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Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: (407) 859-9317 Fax: (407) 850-6978
www.strongparachutes.com
1.0 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a new Para-Cushion Emergency Parachute System from Strong
Enterprises. It is the finest available anywhere and with a little care, should last you a very long
time. Rest assured that your new Para-Cushion has been constructed to retain the durability,
reliability, and comfort that Strong Enterprises has been building into its products for over 45
years. We welcome your comments so that we may continue to improve our products and help
make flying safer and more comfortable.
1.1 Scope
This owner’s manual constitutes the manufacturer’s instructions for the operation, packing, and
maintenance of the Para-Cushion Back Model 303 (PCB 303) Emergency Parachute System.
1.2 FAA Approval
Originally certified in 1973 under TSO C-23b, standard category, the Para-Cushion parachute
assemblies were upgraded in 1992 and are now FAA approved under TSO C-23c, category B (in
accordance with AS 8015A and FAR 21, Subpart O). A copy of this approval is on the inside of
the back cover.
1.3 Operational Limitations
When using 26 ft. Mid-Lite Canopy (Strong Enterprises Part Number 420550), this Para-
Cushion is limited to use by persons up to 254 lbs (115kg) fully equipped (person, clothes, and
equipment including parachute) at up to 150 knots IAS.
1.4 Parachute Repack Interval
Your PCB 303 is subject to a 180-day inspection and repack cycle. FAR 91.15 requires that
“no pilot of a civil aircraft may allow a parachute that is available for emergency use to be
carried in that aircraft unless it is an approved type and....it has been packed by a certificated
and appropriately rated parachute rigger within the preceding 180 days.” An FAA Senior or
Master parachute rigger with a back type rating must pack the PCB 303. If your Para-Cushion
is exposed to moisture or damage, it should be inspected and repacked sooner than the 180-day
maximum.
Note!
The 180-day repack cycle required by regulation is a maximum. If for any reason your
parachute is not in the condition it was when packed, it should be inspected and repacked,
regardless of the time since previous packing.
1.5 General Description of Models
The Para-Cushion series of Emergency Parachutes, including the model PCB 303, are FAA
approved, manually operated emergency parachute systems fitted with a round, steerable
canopy.
The Para-Cushion series includes back, seat, and chair types and several variations of each.
The newer version of the back type (the 303, introduced in 1987), has fabric riser covers and is
slightly shorter than the original Para-Cushion Back, it combines the best features of both the
back and seat types and extends from the shoulders to the thighs..
The newer version of the seat type (the 304, introduced in 1988), has fabric riser covers and is
slightly taller than the original Para-Cushion Seat.
The unique system design (U.S. Patent #3,908,937), with externally mounted pilot chute, allows
for a soft, flexible container with protected ripcord pins.
