How many pieces are in the Surface Space Loader?

Surface Space Loader contains 435 pieces.

What age is the Surface Space Loader recommended for?

This set is recommended for ages 8+.

When was the Surface Space Loader released?

Surface Space Loader was released in 2024.

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🏛 Technic

Set #42178

Surface Space Loader

The Surface Space Loader LT78 is a surprisingly detailed Technic set for its size.

Before you buy

Who it's for: Ages 8+ · Beginner build Younger LEGO fans and those new to Technic building.
Build: 435 pieces · about 2 hours Build time is an estimate.
Price: $34.99 list price · 8.0¢ per piece
Availability: Retired at LEGO

★★★☆☆ 3.8 community rating from 39 ratings

A solid Technic set praised for its engaging build and functional features, although some find it relatively simple for experienced builders. The futuristic space theme and reasonable price point make it a worthwhile purchase for younger fans and Technic newcomers.

$34.99

Check price on eBay

📝 Our Take

AI-assisted editorial summary, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

The Surface Space Loader LT78 is a surprisingly detailed Technic set for its size. It packs in functional elements like steering, a lifting cabin, and a working crane, all while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic inspired by futuristic space exploration vehicles. It's a great entry point into the Technic world.

This set is perfect for younger builders and Technic beginners. The build is engaging without being overly complex, providing a satisfying introduction to gear mechanisms and functional design. The play features add to the fun, making it a great gift.

Skip this if you're an experienced Technic builder seeking a challenging project. While enjoyable, it lacks the complexity of larger Technic sets. Consider the LEGO Technic Mars Crew Explorer 42180 for a more intricate build.

✨ New

Ask BlockTalk about this set

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How does this set compare to other Technic sets in terms of complexity? What are some of the key mechanical functions of the Surface Space Loader? Is this set a good introduction to the LEGO Technic theme for beginners? How durable is the model for play, and what are its display qualities?

🧱 Building Experience

AI-assisted build estimate, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

🧩

435

Pieces

⏱

Estimated Build Time

📊

Beginner

Difficulty

📏

20cm × 19cm × 9cm

Dimensions

Build Highlights:

Learning basic Technic building principles.
Understanding simple gear mechanisms.
Building a functional crane system.
Incorporating futuristic design elements.

📈 Investment Analysis

AI-assisted investment analysis, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

→ Price stable

C+

Investment Grade

⏳ Retired

The Surface Space Loader LT78 presents a moderate investment opportunity. While the Technic theme holds consistent appeal, its relatively low price point and piece count may limit significant appreciation. However, its availability and unique design within the 2024 space-themed wave could attract collectors, especially if the theme proves popular and the set retires within a few years. Keep in mind, space-themed sets often see a boost in value post-retirement.

Not Financial Advice: Content is for educational purposes only. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Full disclaimer

⚖ Compare Similar Sets

Mars Crew Explorer

Technic • 1,599 pcs

$109.99

Bugatti Bolide Agile Blue

Compared to other Technic sets in its price range, the Surface Space Loader offers a good balance of functionality and build experience. While sets like the Monster Jam trucks (42118, 42119) provide more rugged play features, the Space Loader stands out with its unique aesthetic and futuristic design. It's a good choice for those interested in space exploration and introductory Technic mechanisms.

📦 Parts Inventory

Official piece count: 435
Parts cataloged in this inventory: 98 unique parts, 435 pieces

Missing a piece? Check this set piece by piece, with look-alike colors flagged and element IDs for replacements.

Sticker Sheet for...

Part #: 10105334 1× [No Color/Any Color]

Windscreen 10 x 6...

Part #: 10312 1× Trans-Black

Technic Axle Pin ...

Part #: 11214 3× Red

Technic Panel Fai...

Part #: 11946 1× White

Technic Panel Fai...

Part #: 11947 1× White

Technic Beam 3 x ...

Part #: 14720 2× Black

Tile Round 2 x 2 ...

Part #: 14769 1× Black

Technic Axle 5 wi...

Part #: 15462 3× Reddish Brown

Plate Special 1 x...

Part #: 15573 1× White

Brick Curved Inve...

Part #: 1750 2× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Axle Pin ...

Part #: 18651 10× Black

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 18654 8× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 22961 7× Black

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 2393 3× Black

Technic Panel Fai...

Part #: 2395 1× Reddish Orange

Technic Panel Fai...

Part #: 2403 1× Reddish Orange

Technic Panel Cur...

Part #: 24116 1× Blue

Technic Panel Cur...

Part #: 24116 6× Reddish Orange

Technic Axle 3 wi...

Part #: 24316 2× Reddish Brown

Plant, Flower, Pl...

Part #: 24866 1× Lime

Tile 2 x 3

Part #: 26603 1× White

Technic Disc 3 x 3

Part #: 2723 2× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 27940 2× White

Plate Special 2 x...

Part #: 2817 1× Black

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 2825 2× Light Bluish Gray

Lever Small Base ...

Part #: 298c02 1× Black

Plate 2 x 3

Part #: 3021 3× Black

Brick Round 2 x 2...

Part #: 30361c 2× Light Bluish Gray

Tile 1 x 2 with G...

Part #: 3069b 3× White

Technic Beam 2 x ...

Part #: 3167 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32009 2× Black

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32013 8× White

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32034 2× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Axle 2 No...

Part #: 32062 6× Red

Technic Knob Wheel

Part #: 32072 1× Yellow

Technic Axle 5

Part #: 32073 7× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Bush 1/2 ...

Part #: 32123b 5× Yellow

Technic Beam 2 x ...

Part #: 32140 9× Black

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32184 7× White

Technic Gear 12 T...

Part #: 32270 1× Black

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32316 2× White

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32348 6× White

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32523 5× Yellow

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32524 5× Black

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32525 6× Black

Technic Beam 3 x ...

Part #: 32526 10× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 32530 2× Black

Bar 1L with Clip ...

Part #: 3484 1× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3701 2× Black

Part #: 39793 1× Black

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 40490 5× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 41677 1× Red

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 42003 2× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Driving R...

Part #: 42195 3× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Driving R...

Part #: 42195 1× Red

Technic Pin Long ...

Part #: 42924 33× Blue

Technic Axle Pin ...

Part #: 43093 17× Blue

Technic Axle 7

Part #: 44294 5× Yellow

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 44874 2× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Axle 3

Part #: 4519 6× Yellow

Dish 2 x 2 Invert...

Part #: 4740 1× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 49130 2× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Steering ...

Part #: 49151 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Brick Special 1 x...

Part #: 49699 2× Reddish Orange

Technic Knob Whee...

Part #: 5405 1× Light Bluish Gray

Brick Sloped 30° ...

Part #: 54200 2× Blue

Wheel 30.4 x 20 w...

Part #: 56145 4× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Axle Conn...

Part #: 59443 5× White

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 60483 5× White

Technic Beam 3 x ...

Part #: 60484 3× Black

Technic Pin with ...

Part #: 61332 59× Black

Plate Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 6141 4× Trans-Clear

Bar 1 x 3 (Radio ...

Part #: 6190 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Universal...

Part #: 61903 1× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 63869 10× Black

Technic Beam Fram...

Part #: 64179 1× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Panel Fai...

Part #: 64391 1× White

Technic Panel Fai...

Part #: 64683 1× White

Technic Pin Long ...

Part #: 65304 4× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 6536 10× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 65487 9× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 65489 5× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Axle 1.5 ...

Part #: 6553 3× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Pin 1/2 w...

Part #: 65826 1× Bright Green

Technic Pin with ...

Part #: 66906 3× Red

Technic Gear 20 T...

Part #: 69779 1× Dark Azure

Tyre 56 x 26 Tractor

Part #: 70695 4× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Beam 2 x ...

Part #: 71708 5× White

Technic Panel Cur...

Part #: 80267 1× White

Technic Panel Cur...

Part #: 80268 1× White

Technic Axle 4 wi...

Part #: 87083 6× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Pin 1/2 w...

Part #: 89678 14× Red

Technic Linear Ac...

Part #: 92693 1× Light Bluish Gray

Equipment Metal D...

Part #: 93106 1× Black

Tile Round 1 x 1 ...

Part #: 98138pr0197 1× Trans-Clear

Large Figure Weap...

Part #: 98585 6× White

This set provides a decent array of Technic pins and connectors in black, blue and light bluish gray, useful for expanding any builder's parts library for small-scale mechanisms and structural elements.