Building a rig from parts

[JackC 0]

I'm thinking of putting together a rig from a combination of new and used parts. Is there anything I really need to look out for?

[wmw999 2,588]

Just that they fit you and each other. I'm assuming that by "assemble from parts" you mean parts like main, reserve, and container, and not lines, fabric, and thread .

Also, it's much easier to get good at packing if you're not trying to stuff an oversized canopy into a container... And your rigger will like you more if the same goes for the reserve.

Edit to add: this is a great way to get more familiar with your gear, and do make sure that you have someone very knowledgeable helping you to inspect it. Then while you have each part separate, take the time to look at it and understand it. The knowledge you'll gain will be invaluable.

Wendy W.

There is nothing more dangerous than breaking a basic safety rule and getting away with it. It removes fear of the consequences and builds false confidence. (tbrown)

[JackC 0]

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I'm assuming that by "assemble from parts" you mean parts like main, reserve, and container, and not lines, fabric, and thread

Yep, that's what I mean. I just wanted to make sure that there were no issues with buying for example, a main and a container and then finding out they won't fit together without modifications, or that a correctly sized main canopy X is known to malfunction in container Y. Basically that I don't need to be an expert rigger before I get the credit cards out.

[tdog 0]

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I'm assuming that by "assemble from parts" you mean parts like main, reserve, and container, and not lines, fabric, and thread

Yep, that's what I mean. I just wanted to make sure that there were no issues with buying for example, a main and a container and then finding out they won't fit together without modifications, or that a correctly sized main canopy X is known to malfunction in container Y. Basically that I don't need to be an expert rigger before I get the credit cards out.

Within reason - parachute systems are all plug and play - unlike computers or car engines. Any modern container will work with any modern main, reserve, AAD... For the most part, even risers from one brand will work with all others, although risers come with containers so normally this is not a concern.

Size of canopies = only thing you have to worry about, and if the harness fits your body.

When you buy:

Container = Container, Harness.... Deployment bag & Pilot chute for main and reserve and risers

Main = canopy and slinks

Reserve = canopy and slinks

AAD = full system of brain, cutter, control module


When you go dirt cheap, you get older equipment likely missing parts or needing repairs like new line sets.

Go middle of the road. Not brand new, but still new enough you don't have to immediately do all the repairs like new line sets, etc...

So I would make sure the container is a current production model, not a discontinued model - so it has all the newest safety features.

[Malta_Dog 0]

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...For the most part, even risers from one brand will work with all others, although risers come with containers so normally this is not a concern...

The bold characters are important because I remember a fatality (in Australia if I'm correct) where one of the causes was the installation of normal risers on a PdF container (made for reversed risers).

I'd ask a rigger anyway before using that credit card

Edit: found the incident thread here

All your dropzone are belong to us!!!!111!

[JackC 0]

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...For the most part, even risers from one brand will work with all others, although risers come with containers so normally this is not a concern...

The bold characters are important because I remember a fatality (in Australia if I'm correct) where one of the causes was the installation of normal risers on a PdF container (made for reversed risers).

I'd ask a rigger anyway before using that credit card

Edit: found the incident thread here

Actually, that incident was one of the things that made me ask. I wanted to know just how compatible modern stuff is.

Thanks guys.

[Remster 30]

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...For the most part, even risers from one brand will work with all others, although risers come with containers so normally this is not a concern...

The bold characters are important because I remember a fatality (in Australia if I'm correct) where one of the causes was the installation of normal risers on a PdF container (made for reversed risers).

I'd ask a rigger anyway before using that credit card

Edit: found the incident thread here

If you are not VERY familliar with gear, I wouldnt mix and match components withing a piece of gear: Use risers from the rig manufacturer, same with the deployment bag, and even Pilot Chute (and of course all the reserve related stuff like freebag, etc... but that goes without saying). Some mixing may work, but you should know what you are doing when doing so.

To sum up: yes, you can buy the rig, canopies, and AAD seperatly, but make sure each is complete.

Remster

[riggerrob 643]

Just be careful about mixing and matching components within the reserve container. For example, while you may be able to install a Javelin pilot chute in a Dolphin (hint: they were designed by the same guy), installing a Javelin pilot chute in a Talon might prove disastrous.

Mixing and matching TSOed (i.e. reserve) components is best left to Master Riggers.

[councilman24 37]

Do talk to a rigger or two or other very experienced person who isn't selling you something. They may say "Sure it'll fit!" but your rigger may disagree. Or be so mad at you he tells you not to come back.

A rig should come with main PC, bag, risers, toggles and reserve PC, bag and toggles. That's what come's with it originally. The one thing that is often after market is the PC. And if it's a Javelin and has the ring and velcro for a RSL the lanyard should be included or signed off by a Master Rigger as removed.

A canopy should come on links or slinks, main or reserve.

Be aware of the costs of any missing components. It could add up to several hundred dollars. Main risers may have went with a canopy somewhere and are wear components to some extent. But also are $100 up to replace.

I'm old for my age.
Terry Urban
D-8631
FAA DPRE

[parachutist 2]

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Mixing and matching TSOed (i.e. reserve) components is best left to Master Riggers.

Even if a master rigger packs it and seals it this time... what happens when you have a reserve deployment out of state (on vacation) and the local senior rigger says "No, I can't pack that Mirage reserve pilot chute into your Sunpath container. You're screwed... go home and order the right gear."

[seal_S49 0]

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Mixing and matching TSOed (i.e. reserve) components is best left to Master Riggers.

This would be a good time to point out that a master rigger, senior rigger, or the owner will all get the same answer when contacting the H/C mfr. In the USA, FAA gives the H/C mfr. the final word on what components can be used used with their approved system. Even a master rigger can't authorize a combination disapproved by the mfr., and even a senior rigger can assemble and pack non-original components if they are approved by the mfr.

Having said that, it is certainly prudent for an owner to consult a rigger before making a purchase of any non-original replacement components for either the reserve or main system. Of course an owner can also contact the mfr.