Pros
Fun and engaging to build
High-quality pieces
Great pneumatic functioning
Stimulates imagination
Teaches engineering concepts like rack & pinion steering, transmission, and hydraulics
Good value for the amount of parts
Comes with cool crane and truck with steering and big tires
Well-organized packaging with divided bags
Ideal for ages 9-12
Enjoyable for both kids and adults
Cons
Expensive
Requires close attention to instructions to avoid mistakes
Some missing pieces reported
Main Product Advantages
10 Build Quality
The LEGO Technic Heavy-Duty Tow Truck 42128 is noted for its high-quality construction with great attention to detail and precision.
10 Packaging and Organization
The packaging is well-organized with bags divided based on the building steps, making assembly easier and more enjoyable.
9 Educational Value
The set teaches kids about mechanics, including rack & pinion steering, transmission, and pneumatics, making it a valuable educational tool.
9 Functionality
The set includes pneumatic (air pump) elements and a functional crane with stabilizers. It also features a truck with steering and a six-piston engine.
9 Imagination and Play
The set stimulates imagination and offers excellent play value, encouraging creative use beyond the initial build.
8 Complexity and Challenge
The model is complex and offers a challenging build, suitable for older kids and adults, with over 2,000 pieces and a sophisticated design.
8 Value for Money
Despite being expensive, the set offers good value with its detailed and functional parts, especially considering the current price-per-piece trend in LEGO sets.
7 Customer Experience
Some minor issues such as missing pieces and lack of a brick separator tool are reported. Additionally, the shipping method and external packaging could be improved.
LEGO Technic Heavy-Duty Tow Truck 42128 Review
The LEGO Technic Heavy-Duty Tow Truck (42128) is an exceptional toy model designed to open up the world of engineering for kids. This set is more than just a mere construction toy; it’s an intricate tribute to the world’s best-loved tow trucks.
Authentic Design
The model is packed with authentic details, including a realistic grille, air filters, lights, exhaust pipe, and a fresh color scheme. These elements come together to provide a credible and engaging building experience.
Pneumatic and Mechanical Functions
One of the standout features of this tow truck is its numerous pneumatic and mechanical functions. Children and hobbyists can open the hood to reveal a 6-cylinder inline engine complete with moving pistons. Additionally, the model allows for steering by rotating the pin on the roof. The crane can be activated, the boom pumped up, the winch pulled out, and the outriggers extended, making this a highly interactive and realistic set.
First in LEGO Technic History
This tow truck model features a first in LEGO Technic history: a lifting axle that enables the addition of extra wheels to spread the weight of loads. This innovative feature significantly enhances the build’s realism and educational value.
Impressive Size and Piece Count
The tow truck measures over 8.5 inches (22 cm) high with the crane down, 23 inches (58 cm) long with the boom down, and 5.5 inches (14 cm) wide with the outriggers up. The set contains a total of 2017 pieces, making it a substantial and rewarding build.
Conclusion
Overall, the LEGO Technic Heavy-Duty Tow Truck 42128 is a fantastic introduction to engineering for kids. With its realistic movement and mechanisms, it effectively introduces builders to the universe of engineering in an approachable and engaging manner. This set is a must-have for young engineers and LEGO enthusiasts alike.
