How to Install the KOSMOS PGU NU GUNDAM LED Light Kit: Step-by-Step APP Setup + Fin Funnel Routing
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How to Install the PG Unicorn Clear Psycho Frame: Step-by-Step Guide + LED Pairing Tips
Installation Tutorial | 14 min read | April 2026
Installing a transparent Psycho Frame in your Bandai Perfect Grade Unicorn Gundam is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can do. The process requires patience and precision, but it's accessible to any builder with intermediate model experience. This guide walks you through every phase — from pre-installation prep to final verification.
Tools you'll need:
Phillips screwdriver (#0 and #1) | Hobby knife with #11 blade | Fine-tip tweezers | Masking tape (low-tack) | Thin CA glue | LED kit (sold separately) | Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) | Cotton swabs
Time required: 4–8 hours depending on LED kit complexity
Phase 1: Pre-Installation Preparation
Step 1.1 — Document Your Base Kit
Before removing anything, photograph your PG Unicorn from all angles. This documentation is essential for reinstallation steps and cable routing references.
Step 1.2 — Dry-Fit the Clear Frame
Do not glue anything yet. Place the PMMA Clear Psycho Frame components into your PG Unicorn without removing the original frame. This dry-fit phase:
- Confirms that all screw holes align
- Identifies any tight-fit areas that may need light sanding
- Lets you plan cable routing before committing to glue
Common dry-fit issue: Shoulder pylon tabs on some Da Ban kits may require light filing (2–3 strokes with 600-grit sandpaper). Bandai kits typically fit perfectly without modification.
Step 1.3 — Clean All Connection Surfaces
Use isopropyl alcohol on cotton swabs to clean all screw boss surfaces, inner armor attachment points, and joint pivot areas. This removes mold release agent and ensures a clean glue bond.
Phase 2: Frame Replacement
Step 2.1 — Disassemble in the Correct Order
Follow this order for safe disassembly:
- Remove head unit — two screws at neck, lift straight up
- Remove chest armor — front and rear panels, note hinge locations
- Remove shoulder armor — ball joint release, set aside with screws organized
- Remove arm units — elbow and wrist joints, set aside in labeled bags
- Remove waist and pelvis armor — abdominal joint release
- Remove leg units — knee joints first, then hip ball joints
- Remove back thruster unit — two rear screws, lift away from spine
- Expose original inner frame — all outer armor removed, original frame fully visible
⚠️ Label every bag with the part name and orientation (+ front/back marker). PG Unicorn has over 300 parts — organization is non-negotiable.
Step 2.2 — Remove the Original Frame
Use a hobby knife to gently release snap-fit tabs — insert blade at shallow angle, twist slightly to release. Do not force tabs — if resistance is high, check for hidden screws first. Keep the original frame intact if possible — it serves as a reference for positioning.
Step 2.3 — Install the Clear Psycho Frame
Starting from the spine/torso section:
- Align the torso frame onto the screw bosses — the Clear PMMA frame should sit flush
- Insert spinal structural pins first (these bear the most load)
- Attach torso to waist — verify full articulation range before gluing
- Test-fit arm attachments — shoulder ball joints should move freely
- Work down to legs — knee joints are the most critical; verify full range of motion
Step 2.4 — Glue Strategy
- Thin CA glue — for frame panel seams and structural joints
- Plastic cement — for non-load-bearing panel seams
- Do NOT glue — ball joints (they must remain separable)
Phase 3: LED Integration
Choose Your LED Kit
| LED Kit | Best Paired With | Why |
|---|---|---|
| KOSMOS RGB LED Kit for PG Unicorn | Clear (PMMA) Frame | RGB multicolor effects match dramatic look |
| Single-color blue LED kit | Light-Guide Frame | Even soft glow, no hot spots visible |
| KOSMOS RGB + Fin Funnel LEDs | Any frame | Maximum light output for large displays |
Step 3.2 — Plan Your Cable Routing
This is the most important step for achieving a clean result:
- All cables must run along the inner edge of frame panels — never across transparent areas
- Use the original model's cable channels as guides
- Secure cables with small pieces of masking tape at 5cm intervals
- Leave 3–4cm of slack at joint flex points to prevent cable strain
Step 3.3 — Install LED Modules
For the Clear (PMMA) frame: Place LEDs at least 2mm away from PMMA surface to prevent heat concentration. Position RGB LEDs to face inward (toward the center of the frame cavity) for best internal reflection.
For the Light-Guide frame: LEDs can be positioned closer to the frame surface (1–1.5mm) since the frosted material diffuses light naturally.
Step 3.4 — Test as You Go
After installing each LED module, connect power and verify: LED lights up correctly → no cable interference with moving parts → light distribution looks as expected → cable slack is adequate at joints. Do not proceed to the next module until the current one passes all checks.
Phase 4: Final Assembly and Verification
Full Articulation Check
☐ Full head rotation (360°)
☐ Shoulder raise and lower
☐ Elbow full bend to full extension
☐ Torso forward/backward lean
☐ Hip flexion and waist rotation
☐ Knee full bend and ankle articulation
If any joint is tight: Do not force it. Check for cable interference or frame misalignment at that joint.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| LED not lighting | Loose connector | Press JST connectors firmly until click |
| Hot spots on Clear frame | LED too close to PMMA | Add diffuser layer (tissue paper or white tape) |
| Cable shows through frame | Not routed to inner edge | Reroute cable along frame's inner profile |
| Joint stiff after install | Frame panel interfering | Light sanding (600-grit) on frame edge |
| LED flicker during posing | Cable stretched at joint | Add cable slack loop at that joint |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to remove the original Bandai frame completely?
Yes. The Clear Psycho Frame is a full replacement, not an overlay. The original frame must be removed entirely before installing the PMMA/PC frame.
Q: Can I install just the frame without LEDs?
Absolutely. The Clear Psycho Frame looks impressive even without LED lighting — the PMMA material itself has an elegant glass-like quality. LEDs enhance but don't define the upgrade.
Q: What's the most common beginner mistake?
Routing cables before testing LED modules. Always test each LED before routing its cable permanently. A cable routed behind the frame before testing can be very difficult to access later.
Q: Can the KOSMOS RGB LED kit be installed without modifying the Clear frame?
Yes. The KOSMOS kit is designed for non-destructive installation. All connectors and LED strips are sized to fit the original PG Unicorn layout without any trimming or permanent modification.
Q: How do I prevent the Clear frame from scratching?
PMMA is softer than polycarbonate and more prone to hairline scratches. Use only soft microfiber cloths for cleaning, never apply pressure with rough materials. Keep the protective film on until the final assembly step.
Ready to begin?
View the Full Product Listing →Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes. Always follow the installation manual provided with your specific kit. PGU Unicorn Gundam is a Bandai trademark. This is not an officially licensed installation guide.