A parachute pin problem:

Click image for larger view.

Click image for larger view.

Here are pictures of an aluminum release pin compared to the TSO stainless type...This is off of a Sup'Air EVO Side. The customer has not attempted to deploy this rig nor has he reported any sort of accident or impact that might have caused this. The second picture is where this container ripped when installing the D-bag/parachute assembly.

It is a mystery to me so far...heat maybe? Or just plain metal fatigue?  Whatever the case this pin is in a dangerous configuration now. I have never liked  the tubular webbing risers, the alloy pins, or the extensive use of neoprene in the containers with this brand or any others.

I have said from the very outset that these are problems waiting to happen and here's an example. This customer has not deployed this rig nor has he reported any sort of accident or impact that might have caused this.  Good thing he didn't really need it. This rig had a VERY hard pull when I slow pulled it to check the deployment sequence which I do first thing on repacks.  I thought the lanyard might have been too short, but when I tried to install it after re-pack I found this.   Also during the repack, the velcro ripped under pressure as the stainless steel (good) grommet is anchored in velcro pile and neoprene ONLY, which is bad.

This area should, at a minimum, be reinforced with Mylar or a rip stop backing to set the grommet in.  Of course these are only observations from someone who has worked on this stuff for over 10 years. Naturally I get paid to fix them, but I'd rather just see them built correctly right from the start, considering how much they cost to begin with and how little it would cost to do it right. 

If anybody has more questions or would like their rig upgraded/repaired you can email or contact me below. Original OTHP customers of any of these products contact me offline if you have any concerns and we'll take care of you as always.

Larry Pindar OVER THE HILL PARAGLIDING/POWERED PARAGLIDING
503.667.4557 Fax 503.666.6979  

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