CONVOY (TF-01)

Takara released Transformers Convoy (TF-01) as scheduled on 29 June, 2000.  This re-issue is based on the Transformers Optimus Prime originally released in 1984.  The original mold is from the Takara's Diaclone 80's line of toys before Hasbro brought them to the US under Transformers.

The packaging is similar to the original Optimus Prime with some modifications such as the OP drawing on the front, addition of the 15th Anniversary gold sticker, changes with the graphics on the instruction sheet, no styrofoam container, and some others (someone has pointed out the differences on ATT if you're interested).

The following items are found in the box: "Roller" scout car with 6 wheels, Laser Blaster, 2 fists, 6 missiles, tech spec card, sticker sheet, instruction sheet, gas pump, nozzle, and hose.

VEHICLE MODE:  Convoy is a 10-wheeled semi and is packaged in this mode.  This is truly an awesome vehicle with its Red cab & Gray trailer.  There are chrome painted parts such as the rims, grille, headlights, exhaust pipes, gas tanks, and bumpers.  Autobot stickers were applied to both sides of the cab and an Autobot rub sign is clearly visible on the roof.  The container already had the Blue & White with Red Autobot stickers applied to the both sides.  There silver sticker strips were also applied all around the cab.   The rubber tires of any vehicle is what gets my attention ... there's something about rubber tires vice hard plastic.  If you look close enough at the tires you can see the following words imprinted on them; "FORMULA DESERT DOG".   The details are very nice and I can't say enough about this toy!

There are 4 different "Formations" as indicated on the packaging.  The different formations are identified on the right with their corresponding photos.

ROBOT MODE:  To transform Convoy into robot mode you have flip the rear section of the cab that houses the rear wheels.  The legs have locking joints and are angled enough to separate the legs.   Next fold down the rear bumpers to create Convoy's feet.  Separate the back of the cab rotating the flaps out and forward creating his shoulders & arms.  The front wheel fenders extend down to create Convoy's forearms.  Now insert the fists into the headlight sockets and rotate the roof downward (Autobot rub sign) revealing Convoy's head.  That's it!  You can now insert Convoy's laser blaster into either fist.

Here's a closer look at Convoy from the front.  From here you can see parts of the two seats through the windshield.  There isn't much articulation compare to today's toys but what can you expect from a toy whose original mold was cast in the 80's.

Here's an even closer look at Convoy's head.   His helmet is obviously Blue with silver painted mouth guard and forehead piece.   His eyes are also painted in yellow.  By the way, there's no articulation in the head.

Overall I'm really satisfied with this release due to it's history, overall appearance, and different formations.  A definite "want" for any collector!

Formation #1 -
Cybertron Mobile Base

The first formation is the moving base which has the retractable arm with two missile launchers, a radar attachment, and mechanical arm.   At the top of this arm is a cockpit with a canopy that can rotate 360 degrees.   You'll find many little compartments around this container since it's a Diaclone mold and the original Battle Convoy included small action-figures.  Even the cab opens up at the front to reveal two seats.  Some additional seats are in the canopy on the extended arm, both flaps of the trailer, as well as the scout vehicle. 

Formation #2 -
Movement Attack System

The second formation is an attack system.  This is a capsule the extends through a hole at the top of the container.  This photo shows the two missile launchers, mechanical arm, and radar extended.

Formation #3 -
(SuperDasher?) Combat Container

The third formation is like a garage.  There is a spring loaded launcher to send the scout down the ramp.  The lever can be found in the front on the container.  There are two support beams that rotate out to provide extra support to both container flaps.  This photo shows Convoy's laser blaster connected on top of the scout which is painted silver.  There are a couple of peg holes for weapon storage or connecting the nozzle/gas pump.

Formation #4 -
Cybertron Preparation Deck

The last formation is the preparation deck or repair bay.  Convoy is being worked on and the mechanical arm is adding some fuel :)