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
⚠️ 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:
- Head Unit — Eye modification and LED placement
- Left Wing — Panel replacement and LED routing
- Right Wing — Panel replacement and LED routing
- 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:
- Locate the eye piece on the MGEX head unit
- Following the manual's marked guidelines, carefully remove a small section
- Work slowly — remove less material than you think you need
- 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
- Route the head LED module through the neck joint
- Position the LED element behind the modified eye piece
- Secure with included clips or adhesive
- Test the LED before closing the head assembly
Step 3: Head Assembly
- Reassemble the head unit around the installed LED
- Ensure no wires are pinched at closure points
- Leave slack in the wire for neck articulation
- Connect the head LED cable to the controller unit
Phase 2: Left Wing Installation
Step 4: Wing Disassembly
- Remove the left wing from the main body
- Carefully disassemble the wing into component sections
- 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
- Route the left wing LED module through the wing structure
- Position LED elements at the DRAGOON pod locations
- Secure wiring with included clips
Step 7: Wing Reassembly
- Reassemble the left wing around the installed LED system
- Verify all panels seat correctly
- Test articulation — wings should still fold and extend
- 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
- Download the KOSMOS control App from your device's app store
- Enable Bluetooth on your smartphone
- 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.