Look at The Packing Data Cards

[deadwood 0]

So I was starting to repack a reserve today and for some reason I got curious.

Its a 1993 PD and as you all know it is required to go back to PD for a check out after 25 jumps or 40 repacks.

The data plate showed 5 boxes left to be checked, meaning he had 5 more repacks before it had to go back.

I then counted the number of repacks on the packing data cards. Counted 3 times. Its been repacked 43 times.

I'm sending it back as I believe the packing data card is the official document I should go by.

Lessons Learned:

Always mark the dataplate when you repack a reserve.
Never believe the dataplate when you repack a reserve.

He who hesitates shall inherit the earth.

Deadwood
Skydive New Mexico Motorcycle Club, Touring Division

[wolfriverjoe 1,523]

How many of those 43 that were listed on the card involved actually opening the reserve container???

"There are NO situations which do not call for a French Maid outfit." Lucky McSwervy

"~ya don't GET old by being weak & stupid!" - Airtwardo

[Halfpastniner 0]

Quote

How many of those 43 that were listed on the card involved actually opening the reserve container???

Think that was his point.

BASE 1384

[PhreeZone 20]

Yeah, i had one the other day that was about 47 repacks logged on the 3 data cards that were included with the rig but the canopy was only marked 32 times. Lucky the customer did not ask me to repack the rig but in this case I fully suspect that at least a few of the 47 logged were pencil packs but I also think some were packed just not marked on the canopy.

Its an interesting question since if the pack job was a pencil pack it might have been valid to pass the FAA but since no was was done on the canopy does it count against the life of the canopy?

Yesterday is history
And tomorrow is a mystery

Parachutemanuals.com

[SStewart 13]

I had one two weeks ago that had no boxes checked.
The card said it had been packed 6 times. According to the instructions I had to check off all six plus one to be in compliance.

To be fair though PD and Cimsa are the only ones that have the check boxes, everyone else lets the rigger decide if it needs permeability testing or not.

I believe some people are reluctant to check the boxes because they feel it may lower the value of the canopy.

I am just sayin....

Onward and Upward!

[captain1976 0]

Quote

So I was starting to repack a reserve today and for some reason I got curious.

Its a 1993 PD and as you all know it is required to go back to PD for a check out after 25 jumps or 40 repacks.

The data plate showed 5 boxes left to be checked, meaning he had 5 more repacks before it had to go back.

I then counted the number of repacks on the packing data cards. Counted 3 times. Its been repacked 43 times.

I'm sending it back as I believe the packing data card is the official document I should go by.

Lessons Learned:

Always mark the dataplate when you repack a reserve.
Never believe the dataplate when you repack a reserve.

I would like to know what the FAA says about PD's 25/40. I do know that Manufacturers Service Bulletins associated with Aircraft are simply recommendations. Though sometimes a good idea to perform, are not mandatory unless used commercially like a Part 135 aircraft charter operation.

Anyone?

You live more in the few minutes of skydiving than many people live in their lifetime

[SStewart 13]

The FAA says you must follow the manufactures guidelines to be in compliance.

Does that mean if you don't check the box the FAA will be at your door and pull your ticket?

Probably not.

They would only get in your face if there is an incident. Like packing an expired cypres and someone goes in.

---on a side not I wonder how many "saves" there have been on expired units?"

IMNSHO the check box tail tag is just another way for the makers to transfer liability to the do-ers.

Onward and Upward!