Switch "first object" in editor?

[xytor]

The concept of a "first object" is kind of annoying to deal with.

I have a rover carrier with a few rovers on rockets. I want to check the center of mass/thrust to make sure they will fly straight when separated. Each rover has a Stayputnik on it that will allow it to be controlled independently.

I can make it a subassembly but for some reason I can't use a subassembly to start with, nor can I switch the first object to something else, even if something else is capable.

Is there anything I can do?

[UbioZur]

There was a mod available to change the root part, but it has not been updated for .23 and .23.5 (not sure if it works).

I think the best way to do what you need to do is to create a dummy root part (like a very small and light probe) and create your sub assembly under or over it. that way you can check the CoM (it will be a bit false due to the dummy root).

[Taki117]

Generally speaking you can start with a structural part and then attach your sub-assembly from there. It shouldn't mess up the CoM too much (Especially if you use the Cubic Octagonal Strut)

- - - Updated - - -

There was a mod available to change the root part, but it has not been updated for .23 and .23.5 (not sure if it works).

I think the best way to do what you need to do is to create a dummy root part (like a very small and light probe) and create your sub assembly under or over it. that way you can check the CoM (it will be a bit false due to the dummy root).

It still works near as I can tell.

[Yasmy]

Stuff a <- root b -> stuff c -> not-root d -> stuff e

To make d the new root (if it can be a root part):

Take it apart into a, b, c, d and e.

Delete part d.

Delete part b.

This forces you to choose a new root part. Choose a new part d.

Put it all back together.

[HeadHunter67]

There was a mod available to change the root part, but it has not been updated for .23 and .23.5 (not sure if it works).

SelectRoot continues to work just fine in 23.5, at least as well as it ever has. I still use it.