Transform Element TE-03 Speed Star (G1 Mirage)

Discussion in 'Transformers 3rd Party Discussion' started by oku, Dec 3, 2019.

  1. Detroa

    Detroa Well-Known Member

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    Thanks for your answer but it seems there's a misunderstanding on what I asked. I drew this to better explain.

    clipboard1.jpg

    The screw wouldn't be visible and the thigh would still be facing the same side. If there's something preventing that method from working, that's OK but it's actually what I'm asking.
     
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  2. Mentasm

    Mentasm I check in, but I don't check out.

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    Please, just take my word for it. It does not work.
     
  3. skywarp-2

    skywarp-2 Master of Teleportation

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    I’ll wait...
     
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  4. DINOBOTT

    DINOBOTT Well-Known Member

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    Both thighs needed fixing on my copy. Did just what diecast17 suggested and it took a few minutes total.
     
  5. deathsheadII

    deathsheadII Not a Bounty Hunter yes?

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    looks like they did fix it :D  all in it's a superb looking mirage so glad i sold mmc's

    DSC_0029.JPG DSC_0030.JPG DSC_0031.JPG DSC_0032.JPG
     
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  6. FattyMoBookyBut

    FattyMoBookyBut Well-Known Member

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    I tried to rotate the hips so the screws would be facing forward for testing purposes but the hip rotation is really stiff. (I had to stick an allen wrench through the inner section to turn it even when the legs were removed.) Plus, the thigh swivel makes it pretty hard to rotate the hips as they both travel in the same direction. I don't see why it wouldn't work, but it would definitely be limited as there are moulded wedges on the outside of the white piece that connects the legs to the hips to limit movement:

    IMG_8221.jpeg

    This picture is the incorrect orientation of the hips (pre-fix), so if you were to have rotated the leg connector around, the wedge would have even less room to travel since there is less of the circular surface on the proper side.
     
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  7. Lester316

    Lester316 Well-Known Member

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    Mine has just arrived from TFS Express. It's supposedly from the second 50% of the first batch that had been QC checked but one leg is longer than the other and clearly requires the thigh issue fix. His left arm friction joint is loose too (but I think the screw just needs a turn or two).

    I've contacted TFS Express and asked what their policy is regarding the fix though. I don't want to attempt a fix, mess it up and have a damaged item I can't return. So I've asked them would they rather I return it to be fixed or attempt the fix with their understanding it might not work.

    I'll wait and see what they say before doing anything.

    Aside from the one leg needing the fix and the arm joint being a bit loose I have to say it looks great in hand. Materials feel quality and it will fit with other G1 toon figures spot on.
     
  8. 4249david

    4249david Click my avatar, you won't regret it...

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    They posted the fix video on FB so I think they'll say try it, and if you kill it then they'll sort you out
     
  9. Lester316

    Lester316 Well-Known Member

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    Fingers crossed. I'd like them to put that in writing first though just in case.
     
  10. Orion2703

    Orion2703 Ultimate Hunter

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    Had to do both mine, and one thigh panel cracked sadly due to the pin not being properly situated.
    I hit up tfs express and they've just ordered the parts for it, no questions asked. They did take a bit to come back to me, but it looks like they are just super busy at the moment.
    I'm sure they'll look after you either way.
     
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  11. 4249david

    4249david Click my avatar, you won't regret it...

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    Yeah, totally understand that. Honestly though, the fix is very simplistic. It's fiddly, sure, awkward even, but not complicated.

    Just don't open the thigh more than absolutely necessary if you aren't pushing the pin out. If you push the pin out, you can pretty much go nuts (apparently).
     
  12. Mentasm

    Mentasm I check in, but I don't check out.

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    Seriously, why does no one believe me? This was the first thing I tried when I got the figure as I posed the theory in the thread way back. It does not work. I've provided visual evidence it does not work. Multiple times. To recap, it does not work!
     
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  13. jackisking

    jackisking Well-Known Member

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    ......So what if you tried rotating the hips....:p 
     
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  14. Lester316

    Lester316 Well-Known Member

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    Don't think I have the right tools for pushing the pins out; got plenty of screwdrivers and spudgers though. As soon as they confirm I'm OK to attempt the fix (and remain covered) I'll try opening the thigh up to correct things but I'm not used to having to fix QC problems (I've only started collecting in the last few months) so despite it being seen as relatively simple I'll still remain apprehensive.

    I've only had one other QC issue so far. I bought a Fans Hobby PowerBaser; when I transformed the cab to the core robot an arm flew off instantly, the ratchet inside was broken and the spring shot out. Sadly there was no viable fix and in the end the Ebay had to force the seller to refund me.
     
  15. 4249david

    4249david Click my avatar, you won't regret it...

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    You won't have things flying around with this one! PM me if you need further info on it mate
     
  16. kibble

    kibble Seeker style, yo!

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    Did you try the magic dance before and after, though? It might work if you do that...
     
  17. Detroa

    Detroa Well-Known Member

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    Thank you for explaining it!
     
  18. Lester316

    Lester316 Well-Known Member

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    Thanks I appreciate that; I'll have a peek at videos and if I need more help I'll drop you a line.
     
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  19. 4249david

    4249david Click my avatar, you won't regret it...

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    No problems. Just don't use the first one posted in this thread (the one showing the loose knees afterwards). That one opens the thigh right up and kills the knee joint.
     
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  20. alzula

    alzula Well-Known Member

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    Same, both mine needed fixing. Took maybe 5 -10 minutes total, but that's a me issue since my right hand is numb.