Transformation cog (biology)

The name or term "Cog" refers to more than one character or idea. For a list of other meanings, see Cog (disambiguation).

Hut hut hike!

A transformation cog, also referred to as a transforming cog or transition cog, is a component important to a Transformer's transformation.

It is somewhat unclear, but the cogs are not necessarily a vital component for every Transformer in every continuity.

Fiction

Generation 1 cartoon

Metroplex's cog was damaged in 2005 during the Decepticon siege of Autobot City, which explains why he did not transform to robot mode during the battle. Perceptor built a replacement cog and entrusted its delivery from Cybertron to Autobot City on Earth to Blurr and Wheelie. This proves you can be brilliant but still stupid. Five Faces of Darkness, Part 1

After numerous setbacks, the cog was delivered just in time. As the city was under siege once again, Pipes quickly installed it, allowing Metroplex to fight off Trypticon. Five Faces of Darkness, Part 5

The cog also makes a nice substitute for a football. Apparently, it can also change its shape to look like flat, toothed wheel every time a lazy animator wishes it.

Unicron required Trypticon's cog as part of his scheme to use Cybertron as his new body. Ghost in the Machine

Swindle stole Metroplex's cog, causing the Autobots to retaliate by stealing Trypticon's. Both factions hit upon the idea of using the captured cogs on their respective city warriors, an idea that was only partially successful. The Ultimate Weapon

Dawn of Future's Past

Nitrostreak suffers from a broken transformation cog. Dawn of Future's Past

IDW Comics continuity

Tracks couldn't transform due to a damaged transition cog. Spotlight: Jazz