Chronos Reactor

The Chronos Reactor is a mandatory ship part in Pikmin. It uses new technology to warp the space-time continuum and turn it into energy. Olimar is amazed by this part and wonders what secrets could be contained within. The part's location is the same location as that of the Submerged Castle in Pikmin 2. Once recovered, this ship part is installed on the S.S. Dolphin's bottom, and wraps around the Main Engine. A Chronos Reactor can be seen on the Hocotate ship, and in, it appears as part a collectible in Side Stories. In Olimar's Shipwreck Tale of Pikmin 4, the Dolphin's Chronos Reactor appears in Hero's Hideaway, being held by an active Man-at-Legs, which will always be fought as the last boss of the mode.

In Pikmin
Defeating all of the Bulbears, Blowhogs, and Water Dumples that may be in the way back to the Dolphin is advisable. Yellow Pikmin are needed to get the part off its high perch, however, water surrounds it, so a nearby Golden Candypop Bud on another perch with a geyser must be used. At least 20 Blue Pikmin must be thrown into the Candypop Bud. The Yellow Pikmin must then be plucked and thrown onto the sandy island. If they drown, they can be saved by whistling or surrounding them with Blue Pikmin. After being retrieved from the ledge, Blue Pikmin must carry it back to the ship; the Lapis Lazuli Candypop Bud can be used to convert the Yellow Pikmin back into Blue Pikmin.

However, with the use of a glitch, one can collect the part without using the Candypop Buds. To do this, throw 20 Blue Pikmin on the ledge by the Spotty Bulbear. Then awaken the Bulbear from its slumber, and go up the ramp to the UV Lamp. Run along the wall at a slight angle upwards. The Bulbear, who is trying to bite you, can push you out of bounds if done correctly. Then whistle the Pikmin on the ledge, and go the high ledge where the part rests. There are a few invisible walls along the way, but should not be a problem to get past. This strategy is often used in speedruns.

In Pikmin 3 Deluxe
See Another Part Found for information on how to acquire this part and clear the day.

In Pikmin 4
Dig a tunnel to the kitchen countertop in the western part of the area. From there, go left where you will need to build a clay mound. Scale the mound and proceed to a moving platform, which leads you down to some hydro jelly and an orange button which, when pressed, activates a fan of the same color. Return to the floor and take the orange fan up to the kitchen table. Defeat the Man-at-Legs on the table to claim the Chronos Reactor.

Trivia

 * This ship part's name may be referencing the Greek god Chronos, which was the personification of time, something this part can apparently transform into energy.