824
- Set Parts: 193
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: USD
I love things that are different and this boat, released in 1993, certainly fits that criteria. It is the only Technic hovercraft (save 8246 which hardly counts). I'm not sure why it was not repeated as this is a very good rendition of a small hovercraft. The hidden wheels control "steering" while the rear pusher propeller follows along. The propeller also rotates as the wheels are turned when the model moves.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 410
- Set Year: 1993
- Set Number: 8818
- Set Parts: 120
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
This small buggy released in 1993 continued the expanding line of introductory level Technic vehicles. None of the features here are new, but if considered without comparison to its predecessors, this is a good functional model. As you can see in the image, the increasing use of stickers continued here, but they tend to degrade considerably over time which tarnishes the look of the model
This buggy features rack and pinion steering as well as a wheel driven one cylinder reciprocating engine.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 489
- Set Year: 1993
- Set Number: 8714
- Set Parts: 5
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
- Details
- Category: Universal Building Set
- Hits: 496
- Set Year: 1993
- Set Number: 8082
- Set Parts: 459
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
Now this is what a universal set should be. Set 8082 was released in 1993 and contained quite a lot of firsts. There are 4 models, all of which are quite unique. A couple of them have features which are unprecedented in Technic and would be good enough to be a standalone set. I highly recommend picking one of these sets up.
The remote control car has a separate wired controller which can both drive and steer the car. The airplane features counter-rotating propellers and pivoting nacelles. The cat/rabbit thing may not look like much, but it features a unique mechanical and electrical feedback system which exists only in this model. It is worthy of note on technical merits without a doubt. The forklift is marvelous and manages to combine 3 complex functions with a single driving motor, all controlled remotely.
This is the first set to contain the new pole reversers. There are two of them here, and they are used predominantly as a means of manual control of multiple motors. In one model, they are actually driven by the mechanisms in the model. This set contains 2 motors, one of which is the new micro motor. It may seem small, but this set shows how remarkably useful it can be by demonstrating several possibilities. The long wires are kept from tangle using a set of flexible helical rubber keepers which exist in only two sets.
I find the Forklift the most interesting, and it is the model I chose to keep assembled for my display of this set.
- Details
- Category: Universal Building Set
- Hits: 610
- Set Year: 1993
- Set Number: 8042
- Set Parts: 230
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
This blue universal set, released in 1993, is the best of the pneumatic universal sets in my opinion. The models are varied and unique and represent remarkably complex construction considering the relatively small number of parts. There are full instructions for 4 different models, the final of which can be motorized with an optional motor
This was the first universal set to include more than one pneumatic cylinder and switch. The second cylinder was one of the newer small diameter actuators.
In the car, the pneumatic pump also acts as rear suspension. It has steering and an opening canopy. The forklift steers as well as lifting and tilting the forks. The personnel lift has outriggers, steering, and a lift which features a wonderful mechanism to keep everything level. Finally, a log loader is included which features steering, a boom which lifts, and a claw which opens.
- Details
- Category: Universal Building Set
- Hits: 541
- Set Year: 1993
- Set Number: 8022
- Set Parts: 118
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
The small set 8022 was released in 1993 and was one of the smallest Universal Set to date consisting of just 118 bricks. It includes full instructions for 4 models. There are a number of parts left over when any of the models are built.
This set was marketed as a Technic starter set, a role which it fulfils aptly. None of the models are complex, but all show off various possibilities of the Technic line. This set is also the only universal set to ever come in white and is therefore an excellent source of those rare white beams. The parts selection is otherwise unremarkable.
With an extra pair of wheels you can also build a truck or a car with trailer, which underpins again the playability of this universal set.
I find the robot the most interesting, because of the real technic mechanism moving arms and head. This set really invites to keep on trying and building other creations.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 649
- Set Year: 1992
- Set Number: 8868
- Set Parts: 955
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
Here it is folks, the king, the godfather, the most complex pneumatic set of all time (with the possible exception of 8455). Released in 1992, set 8868 has the first and only motorized pneumatic compressor, four full size dual-acting unbalanced pneumatic actuators, and one of the new mini actuators. Just in case anyone thought this was not enough, there are also dual rear differentials, a V-6 reciprocating engine, and rack and pinion steering. If you don't have this set, you need to mortage your house, ransom your pets, or sell your liver. Do whatever it takes to get this model. You will not regret it.
This set is unique and special in so many ways. It was the first big dual axle truck. It was the first (and only) set with a compressor. It was the first pneumatic set of any kind since 1989. It was the first (and only) to include BOTH an electric motor and pneumatics. And this is no simple build. With over 900 parts, it was the biggest set to date, even bigger than the 8865 super car. And with all that complexity, it still only has 32 steps in the instructions, which are wafer thin. With the detailed construction and huge numbers of pneumatic hoses to route, this thing takes some time to get right. But it is surely satisfying when you do.
The chassis of this truck is extremely rigid due to the fact that it is constructed from multiple layers of beams running both horizontally and vertically. Because the beams are relatively far apart, the second moment of inertia of the frame is quite high. So even with the long wheelbase, this model does not sag at the middle.
This model also has quite a number of nice aesthetic touches which were somewhat unusual for Technic at the time. There are nice white fuel tanks on either side, vertical exhaust stacks, compression braking vents on the sides of the hood, air horns on the roof (too bad they don't work), and a nice "slammer bar" hanging from the front bumper. The loader even has a realistic operator's seat.
"Air Tech Claw Rig" is a bit of an odd name, but this seems to be a model of a truck used in logging. It can go off-road deep into the woods and pick up heavy logs to load onto other special purpose trucks.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 477
- Set Year: 1992
- Set Number: 8839
- Set Parts: 532
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: USD
The 8839 Supply Ship, released in 1992, was the first and only large boat ever released in the Technic line. The fact that the subject matter was never repeated is unfortunate since this is an excellent model. This boat is packed with features including rotating and vectoring propellers, and a crane which slews and raises.
Even though the construction of the hull is all done with straight beams, it produces the impression of a curved hull. This is partly done with simple hinges, and partly by the fact that the hull width tapers from the top to the bottom at the bow. The flex system is used extensively, both for control of the steering system and even as simulated rigging on the mast. It is a great looking model. There's even a set of control panels on the bridge.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 491
- Set Year: 1992
- Set Number: 8837
- Set Parts: 255
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
The 8837 wheeled excavator, released in 1992, is a goofy little set. It is highly functional for its size, but the proportions are wrong somehow. It doesn't look like any excavator I've ever seen.
This model uses one normal sized pneumatic actuator and one of the new small variety. It also uses the new small scoop. Its best feature, in my opinion, is the central axle which controls two functions, steering and slewing. This is the only set to use the central ring gear of the turntable.
Construction of this set is far simpler than the older8851 - Excavator which required an extra arm to complete comfortably.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 489
- Set Year: 1992
- Set Number: 8836
- Set Parts: 273
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
The second Technic airplane, 8836, was released in 1992. It is much smaller than its cousin 8855, but is still an excellent medium plane. It features a horizontally opposed 2 cylinder engine which drives the prop directly. The rear of the tricycle landing gear has suspension, and the ailerons are movable via a control stick using flex system cables.
Like 8855, the wing is constructed using a number of ribs in an airfoil shape like a real semi-monocoque airplane. But unlike its predecessor, it has no spars. The plates making up the upper and lower skin are the only things holding the ribs together which makes for a wing which is very flexible and has poor torsional rigidity. The canopy is made from toothed connectors and axles, and the entire front engine, prop, and gear assembly is connected in a rather unique way.
There's nothing particularly new in this plane that hadn't been done before, but it is a good airplane and is vastly superior to several of those that would come later.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 474
- Set Year: 1992
- Set Number: 8828
- Set Parts: 175
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
The 8828 loader, released in 1992, is the smaller cousin of the previous 8853 - Excavator. It has the same features, but implements them in a different way. It features rear wheel rack and pinion steering and a scoop which lifts and dumps via flex cables. Despite its compact size, its appearance is quite accurate and the functions work great.
This is the first set to use the new smaller black bucket which would remain in use for a long time. Other than that, it does not really break any new ground.
- Details
- Category: Less Than 100pcs Sets
- Hits: 429
- Set Year: 1992
- Set Number: 8826
- Set Parts: 95
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
This 4x4 ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) is the first of its kind in the Technic line. Its steering is unique and was never repeated (for good reason). There is nothing particularly remarkable to mention here; this is just kind of a goofy set. No new parts or techniques are used. The function is so minimal that it's a bit of a stretch to even call it Technic, but it is entry level. The other sets of the same year make up for any deficiencies here.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 469
- Set Year: 1991
- Set Number: 8856
- Set Parts: 517
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
Set 8856, released in 1991, is the best helicopter ever released in the Technic line in my opinion. It's big and it's functional. This set is similar to a Sikorsky HH-60 or other Search and Rescue helicopter. It is literally packed with features. The main and tail rotor rotate, and there's even a cyclic which tilts the main rotor using the new flex system parts. The tricycle landing gear is retractable. A rescue winch on the port side can be stowed or deployed. Once deployed, the winch can be lowered with a ratchet system. The model is built almost entirely from beams pinned together at various angles. The flex system is even used as diagonal bracing on the tail boom.
This is both the largest and most functional helicopter released in the Technic line. (OK, the helicopter which is part of the 8277 Universal Set is technically bigger, but I decided it doesn't count.) It is one of only two four bladed helicopters. It is the first with a cyclic system, an honor which it shares with only two others. It is also quite detailed aesthetically, with a pair of red 20x30 Technic wheels used as turbine engines. This is the only Technic set ever to include them in red.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 486
- Set Year: 1991
- Set Number: 8838
- Set Parts: 247
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
Set 8838, released in 1991, was the first motorcycle to have both front and rear suspension. It is a realistic looking off road motorcycle with a number of aesthetic features including a radiator and a rear fender. It features a steerable fork, a retractable kickstand, a chain driven V-2 engine, and full suspension with a trailing arm in the rear and downtubes in the front. Construction uses very few standard studs and is an early example of pinned construction with very few square angles.
There were quite a number of firsts with this motorcycle. It utilizes the new head tube to support the fork and four of the new longer shock absorbers. The rear wheel is chain driven by the V-2 engine. The new wheels and tires first appeared on this model. It is also the first motorcycle to include an engine using the round pistons.
This is one of my favorite Technic motorcycles. It looks great and functions very realistically. It's hard not to make a motorcycle sound when pushing this thing around.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 495
- Set Year: 1991
- Set Number: 8820
- Set Parts: 139
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
The small truck 8820, released in 1991, appears to be fashioned after a World War II era Jeep. Like a Jeep, the front windshield can be folded down. This model also has front rack and pinion steering and rear swing arm solid axle suspension. A spare tire is affixed to the rear. Construction is pretty straightforward for the time, using mostly regular stud assembly.
This model is unremarkable but a good set at entry level.
- Details
- Category: Less Than 100pcs Sets
- Hits: 447
- Set Year: 1991
- Set Number: 8815
- Set Parts: 78
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
The 8815 go kart, released in 1991, was extremely similar to the previous set 1972. There were dual tires at each corner for extra width and a roughly square wheelbase. The steering used the flexible rack assembly. One rear wheel drove a single cylinder reciprocating engine. None of the new 1991 parts were used on this model.
There's nothing groundbreaking in this set, but you get introduced to a lot of features for a small price.
- Details
- Category: Less Than 100pcs Sets
- Hits: 440
- Set Year: 1991
- Set Number: 8810
- Set Parts: 80
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
Set 8810 was released in 1991 as a model of a small motorcycle. It used the new head tube element to support the fork. It also featured a kickstand and dual rear shocks supporting a swing arm type suspension.
This was one of the smallest sets released so far, but it is a pretty good looking model and a good source of those rare white beams.
- Details
- Category: Universal Building Set
- Hits: 618
- Set Year: 1991
- Set Number: 8074
- Set Parts: 313
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
Set 8074 from 1991 is one of the better Universal Sets released. It used the new flex system to make 4 functional and interesting models. The forklift featured steering and lifting and tilting forks. The stationary crane featured a hoist, a luffing boom and jib, and full slewing via a turntable. The log loader, a rather unique model, featured steering, a rotatable boom, a lift for the boom, and an opening loading claw. The last model, a road grader, is the only model of it's kind released by LEGO®. It's long frame featured steering and a grading blade which could be raised and lowered. All of the models were quite large and assembled largely with pins.
This was the first set to use the flex system, which it does in every model. In all 4 of the models, they are used as push-pull cables. In the crane, they are also used as diagonal braces. In some models they are straight, and in others they are routed through sleeves which wind their way through the structure. If you are looking to get your hands on some flex system parts, this is the set to find the most of them. There are 20 end fittings , 10 cables, and 2 sleeves included. The lengths include 7, 9, 11, 13, & 19.
All of the models in this set are excellent and fun to build.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 597
- Set Year: 1990
- Set Number: 8850
- Set Parts: 359
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
This is one of 3 1990 models centered around a "Rally" theme.
This model is a 4x4 or sport utility vehicle. A V-6 engine is located in the front and is made from the new engine parts introduced this year. The engine is driven by the rear wheels through a differential. The front wheels have rack and pinion steering. The Technic figure also made a reappearance here after being absent for a year. Construction is almost entirely of pinned beams.
Each of the Rally vehicles had a special numbered flag which matched the third digit of the set number, in this case "5". This is one of the first sets to include an engine made of the new engine parts. It is quite a large model and holds up very well compared with some of the much newer 4x4's.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 466
- Set Year: 1990
- Set Number: 8840
- Set Parts: 228
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
This is one of 3 1990 models centered around a "Rally" theme.
This model is a dune buggy with working swing arm rear suspension. A V-2 engine is located between the rear wheels made from the new engine parts introduced this year. The front wheels have rack and pinion steering. The Technic figure also made a reappearance here after being absent for a year. Toothed elements were used to make a roll bar.
Each of the Rally vehicles had a special numbered flag which matched the third digit of the set number, in this case "4". This is the first set to include an engine made of the new engine parts, and one of only a few models to date with suspension other than the big super cars. In my opinion, this is one of the better looking small buggies.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 431
- Set Year: 1990
- Set Number: 8830
- Set Parts: 171
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
1990 featured 3 models centered around a "Rally" theme.
This first model is not recognizable as any specific real vehicle. Unless you think of these fun off roaders you can just race with in the mud. This small vehicle features 6 wheels. The front and rear sets have rack and pinion steering. The Technic figure also made a reappearance here after being absent for a year. Toothed elements were used to make a roll bar and steering column.
There was really nothing new introduced in this vehicle, although it is an example of one of the smaller sets yet released at that time. Each of the Rally vehicles had a special numbered flag which matched the third digit of the set number, in this case "3".
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 443
- Set Year: 1990
- Set Number: 8825
- Set Parts: 113
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
This small helicopter, released in 1990, was the smallest to date at the time. It features rotating main and tail rotors. The canopy is constructed from liftarms and links. The liftarms lock at 90 degree angles, while the links are pinned.
While this set features a minifig seat the cabin is to small for a minifig unfortunately. I expect when a minifig will try to flu it anyway it might work that the head stays under the rotor. However when taking of I am afraid his head will be sucked into rotor anyway!
This is the only Technic set released this year which does not have wheels, and remains one of the very few such to this day.
This particular little model looks vaguely like a Robinson R22.
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 460
- Set Year: 1990
- Set Number: 8720
- Set Parts: 57
- Currency: na
- Details
- Category: Sets
- Hits: 474
- Set Year: 1990
- Set Number: 8094
- Set Parts: 546
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
Most of the Universal sets are centered around versatility rather than functionality, and therefore are not as technically interesting as some of the larger sets. Control Center 8094, released in 1990, was the first set to completely break that mold. Not only did it include the new 9V motor system, it had 2 of them. It was the first set with multiple motors. Rather than a standard battery box, it had an electronic box called the Control Center which was programmable and capable of powering up to 3 motors on 3 different channels. As if this didn't set it apart enough, each and every model was totally unique among Technic and not like anything which had been done before (or since). This is one of my favorite of all Technic sets, and should be the near the top of any collector's acquisition list.
- Details
- Category: Universal Building Set
- Hits: 478
- Set Year: 1990
- Set Number: 8064
- Set Parts: 219
- Building Instruction: No
- Currency: na
The Universal Set 8064, released in 1990, was the first to make use of the new 9V motor and battery box. One motor is included and is used for each of the 4 models, each of which have full instructions. The car features steering and a motorized rear axle. The tow truck features steering and a motorized winch. The helicopter features motorized main and tail rotors. The forklift features steering and a motorized fork lifting mechanism.
Other than the use of the new motor, there are not really any new technical innovations here, but the set is pretty versatile for its size.
I find the Forklift the most interesting, and it is the model I chose to keep assembled for my display of this set.
Subcategories
Less Than 100pcs Sets
All technic sets consisting of 100 or less pieces.
Greater Than 1000pcs Sets
All technic setc consistimng of more than 1000 pieces.
Expert Builder Set
All sets belonging to the Expert Builder series from late 1970-ties and 1980-ties.
Pullback Motor
All sets containing a Pullback motor.