The Energon Pub

This is a custom Optimus Prime figure in the Revenge of the Fallen by Hasbro which I built years ago. When this second version figure released, it looks much more accurate than its previous version. But some how it lacks all the details and unfinished paint job. As a scale model and truck enthusiast, I would like to make every piece of item true to its accuracy and beyond that it can be turned into a collectible masterpiece for everyone’s enjoyment. Despite the release of the RA-24 model with a bit more paint jobs, there is still no official company up till now that can make a piece of detailed and accurate collectible but a plastic toy. Being inspired from some diehard fans who made and sold the Transformer figures on eBay, I figured I could make some real nice stuff based on my past model building/ conversion skill as well as my passion for American big rig out from this figure with potential to become a masterpiece. With the help of the release of the movie’s Blu-ray disc and my truck research, I finally completed this ‘toy’ into something I am proud of as a collectible and would like to share this with other Transformer enthusiasts. The time and effort spent was tremendous in the conversion/ wiring works considering this is only a 1/32 truck/ autobot.

Here are the special features and details:

- Provision of lit-up exclusive Optimus blue LED roof marker lights with tiny switch on the back shoulder, uses the factory provided AA battery source that need not to worry about running out of power fast. Although I admitted that the middle light cannot possibly in placed in the truck mode due to the physical drawback during the transformation. However, the built-in engine sound and Prime’s verses can still be activated as normal

- Detachable sword with built-in red LED lights hidden inside the arm adds realism to the glowing effect. It is powered by small lithium battery that is replaceable (uses Maxell 3V CR1216), small switches provided in a inconspicuous place under the fender that cannot be seen
Inter-changeable hands and saber that allows you to choose your autobot posing, so you don’t need to worry about hiding the saber that always get in the way. Strong tiny magnets were used for holding in place

- Inter-changeable wheels (2 sets) for truck mode and robot mode – the authentic Peterbilt oversized real chromed wheels with low profile rubber tires give a muscular/ hot rod feel that replaced the wimpy original plastic wheels, however the original plastic wheels can fit perfectly with the Optimus Prime body in their ‘transformed’manner (segment tire and chromed rims) just like the movie. All wheels are fitted with strong tiny magnets that can secured tightly into the axles but are easily changed

- The rear wheels in the robot mode were converted so that they do not overlapped and fitted perfectly one on top of each other as in the movie
Photo-etched part windshield wipers are used to replaced the molded-in ones just like the real Peterbilt truck in the movie, the wiper marks and dirt on the windshield are also added for realism

- Remake of the chrome side mirrors with fish lens mirrors are added as appeared in the Peterbilt and in the movie, metal wire and plastic parts with chrome sheets are used
Inter-changeable exhaust stacks are provided for both truck mode and autobot mode – slim polished aluminum pipes are used in the truck mode, whereas a short chubby exhaust stack to be used in the autobot mode. Both are specially highlighted with burnt effect at ends
A chromed sun visor to scale was used in placed of the thick plastic ones with rivet detailing
Eyes of Optimus Prime was replaced with blue LED light and marked with detailed pupils just like the movie

- A custom built Optimus Prime blaster based on the movie was made from scratch that is true to scale and detailing, unlike the RA-24 model that is out of scale and not matching the movie. Handle is provided so that the hand can grab the blaster securely. Special burnt effect was also added for realism

- All toy-like assembled screws are covered with detailed model caps to hide the holes except the area where you need to unscrew to replace arm batteries<p>
Fingers on hands can be articulated with added joint and line details that can be posed to all kinds of action

- Chain rack behind the sleeper in truck mode was further detailed with base container and chains hanging from holders that actually made of silver, true to the real Peterbilt truck
Front bumper tall marker lights made of metal are provided for your use in truck mode (removable for robot mode)

- The headlights in truck mode is crafted out individually from the all molded-in bumper like the real truck, also added extra detail with the supply electric wire under the headlights
PAINT JOB – majority of the body was repainted especially the blue part and some of the red areas. Chrome areas are painted with special high shine enamel paint that is quite durable. Whole body was covered with high gloss clear coat to bring out the shine

SPECIAL EFFECT PAINT JOB– all machine parts and indentations were highlighted with light and shade color effect for more 3D and punchy look. All inlay lines are highlighted with dark lines to add realism. Dirt, chips and scratches are also added at the autobot revealed parts. Even hidden areas under the shields and sleeper are pain-stakingly painted with highlights
All flame pattern on the body was specially outlined and the flame part on the sleeper area all also modified to match the movie look

The bottom of the air cleaners over the shoulder of Optimus Prime has added the detachable ‘claws’ details that uses strong magnet for held in place. Can be removed easily for truck mode.

My current project is to customize a 1:35 scale Takara Tomy DMK01 Optimus Prime, please check back for my posting.