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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
1.10 Service Life
FAR 65.129 requires that “No certificated parachute rigger may pack a parachute that is not
safe for emergency use”. The continued airworthiness of an assembly is at the discretion of
the FAA licensed parachute rigger’s inspection during re-pack. While proper care can no
doubt extend its usefulness, an older parachute should be examined more closely for signs
of deterioration. Your parachute is a sensitive piece of life saving equipment and should be
treated as such. However, it should not be expected to last forever, even with proper care.
1.11 Preflight Inspection
The parachute must be inspected by the wearer prior to each use. Check it visually for any
unsafe condition. Be sure the harness is not twisted or misrouted. Be sure, the fittings are
not rusted. Be sure the ripcord handle, is securely in it’s pocket (under the fabric pocket
covering). Lift the Velcro on the back pad and check the ripcord pins. Be sure they are
properly seated in their loops. All pins should extend at least 1/2-inch beyond the fabric
locking loop. Be sure the rigger’s seal thread is still intact around the last pin. That’s your
assurance it has not been opened since it left the rigger’s packing table. Check the packing
data card in the nearby pocket to be sure that the parachute has been inspected and repacked
within the previous 180 days.
1.12 Fitting the Parachute Harness
Strong Enterprises produces 3 basic harness designs: the standard fixed harness, the fully
adjustable harness, and the aerobatic harness. Below, please find proper fitting for each of
these models.
Standard Fixed Harness - This harness has 3 adjustment points, one on the chest, and one
on each leg. If you are putting the parachute on for the first time, unsnap the hardware on
the straps, loosen the three adjustment points, and slip your arms through the main lift web
(the vertical straps in front), much like putting on a jacket. Next, reach between your legs,
pick up each leg strap, untwist them if necessary, and snap them in place on each side of the
lower portion of the main lift webs. Lean forward, pull the leg straps below your hips, and
tighten them snugly, yet comfortably around your thighs. Finally, snap and adjust the chest
strap. Fold and stow the webbing ends in the elastic keepers. Be sure the ripcord handle is
securely stowed, yet accessible.
Fully Adjustable Harness - The fully adjustable harness allows you to custom fit your harness.
To properly adjust this harness, first loosen all adjustment points all the way out. Then put
on the parachute as explained above being sure to fit the leg straps snugly. Then stand
at attention and take up the slack in the main lift web (vertical straps) by pulling on the
harness ends located just above the leg pads. This should pull the straps down snug over your
shoulders. Next adjust the horizontal back strap (located behind you at the leg junction) to
come in contact with your back. This strap need not be tight for a comfortable fit. Finally,
snap and adjust the chest strap, fold and stow the webbing ends in the elastic keepers. Be
sure the ripcord handle is securely stowed, yet accessible.