Attaching new main canopy

[Mudge 0]

I have always used an experienced rigger to attach new mains to my rig but I feel like this is something I should know more about. I understand the different sets of lines and how the canopy physically attaches. How can I be sure that the lines are in the right order and are not twisted? What method to you use? Thanks for the help.

[mktoson 0]

Do a continuity check to ensure that all the lines are in the correct order/place.

So far, this is the oldest I've ever been.

[sdctlc 0]

It is great to know your gear better. the easiest way to get a handle on the correct configuration on lines is to hang the canopy up (nose to the ground) and you will see the attachment position on all the lines. Just like on a continutity check, the outermost lines are outermost on the link and eoch on inboard will also be next. This allows to check that the lines are not twisted as well. Hanging up a canopy is a great way to look at constructiona nd to inspect for any damage. It can be done on the ground but having The experience and knowledge of doing all of this previously with the canopy hanging does make it easier to know what your looking for and how to do it.

Like anything it take time and an effort to learn about it.

Hooking up the links, soft or hard is not overly difficult but I would ask your local rigger to walk through it. With hard links it is not hard to over tighten it. Rule of thumb is finger tight plus 1/4 turn. With soft it can be tricky (mind you not hard) if you have not done it previously. Search on dz.com and you will find pics of misrouted soft links and open hard links that if not dealt with could have been very bad. The more you know bout the gear you jump the safer you will be..

Good luck,
Scott C.

"He who Hesitates Shall Inherit the Earth!"

[councilman24 37]

There are several methods that are best taught in person. I can do a full continuity check on the ground with out moving in about 1 minute after the canopy is laid out on it's side.

You can lay it on it's nose and check the tail, flip it over and check the nose. Don't forget the brakes through the slider and the keeper ring on the riser.

Or you can hook it up and inflate it on the ground. Usually for those not sure what they're doing.

No magic but hard links can damage risers during installation, can be to loose or tightened too much. Soft links can be installed wrong. And the combination of links, bumpers or not, riser type, toggles, and toggle protection may allow a slider to knock a toggle out on opening.

It's not hard to hook up mains but it takes some thought.

Also, arguably with the current FAR language but less debatable with the old language and the fix that the FAA is working on ALL of the rules that apply to reserves apply to mains. Except that the next jumper can pack it and there is no documentation required. So, in theory only a rigger can hook up your main, at least to the risers. The 3 rings are designed for user maintaintance so I wouldn't include hooking up main risers to the rig.

Now, most jumpers (yes I believe most zigzag) hook up their own mains eventually.

But....

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

[Mudge 0]

right on, thanks for the help. Seems like the best way of doing things is to watch someone who is experienced and ask questions. These help, thanks again.