The !"ring release has been in use for many years with excellent results# However$ it requires periodic
maintenance and inspection to ensure proper operation# Generally$ it is NOT recommended that the
risers be attached to the harness when new and “forgotten”# Like all skydiving gear$ the !"ring release
should be carefully inspected and operated on a regular basis#
The
following
procedures
should
be
done
at
least
every
month
$ and especially when returning the rig
to service after a layoff$ such as off"season# Immediate inspection is required if it has been subjected to
some abuse such as a drag across the runway$ a water landing or exposure to a lot of dirt or sand# It is
important to maintain the system even more frequently in humid$ muddy or freezing conditions# If the
Mirage becomes immersed in mud or muddy water clean the release system with a mild solution of
soap and water# Dry all components thoroughly# Any rusted components must be replaced#
%#
Every
month
operate
the
!"ring
release
system
on
the
ground#
Extract the cable completely from
the housings and disconnect the risers#
&#
Inspect
For
Wear#
While the system is disassembled$ closely inspect it for wear# Check the white locking
loops (the ones that pass over the smallest ring and through the grommet) to be sure they are not frayed#
!#
Check#
Check the touch"fastener fabric on the cutaway handle and main lift web to be sure it is
clean and adequately holds the handle#
'# Cable
ends#
Check the cable ends for a smooth finish# The ends are finished at the factory to have a
smooth$ tapered surface#This prevents the cable from hanging up in the loop# Check the entire cable
on both sides for burrs$ nicks or any irregularities$ paying particular attention to the portions of the
cables that actually pass through the locking loops# Consult a rigger if any problems are found#
(#
Cables#
Clean and lubricate the release cables with silicone spray# Spray some silicone on a paper
towel and firmly wipe the cables a few times# A thin$ invisible film of lubricant should remain#
)#
Stitching#
Check the stitching on the risers$ and the stitching holding the large rings to the harness#
*# Cable
Housing
Stretch#
Check the cable housings for solid hand"tacking and proper stretch# Pull the hous"
ings from the free end and expect %"& inches of movement# The bottom ends of the housings$ under the right
chest strap$ should be secure in their pockets and not able to be pulled down more than a half inch#
+#
Risers#
Take each riser and vigorously twist and flex the webbing at the bottom of the risers$ where
the two release rings are attached# This is to remove any set or deformation of the webbing# Flex the
white locking loop# Check the back of the risers where the webbing meets the grommet to be sure the
webbing is not pulling out from the grommet# Replace risers if this is occurring#
Inspect the hard hous"
ing channel entrance hole# If the housing can be pulled through the opening$ the riser should be
replaced#
,#
Cable
Housings#
Check the cable housings for dents or obstructions using the release cables as probes#
%-#
End
Fittings#
Inspect the end fittings on the cable housings# Look for nicks or sharp edges on the
top surface# Ensure the fittings are attached firmly to the housings#
Required Periodic Maintenance
for the 3-ring Release
36
MIRAGE SYSTEMS
To Next Page