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device. Next, flake the gores in sequence to see if the canopy is straight. Split the canopy so the left and right line groups are separate at the skirt of the canopy. [Figure 5-7]  Pick up the two center gores and grasp the four lines. [Figure 5-8] These are line number 1 and the last line of the sequence. Run these lines down toward the risers and/or container. On most canopies, these lines run to the inside, top connector link of a four-link system or to the inside of a two-link system. [Figure 5-9]  If these lines are correct, continue the checking of the line continuity. If the lines are not straight, release the risers from the harness, if possible. If not, take one of the two top lines and untangle it until the line runs straight back to the canopy without going around any of the other lines. Untangle the risers and harness/container until the rest of the lines are straight. Repeat with the other riser, if applicable. Attach the rest of the connector links to the tension device and do a thorough continuity check from the canopy to the connector links. If the lines were incorrectly assembled, disconnect the link from the riser, remove the lines, and reinstall them onto the connector link in the correct order. Reinstall the connector link to the riser. Check the entire canopy for correct continuity. Make sure the connector link is tightened properly. 

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## Damage Identification 

During the inspection process, the rigger may identify various discrepancies in the materials and/or the assemblies. While the following inspection processes call out what to look for, the specific descriptions and treatment of the damage are provided in Chapter 7, Repairs, Alterations, and Manufacture. 

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## Pilot Chute and Bridle 

1. Check the spring shape and tension; it should not have an excessive bend to the length of the spring. There should be no kinks in the wire or sharp edges or burrs. The swages should be smooth and tight. Check the tension of the spring against the manufacturer’s specifications. Most current springs have between 20–30 pounds of tension, but some run as high as 40–45 pounds. Too strong a spring is rarely an issue, but too weak often is a problem. Some manufacturers specify a testing method and frequency of testing. 

