Transformers questions by newbies, and not-so-newbies

[Megatran]

It should also have a set of numbers to the left of the copyright stamping running vertically, ie B1209.

Incredible! Indeed the code is B1209. I'll take it to mean a '09 reissue.

All I need now is for you to give me the winning numbers for this week's Tatts.

[Destructicon]

Hello guys I have just purchased a Takara re issue of the Constructicons that form to make Devastator. I would like to know if anyone can fill me in on remaining re issues that are similar. I am aware of Predaking which I have my eye on and I have seen some knock offs of Menasor, Defensor and Superion which were neither Takara or Hasbro as claimed on youtube. Any information would be appreciated.

[Paulbot]

Takara also rereleased Bruticus/Combaticons as a set in their Encore line. (no16) It comes as a box set like the Constructicons. Piranacon/Seacons were also released as a set by Hasbro a few years ago and can be found somewhat cheaply online.

The others you mention (Menasor, Defensor, Superion) haven't been sold since the early 90s, but there are lots of knock off versions of them about.

[GoktimusPrime]

The early 90s reissues were all packaged in 1990-91 style gold packaging too.
Some examples:
http://i.ebayimg.com/t/TRANSFORMERS-CLASSIC-PROTECTOBOT-AUTOBOT-FIRST-AID-1990-/15/!BWOpY8gCGk~$(KGrHgoH-C4EjlLl0-E2BKWgHvI(tQ~~_35.JPG
http://www.tf-toy.com/images//tf/7/!BUBNY0!BGk~$(KGrHgoH-EUEjlLlu)UgBKLZSko)e!~~_1.JPG
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Transformers...-/261347774265

The only official reissues of Wheeljack, Grimlock, Sludge and Snarl were also released in the same style packaging.
http://tfsource.com/blog/wp-content/...2/xclass13.jpg

So if you ever seen any supposed reissues of these toys in original G1 style packaging, then they're fakes. Also be aware that Sunstreaker, Mirage, Slag and Swoop have NEVER ever been reissued by either Hasbro or Takara(TOMY).

Check out this link for comprehensive lists of all G1 Transformers that have been legitimately reissued, and what the reissuing style is. There are NO legit G1 reissues that come in packaging that is a complete reproduction of their original G1 box or card. This site is also useful on spotting fakes, and there's also this section of this board that has discussion threads covering identifying fakes.

[Sinnertwin]

Be sure to check out highendtfs Chinese Reissue ID Guide for G1 figures that were released between 1989 & 1995.

http://highendtfs.com/?q=node/15

Background info: In 1989, Hasbro began releasing Transformers in China, but rather than starting with the current line of Pretenders and Miromasters, they reissued toys from 1984, 1985, and 1986 instead. For some reason, these Transformers were packaged in almost identical packaging to that of the original US releases (though, a couple came in Canadian, European, or Dutch packaging).*

[GoktimusPrime]

^Ah yes, true that.

[DELTAprime]

Be sure to check out highendtfs Chinese Reissue ID Guide for G1 figures that were released between 1989 & 1995.

http://highendtfs.com/?q=node/15

Didn't realise the Chinese reissues included Masters, I thought they only did season 1-3 character. Would these reissues be a cheaper way to get Powermasters?

[heroic_decepticon]

Didn't realise the Chinese reissues included Masters, I thought they only did season 1-3 character. Would these reissues be a cheaper way to get Powermasters?

once they are out of box, they would be almost if not impossible to distinguish between a USA issue and a Chinese issue

[Ae-Evolution]

I kind of pushed my Mp Smokescreens head a bit too far an it pass over the nubs on the bonnet and won't go back through, I'm afraid to apply too much force or I'll snap something. Is there any "special" way I could fold his head down again>?

Edit: Ahhh, never mind, just a midnight freak out. A rubber mallet and an allen key with some heavy padding put it back in place. Head plate doesn't seem to lock though which is a shame.

[Megatran]

^ I was gonna suggest you take a look at his transformation cog. But yes, the old rubber mallet trick works wonders.