What is a supplemental set?

It is a pack of parts, such as motors, pneumatic elements or chassis pieces, intended to extend other Technic models or support your own designs.

Do these packs include building instructions?

Some packs came with ideas or small models, but their main purpose was to provide parts. The parts lists show exactly what each one contains.

Supplemental

Sets: 16
Since: 1980
Newest set: 2010

Supplemental sets are parts packs rather than finished models. The 16 sets in this Technic sub-theme span 1980 to 2010.

Sets per decade

Sets per year

16 sets

2010s

Linear Actuators 970124 2010 3 pieces

2000s

1990s

1980s

About Supplemental

Power and motion

Many of these packs exist to add movement to existing models. Motor sets appear throughout the period, from the Power Pack (8720-1) in 1991 and the Power Pack Motor Set (8735-1) in 1998 to the Motor Pack (5221-1) in 2000 and the Motor Box (8287-1) in 2006. The Pneumatic Pack (5218-1) from 2000 adds 152 pieces of cylinders, tubing and related elements for air-powered functions. For builders who liked to motorise their own creations, packs like these were the usual way to get the necessary electrics.

Structure and bodywork

Other packs focus on frames and looks. The Styling Pack (5220-1) is the largest in the range with 221 pieces, and the Chassis Pack (5222-1) offers 137 pieces for building vehicle bases. The oldest set, the Expert Builder Parts Pack (8710-1) from 1980, dates back to the line that preceded Technic. If you want to know exactly which elements a pack contains, the parts lists on Bricoria break every set down piece by piece. Bear in mind that the electrical systems changed over these three decades, so older motors and battery boxes do not always connect to newer ones.

FAQ

What is a supplemental set?: It is a pack of parts, such as motors, pneumatic elements or chassis pieces, intended to extend other Technic models or support your own designs.
Which supplemental pack is the oldest?: The Expert Builder Parts Pack (8710-1) from 1980.
Do these packs include building instructions?: Some packs came with ideas or small models, but their main purpose was to provide parts. The parts lists show exactly what each one contains.