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9
9.5 LINE MAINTENANCE
Several groups of suspension lines and one brake line are attached to each riser.
The groups are called A, B, C and brake lines. The stabilizer lines are connected along
with the B-lines. Superaramid lines are known to be sensitive to the influence of the
elements. They must be carefully inspected periodically. In his/her own interest, the pilot
must observe the following points to ensure maximum performance and safety from the
glider.
• Avoid sharp bending and squeezing of lines.
• Take care that people do not step on the lines.
• Do not pull or jerk the lines if they are caught on rocks or vegetation.
• Avoid getting the lines wet. If they do get wet, dry them as soon as possible at room
temperature and never store them wet. Never fly with wet lines as their tensile strength
will be temporarily reduced.
IT IS
STRICTLY RECOMMENDED
TO CHANGE THE BOTTOM LINES ON EVERY
PARAGLIDER ONCE A YEAR OR EVERY 100 HOURS, WHICH EVER COMES FIRST.
THE REST OF THE LINES MUST BE CHECKED YEARLY AND REPLACED IF
NECESSARY.
NEVER REPLACE THE LINES WITH DIFFERENT DIAMETER OR TYPE OF LINES AS
ALL GLIDERS WERE LOAD TESTED FOR SAFETY IN THEIR ORIGINAL
CONFIGURATION. CHANGING LINE DIAMETER/STRENGTHS CAN HAVE FATAL
CONSEQUENCES.
Every six months one each of lower A, B and C line must be tested for minimum 45 % of
the rated strength. If the line fails under the load test or does not return to its specified
length all the corresponding lines must be replaced (e.g. if the line is rated 100 kg. it must
withhold 45 kg. or more)
Professional use of gliders: Schooling and competition flying requires more frequent line
inspection and replacement of A, B, C and brake lines.
9.5.1 LAYOUT
Pre-flight check should be done before every flight.
Spread the glider on the ground. Spread the lines, dividing them into eight groups A, B, C
and brake lines left and right. Make sure the lines are free and not twisted or knotted.
Make sure all the lines are on top of the glider and none are caught on vegetation or rocks
under the glider. Lay out the glider in a horseshoe shape. This method insures that all the
lines are equally tensioned on launch, and results in an even inflation.
The Flexon rib reinLIFT 450ments will keep the leading edge open for easy inflation.
The most common reason for a bad launch is a bad layout!
