Pathfinders Hydraulic Machines Product Information
Description:
The Pathfinders Hydraulic Machines 4-in-1 set (Editor’s Note: product links are affiliate links which add no cost to the consumer; please read here for more info) has parts and instructions for building 4 different models: mini scissor lift, mini cherry picker, mini platform lifter, and mini excavator.
Functionally, the machine models mimic their real-life counterparts. Rather than batteries, each kit uses water as its power source. Pathfinders’ goal is to inspire kids to craft their own designs while learning about levers and linkages.
Contents:
The Pathfinders Hydraulic Machines set includes the 4 kits, each bagged separately; as well as an instruction booklet to guide users through each kit.
What you can’t see easily in the pictures below is the inclusion of all necessary materials: wood, glue, sandpaper, syringes, and tubes. You just need to supply water!
Recommended Ages: 8 years or older
MSRP: $35.00
Pathfinders Hydraulic Machines Review:
Pros
- This well-rated wooden building set (check Amazon reviews) can even be enjoyed by children under the recommended age with adult supervision. Children 10 years or older will most likely be able to construct the set independently.
- Simplicity! Some may consider a simple modeling kit as a negative, but we find that the simplicity makes it easy for children to both build and learn.
- Unlike some building kits, this one is designed to be enjoyed even after construction. The machines are fully functional and your little builder(s) can enjoy testing hydraulics long after they have been built.
Cons
- The only negative we can offer is that the models work best when glued together. But, this mostly limits the construction-part of the building kit to single-use only (4 if you count each model separately).However, nothing stops your child (or you!) from enjoying the constructed machines.
Let us know in the comments your experience using this Pathfinders building kit!
Also, though not (from what we can tell) the Pathfinders Hydraulic Machines set, you can check out how the folks over at Instructables.com approached hydraulic machines.