line trim and maintenance

[MrHixxx 0]

I have a Cobalt 120 with Spectra lines and soft links loaded at 1.8. Being my first high performance canopy and considering how radically different I fly it from my Triathlon with much more force exerted on the canopy from front riser input and swooping landings, I would like opinions on how differently this will wear the equipment if at all. How can I objectively check my gear to make sure it is staying in spec for full performance and safety?
Can line groups be compared (all the As, all the Bs etc.) for length to check for shrinkage on the outside lines?
Has anyone experienced a wear limit for soft links or suggested jump number where they should be replaced? How about mini risers?
Experienced opinions appreciated...
thanks and blue skies, Jon

[weid14 0]

I know some folks replace risers when the line sets are replaces as a rule -- depends on which flavor you are jumping, too (mini or not). for line sets -- check with the manufacturer.

[Geoff 0]

Comparing lines in groups only works if the lines were intended to be the same length originally. This is not the case for many modern canopies. Dunno about the Cobalt.
Some manufacturers (certainly Mirage) recommend changing mini risers every 200 jumps. Most jumpers make them last longer, but be VERY careful if you have an RSL. With no RSL, a broken riser will probably result in a reserve ride. With an RSL, you may have a nasty 2-canopy entanglement.
Geoff

[cobaltdan 0]

drop me an call or email with your address and i will send you a line trim chart for your canopy.
you can measure your lines quite easily:
nail the beginning of a tape measure to your floor. slip over the nail your link connectors. pull taught one set of lines at a time (one left and the same line right). use equal tension every time you measure. match up lines to tape measure and record the dimension. work through every line. then subtract the offset created by the link and compare with the manufacturers supplied chart.
sincerely,
dan
atair

[freeflir29 0]

"manufacturers supplied chart"
Do the trim charts give a tolerance range or an exact measurement?
"The sky resembles a back lit canopy...with holes punched through it"- Incubus
Clay