Insights on building 10189 Taj Mahal

[earl9371]

So I'm still sick over missing the Taj Mahal late last year, and it looks like the only way I'll be able to afford one now it go to the used route. However, I understand the parts came packed in separate boxes, and I'm looking for some insight on the build. When these used sets lump all parts together it seems like this build could be an absolute nightmare as the nearly 6000 (gulp) individual pieces would be nearly impossible to handle without some extreme organization. When I built the Death Star there were four boxes, and parts came in order - throwing all of them in one pile would be nearly unworkable. Any info from anyone who has built 10189 would be greatly appreciated, as I very well could be overreacting to the situation. Thanks in advance for your insights!

[Luciant]

I am in the same boat as you with this set.

Here's my strategy:

#1) Scour craigslist and other resources to try to get one (as complete as possible) for around MSRP. I almost had one about 2 months ago, but the seller never replied back.

#2) Construct it via other sets/parts/PAB wall, etc and buy some instructions off Ebay. I don't think the set has any 'unique' pieces... it just has an insane number of them. I don't believe it has any stickers either...

[vynsane]

The instructions are on Brickset in PDF form, too, so there's no need to buy the instructions unless you want the paper version.

[ricefields]

I think the original poster was asking how to organize the thousands of pieces for building not where to get the pieces or instructions. I have the taj mahal but have not opened yet else I could help identify what's in the boxes, but I will let you know if/when I do open it. Maybe one can ask lego for a parts list by the box?Considering this was 2 months ago OP probably moved on. If not, good luck!

[Luciant]

Good catch. If all you're looking for is a parts list, I recommend http://www.peeron.com" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; .

I think the OP was asking if the Polybags are numbered since there are so many pieces cuz if they are not, it would be one pain in the ass of a build having to first separate thousands of pieces.

[Nepenthe7]

I haven't built this set, but I've bought used sets before and I think the best way to go about building is as follows:
1. Check the inventory (on peeron.com)
2. Arrange all of the parts on a big tray (I use a huge storage tub container lid). You can also use other small containers (like the glad containers lunch meat comes in) and place them on the tray.

[vynsane]

I think the original poster was asking how to organize the thousands of pieces for building not where to get the pieces or instructions.

True, though the instructions would have the listing of all pieces at the end, which would help in the organization/identification, which was what I was getting at... Obviously not clearly enough.

[Luciant]

Very true Vin. Gotta have some original instructions tho! =)

[condor]

I built it quite a few months ago, but if I remember correctly, there wasn't any real organization to the boxes. I remember having to open all of the bags to get to certain pieces. A few of the bags only had one type of piece in it though so it made it a little easier. I remember my wife and I spent an hour or so sorting parts out to make it a little easier.

It's an amazing build though and it took us about 16 hours to build. If you can still find one at a decent price, go for it.