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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
1.8 System Function
The Para-Cushion is activated by pulling the ripcord handle. This withdraws the ripcord pins and
releases the locking loops allowing the pilot chute to eject, catch air and extract the parachute
canopy from the container. A “diaper” is sewn to the skirt at the bottom of the canopy and is
where some of the suspension lines are stowed. The balance of the lines are stowed inside the
container. On deployment, the canopy and suspension lines are extracted from the container.
The diaper is released as the last stows deploy, allowing the canopy to inflate.
Typically, it takes about 2 to 3 seconds from ripcord pull to fully inflated canopy, traveling
a vertical distance of 150 to 300 feet. This does NOT mean that you should plan on jumping
or pulling at 300 feet. Deployment time and distance depend on, among other factors, your
airspeed.
1.9 Care of your PCB 303 Emergency Parachute System
Observe these precautions to maximize the service life of your Para-Cushion Emergency
Parachute System. Parachutes are simultaneously very rugged and quite delicate. They are
life saving devices and should be treated with great care. Parachutes are made of nylon, a very
strong and durable, but not invincible, material. Nylon is deteriorated by small amounts of acid
and weakened by ultraviolet sunlight. These surface effects do not seriously influence thicker
materials, such as webbing or pack material, but canopy cloth is very vulnerable. If your Para-
Cushion is opened or used, it should be taken to a certified parachute rigger, or returned to the
manufacturer for airing, drying, inspection and repack. FAR 65.129 requires that no parachute
be packed, maintained, or altered in any manner that deviates from procedures approved by
the manufacturer.
The parachute should be left unopened inside its protective container ready for use. When you
take your Para-Cushion to your rigger for servicing, they will be glad to allow you to pull the
ripcord yourself, give you a functional demonstration, and answer all your questions. We urge
you NOT to open your parachute in the field for demonstration purposes. Foreign objects can
cause costly damage the canopy.
When your Para-Cushion is in the aircraft, care must be exercised to ensure that it is not
damaged. Be sure that it does not come in contact with any sharp or loose metal surfaces, or
any objects within the plane, which might cut or snag it. All metal edges and exposed nuts and
bolts, etc. should be taped or covered to prevent wear on the parachute container. Be sure that
your parachute does not come in contact with water, oils, acids, grease, dirt, agricultural or fire
retardant chemicals. When not in use, store your Para-Cushion in its carrying bag in a clean,
dry, protected area. If in doubt as to its condition, consult your nearest parachute rigger or
Strong Enterprises.
CAUTION
LEAVING THE PACKED PARACHUTE SYSTEM EXPOSED TO THE
SUN WILL GREATLY DECREASE ITS SERVICE LIFE.
