Mandatory
2015-06-24 SB SB20150624 Excessive Urethane coating on Spectra reserve ripcord
Download file
Issue Date : June 24, 2015
PSB # 2015101
SUBJECT: EXCESSIVE URETHANE COATING ON SPECTRA RESERVE RIPCORD
STATUS: MANDATORY
It has recently come to our attention that some Spectra ripcord cables manufactured in late 2014 and 2015 were coated with the wrong mix of polyurethane and water, possibly resulting in higher pull forces because of
increased housing/ripcord friction. While we believe that this affects only ripcords manufactured from December 2014 to May 2015, we are going to consider all 2014 ripcords suspect.
While there have been no reported hard pulls in actual use, we will replace all affected ripcord cables free of charge. Because this will take time, we have devised an interim solution that will keep all affected rigs in service
until the replacement Spectra ripcord can be installed.
Mandatory
2013-05-20 SB Retractable Y-Strap Modification to Tandem Student Harness
Download file
BACKGROUND:
At Uninsured United Parachute Technologies, LLC. (UUPT), we are always
striving to produce the best and safest Tandem system available.
With regard to the student harness, the present design has been in use for over 13 years.
Based on field experience, we know that, if it is fitted and adjusted correctly, it is highly unlikely
that a student can fall out of the harness. However, we also know that this type of incident has
happened once before with a Tandem Vector harness, and we have had two incidents where
students came close to falling out.
In each of these cases, it was determined that the harness was grossly misadjusted. But, no
matter what the cause, this scenario is unacceptable. To further minimize the risk of such an
event, UUPT has developed the Retractable Y-Strap Retrofit. This Y-Strap modification has
been in use for several years with only a slight decrease in student comfort, in some cases.
The Retractable Y-Strap was designed to allow the student to still lift their legs for landing.
Mandatory
2012-11-06 SB Removal of support washer from the Reserve Staging Loop
Download file
SUBJECT: Reserve Staging Loop with support washer. We (manufacturer) require the washer be
removed. At the next scheduled repack cycle, remove the washer from the bungee staging loop and tie
a double over-hand knot as instructed below and reinstall.
STATUS: MANDATORY
BACKGROUND: During recent inspections prior to repacking the reserve, extra normal wear was found
on the reserve closing loop. Further investigation indicates that Vector systems fitted with a (bungee)
Reserve Staging Loop with support washer may experience this problem. Some washers have sharp
edges which had caused minor damage to the closing loop. Thus far, loop damage seen in the field
following a 365-day repack cycle has not been considered serious, but is a concern. This Product
Service Notification provides a safe solution without altering the function of the staging loop.
SERVICE BULLETIN: At the next scheduled inspection/repack cycle remove the support washer from
the Reserve Staging Loop. (Fig-1) Inspect the internal and external condition of the staging loop and
replace it if any damage is found. Tie a Double Over-Hand Knot at the prescribed location. The
staging loop length should be 1-inch (25mm) shorter than the reserve closing loop. Mark the loop at the
desired length. Fig-2 shows a single over-hand knot. Fig-3 shows the loop end passing one more time
through to create the double
Advisory
2011-11-10 SB SB20111109 Inspection Sigma Top diagonal attachment
Download file
SUBJECT: Inspection of the top diagonal attachment point on all Sigma Sport Tandem Systems.
STATUS: Advisory
BACKGROUND: During an inspection and repack, a rigger noticed the left side zigzag stitching that holds the diagonals to the top of the reserve container had completely failed and was no longer securing the container to the diagonal webbing
SERVICE BULLETIN: All Sigma Sport Tandem Systems are to be inspected for broken stitching at this diagonals attachment point. This can easily be done on packed rigs by simply opening the reserve pin cover and riser covers, then work your thumb up under the diagonal to expose the zigzag stitching as shown in Fig 3 (right side) and Fig 4 for (left side). Consult a rigger if you are unsure or have any questions. This inspection should take no longer than 1-2 minutes.
Advisory
2011-05-23 SB SB20110523 Inspect Top diagonal attachment in Sport and Student rigs
Download file
SUBJECT: Inspection of the top diagonal attachment point on all Vector 3 Sport and SE Student Harness/Container Systems.
STATUS: Advisory
BACKGROUND: It was reported that a student jumper after pulling at a planned altitude of 5000’, experienced a very hard opening and broke the upper double zigzag stitching that holds the diagonals in place and tore most of the ring cover off (See Fig1). This allowed the large ring riser attachment to be pulled far away from its normal position, deforming the over the shoulder section of padding and in turn pulled the RSL lanyard releasing the reserve pilot chute.
At an altitude of around 4500’ the attachment point of the SkyHook and RSL lanyard produced a trailing reserve pilot chute (preventing a two out scenario) as witnessed from the ground (See Fig2). At an altitude reported to be between 225’ and 250’ the student jumper initiated a final approach turn, but due to the deformation of the right shoulder section of the harness, the Collins lanyard released the left riser from this turn input (See Fig2). The student then reacted by immediately pulling the cutaway handle releasing the right riser initiating a SkyHook direct bag deployment. After a very short reserve canopy ride, the student experienced a hard landing in a corn field.
Mandatory
2011-03-22 SB SB20110322 Argus prohibited in UPT rigs
Download file
SUBJECT: Aviacom Argus AAD installation approval in United Parachute Technologies products (UPT).
STATUS: MANDATORY
BACKGROUND: Over the past three years and particularly in the last several months, there have been
documented reports from the field of Argus AAD firings where there was a failure to cut the reserve
locking loop. Aviacom, the manufacturer of the Argus, has been contacted concerning these incidents,
and to our knowledge to date, they have not yet identified the root cause of the problem, nor have they
suggested a solution.
Mandatory
2007-01-30 SB SB20070130 Tandem Loop style reserve
Download file
Subject: Tandem Loop Style Reserve Ripcords
Status: Mandatory inspection before next jump
Identification: All tandem loop style reserve ripcords manufactured by Relative Workshop prior to October 2004. Identified by black shrink wrap on the swage.
Background: Ripcord damage found in field on January 18, 2007. Rig was an older Vector II.
Service Bulletin: Uninsured United Parachute Technologies, LLC requires that all tandem loop style reserve ripcords with black shrink wrap on the swage are inspected (instructions attached) for any broken filaments. If found, ripcord needs to be replaced immediately. If ripcord has no broken filaments, place ¼” clear shrink wrap on swage.
Since October 2004, clear shrink wrap is used to visibly inspect the filaments.
Informational
2005-05-23 SB SB20050523 1 Inspection of Tandem VTCIII 230505(PDSB)
Download file
Performance Designs Service Bulletin # 002
Relative Workshop Service Bulletin # 230505.
Mandatory
2005-05-23 SB SB20050523 2 Inspection of Tandem VTCIII 230505-2
Download file
Subject: Inspection of Tandem VTCIII reserves (VR360) A Line Attachments and Steering Lines.
Status: MANDATORY
IDENTIFICATION: Relative Workshop Tandem 360 reserve part number VTCIII, manufactured by Performance Designs Inc.
GroupA: Built on or after July 1, 2003 in serial number range VR360004801 to VR360005353.
GroupB: Built prior to the date range specified above, in serial number VR360000001 to VR360004800
Mandatory
2003-12-03 SB SB20031203 Skyhook RSL Inspection #09238
Download file
All Skyhook equipped rigs – General Caution
Although it is clearly noted in the Skyhook packing instructions, RWS would like to reiterate one special
caution - Riggers (and owners), please be sure that the Skyhook hardware is sewn to the white
freebag bridle correctly. There is a drawing of the correct installation and set-up sewn right next to the
Skyhook on every rig, and the Skyhook itself is labeled. However, if the Skyhook hardware were sewn on the
bridle backwards during manufacture or subsequent repair, (with the pointed end of the hook facing the pilot
chute, instead of the bag) then you would tow your reserve pilot chute if deployed in response to a main total
malfunction. As the instructions state, this pilot chute in tow can be fixed by pulling the yellow RSL tab.
Remember, this situation can only be caused by an installation error at the factory, or during a rigger repair of
a damaged bridle. It cannot be caused by a packing error.
Immediate Mandatory Inspection of Skyhook equipped rigs shipped between October 12 and December
1, 2003
Mandatory
2003-07-15 SB SB20030715 Capewell CW03-01
Download file
Status: MANDATORY TEST – This is a one-time TEST. One of the two tests (either TEST 1 or TEST 2) must be performed and marked per test procedure.
Identification: All Capewell Supplied Ripcord Pins and/or Ripcords from November 28, 2001 through to July 15, 2003.
Mandatory
2003-03-09 SB SB20030309 Removal of the Crystal Ball for Sigma Skyhook #09121
Download file
Two pieces need to be removed for the Skyhook Modification.
Mandatory
1998-09-10 SB SB19980910 Amp Fitting (with grommet) on Breakaway Housing #09235
Download file
Status: Amp Fittings improperly swaged to the end of the stainless steel breakaway housings. The Amp
fitting could twist off or fall off.
Identification: All Relative Workshop Vector Systems manufactured after January 1, 1996. Any Harness/
container system which utilizes Relative Workshop or ParaStock Metal-Flex breakaway housings which
were shipped with Amp Fittings attached after January 1, 1996.
Background: In mid 1997, a worker at Relative Workshop decided to improve the way he was swaging
the Amp Fittings on the end of the breakaway housings. Instead of correctly using a complete single or
double stroke with the NICOPRESS swaging tool, he thought a series of partial strokes, applied in a rotary
fashion, looked better. This improvement made it through quality control because his handiwork was
covered by the standard black shrink tubing, and 99% of the Amp Fittings swaged on by this method pass
a straight pull test of 50 lbs. HOWEVER, a large number can be twisted off with finger pressure applied in
a certain direction. Because an Amp Fitting coming off in use could cause an unintentional breakaway,
fittings attached in this fashion must be identified and re-swaged. While the fix is rather simple and
straightforward, The Relative Workshop is sorry for any inconvenience it will cause owners of Vector
Systems. Please note we are also including systems produced in 1996 to be sure we locate all affected
components
Mandatory
1998-03-18 SB SB19980318 Automatic Riser Release Collins Lanyard Installation #09234
Download file
Status: Mandatory Installation. Use of the RSL is also mandatory. This Product Service Bulletin supersedes
PSB-071897.
Identification: All Relative Workshop Vector Tandem Systems Worldwide.
Background: Relative Workshop has had three main riser failures since 1994. Since the beginning of the
tandem program, we've made approximately two million tandem jumps on Tandem Vectors worldwide. Main
riser breakage is very rare, but it can happen. If the right riser breaks or prematurely releases for whatever
reason, the RSL may deploy the reserve, possibly creating a two canopy entanglement. The Automatic Riser
Release Lanyard was designed to minimize the risk of this potential entanglement by automatically releasing
the left riser.
Mandatory
1998-03-17 SB SB19980317 Double-Ended Drogue Release Riser Closing Loop #09233
Download file
Status: Original double-ended drogue release closing loop (TVDRL) is being replaced by a new version, Part
#TVDRL-R1. Use of the 'New Loop" is Mandatory.
Optional
1997-07-18 SB SB19970718 Proper Deactivation of the RSL on a Vector Tandem #09232
Download file
Recent incidents of broken tandem risers have led the Relative Workshop to give Tandem
Rig Owners and Instructors the option of disconnecting their RSL. The procedures for properly
disconnecting the RSL are detailed in the enclosed product service bulletin. Also included, an the back of
the product service bulletin, are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the product
service bulletin. It should be noted that disconnecting the RSL has not been made mandatory. The product
service bulletin and frequently asked questions should provide enough information for the Tandem Rig
Owner or Instructor to make an educated decision as to whether or not he,she wishes to disconnect the
RSL.
Mandatory
1997-05-22 SB SB19970522 Tandem Diagonal Zigzag Inspection & Reinforcement #09231
Download file
Status: Mandatory inspection before the next jump. Mandatory reinforcing at the next reserve repack; or
immediately if the zig-zag shows any sign of failure.
Identification: All Vector Tandem Systems manufactured before May 01, 1997.
Background: During a very hard main canopy opening, one upper right diagonal zig-zag failed, causing the
container and shoulder pad to pull away from the main lift web. As a result, an accidental breakaway of the
right main riser occurred. We believe this was gradual degradation over a period of many jumps and not the
sole result of one jump.
We have since found other Vector Tandem Systems with partially failing diagonal zig-zag stitching. Hence the
importance of this bulletin.
Qualified Personnel: Senior Rigger may inspect.
Reinforcing should be done by a Master Parachute Rigger.
Advisory
1993-12-03 SB SB19931203 Relative Workshop Vector RSL Retro-fit #09229
Download file
In response to a directive from the Australian Parachute Federation requiring
certain categories of parachutist's to use equipment which either:
(a) incorporates an AAD, or
(b) a RSL
the Relative Workshop has authorised the APF Director Rigging to examine
APF Riggers, and, where appropriate, certify such riggers to undertake retrofit
of RSLs to Relative Workshop Vector parachutes. Note: The Relative
Workshop do not authorise the retro-fit of a RSL to Vector parachutes which
have type 17 mini 3-risers. These will need to be changed to type 8 mini 3-
ring risers as part of the retrofit.
Recommended
1993-08-18 SB SB19930818 Recommended Lifetime on Tandem Components #09228
Download file
Based on many years of observing tandem malfunction and equipment failures, the Relative Workshop has established a recommendation of the lifetime of Tandem components.
RECOMMENDATIONS :
Replace suspension lines every 200-300 jumps.
Replace main canopy after 600 jumps.
Replace drogue centreline every 300 jumps.
Replace drogue assembly every 600 jumps.
Harness/container inspection every 200 jumps.
Replace harness/container every 1000 jumps.
Reserve canopy limited to 20 uses.
Mandatory
1993-06-21 SB SB19930621 Incorrectly Manufactured MS-22040 #09227
Download file
Status: Mandatory at next repack
Identification: All Vector container systems manufactured between April 22, 1993 and June 10, 1993
Background: One Vector container system has been discovered in the field with this incorrectly manufactured
hardware. This is not life threatening, but may allow webbing slippage; thus resulting in an uncomfortable
harness. Service Bulletin: This is a one-time inspection. Compare MS-22040 hardware against drawing A and
B. If hardware is correct (drawing A), log bulletin compliance on data card. If hardware is incorrect (drawing
B), notify Relative Workshop.
Where to check for this hardware: Leg straps (tandem and sport) and chest straps (tandem and tandem
passenger harness).
Mandatory
1993-03-03 SB SB19930303 Mandatory AAD for Vector Tandem System #09226
Download file
MANDATORY AUTOMATIC ACTIVATION DEVICES FOR TANDEM SYSTEMS
1) All Vector Tandem System reserves must be fitted with an acceptable Automatic Activation Device by 1
January 1994.
2) All Vector Tandem Systems ordered after 15 June 1993 must be fitted with an acceptable AAD before the
system leaves the factory.
Mandatory
1992-05-21 SB SB19920521 Removal RSL Attachment Ring on Type-17 Mini Risers #09225
Download file
SUBJECT: This bulletin affects all Type 17 (Mini 1") main risers with reserve static lines (RSL) attached which
were manufactured by Relative Workshop of DeLand, Florida, USA.
STATUS: MANDATORY
These Type 17 (Mini 1") risers are designed to withstand loads up to 2500 pounds. It is apparent that newly
designed canopies with Microline used by heavier jumpers occasionally exceed this design limit. These risers,
on average, appear to be stronger than the canopies they are attached to.
Scores of canopies have blown up during this period without ' damaging Type 17 (Mini 1") risers. While a
main canopy breaking may be unsettling, breaking a Type 17 (Mini 1") riser with a reserve static line (RSL)
may be fatal. It may deploy the reserve canopy into the now malfunctioning main canopy.
REQUIRED ACTION: Immediately disconnect the reserve static line (RSL) from the Type 17 (Mini 1") main
riser. Have a currently rated parachute rigger cut the reserve static line (RSL) attachment ring off the riser.
Then attach the snap shackle end of the reserve static line (RSL) around either the adjacent short or long
cutaway housing. You may continue to jump the system set up this way until you install replacement Type 8
(1-3/4") risers set-up for reserve static line (RSL). These are much stronger and have never broken in use.
Contact Relative Workshop or your dealer with the serial number of your system and we will supply you with
Type 8 (1-3/4") risers at no cost, if your reserve static line (RSL) was installed by Relative Workshop
Mandatory
1991-01-21 SB SB19910121 Vector Reserve Pilot Chute #09224
Download file
Vector I Reserve Pilot Chute Spring 20 lb.
Compression Force Test Status: Mandatory
testing at each reserve repack. Mandatory
replacement with a Vector II Reserve Pilot Chute
if 20 lb. compression force is not reached.
Identification: All Vector I Reserve Pilot Chutes
Optional
1988-11-17 SB SB19881117 Tandem Vector Checklist #09223
Download file
Some Tandem Vector owners have suggested that
they would prefer the soft reserve handle to “stick
out” from the main lift web at a sharper angle than
it does now. For those who would prefer the handle
to have a more ponounced angle, these directions
explain what to do. You will need waxed tacking
cord and needle. You need not remove the handle
completely from the rig to perform this modification
Mandatory
1988-08-01 SB SB19880801 Check for Incorrectly Peened Rivets on Quick Ejectors #09222
Download file
EARLIER THIS YEAR, A QUICK EJECTOR ON A RELATIVE WORKSHOP TANDEM HARNESS WAS FOUND TO
HAVE ONE RIVET INCORRECTLY PEENED. THE RIVET IN QUESTION HELD THE GATE OF THE QUICK EJECTOR
IN PLACE. WHEN THE RIVET FELL OUT, THE GATE FELL OFF THE SNAP. THE RESULT WAS ONE OF
INCONVENIENCE RATHER THAN DANGER, BUT IT COULD HAVE BEEN MUCH MORE SERIOUS IF THE SNAP
HAD BEEN ON A LEG STRAP. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT ALL SIMILAR HARDWARE BE CHECKED BEFORE THE
NEXT JUMP
Recomm. / Mandat
1986-11-01 SB SB19861101 3ring Release Periodic Maint. & Mini 3ring Deformation #09219
Download file
The Booth 3-Ring Release System has been in use for three years, with excellent results. Although the system is at least as durable as the rest of the harness/container assembly, it requires periodic maintenance and inspection to insure proper operation.
Feedback from riggers and some of the thousands of users has made it possible to publish this set of maintenance and inspection instructions. It must be followed exactly.
Generally, it is NOT recommended that the risers be attached to the harness when new and forgotten. Like all skydiving gear, the 3-Ring Release should be carefully inspected and cycled (operated) on a regular basis.
Specifically, the procedures below should be done at least every month. This is especially important if the rig has not been used for a month or more (such as during the winter). 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 lots of dust or sand.
MINI 3-RING DEFORMATION : STATUS MANDATORY
Recently, reported incidents of deformation of the largest ring in mini 3-ring installation, have brought a dangerous situation to our attention. Some mini 3-ring installations have not utilised the strengthened mini ring.
Advisory
1986-09-05 SB SB19860905 Stow Slider in Rubber Band Attached to Center B Line #09218
Download file
Effective Immediately. Please stow main canopy slider in a rubber band which you have attached to the
center B line attachment point. (Do not stow it to the tail.)
Reason. Occasionally, during main canopy deployment, the collapsing drogue exerts so much force on the
deployment bag that some or all of the stowed suspension lines slump out of the rubber bands prematurely
causing a reverse sequence (canopy first) deployment. A canopy first deployment usually works out OK. The
main problem is that if the slider is not stowed, .it too might slip down the suspension lines before line stretch
causing a hard or off center opening. An off center opening can concentrate opening forces on one portion of
the canopy or one line group. We believe this is responsible for several broken main rear risers which have
recently been reported to us. Broken risers are obviously not very common. This problem took many thousands
of drogue jumps to show up and we believe stowing the slider should prevent it.
I am working on a bag modification which I think may prevent line slump and will let you know as soon as
it is perfected. In the meantime, I urge you not to experiment with other solutions such as using bungee
cord locking stows instead of standard rubber bands. In some instances, this could cause a bag lock which is
a far worse problem than already exists.
Mandatory
1986-07-01 SB SB19860701 Misuse of RW-2 Rings #09217
Download file
The RW-2 Ring is in common use as the middle ring in the Booth 3Ring Riser
Release.
In 1981, the first "Mini" 3-Ring Releases were introduced as part of the Para-
Flight Swift system. The Harness Ring (Large Ring), had the same inner diameter
as the Standard Release Middle Ring (RW-2), but was a much stronger, "beefier"
ring.
Because these Swift rings were not generally available, several gear manufacturer
experimented with 3-Ring 'systems using the middle or RW-2 Ring as the Harness
Ring.
Tests performed with the RW-Ring show that the ring may start to permanently
deform under a load as low as 850 lbs. Opening shocks as high as 20001bs have
been measured under normal jumping conditions. Usually, this load is distributed
between the two risers, but an uneven opening can send most of the force to one
side of the harness. Such a force could overload the RVI-2 Ring, bending it in
fact.
Mandatory
1985-11-22 SB SB19851122 Adding a drogue system to the Tandem Vector #09216
Download file
ADDING A DROGUE SYSTEM TO THE TANDEM VECTOR
Alternately, the owner may ship his Tandem Vector container ONLY to the Relative. Workshop for the installation. There is a charge for this service.
Mandatory
1985-08-01 SB SB19850801 Reinforcing Vector Tandem Main and Reserve Canopies #09215
Download file
REINFORCING RELATIVE WORKSHOP TANDEM MAIN AND RESERVE CANOPIES
This procedure may be done ONLY by a MASTER Rigger with experience in repairing or building Ram-air
canopies. The main should be done first to gain experience before attempting the reserve.
Mandatory
1985-07-17 SB SB19850717 Stabilizer Modification Vector Tandem Canopies #09214
Download file
!!! This Bulletin was supersedes Bulletin of 23/05/1985 !!!
This bulletin advises you to modify the Vector Tandem Main Canopy and Vector Tandem
Reserve Canopy before the next jump on the system. These canopies must open reliably and softly at speeds
of 35 to 180 mph while carrying from 100 to 400 1bs, when the canopy is new as well as after 200 jumps.
This requires a delicate balance of all the factors that affect opening shock.
After considerable testing, the Relative Workshop has concluded that these canopies open more softly and
are less likely to be damaged if they have completely slotted stabilizers Completely slotting the stabilizers
gives the softest openings, while sewing them completely shut results in the best landing flare.
But experience has shown that new canopies with completely sewn up stabilizers occasionally open end-cell
first, causing hard openings and canopy damage. Completely slotting the stabilizers seems to alleviate this
problem.
Therefore, you must completely slot the stabilizers on both the main and reserve Tandem Vector Canopy.
Because this is critical to flight safety, this must be done before the next jump.
The procedure is straight-forward and must be completed by an FAA Master Rigger. Tools needed are a seam
ripper and a zig-zag or bartack wing machine with nylon E-thread.
Mandatory
1985-07-10 SB SB19850710 Replace Plastic Disk Slider Stop with Metal Washer #09213
Download file
WE HAVE REPORTS OF TWO (POSSIBLY MORE) INSTANCES OF TANDEM SLIDERS PASSING OVER THE SLIDER
STOPS SEWN ON THE STABILIZERS.
BEFORE YOUR NEXT JUMP:
THE SEAM AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SLIDER STOP POCKETS MUST BE OPENED, THE PLASTIC DISK REMOVED,
AND THE METAL WASHER INSERTED. THEN RESEW THE BOTTOM OF THE POCKET. THIS MAY BE HAND
TACKED CLOSED IF THERE IS NO MACHINE ACCESS.
THIS MUST BE DONE ON BOTH THE MAIN AND RESERVE BEFORE YOUR NEXT JUMP.
Mandatory
1985-05-24 SB SB19850524 Brake Setting Modification to Tandem Vector Canopies #09212
Download file
The brake setting on the Vector Tandem Canopies you were shipped provided optimum performance for most
suspended weights and deployment speeds. Under certain situations--particularly heavy loads at high speeds
with a new canopy--this brake setting resulted in hard openings.
It now appears that two brake settings are needed to cover all situations. A very deep brake setting ("rock
and roll") provides the softest openings at high speeds and loads. A more normal brake setting provides soft
openings for most situations, and is more comfortable because the canopy doesn't "rock and roll" after
opening.
Therefore, you must modify the Vector Tandem main canopy so that both brake settings are available to you,
and you must modify the Vector Tandem reserve canopy to the deep brake or "rock and roll" setting. Both
canopies must be modified before the next jump.
Mandatory
1985-05-23 SB SB19850523 Stabilizer Modification to Tandem Vector Canopies #09211
Download file
!!! This Bulletin was superseded by Bulletin of 17/07/1985 !!!
This bulletin advises you to modify the Vector Tandem Main Canopy and Vector Tandem Reserve Canopy
before the next jump on the system. These canopies must open reliably and softly at speeds of 35 to 180 mph
while carrying from 100 to 400 lbs, when the canopy is new as well as after 200 jumps. This requires a
delicate balance of all the factors that affect opening shock.
After considerable testing, the Relative Workshop has concluded that these -canopies open more softly and
are less likely to be damaged if they have 'slotted stabilizers. Completely slotting the stabilizers gives the
softest openings, while sewing them completely shut results in the best landing flare.
But experience has shown that new canopies with. completely sewn-up stabilizers occasionally open end-cell
first, causing hard openings and canopy damage. Slotting the stabilizers between the C and DJines seems to
alleviate this problem without degrading the landing flare very much. Therefore, you must slot the stabilizers
on both the main and reserve Tandem Vector Canopy between the C and D lines. Because this is critical to
flight safety, this must be done before the next jump.
Informational
1985-05-08 SB SB19850508 Replace Dome Slider with Trapezoidal Dome Slider #050885
Download file
Replace Present Dome Slider with TrapezoidalDome Slider
INSTALLATION AND PACKING INSTRUCTIONS :
1. Be sure the slider is installed with the long edg e
to the rear of the canopy .
2. Attach a rubber band to either of the center "[3" lin e
attachment tapes and stow 6- 8, inches of the slider in it . A
slider works best if it is tight up against the slider stops
at line stretch .
3. Fold the canopy nose over, on top of the A lin e
connection point, and then make. another equal fold in th e
same direction, before S folding the rest of the canopy .
This will protect the nose from the slipstream until the
slider has a chance to inflate .
Informational
1985-01-01 SB SB19850101 New Dome Slider for Tandem #09208
Download file
The Relative Work Shop has a new dome slider for the tandem Hilifter main canopy. This new slider allows you to extend the lower control line and sew the stabilizers shut.
IMPORTANT :
Do not change the control lines or sew the stabilizers shut without using the new Dome slider. We have done this because the new brake setting gets rid of rock and roll openings. This is a more normal brake setting and the canopy seems to open cleaner and
smoother. By sewing the stabilizers shut we have found that it makes landing in light winds much easier, has little effect on opening shock and only slightly increases toggle pressure.
Mandatory
1984-02-15 SB SB19840215 Status of the Large 3-ring (RW-1-82; RW-1-83) #09207
Download file
All Wonderhog IIs, Sprints, and Vectors with the large rings of the 3-Ring release stamped RW-1 '82' and RW-
1 '83' are grounded as of February 3, 1984 until the large rings are either replaced or pull tested for strength.
Some of the large rings with the above markings were not heat treated at the suppliers and are soft. Two
incidents have been reported where these rings elongated on opening shock. One of these incidents prevented the jumper from releasing a malfunctioned main canopy. The deploying reserve
entangled with the main. Rings with markings of RW1-81 and RW1-84 are acceptable. Only the RW-1 '82'
and RW-1 '83' are suspect.
Informational
1982-02-24 SB SB19820224 Modify Harness to Accept a Mini-Trapezoidal Ripcord #09206
Download file
Modifying a Wonderhog harness to accept a Mini-Trapezoidal ripcord handle.
Remove elastic pocket. This can be done with snips or scissors, or with any sharp bladed tool (exacto knife,
razor, etc. ).Be very careful NOT to damage the webbing even slightly as doing so would require a new
harness on that side.
Mandatory
1979-01-01 SB SB19790101 Recall of Certain Plastic Ripcord Handles #09205
Download file
The Relative Workshop is requesting that owners of Wonderhogs equipped with a particular type of plastic
reserve ripcord handle return the ripcord so it can be replaced with a metal-handled ripcord.
During .the early months of 1979, _the Relative Workshop shipped Wonderhogs with nylon plastic reserve
ripcord handles. Until then, The.Wonderhog harness and container system was supplied with metal antiwindblast
handles, but the "banning" of these handles by several national parachute associations and the
subsequent incorrect information that was published about the blast handle forced the Relative Workshop to
offer an alternative handle.
Informational
1978-09-01 SB SB19780901 Installation of a Wonderhog Bridle Pin #09204
Download file
Wonderhogs of any model may be converted to a bridle pin closing method using a kit provided by the
Relative Workshop, The specially designed pin allows the use of a non-elastic closing loop, which in turn
permits a tighter pack. The pin will release with less than 10 lbs. of pull on the bridle, regardless of how
tightly the container is packed.
Informational
1977-12-01 SB SB19771201 Wonderhog Technical Update #09203
Download file
Technical update on various components in a Wonderhog rig...
Intresting to read...
Information on Old Rigs, Velcro, Reserve packing instructions without staging loop, and a lot of other items...