How to Install the KOSMOS LED Kit in Your MGEX Strike Freedom - Takara Model Studio

How to Install the KOSMOS LED Kit in Your MGEX Strike Freedom

How to Install the KOSMOS LED Kit in Your MGEX Strike Freedom

Step-by-step guide for three-zone RGB installation

KOSMOS MGEX Strike Freedom LED Kit installation

⚠️ Before You Begin

Prerequisites

  • Completed MGEX Strike Freedom Gundam build (or at least head and wing units)
  • KOSMOS LED Kit (all components present)
  • Tools: Sharp hobby knife, tweezers, small Phillips screwdriver
  • Power source: USB-C cable OR 3×AAA batteries
  • Smartphone: iOS or Android for App control setup

Important Timing

Install the LED kit DURING your MGEX build, not after. The KOSMOS system integrates into the head and wing units. Attempting installation on a fully assembled model will be significantly more difficult.

What's in the Box

Verify you have all components before starting:

Component Quantity Purpose
Head LED module 1 Eye and sensor illumination
Left wing LED module 1 Left DRAGOON pod lighting
Right wing LED module 1 Right DRAGOON pod lighting
Wing panel sets 8 sets Replacement transparent pieces
Controller unit 1 Central control hub
USB-C cable / Battery compartment 1 each Power options

Installation Overview

The installation process follows four main phases:

  1. Head Unit — Eye modification and LED placement
  2. Left Wing — Panel replacement and LED routing
  3. Right Wing — Panel replacement and LED routing
  4. Controller Setup — Wiring, power, and App pairing

Estimated time: 2-3 hours for experienced builders.

Phase 1: Head Unit Installation

Step 1: Eye Position Modification

The only cutting required is at the eye position:

  1. Locate the eye piece on the MGEX head unit
  2. Following the manual's marked guidelines, carefully remove a small section
  3. Work slowly — remove less material than you think you need
  4. Clean edges with a fine file or sandpaper

Tip: Place a bright light behind the head to verify light path before final assembly.

Step 2: LED Module Placement

  1. Route the head LED module through the neck joint
  2. Position the LED element behind the modified eye piece
  3. Secure with included clips or adhesive
  4. Test the LED before closing the head assembly

Step 3: Head Assembly

  1. Reassemble the head unit around the installed LED
  2. Ensure no wires are pinched at closure points
  3. Leave slack in the wire for neck articulation
  4. Connect the head LED cable to the controller unit

Phase 2: Left Wing Installation

Step 4: Wing Disassembly

  1. Remove the left wing from the main body
  2. Carefully disassemble the wing into component sections
  3. Keep track of small parts — organize them in sequence

Step 5: Panel Replacement

Replace each stock transparent panel with the corresponding KOSMOS-designed panel:

  • You will use 4 sets of panels for the left wing
  • Handle new panels by edges only
  • Follow the manual's panel numbering

Step 6: LED Module Integration

  1. Route the left wing LED module through the wing structure
  2. Position LED elements at the DRAGOON pod locations
  3. Secure wiring with included clips

Step 7: Wing Reassembly

  1. Reassemble the left wing around the installed LED system
  2. Verify all panels seat correctly
  3. Test articulation — wings should still fold and extend
  4. Connect the left wing LED cable to the controller

Phase 3 & 4: Right Wing & Controller Setup

Step 8: Right Wing (Repeat Phase 2)

Follow the same procedure for the right wing using the remaining 4 panel sets.

Step 9: Controller Connections

Verify all three LED cables are connected:

  • Head LED (Zone 1)
  • Left Wing LED (Zone 2)
  • Right Wing LED (Zone 3)

Step 10: Power Setup

USB-C (Recommended): Connect to controller and route cable discreetly.

Battery: Install 3×AAA batteries and tuck pack behind the model.

Phase 5: App Setup and Configuration

Step 12: App Installation

  1. Download the KOSMOS control App from your device's app store
  2. Enable Bluetooth on your smartphone
  3. Open the App and follow pairing instructions

Step 13: Zone Configuration

Zone Recommended Settings
Zone 1 (Head) Green or yellow for eyes, 80-100% brightness, static mode
Zone 2 (Left Wing) Blue (classic Strike Freedom), breathing or static
Zone 3 (Right Wing) Gold for dual-color effect, or match left wing

Dual-Color Wing Effect

To achieve the dual-color wing effect: Set Zone 2 (left wing) and Zone 3 (right wing) to different colors in the App. Try blue + gold for the classic Strike Freedom look.

Troubleshooting

Problem Solution
Zone not lighting Check cable seating at controller and LED module
Flickering Use fresh batteries or USB-C power
Uneven lighting Verify KOSMOS panels are correctly seated
App won't pair Restart App, ensure controller is powered
Wing won't articulate Check for pinched wires at joints

FAQ

Do I need to solder anything?

No. The KOSMOS kit uses plug-and-play connections throughout.

What if I make a mistake during the eye cutting?

Work slowly and remove minimal material. Plastic cement and careful sanding can repair minor errors.

Can I still pose the wings after installation?

Yes. Proper wire routing should preserve full articulation.

How do I achieve the dual-color wing effect?

Set Zone 2 (left wing) and Zone 3 (right wing) to different colors in the App.

What colors work best?

Blue and gold are classic Strike Freedom colors. Experiment to find your preference.

How long does installation take?

Plan for 2-3 hours if you're experienced, longer if this is your first LED installation.

Final Checklist

Before considering the installation complete:

  • [ ] All three zones light up correctly
  • [ ] App pairs and controls all zones
  • [ ] Wings articulate without wire strain
  • [ ] No visible wires in display pose
  • [ ] Presets saved in App
  • [ ] Power source reliable (USB-C recommended)

Disclaimer: Installation guide based on KOSMOS product documentation and verified builder experiences. Always refer to the included manual for specific instructions.

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