Galloping Reindeer Update

I recently made some small updates to my galloping reindeer modification to set 40499 Santa’s Sleigh. If you are not familiar with this model, it creates a base for the set that makes the reindeer appear to gallop, and adds a slight rocking movement to the sleigh.

You can see a demonstration of the model in the video below, and continue reading for the updated building instructions, along with more details on the changes and why I made them.

A full build kit is also available from BuildaMOC if you would like to get all the parts needed to build it yourself.

Model Updates

The biggest change relates to the drive system. For this version, I included the option to power it manually, using a hand crank, or using a Circuit Cubes Geared Motor Cube. If you want to use a LEGO Powered Up or Power Functions motor, you can build the section supporting the sleigh using the previous version of the instructions.

I also addressed potential performance issues due to variations in part 2853 Technic Engine Crankshaft. There are two versions of this part, one of which has a slightly longer axle component. If you happened to use this version of the part, it introduced a lot of friction between the Technic bricks constraining them. This update still uses that part, but I changed the configuration of the galloping mechanism to eliminate the problem with the longer axle version.

Building Instructions

Inventory

The parts list assumes you already own set 40499, so it only includes the additional parts you will need to build the base.

The instructions and inventory are also for the 4 reindeer version. The design is modular, so it can be easily extended by building more of the reindeer base sections. The interface between sections has not been changed, so the single reindeer base (for Rudolph) from the previous version can still be used.

Build Notes

Since the reindeer and sleigh all move, the reins cannot be rigidly clipped to the reindeer like they are in the set, which requires the clips on the reindeer to be replaced. These changes are clearly noted in the instructions.

The reindeer are connected to each crank shaft with a single stud below their front hoof, and they can be a bit finicky to attach. I find it is easiest to brace the cone connected to the crank with a finger before attaching the reindeer.

Circuit Cubes Components

If you decide to power it using the Circuit Cubes, I’m using the following comonents.

1 x Geared Motor Cube
1 x Regular Battery Cube

You can purchase Circuit Cubes on their website, or one of their resellers, which you can find listed here: https://circuitcubes.com/pages/stores