Historic update

Sorry people, life got in the way of the blog. I'm probably gonna rush through this first Millennium Falcon construction because since we last spoke I have started ordering parts for a second Millennium Falcon.
This second one will be a stealth version, all black with dark blue and dark red parts as well.
I've already ordered about 85% of the parts I need for this version and plan on starting construction soon.  I will post much more pictures and trick and tips when I start that one as it is much easier to blog the information as I go instead of trying to think back as to how I did everything.
I also plan on changing some of the stuff on this new version. The original had lots of cool "greebils" on it, but with this new one I've ordered lots of hoses and plan to make it look a little "messier" like the real Falcon. Yes, I plan on making a few special modifications.


Okay, so when we last left the original Falcon, it was just a basic framework. I was quite impressed with the framework as it is required to hold together some 30+ pounds of Lego. It is reinforced and cross-reinforced in many ways and quite impressive when you actually hold the framework and look at all the little Lego tricks they used to make it so structurally sound.

Just so you understand my definitions, I consider "framework" anything that is just there to provide shape and support for other parts. "hull work" is anything that is just a layer resting on the framework. In some cases the actual framework and hull work is combined in a hybrid because the decorative outside piece is also providing support (we'll see more of this later).

Basic framework. Notice all the reinforcements by way of the yellow technic corner pieces.

Even closer onto the framework

Secondary framework being added

secondary framework and some outside detail

In the pictures above you can see the genius that went into the design. The basic frame is two identical levels of Technic bricks with plates between them. There are then Technic bricks that run vertically between the horizontal layers to lock the two layers together. Also, though much harder to see are spacers that run horizontal with pins that hold the layers together as well. You can see how everything that attaches to the main framework also attaches at multiple points to make the larger frame even more sturdy.

The aft engine section, which is a strip of side-by-side sandwiched Technic bricks joined with hinge bricks attaches in almost ten places along the framework to strengthen it even more. In this instance the detail work is built as part of the secondary framework.