How to Assemble SMP Gao Knight Reissue Model Kit

Quick Answer

Assemble the six Power Animals individually, then combine them into Gao Knight following the order that ensures stable joints and proper alignment.

Assembly Steps for SMP Gao Knight Reissue

1. 1. Organize the runners: Lay out all runners by color and part number. The instruction sheet is fold-out; keep it flat to avoid misreading steps. Separate the polycaps (usually on a clear runner) and store them in a small cup so they don't roll away. Missing a polycap early can force disassembly later; count them against the parts list before starting.
2. 2. Build the torso (Gao Kong): Snap together Gao Kong's chest, back, and head sections. Press polycaps firmly into their recesses—if they sit crooked, the arms won't attach evenly. The chest piece has a tab that locks the combined form; test-fit it before final assembly. Check that the chest tab clicks fully; a partial lock makes Gao Knight's torso unstable.
3. 3. Assemble the limbs (Gao Eagle, Gao Shark, Gao Bison, Gao Tiger): Each limb animal has a transformation joint that flips between animal and limb mode. For Gao Eagle (right arm), ensure the wing hinge rotates 180 degrees without forcing. Gao Shark (left arm) has a jaw that must open fully to clear the shoulder peg. Gao Bison (right leg) and Gao Tiger (left leg) share similar hip connectors—sand them lightly if they feel too tight. If a joint feels too tight, use a hobby file or sandpaper; never force it or the plastic may crack.
4. 4. Build the black Gao Elephant (backpack): The black Gao Elephant forms the back of Gao Knight. Its tail piece doubles as a weapon holder. Attach the four small legs first, then the trunk piece that connects to Gao Kong's back. The fit is snug—push evenly on both sides. Align the trunk connector straight; an angled push can snap the small peg.
5. 5. Combine into Gao Knight: Attach the limbs in this order: legs first (Gao Bison and Gao Tiger clip onto the hip pegs), then arms (Gao Eagle and Gao Shark slide onto the shoulder joints). Finally, mount the black Gao Elephant on the back. The combined form should stand without support if all joints are seated properly. If Gao Knight leans forward, the Gao Elephant backpack may not be fully clicked in; remove and reattach it.
6. 6. Add weapons and pose: The kit includes a sword and a shield. The sword fits in the right hand (Gao Eagle's beak can grip it). The shield clips onto the left forearm. Pose the arms at the shoulder and elbow—polycaps allow moderate articulation. Avoid extreme angles that stress the transformation joints. For long-term display, use a simple standing pose to prevent joint fatigue.

Product Facts

• [PREORDER] SMP Gao Knight (reissue): Set includes parts to build Gao Kong, Gao Eagle, Gao Shark, Gao Bison, Gao Tiger and (black) Gao Elephant as well as weapons. You get six individual Power Animals plus the combined Gao Knight mode, giving you multiple display options from one kit.