@@bikerbear4917 i just built it with black parts. the list in the link above is pretty much all you'll need, but if you want to fully replace _every_ red 2M axle you need 31 of them instead of 11. most aren't visible on the outside tho. the list covers all of the ball joints you'll need.
@@f1fan65 the instructions mention 7x 4206482 "CONN.BUSH W.FRIC./CROSSALE" and 20x 6288413 "CONNECTOR PEG W. FRICTION 3M", but I do not know which of them are exposed. Buying them all from Lego is about 2,42 € so I guess it is not a big deal.
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to my *Recent Comment* on this video of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through Balazs' list and the instruction manual. I copied the list here originally but it keeps disappearing shortly after posting
I feel that Lego should already be doing this in their larger sets that are geared towards adults. I can understand sets that are tailored towards kids. But an adult buying a $500 1:8 scale super car should be able to figure it out.
I agree, considering sets like this are geared towards adults I can't exactly see the reasoning behind "making it easier to understand" when I'm sure most adults would have no issues (not saying kids can't get these sets of course, though the point still stands.) Doing this for sets geared towards kids makes sense, but why the 18+/Adults welcome range? I don't think people buying sets from the 18+ range need to have their hands held for things like this as long as the instructions provided are clear and easy to understand, which they typically are. No hate on Lego, just feels like a really odd choice?
Yes, you're absolutely correct, especially for 18+ sets that are designed for adults. They don't need hand holding like this. Color coding won't really help if you're color blind either.
Facebook Technic group page would have you reconsidering that thought. I have seen quite a few absolutely ridiculous questions on there. Unfortunately Lego has to treat all of us like the lowest common denominator. Pretty sure that’s why they typically have you add one part per step. Ugh
I think it might be more about frustrating NEW adult builders or those just collecting something cool (thematic) and not real LEGO collectors. I've known some that have asked me to finish building their larger System/Technic sets...
It's incredible how distracting the red pins were, now that you showed the model without them. The middle part looks so much cleaner now. I think I'll order this set with the pieces you mentioned. Thank you so much for the piece count and what we need to order, it helps a lot!
I waited 3 days after it arrived to build mine first time with as many recolours as I could get, so I've never had the set in-hand with the original colours but my god it looks amazing now with all black/grey pieces instead.
Here's a suggestion buy the lego lotus flowers (set 40647) it comes with 45 of the black 2 stud long cross axles which and they get hidden while making the flower stems. easy swap.
For those who plan to swap the red parts during initial build, these are the page numbers (US version manual) and step numbers you want to note where the parts that need to be replaced appears. P22 Step 18: 3 (only the one connected to the lever) P46 Step 64: 1 P74 Step 111: 1, 7 P76 Step 112: 1, 7 P78 Step 113: 1, 7 P80 Step 114: 1, 7 P100 Step 145: 1 (x2) P103 Step 152: 1 (x2) P120 Step 175: 1, 7 (9 is mentioned in the video, but not counted in the part list) P122 Step 176: 1, 7 P124 Step 177: 1, 7 (9 is mentioned in the video, but not counted in the part list) P126 Step 178: 1, 7 P183 Step 303: 1 P187 Step 311: 1 P192 Step 314: 6 (x2) P194 Step 315: 6 (x2) P197 Step 317: 6 (x2) P199 Step 318: 6 (x2)
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to my Recent Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
@@Heel *Here is the Bricklink XML list I made that includes Balazs' list in black, all other visible red/blue/yellow pieces in black, and the 4 orange pieces in dark bluish gray:* I was able to figure out most of the swapped pieces from watching Balazs' video, so watch it carefully. Here are the swap locations that aren't immediately clear :D Step 6: Swap the blue pin Step 14: Swap the 3 blue pins. Step 18 part 3: Swap ONLY the left red axel. Step 68: Swap out the two blue pins. Step 111: Swap the red axel in part 1, the blue pin in part 5, and the red ball joint in part 7. DO NOT change the red axel piece in part 9. Repeat this process for all 8 wings. Step 123: Swap the red axel. Step 129: Swap ONLY the left blue pin. Step 133: Swap ONLY the right blue pin. P 3713 11 -1.0000 1 X N P 3706 11 -1.0000 1 X N P 4519 11 -1.0000 8 X N P 43093 11 -1.0000 4 X N P 22484 85 -1.0000 4 X N P 6628a 11 -1.0000 20 X N P 6558 11 -1.0000 14 X N P 32062 11 -1.0000 15 X N
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual if you're interested!
I did this with everything that is blue red and yellow in the set. I missed some stuff that was not that obvious from pictures, but I already ordered the replacements for those. I think I do a rebuild and cover everything. It adds a looot to the set. I highly recommend doing the whole build with the replacements in mind.
I'm not a huge Lego guy and I didn't care when I saw reviews of this but this is a HUGE improvement! I did not expect this to improve the look so much!
*Here is the Bricklink XML list I made that includes Balazs' list in black, all other visible red/blue/yellow pieces in black, and the 4 orange pieces in dark bluish gray:* I was able to figure out most of the swapped pieces from watching Balazs' video, so watch it carefully. Here are the swap locations that aren't immediately clear :D Step 6: Swap the blue pin Step 14: Swap the 3 blue pins. Step 18 part 3: Swap ONLY the left red axel. Step 68: Swap out the two blue pins. Step 111: Swap the red axel in part 1, the blue pin in part 5, and the red ball joint in part 7. DO NOT change the red axel piece in part 9. Repeat this process for all 8 wings. Step 123: Swap the red axel. Step 129: Swap ONLY the left blue pin. Step 133: Swap ONLY the right blue pin. P 3713 11 -1.0000 1 X N P 3706 11 -1.0000 1 X N P 4519 11 -1.0000 8 X N P 43093 11 -1.0000 4 X N P 22484 85 -1.0000 4 X N P 6628a 11 -1.0000 20 X N P 6558 11 -1.0000 14 X N P 32062 11 -1.0000 15 X N
@@QuiGonJeans Happy to be of assistance! Log into BrickLink, hover your mouse over "Want" in the top right corner, click Upload, switch to Upload BrickLink XML format, and paste the whole list into the text box. Keep hitting the blue buttons and finally click Buy All and Auto-Select
Hey, I know this is a lot to ask, but do you think you could list the page numbers of where each piece gets replaced, similar to what Roger did in the racingbrick comment section? Thanks a lot if you do
@@Tawnee323 I was able to figure out most of the swapped pieces from watching Balazs' video, so watch it carefully. Here are the swap locations that aren't immediately clear :D Step 6: Swap the blue pin Step 14: Swap the 3 blue pins. Step 18 part 3: Swap ONLY the left red axel. Step 68: Swap out the two blue pins. Step 111: Swap the red axel in part 1, the blue pin in part 5, and the red ball joint in part 7. DO NOT change the red axel piece in part 9. Repeat this process for all 8 wings. Step 123: Swap the red axel. Step 129: Swap ONLY the left blue pin. Step 133: Swap ONLY the right blue pin. Step 314: Swap out the yellow axels and repeat for all 8 wings.
Thanks for this, I intend to do as you have as it looks much better without the distracting colour choices. I swapped out the grey pins in the front landing gear with black ones, and the pink studs for clear ones near the cockpit as they were included as spares in the set.
For me the one off put for this set was those red pieces because I felt like I would complain about those then I realised that I would just replace all the red part while building it, then I realised I would need to buy the set and look at the instructions which means that then I would have to go to the lego store twice in one day, then this popped up in my recommended (conveniently) and you just told me the extra pieces that I need to buy so thank you
Thank you for putting this video together and listing all of the parts. I just ordered the set and decided to get the parts you recommended for my build.
Im stoked this video was recommended after I just learned about the set, and thanks so much for showing how cheap and easy it is to fix. If I buy it, and I probably will, I will include the spare parts
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to my Recent Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
I just picked mine up this weekend, but I'm thinking I'll go get the replacement parts now before I put it together. It does look quite a bit sharper without the red pieces. Also thinking about maybe trying to get some smooth pieces to put on the exterior of the 'thopter to cover up some of the studs that are showing. Don't know how much I'll put into that before I get it built though
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
Good Video! I replaced all the off color liftarms, technic bricks, blue pins and technic bushings as well in my Ornithopter and boy does it make a difference!
Yeah I did this for all coloured parts prior to arrival. Getting rid of the blue and yellow helps a lot as well. Looks so much nicer. Plus extra plates to smooth out the overall appearance.
This upgrade is definitely needed. Black pins are available from other manufacturers like Bluebrixx or Webrick if someone can live with non-Lego parts.😊
I’m currently building mine and systematically swapping the coloured pieces. Thanks to your previous review where you shown the piece list from the manual before the release, I managed to get all the replacement pieces the same day the set was delivered. It’s already looking x1000 times better and I even have old 3L friction studs in black to replace those ugly blue one. Shame that LEGO didn’t took the time to design this set with pieces matching the colour scheme.
Wooo wee stomping out those visible blue, orange, white, red, and yellow pieces is pricey. Now there's even fewer black parts on bricklink. Thanks for the list. It was a starting point for me. I changed out way more pieces.
Wow, completely changed the look! I like being a purist and not swapping parts out… However, Lego should reach out to you from time to time, prior to releasing sets, for this level of quality control! Exceptional
Thanks for the forewarning. I will discern how the pieces affect the look of the final product from now on with forthcoming Lego sets as I too get annoyed as to why some color pieces are used like this which affect the overall aesthetic of the set. The box pictures will be the guide. 👍👌
I can't wait to get this set. I will order these extra parts at the same time and build without the red from the start. As amazing of a set as it is, i can't believe they had so many exposed red pieces 😅😅
Well I can tell you why they went with the red pieces! - It's so I would spend another $15 in the LEGO shop getting a load of color correcting pieces! Well played LEGO. xD Big big thank you for this and the older build video. Helped me determine all the pieces I would need before I built the set and would have to tear it down. Other than the red parts, I also went for all visible blue, the 4 orange ball-poles, the 8 almost invisible yellow axles and the grey perpendicular connectors in the wings, the grey half-beams and tan pins in the landing gear, the red L-beams and bushs visible on the bottom. Will also cover up all the brick holes on the sides with short pins and tiles. This is the first set I buy in 20 years. It's THE ONE. Cant fit many at home so gotta make the one I get count. Will probably add lights to it cause why not. Have never really thought about upgrading and perfecting an official set. Such an endless world opening up.
((oh yeah and I have a bunch of older LEGO so had 12 of the no-longer-in-production black 3 wide pins laying around to replace the blue. Lucky me)) Might cannibalize my built Technic sets 8408 8417 8443 and give them the blue pieces xD Actually now that I look at it I think there's 7 visible blue 3 wide pins per side, so 14 total, so I can just take the 2 from 8417 that is already a blue set.
I'm sure that pretty much everyone with this set has thought about doing this, so its good to see the end result is worth it. Be s much better if the blue bits could be done as well.
Thanks man! I'm glad I stumbled over this video when I was looking for the review :D Ordered the recommended parts along with the set itself, so I can replace the stuff while building. Gonna paint the blue bits' visible parts with Vallejo 70.863 Gunmetal (the sacrilege!).
I’m 💯 doing this replacement of parts. Love it. Looks so much better. As an 18+ set, Lego needs to have confidence in its builders (we can cope with some same-colour parts)! Promise. Thanks for sharing.
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list in my Recent Comment below of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter and a list of steps of what to replace and when
I anticipated this and ordered black balls and pins and did the initial build with them. I also ordered a bunch of dk grey tiles to cover the sides. Also some grating to fill in Still waiting on some pieces from Lego, will try to link pictures later. Also will probably do a light kit
I’m exited to get my hands on the set I think I’ll buy a bunch of these parts and replace all the red as I go, I’d also like to get some half pins to see if I can put them in that technic brick and attach some plates to hide the internals, I don’t know if it’ll work, but it’ll be fun to give it a try
I replaced all of the ones that you've pointed out, and also ordered enough 3L pins in black to replace the visible blue ones. I don't think the 2L pin/cross-axle has ever come in black, but that yould be the next one I'd want to do. There's also some yellow axles visible, but I didn't think to substitute them with gray or black until I was done building.
I found a good source of black 2L pin/cross-axles. Set 8473 has 22 of them, and the 'thopter has 7. I think I'll replace those yellow axles after all. Have plenty of those already.
I’ve swapped out most of the red ball pins and the wing open/close bush but haven’t yet bothered with the red axels, that may happen in the future. What I have done is gone for a smoother look to the outside of the fuselage by adding some flat panels because I just got somewhat bothered by all the studs showing. Not entirely done with this modification but once I get the parts it will be finishing off the red parts then done. So far, with one side of the fuselage completed I prefer the look. (For some reason my brain is now thinking, “how can I hide the exposed working of the wings?” This may be an endless build. 😅 )
I simply looked at the parts list in bricklink and ordered as many (pin with ball, blue pins, red axles, ...) as there are in the set. Will 1st time build it with the replaced parts
This will be my first modifications *while building* as far as I can see right now: Red joints and axles, blue pins and yellow axles will all be black. The 8 LBG connectors for the wings will be black as well" Red half pins with friction will be DBG
I'm pretty sure that Lego is assuming (correctly) that they will be attracting SO MANY non-Lego fans with this set. Because it's already pretty technic-heavy and not your "typical" introductory Lego build, all of those off-colors will make it an easier build experience for them.
I just wanted to say order way more 2m cross axles than you think you need if building this from scratch, probably double what he suggests. I thought I was putting them in exposed parts and ran out way too early and had to pay for shipping on another order, and the worst part. Wait lol. Hopefully they should all be pretty exposed though once done and easy to replace.
Can anyone confirm if there is a difference between the red/blue pins and the black pins in terms of friction, how well they’re supposed to hold structures together? Or is it simply just the color that differs?
Just color. There are frictionless pins but those are a different color. If you're interested in doing the color conversion, my comment below has a detailed guide and a larger list of what you need to replace all the red/blue/yellow/orange pieces
The reason why they had the colored elements is for ease of build like you said BUT, also for new builders. They design the build process and instructions for every set for NEW first time builders. So LEGO is accessible to everyone just getting into the hobby.
That's true. It'd be interesting to know the rules designers have to follow, as I feel in some occasions, like this one for example, those rules could be more flexible. In some recent Technic sets a lot of visible red 2L axles were swapped for black ones to make the surface more uniform, regardless of the building orientation. I think it could have been done here as well, keeping the colorful helping parts for the interior.
@@RacingBrick Thx. Yeah, I think in this instance, it’s a new IP for LEGO and they’re thinking they’ll get Dune fans whom never built LEGO before and try to make the build as easy as possible.
@@RacingBrick Oh, also the only rules I heard for designers was in an interview with Mark Stafford, and he mentioned that for the most part, besides designing kits to be as stable/sturdy as possible, most are designed that any 12 year old can build regardless of their experience with LEGO. So even if it’s 18+, most can tackle it without frustration. Keeps ‘em coming back for more. And of course the other factor/rule they have is they have to design to an already set price point.
@@serch3ster Not a bad idea but also, email Lego customer service. Say the parts you want to swap out (itemize the part number and how many and color). Tell them you spent a lot of money, spend a lot of money on Lego, you're a loyal regular customer and the red elements seems unsightly and distract from the kit for display and if they can send the needed black replacement elements since you spent a lot on the set. Ask that you'd happily pay. Do it all politely and humble. There's a good chance they'd send you the parts for free.
I still have mine sitting in the box. I'm glad I watched this video before building it. Is there any chance you could get a list together to replace all the blue technic pieces as well?
I've made a Mod MOC on Rebrickable of exactly this! I edited the necesssary pages in the original instruction booklet to make it easy to follow when doing the build for the first time. It is MOC-174370
I had absolutely zero issues with the red pins until I saw this. I just ordered the set, so I may need to put a Bricklink order together before I actually build it…
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list in my Recent Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual
Hello, I have a question: I ordered this set; you say that "you cant change the blue pieces..."...why is this not possible, it would be nicer to change also the blue ones...?? Thx, greetings
I don't think I said you cannot change them, those parts are simply not available from LEGO anymore. You can look for them used though, I suggest to check Bricklink.
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
I am planning to do so. Although I think Lego should have done it correctly in the first place. It is an 18+ set after all, so it is supposed to be a bit more difficult.
Great video! Thank you. I ordered it and i want to makes these improvements while building it.. would anybody know how many blue connectors there are? I wanna make them black too.
Nice. I have this set and I love it, but some of the colour choices baffle me. I don't care what's on the inside, but on the outside we have so many visible red bits, lurid orange ball and rod pieces, bright yellow 3-length axles (I do appreciate the black tube piece that covers the middle of these, but why not just use a black axle and lose that piece?), bright yellow 1x1 technic bricks, random use of light grey in the cockpit, blue long technic pins.. the list goes on. Almost all of this can be in a more sensible colour, and sometimes you even get other pieces of the right colour in the set itself!
Thanks! Can someone add a part list of parts to buy _before_ the build? So that way I can also change the parts that are not changeable in the finished set...
Thx for the list of pieces, I just received mine and changed them all. I even consider chabgind the blue ones but this will require to rebuild the whole thing.( is it a bad thing? nah.)
I was sure that when they replaced the black 2L axles with red ones, they started using them exlusively. Turns out the black ones never went away after all, I find that very surprising tbh
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to my Recent Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
Nice Video! Is it possible for you, to add all the other "wrong" color-parts, too? I'll get the Set in 3-4 Weeks an it would be very nice to replace all the blue and orange parts with black or grey. Thanks a lot
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
Click here for all the parts required - racingbrick.com/2024/02/quick-color-swap-for-the-10327-dune-ornithopter/
Can you please share the parts numbers and quantity to swap the blue parts? As I have not built yet it would be nice to order these as well.
how many additional black parts should we order if we swap during the build?
@@bikerbear4917 i just built it with black parts. the list in the link above is pretty much all you'll need, but if you want to fully replace _every_ red 2M axle you need 31 of them instead of 11. most aren't visible on the outside tho. the list covers all of the ball joints you'll need.
@@f1fan65 the instructions mention 7x 4206482 "CONN.BUSH W.FRIC./CROSSALE" and 20x 6288413 "CONNECTOR PEG W. FRICTION 3M", but I do not know which of them are exposed. Buying them all from Lego is about 2,42 € so I guess it is not a big deal.
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to my *Recent Comment* on this video of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through Balazs' list and the instruction manual.
I copied the list here originally but it keeps disappearing shortly after posting
I feel that Lego should already be doing this in their larger sets that are geared towards adults. I can understand sets that are tailored towards kids. But an adult buying a $500 1:8 scale super car should be able to figure it out.
I agree, considering sets like this are geared towards adults I can't exactly see the reasoning behind "making it easier to understand" when I'm sure most adults would have no issues (not saying kids can't get these sets of course, though the point still stands.)
Doing this for sets geared towards kids makes sense, but why the 18+/Adults welcome range?
I don't think people buying sets from the 18+ range need to have their hands held for things like this as long as the instructions provided are clear and easy to understand, which they typically are.
No hate on Lego, just feels like a really odd choice?
Check out the non Lego set he did on his other channel. Just as you describe it, just the colors needed.
Yes, you're absolutely correct, especially for 18+ sets that are designed for adults. They don't need hand holding like this. Color coding won't really help if you're color blind either.
Facebook Technic group page would have you reconsidering that thought. I have seen quite a few absolutely ridiculous questions on there. Unfortunately Lego has to treat all of us like the lowest common denominator. Pretty sure that’s why they typically have you add one part per step. Ugh
I think it might be more about frustrating NEW adult builders or those just collecting something cool (thematic) and not real LEGO collectors. I've known some that have asked me to finish building their larger System/Technic sets...
It's incredible how distracting the red pins were, now that you showed the model without them. The middle part looks so much cleaner now. I think I'll order this set with the pieces you mentioned. Thank you so much for the piece count and what we need to order, it helps a lot!
I waited 3 days after it arrived to build mine first time with as many recolours as I could get, so I've never had the set in-hand with the original colours but my god it looks amazing now with all black/grey pieces instead.
what piece replacements did you buy? do you have a list?
Here's a suggestion buy the lego lotus flowers (set 40647) it comes with 45 of the black 2 stud long cross axles which and they get hidden while making the flower stems. easy swap.
Great tip!
Thank you! I already have that set but I did not remember it contained the black axles!
you sir are the reason I read comments on YT. Those smart ideas, thank you for sharing.
Yeah but you still need other parts
For those who plan to swap the red parts during initial build, these are the page numbers (US version manual) and step numbers you want to note where the parts that need to be replaced appears.
P22 Step 18: 3 (only the one connected to the lever)
P46 Step 64: 1
P74 Step 111: 1, 7
P76 Step 112: 1, 7
P78 Step 113: 1, 7
P80 Step 114: 1, 7
P100 Step 145: 1 (x2)
P103 Step 152: 1 (x2)
P120 Step 175: 1, 7 (9 is mentioned in the video, but not counted in the part list)
P122 Step 176: 1, 7
P124 Step 177: 1, 7 (9 is mentioned in the video, but not counted in the part list)
P126 Step 178: 1, 7
P183 Step 303: 1
P187 Step 311: 1
P192 Step 314: 6 (x2)
P194 Step 315: 6 (x2)
P197 Step 317: 6 (x2)
P199 Step 318: 6 (x2)
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to my Recent Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
@@UNSCpilot95any chance you can share your old comment again?
@@Heel *Here is the Bricklink XML list I made that includes Balazs' list in black, all other visible red/blue/yellow pieces in black, and the 4 orange pieces in dark bluish gray:*
I was able to figure out most of the swapped pieces from watching Balazs' video, so watch it carefully. Here are the swap locations that aren't immediately clear :D
Step 6: Swap the blue pin
Step 14: Swap the 3 blue pins.
Step 18 part 3: Swap ONLY the left red axel.
Step 68: Swap out the two blue pins.
Step 111: Swap the red axel in part 1, the blue pin in part 5, and the red ball joint in part 7. DO NOT change the red axel piece in part 9. Repeat this process for all 8 wings.
Step 123: Swap the red axel.
Step 129: Swap ONLY the left blue pin.
Step 133: Swap ONLY the right blue pin.
P
3713
11
-1.0000
1
X
N
P
3706
11
-1.0000
1
X
N
P
4519
11
-1.0000
8
X
N
P
43093
11
-1.0000
4
X
N
P
22484
85
-1.0000
4
X
N
P
6628a
11
-1.0000
20
X
N
P
6558
11
-1.0000
14
X
N
P
32062
11
-1.0000
15
X
N
The most underrated comment lol
@@UNSCpilot95 just orderd the parts, thankyou so much!
Fantastic swap...looks soo much better with these simple yet obvious upgrades! Be safe and well!
I did this immediately when the brick list was available, looks sooo much better without all the red and other colorful pieces
If I owned the set, I would DEFINITELY do this, and have no doubt in my mind this should have been how the set shipped.
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual if you're interested!
This is what I did when I got the set. I also used technic studs and grey tiles to smooth out exposed technic.
Thank you so much for this video. I'll definitely be upgrading this model once I get it. The parts list is very helpful... thanks again.
I did this with everything that is blue red and yellow in the set. I missed some stuff that was not that obvious from pictures, but I already ordered the replacements for those. I think I do a rebuild and cover everything. It adds a looot to the set. I highly recommend doing the whole build with the replacements in mind.
Any chance you can list the parts you ordered to replace?
How many blue 3L pins did you replace?
parts lists would be very appreciated!
Hi @MokiSenpai, do you have a part list for parts you ordered?
I have this set ordered and it is shipping late February so a complete list of replacement parts and any extra smoothing parts would be appreciated ❤
I'm not a huge Lego guy and I didn't care when I saw reviews of this but this is a HUGE improvement! I did not expect this to improve the look so much!
*Here is the Bricklink XML list I made that includes Balazs' list in black, all other visible red/blue/yellow pieces in black, and the 4 orange pieces in dark bluish gray:*
I was able to figure out most of the swapped pieces from watching Balazs' video, so watch it carefully. Here are the swap locations that aren't immediately clear :D
Step 6: Swap the blue pin
Step 14: Swap the 3 blue pins.
Step 18 part 3: Swap ONLY the left red axel.
Step 68: Swap out the two blue pins.
Step 111: Swap the red axel in part 1, the blue pin in part 5, and the red ball joint in part 7. DO NOT change the red axel piece in part 9. Repeat this process for all 8 wings.
Step 123: Swap the red axel.
Step 129: Swap ONLY the left blue pin.
Step 133: Swap ONLY the right blue pin.
P
3713
11
-1.0000
1
X
N
P
3706
11
-1.0000
1
X
N
P
4519
11
-1.0000
8
X
N
P
43093
11
-1.0000
4
X
N
P
22484
85
-1.0000
4
X
N
P
6628a
11
-1.0000
20
X
N
P
6558
11
-1.0000
14
X
N
P
32062
11
-1.0000
15
X
N
@@QuiGonJeans Happy to be of assistance! Log into BrickLink, hover your mouse over "Want" in the top right corner, click Upload, switch to Upload BrickLink XML format, and paste the whole list into the text box. Keep hitting the blue buttons and finally click Buy All and Auto-Select
Hey, I know this is a lot to ask, but do you think you could list the page numbers of where each piece gets replaced, similar to what Roger did in the racingbrick comment section? Thanks a lot if you do
@@Tawnee323 I was able to figure out most of the swapped pieces from watching Balazs' video, so watch it carefully. Here are the swap locations that aren't immediately clear :D
Step 6: Swap the blue pin
Step 14: Swap the 3 blue pins.
Step 18 part 3: Swap ONLY the left red axel.
Step 68: Swap out the two blue pins.
Step 111: Swap the red axel in part 1, the blue pin in part 5, and the red ball joint in part 7. DO NOT change the red axel piece in part 9. Repeat this process for all 8 wings.
Step 123: Swap the red axel.
Step 129: Swap ONLY the left blue pin.
Step 133: Swap ONLY the right blue pin.
Step 314: Swap out the yellow axels and repeat for all 8 wings.
Thank you mate, just ordered everything! Super excited :)
that's awesome, so just to clarify the steps you listed covers both parts shown in the video and the rest of the exposed parts?
Thanks for making this video. I used it as I built the set and replaced the prices during the building process. Looks great!
Thanks for this, I intend to do as you have as it looks much better without the distracting colour choices. I swapped out the grey pins in the front landing gear with black ones, and the pink studs for clear ones near the cockpit as they were included as spares in the set.
Can’t thank you enough for this guide and list of parts.
For me the one off put for this set was those red pieces because I felt like I would complain about those then I realised that I would just replace all the red part while building it, then I realised I would need to buy the set and look at the instructions which means that then I would have to go to the lego store twice in one day, then this popped up in my recommended (conveniently) and you just told me the extra pieces that I need to buy so thank you
Thank you for putting this video together and listing all of the parts. I just ordered the set and decided to get the parts you recommended for my build.
The color change with the black pins looks much better.
This makes this set instantly 50 percent better
Im stoked this video was recommended after I just learned about the set, and thanks so much for showing how cheap and easy it is to fix. If I buy it, and I probably will, I will include the spare parts
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to my Recent Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
Very nice! Thanks for putting this together.
Much, much better. 👍🏻
As always, your builds and opinions are greatly appreciated.
I just did this on my Ornithopter build and it's glorious.
Incredible design. Looks extra better with black parts.
I just picked mine up this weekend, but I'm thinking I'll go get the replacement parts now before I put it together. It does look quite a bit sharper without the red pieces. Also thinking about maybe trying to get some smooth pieces to put on the exterior of the 'thopter to cover up some of the studs that are showing. Don't know how much I'll put into that before I get it built though
Fantastic video, good looking out sir!! Thankfully I waited a lil bit to get this and plan on swapping out as much as I can as I'm building
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
Good Video! I replaced all the off color liftarms, technic bricks, blue pins and technic bushings as well in my Ornithopter and boy does it make a difference!
Have you got a parts list of all you replaced? Thanks
Yeah I did this for all coloured parts prior to arrival. Getting rid of the blue and yellow helps a lot as well. Looks so much nicer. Plus extra plates to smooth out the overall appearance.
how many plates did you order?
This upgrade is definitely needed. Black pins are available from other manufacturers like Bluebrixx or Webrick if someone can live with non-Lego parts.😊
Also available are regular 3L black pins via bricklink, around 20c each. They are mostly used though
I’m currently building mine and systematically swapping the coloured pieces. Thanks to your previous review where you shown the piece list from the manual before the release, I managed to get all the replacement pieces the same day the set was delivered. It’s already looking x1000 times better and I even have old 3L friction studs in black to replace those ugly blue one. Shame that LEGO didn’t took the time to design this set with pieces matching the colour scheme.
Wooo wee stomping out those visible blue, orange, white, red, and yellow pieces is pricey. Now there's even fewer black parts on bricklink. Thanks for the list. It was a starting point for me. I changed out way more pieces.
Wow, completely changed the look!
I like being a purist and not swapping parts out…
However, Lego should reach out to you from time to time, prior to releasing sets, for this level of quality control!
Exceptional
Oh man! I have the set. Will Definitely try the piece swap! Thanks for sharing this info! You are the best Balàzs
Thanks for the forewarning. I will discern how the pieces affect the look of the final product from now on with forthcoming Lego sets as I too get annoyed as to why some color pieces are used like this which affect the overall aesthetic of the set. The box pictures will be the guide. 👍👌
Just bought the parts for this and made the swap! Looks so much better!
I can't wait to get this set. I will order these extra parts at the same time and build without the red from the start.
As amazing of a set as it is, i can't believe they had so many exposed red pieces 😅😅
Such a small change but makes a huge difference wow
Well I can tell you why they went with the red pieces! - It's so I would spend another $15 in the LEGO shop getting a load of color correcting pieces! Well played LEGO. xD
Big big thank you for this and the older build video. Helped me determine all the pieces I would need before I built the set and would have to tear it down.
Other than the red parts, I also went for all visible blue, the 4 orange ball-poles, the 8 almost invisible yellow axles and the grey perpendicular connectors in the wings, the grey half-beams and tan pins in the landing gear, the red L-beams and bushs visible on the bottom. Will also cover up all the brick holes on the sides with short pins and tiles.
This is the first set I buy in 20 years. It's THE ONE. Cant fit many at home so gotta make the one I get count. Will probably add lights to it cause why not.
Have never really thought about upgrading and perfecting an official set. Such an endless world opening up.
((oh yeah and I have a bunch of older LEGO so had 12 of the no-longer-in-production black 3 wide pins laying around to replace the blue. Lucky me))
Might cannibalize my built Technic sets 8408 8417 8443 and give them the blue pieces xD
Actually now that I look at it I think there's 7 visible blue 3 wide pins per side, so 14 total, so I can just take the 2 from 8417 that is already a blue set.
A very simple and effective swap!
I'm sure that pretty much everyone with this set has thought about doing this, so its good to see the end result is worth it. Be s much better if the blue bits could be done as well.
Thanks man! I'm glad I stumbled over this video when I was looking for the review :D
Ordered the recommended parts along with the set itself, so I can replace the stuff while building. Gonna paint the blue bits' visible parts with Vallejo 70.863 Gunmetal (the sacrilege!).
Fantastic! I am not far into the build so I will order those pieces and slip them in easy peasy! Thank you so much!
Very good ! I always use black pins and black 2axles for all my sets.
also yellow axle 3l replace on LBG 3l :)
You can do more of course, but I think the red ones were the most distracting
I’m 💯 doing this replacement of parts. Love it. Looks so much better. As an 18+ set, Lego needs to have confidence in its builders (we can cope with some same-colour parts)! Promise. Thanks for sharing.
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list in my Recent Comment below of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter and a list of steps of what to replace and when
Do the blue pins too!
I anticipated this and ordered black balls and pins and did the initial build with them. I also ordered a bunch of dk grey tiles to cover the sides. Also some grating to fill in
Still waiting on some pieces from Lego, will try to link pictures later. Also will probably do a light kit
I’m exited to get my hands on the set I think I’ll buy a bunch of these parts and replace all the red as I go, I’d also like to get some half pins to see if I can put them in that technic brick and attach some plates to hide the internals, I don’t know if it’ll work, but it’ll be fun to give it a try
I replaced all of the ones that you've pointed out, and also ordered enough 3L pins in black to replace the visible blue ones. I don't think the 2L pin/cross-axle has ever come in black, but that yould be the next one I'd want to do.
There's also some yellow axles visible, but I didn't think to substitute them with gray or black until I was done building.
I found a good source of black 2L pin/cross-axles. Set 8473 has 22 of them, and the 'thopter has 7. I think I'll replace those yellow axles after all. Have plenty of those already.
Just ordered the lot from one seller on BrickLink. Thanks!
I did the same during build. I checked the instruction upfront, ordered the pieces and started the build using black pieces.
Looks much better!
I’ve swapped out most of the red ball pins and the wing open/close bush but haven’t yet bothered with the red axels, that may happen in the future. What I have done is gone for a smoother look to the outside of the fuselage by adding some flat panels because I just got somewhat bothered by all the studs showing. Not entirely done with this modification but once I get the parts it will be finishing off the red parts then done. So far, with one side of the fuselage completed I prefer the look.
(For some reason my brain is now thinking, “how can I hide the exposed working of the wings?” This may be an endless build. 😅 )
I did this too, before I started the build. I switched out all of the coloured parts for about $30 on brick link.
Just bought this. Gonna follow your tips. Cheers.
I simply looked at the parts list in bricklink and ordered as many (pin with ball, blue pins, red axles, ...) as there are in the set. Will 1st time build it with the replaced parts
This will be my first modifications *while building* as far as I can see right now:
Red joints and axles, blue pins and yellow axles will all be black.
The 8 LBG connectors for the wings will be black as well"
Red half pins with friction will be DBG
I'm pretty sure that Lego is assuming (correctly) that they will be attracting SO MANY non-Lego fans with this set. Because it's already pretty technic-heavy and not your "typical" introductory Lego build, all of those off-colors will make it an easier build experience for them.
Great video, I’m yet to build mine so will consider getting the parts before building. Thanks for the trips.
GET THE PARTS BEFORE BUILDING. It is a certified pain to do it after the fact.
I’m working on going for a full recolour to try and make as much black and DBG as possible
I replaced all red,yellow,orange and green Parts with black or grey Parts on my Ornithopter it looks so much better now.
I did it with mine, but I did it before I built it so that I could replace some of the other colors that are more internal as well
I think they can just change those red and blue pieces into different shades of grey and it would already be a huge improvement.
I just wanted to say order way more 2m cross axles than you think you need if building this from scratch, probably double what he suggests. I thought I was putting them in exposed parts and ran out way too early and had to pay for shipping on another order, and the worst part. Wait lol. Hopefully they should all be pretty exposed though once done and easy to replace.
It looks great!
Something could be done also with all the exposed studs on the tails flanks. I mean, a few flat tiles just to make the overall appearance smoother…
Can anyone confirm if there is a difference between the red/blue pins and the black pins in terms of friction, how well they’re supposed to hold structures together? Or is it simply just the color that differs?
Just color. There are frictionless pins but those are a different color. If you're interested in doing the color conversion, my comment below has a detailed guide and a larger list of what you need to replace all the red/blue/yellow/orange pieces
Personally, I think the red parts add color to it. Like the "do not step" warning signs
The reason why they had the colored elements is for ease of build like you said BUT, also for new builders.
They design the build process and instructions for every set for NEW first time builders.
So LEGO is accessible to everyone just getting into the hobby.
That's true. It'd be interesting to know the rules designers have to follow, as I feel in some occasions, like this one for example, those rules could be more flexible. In some recent Technic sets a lot of visible red 2L axles were swapped for black ones to make the surface more uniform, regardless of the building orientation. I think it could have been done here as well, keeping the colorful helping parts for the interior.
@@RacingBrick Thx.
Yeah, I think in this instance, it’s a new IP for LEGO and they’re thinking they’ll get Dune fans whom never built LEGO before and try to make the build as easy as possible.
They could have a optional small bag with black pieces included in the set.
@@RacingBrick Oh, also the only rules I heard for designers was in an interview with Mark Stafford, and he mentioned that for the most part, besides designing kits to be as stable/sturdy as possible, most are designed that any 12 year old can build regardless of their experience with LEGO. So even if it’s 18+, most can tackle it without frustration. Keeps ‘em coming back for more.
And of course the other factor/rule they have is they have to design to an already set price point.
@@serch3ster Not a bad idea but also, email Lego customer service. Say the parts you want to swap out (itemize the part number and how many and color).
Tell them you spent a lot of money, spend a lot of money on Lego, you're a loyal regular customer and the red elements seems unsightly and distract from the kit for display and if they can send the needed black replacement elements since you spent a lot on the set.
Ask that you'd happily pay.
Do it all politely and humble.
There's a good chance they'd send you the parts for free.
I used your parts list. Looks great! Thanks!
Definitely doing this mod, once i pick this set up
I still have mine sitting in the box. I'm glad I watched this video before building it. Is there any chance you could get a list together to replace all the blue technic pieces as well?
Part list can be checked on Rebrickable or Bricklink, you can identify there all parts you prefer to replace
Thanks for the info. Before building this set I will spray paint those parts in black that are visible. What do you think?
I did the same with my Chiron and it looks so, so much better.
Black paint gunna come in clutch rn
I've made a Mod MOC on Rebrickable of exactly this! I edited the necesssary pages in the original instruction booklet to make it easy to follow when doing the build for the first time. It is MOC-174370
Can't find it. Typo?
Also cover up the technic brick holes with dark gray tiles.
I had absolutely zero issues with the red pins until I saw this. I just ordered the set, so I may need to put a Bricklink order together before I actually build it…
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list in my Recent Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual
Hello, I have a question: I ordered this set; you say that "you cant change the blue pieces..."...why is this not possible, it would be nicer to change also the blue ones...?? Thx, greetings
I don't think I said you cannot change them, those parts are simply not available from LEGO anymore. You can look for them used though, I suggest to check Bricklink.
@@RacingBrick Anyway...allright, I understand...thats sad :-) I look for the red ones you mentioned, have a good day!
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
I am planning to do so. Although I think Lego should have done it correctly in the first place. It is an 18+ set after all, so it is supposed to be a bit more difficult.
Great video! Thank you.
I ordered it and i want to makes these improvements while building it.. would anybody know how many blue connectors there are? I wanna make them black too.
Nice. I have this set and I love it, but some of the colour choices baffle me. I don't care what's on the inside, but on the outside we have so many visible red bits, lurid orange ball and rod pieces, bright yellow 3-length axles (I do appreciate the black tube piece that covers the middle of these, but why not just use a black axle and lose that piece?), bright yellow 1x1 technic bricks, random use of light grey in the cockpit, blue long technic pins.. the list goes on. Almost all of this can be in a more sensible colour, and sometimes you even get other pieces of the right colour in the set itself!
I like the different colours. They highlight the awesome mechanics 😊
Thanks! Can someone add a part list of parts to buy _before_ the build? So that way I can also change the parts that are not changeable in the finished set...
You can check the inventory on Bricklink or on Rebrickable
Thx for the list of pieces, I just received mine and changed them all. I even consider chabgind the blue ones but this will require to rebuild the whole thing.( is it a bad thing? nah.)
Really great tip!
that's why iI love the Batman '92 mobil. It's so dame black!
I was sure that when they replaced the black 2L axles with red ones, they started using them exlusively. Turns out the black ones never went away after all, I find that very surprising tbh
I too "paint" my technic sets, thanks good show
Very cool keep up the good work man im gonna build one of youre upgraded creations!
What about a full list of the color pieces to replace if one is doing a new build?
The part list of the set is available, you can create your own list with whatever pieces you prefer to replace
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to my Recent Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
I remember the blue pins were also available in black, don't they manufacture them anymore?
Those aren't used for a long time
oh ok
@@RacingBrick Do they need to be the ones with the friction ridges? If not, tan would probably be a bit better than blue.
Happy to see that video before I built it :D
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
I will be doing a more extreme version of this.
Any chance you fix the limited flapping too ?
my approach would be to get the set, get the parts, then whenever it calls for a red pin, use a black one. it seems it'd save you trouble
Nice Video!
Is it possible for you, to add all the other "wrong" color-parts, too?
I'll get the Set in 3-4 Weeks an it would be very nice to replace all the blue and orange parts with black or grey.
Thanks a lot
The part list is available on multiple sites, you can create your own list based on them
I uploaded the Bricklink XML part list to the Pinned Comment of all the pieces you need to replace all visible blue/red/yellow/orange pieces on the Ornithopter after I went through his list and the manual!
could a Tile Round 1x1 with Bar and Pin Holder plug into the blue pins to hide their color?
nop, doesn't stick. The hole is a lot bigger.