Pilot’s manual for Go
10
www.gradient-gliders.com, [email protected]
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When landing, never let the canopy fall on its leading edge in front of the pilot. The effect of these
forceful collisions and the sudden pressure increase can severely damage the air-resistant coating
of the canopy as well as weaken the ribs and seams.
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Protect the canopy from unnecessary strain. Inconsiderate handling of your glider – pulling it over
grass, soil, sand or rocks – will significantly reduce its lifetime and increase porosity.
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When preparing the paraglider for a launch or when ground handling, be sure not to step on any
of the lines or the canopy.
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Don't tie any unnecessary knots in the lines. Packing methods where special knots are made in the
lines as used on parachutes and reserve parachutes are not suitable for packing the lines used on
paragliders.
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Protect your canopy and lines from unnecessary exposure to sunlight. UV-rays can damage many
parts of a paraglider.
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Try not to pack your glider when wet. If it’s unavoidable then dry it as soon as possible but away
from direct sunlight. Be careful to avoid storing your canopy wet - this is the most common reason
for cloth degradation, and is easily preventable.
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Don't let your glider come into contact with seawater. If it does, rinse the lines, canopy and risers
with fresh water and dry before storing.
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After flight or when storing always use the inner protection sack.
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When storing or during transport make sure your glider isn't exposed to temperatures higher than
50 degrees Celsius.
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Never let the paraglider come into contact with chemicals. Clean the glider with clean lukewarm
water only.
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When packing the glider we recommend concertina folding the reinforced leading edge to avoid
damaging the plastic reinforcements.
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For long-term storage don't pack the glider too tightly. Store it in a cold, dry and well-ventilated
room.
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After tree- or water-landings always examine the glider carefully. If you suspect that the flight
features of your paraglider have changed, contact an authorised Gradient supplier as soon as
possible.
7. CHECKING YOUR GLIDER
After 200 flying hours or two years your Go must be thoroughly checked and tested by the
manufacturer or by a Gradient authorised service centre. This check is primarily focused on:
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measuring of porosity
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measuring of tear strength of fabric
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sewing of panels, attachment points, cell openings, etc.
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condition of lines and risers
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line strength
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geometry of the suspension system
All data are recorded in the test report. On the basis of the wing’s condition, the authorized technician
will define the next check interval: under normal circumstances it is two years.