Mold
A mold is the pre-cut shape into which a given toy is manufactured. Ever since the very beginning of the Transformers brand, many pairs (or even groups) of toys have been created that are variations on a single mold. (Indeed, even many Diaclone and Microchange toys were available in multiple officially sanctioned color schemes.)
Redecos
Main article: Redeco
In most cases, a mold will be used as the basis for two or more individual toys distinguished mainly by their color schemes, and sometimes also a permanently attached accessory such as an emergency-vehicle light bar.
Retools
Main article: Retool
In the case of retools, the basic shape of the original mold is used, but with physical changes to certain parts. In extreme but rare cases, a mold will be retooled so thoroughly as to change the toy's transformation mechanics, as happened with Pipes and Dark Crumplezone.
See also
