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## Ripcord Pull Force 

The correct packing is the most important aspect of repacking a parachute, but the cosmetic appearance of the container is important as well. This is true both for a pilot emergency and a sport piggyback system. Pilots want their parachute as snug and as flat as possible to keep the parachute comfortable when in use. Skydivers want theirs as snug and streamlined as possible so it stays closed during free fall. The key to these requirements is to make sure the pilot chute is held down securely. To do that, the closing loop needs to be as short as the rigger can make it and still meet the requirements for the maximum pull force. Under the TSO system, the maximum allowable pull force for the ripcord is 22 pounds. Most riggers develop a feel for the closing of the container and the resultant force. However, new riggers need to check their packing technique to measure the pull force, which is done without a seal or thread. 

Start by having someone put on the parachute to replicate the real shape and conformity of the parachute system. To pull the ripcord while the parachute is lying on the table is not realistic. The rigger then takes the ripcord handle from the pocket and attaches a calibrated scale to it. [Figure 5-64] Ideally, a recording scale should be used to register the 

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maximum force during the pull. Next, the rigger needs to pull the ripcord in a smooth, quick motion, duplicating the motion of the user and the test requirements of the TSO. Take note of the force required to pull the ripcord pin(s) clear of the locking loop(s) and activate the system. If the force is less than 22 pounds, the rigger can then re-close the container and seal the ripcord. If the force is over 22 pounds, the rigger must make whatever adjustments are needed, such as lengthening the locking loop or re-stowing the canopy, to achieve a pull force below 22 pounds. 

## Sealing the Parachute 

As stated in 14 CFR part 65, section 65.133, “Each certificated parachute rigger must have a seal with an identifying mark prescribed by the Administrator, and a seal press. After packing a parachute, he shall seal the pack with his seal in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation for that type of parachute.” Most manuals simply say to “seal the parachute.” The following describes a commonly approved method. 

Take a length of seal thread approximately 20 inches long. Fold in half and make two lark’s head knots around the ripcord cable adjacent to the shank of the ripcord pin. [Figure 5-65] Pass one end of the thread through the seal and then under the pin on the opposite side of the locking loop or cone. [Figure 5-66] Bring the end back through the second hole in the seal and tie a knot with the other end of the thread. [Figure 5-67]  Leave enough slack in the thread to allow for movement of the pin without breaking the thread. However, make sure the pin cannot be extracted from the locking loop without breaking the thread. Slide the seal over the knot and compress the seal with the seal press. [Figure 5-68] Trim the excess thread. 

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Count all of your tools. Fill in the appropriate information on the packing data card and the rigger’s logbook. Place the data card in the packing data card pocket. 

