TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL INDEX
Contents
1. STEVENSONS LANYARD HOOK KNIFE RISER DIVE LOOPS RETRACTABLE PILOT CHUTE TRIPLE RISERS INSPECTED BY TEAR DROP 1 PIN DATE Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 412. COUNT ALL YOUR TOOLS FIGURE 33 FIGURE 34 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 21 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL FIGURE 35 FIGURE 36 This procedure assures that every TEAR DROP 1 PIN has the right loop length for a good pack job and an easy ripcord pull The CYPRES loop does not stretch and allows the ripcord to slide more easily than a nylon loop would even when the reserve pilot chute is pulled firmly down on the container THE STEVENSONS LANYARD ROUTING The stevensons lanyard should be connected to the 3 ring cover by the Velcro attachment as shown in FIGURE 1 This should be done when the reserve ripcord is past through the bottom of the lanyard through the stainless steel 0 grommet The reserve ripcord is then past through the reserve ripcord housing which is velcroed down to the front lift web of the harness by the chest strap Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 22 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL When the reserve has been packed you then attach the main risers to the 3 ring release At this point you need to attach the lanyard to the main risers Make sure that the main risers are type 8 webbing YOU MUST NOT ATTACH THE LANYARD TO TYPE 17 RISERS UNLESS THEY ARE THE REVERSIBLE TYPE Ensure that the bronze fixed bail snap shackle is attached to the small ring on the risers and that it works smoothly and correctly WORKING When the cutaway proc
3. riser grommet so it pokes out the back of the riser ASSEMBLY OF THE 3 RING RELEASE 5 Continue treading the white loop through the grommet on the end of the cable housing The flat side of the fabric housing grommet should be against the riser Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 31 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL 6 Thread the yellow cable through the white loop ensuring that the loop isn t twisted take care with the cable so that you don t bend it too sharply or kink it Insert the free end of the cable in the channel on the back of the riser 7 Repeat the above steps with the other riser LZ PRE JUMP INSPECTION Before jumping the Tear Drop 1 Pin check the 3 ring release system for the following 1 Each ring passes through only one other ring Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 32 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL The white loop passes through only the small ring The white loop passes through the grommet on the end of the cable housing without twists Nothing passes through the white loop except the yellow Teflon cable The 3 ring release handle is securely fixed to the harness and that no cable is visible an Z M SJAL MWA PAK W Lope ATG REQUIRED PERIODIC MAINTENANCE FOR THE 3 RINGS The Booth 3 ring release system has been in use for many years with excellent results Although th
4. 2 FIGURE 3 FIGURE 4 FIGURE 5 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 7 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL INTRUCTIONS FOR THE PULL OUT A S fold the pilot chute bridle across the top of the container and lay the folded pilot chute on the center of the deployment bag with the base coming out of the right hand bottom corner B Place the pull out pad onto the velcro on the bottom of the container C Close the container with the closing loop following the s on the main container flaps D Ensure that where the pad and pin is attached to the pilot chute it is free from snagging on the right side E Remove the pull up cord and tuck the excess bridle and base of the pilot chute up under the bottom right hand flap COMPATIBILITY Make sure that the main parachute you are packing is the right size for the Tear Drop 1 Pin it is connected to CLOSING LOOP LENGTH A too short closing loop results in a dangerously hard pull One that is to long looks messy and can snag on protrusions on aircraft or on lines whilst performing C R W Clear a channel for the loop visually inspect the complete pack job from both the front and back back pad of the Tear Drop 1 Pin Ensure that no lines parachute or pilot chute material can hinder the closing loop passage through the main container There are many types of main parachutes on the market today and the Tear Drop 1 Pin can be manufactured to accept mos
5. ND ROUTING OF THE RIPCORD BE SURE THE RESERVE RIPCORD HANDLE IS WELL SEATED IN ITS VELCRO POCKET THE MAIN PILOT CHUTE MUST BE PROTECTED BY ITS POUCH BUT THE HANDLE MUST BE EASILY VISIBLE AND ACCESSIBLE PUTTING ON YOUR TEAR DROP 1 PIN When lifting the TEAR DROP 1 PIN hold the main lift web between the large harness ring and the chest strap Put the rig on as you would a jacket setting the yoke across the shoulders Step through the leg straps being sure they are not twisted then thread the chest strap through its friction adapter and tighten it to where it is most comfortable and snug Be sure it has NOT been threaded through the reserve ripcord handle Tighten the leg straps until they are comfortably snug and then put the free ends of the straps down the leg pads or in the elastic keepers It is important to secure these free ends a loose end can easily be mistaken for a deployment handle Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 40 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL CUSTOMER INSPECTION SHEET PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER SERIAL NUMBER CONTAINER TYPE CONTAINER SIZE HARNESS SIZE PARTS LIST 1 MAIN RISERS amp TOGGLES 2 MAIN DEPLOYMENT BAG 3 CUTAWAY HANDLE 4 MAIN PILOT CHUTE amp BRIDLE 5 RESERVE PILOT CHUTE amp LOOP 6 7 8 9 1 RAM AIR RESERVE FREE BAG RESERVE RIPCORD RESERVE TOGGLES MAIN LOCKING LOOP 0 TEAR DROP OWNERS MANUAL IF APPLICABLE nak WN
6. RS MANUAL PARTS LIST THE TEAR DROP 1 PIN IS SHIPPED TO THE CUSTOMER WITH THE FOLLOWING COMPONENTS HARNESS CONTAINER MAIN RISERS WITH CONTROL TOGGLES MAIN DEPLOYMENT BAG CUTAWAY HANDLE MAIN PILOT CHUTE AND BRIDLE RESERVE PILOT CHUTE WITH SPECIAL CLOSING LOOP RESERVE RAM AIR FREE BAG FOR SQUARE RESERVES RESERVE RIPCORD RESERVE CONTROL TOGGLES MAIN LOCKING LOOP TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNER S MANUAL All TEAR DROP 1 PIN harness containers are manufactured to accept the Cypress A A D Only the TEAR DROP 1 PIN reserve pilot chute may be used with the TEAR DROP 1 PIN harness container system Do not substitute with any other pilot chute Only the TEAR DROP 1 PIN reserve free bag may be used when packing a ram air reserve into the TEAR DROP 1 PIN harness container system All components listed above are also available individually from Your TEAR DROP 1 PIN dealer OR Thomas Sports Equipment Limited Pinfold Lane Bridlington East Yorkshire Y016 5XS England Tel 44 0 1262 678299 Fax 44 0 1262 602063 TRAINING REQUIRED BEFORE JUMPING THE Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 4 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL TEAR DROP 1 PIN The T S E Tear Drop 1 Pin may be jumped only by persons who have received thorough instruction on its use from a qualified instructor It is the responsibility of the owner and those whom he allows to use the system to ensure it is properly assembled m
7. TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL INDEX PAGE DESCRIPTION 1 INDEX 2 INTRODUCTION AND FACTS ABOUT THOMAS SPORTS EQUIP 3 DESCRIPTION OF THE MAIN CONTAINER FUNCTIONS DESCRIPTION OF THE THROW AWAY MAIN PILOT CHUTE DESCRIPTION OF THE PULL OUT PILOT CHUTE DESCRIPTION OF THE RESERVE CONTAINER DESCRIPTION OF THE HARNESS 4 PARTS LIST 5 TRAINING REQUIRED FOR JUMPING THE TEAR DROP 1 PIN 6 ABOUT MODIFICATIONS amp THE MAIN CONTAINER 7 FOLDING THE THROW AWAY PILOT CHUTE 8 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PULL OUT PILOT CHUTE 9 21 PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE IN THE TEAR DROP 1 PIN 22 amp 23 THE STEVENSON LANYARD 24 amp 25 MAINTENANCE AND CARE OF THE TEAR DROP 1 PIN 26 30 THE 3 RING RELEASE SYSTEM 30 amp 31 ASSEMBLY OF THE 3 RING RELEASE 32 PRE JUMP INSPECTION 33 amp 34 REQUIRED PERIODIC MAINTENANCE FOR THE 3 RING RELEASE 35 amp 36 REVERSIBLE 3 RING RELEASE SYSTEM 37 amp 38 INSTALLATION OF COLLAPSIBLE MAIN PILOT CHUTE 39 BEFORE USING THE TEAR DROP 1 PIN HARNESS CONTAINER PUTTING ON YOUR TEAR DROP 1 PIN 40 CUSTOMER INSPECTION SHEET Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL INTRODUCTION First of all we would like to thank you for choosing a Thomas Sports Equipment Tear Drop 1 Pin you have shown impeccable taste Please read this manual thoroughly before assembling or using your Tear Drop 1 Pin If after reading this manual you still have questions concerning the Tear D
8. URE 14 shows the 1 pin quick loop coming out of the top of the reserve chute with the pull up cord in place FIGURE 15 shows the pull up cord coming back through the center of the reserve pilot chute and through the T bar FIGURE 16 shows the reserve pilot chute now seated on top of the reserve container P FIGURE 17 shows the TEAR DROP 1 PIN in the upright position with one hand on the top of the domed reserve pilot chute cap the Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 16 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL other on the T bar Slowly pull the T bar through the reserve container bringing the pull up cord and quick loop with it FIGURE 714 FIGURE 715 FIGURE 716 FIGURE 717 PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container Q FIGURE 718 shows the locking off of the reserve pin with the quick loop When the reserve ripcord pin is in position and locked off by the quick loop REMOVE THE PULL UP CORD R FIGURES 19 20 AND 21 show the stowing of the excess reserve pilot chute fabric underneath the domed 1 pin pop top cap FIGURE 718 FIGURE 719 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 17 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL FIGURE 20 FIGURE 21 PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container S FIGURES 22 23 AND 24 show the stowing of the excess reser
9. a ki PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container The next stage is stowing the reserve bridle line under the bottom closing flap FIGURE 7 shows the reserve bridle line been folded in half FIGURE 8 then shows the reserve bridle line been folded in a quarter to give you a dove tail effect FIGURE 9 shows the pointed end of the dove tail been stowed into the stage deployment locking loop Approximately 2cm should be stowed into the elastic NO MORE THAN 3cm FIGURE 10 shows the reserve bridle line then folded in half length ways and moved to the bottom of the reserve container Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 14 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL FIGURE 8 FIGURE 7 FIGURE 9 FIGURE 10 PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container FIGURE 11 shows the top flap now closed over the T bar J K FIGURE 12 shows the reserve bridle line now stowed completely under the bottom flap of the reserve container L FIGURE 13 shows the bottom flap of the reserve container now held in position over the T bar Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 15 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL FIGURE 11 FIGURE 12 FIGURE 13 pilot PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container FIG
10. aintained packed worn and used also that the user has the training and skill to use it properly The manual is NOT a course of instruction on how to make a parachute jump Nor does it contain the various regulations that govern sport parachuting and related activities This information is best obtained from government bodies The person who inspects and packs both the main and reserve parachutes must be qualified to do so Finally nothing in this manual is meant to discourage the reader from using the T S E Tear Drop 1 Pin in a reasonable and prudent way The information and specifications in this manual where in effect at the time of printing Thomas Sports Equipment Limited however reserve the right to change specifications or design at any time without prior notice and without incurring any obligation ABOUT MODIFICATIONS It is common for jumpers to improve their rigs by altering them A high percentage of these alterations cause malfunctions or make it difficult to use the rig correctly Typical alterations include conversion to pull out pilot chute changing the configuration of the harness and changing the length of the bridles Check with Thomas Sports Equipment before you make any changes to your Tear Drop 1 Pin It was designed and built the way it is as a result of years of testing and development There are reasons for having things the way they are reasons that might not be apparent at first Check with the Manufacturer before y
11. air flow the wearer must throw to their side and release the pilot chute The pilot chute then pulls out of the main container For the apex pull out pilot chute the system of deployment activation is as is for the base mounted pilot chute however the pad is located on top of the pilot chute THE RESERVE CONTAINER The reserve parachute container is held closed by a single pin The reserve ripcord is protected by a cover on the inside back of the jumper so that once checked on the ground it does not need to be checked again in the aircraft The reserve ripcord handle is made of metal and fit into a pocket on the left hand main lift web The reserve pilot chute is a domed shaped externally mounted pilot chute that is held closed by the use of a single loop through the center of the reserve pilot chute The external mounting ensures that the reserve pilot chute escapes to the clean air flow in deployment as fast as possible as there is no need for the flaps to be knocked out of its way You may have a Stevenson Lanyard attached to the reserve ripcord handle end so that when you cutaway the main parachute the lanyard acts like a static line and pulls the reserve ripcord THE HARNESS The harness is constructed from either type 7 or type 8 Mil spec webbing and incorporates the famous 3 ring circus It also features the unique TSE shaped harness design Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 3 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNE
12. ar the opening of the yoke at the upper right hand side of the reserve container Reach into this with the hook and bring the left hand cable all the way out of the opening as far as it will come SEE FIGURE 3 Reinsert the cable into the same opening aiming it through the loop provided at the top of the yoke aiming it across towards the opening on the left side of the reserve container FIGURE 4 Although it probably doesn t make much difference in the function of the release we feel it is better to route the release cable over the reserve ripcord housing for the sake of consistency all cables are installed in this way at the Thomas Sports Equipment factory Using the cable hook bring the cable out of the left opening as far as it will come FIGURE 5 Then reinsert the cable into the same opening aiming it down towards the left ring junction as shown in FIGURE 6 The cable should be routed so as to pass the left of the bar tack in the shoulder pad exiting to the left of the main lift web at the opening of the ring junction FIGURE 7 FIGURE 4 FIGURE 5 THE 3 RING RELEASE SYSTEM From this point it is fairly easy to insert the FIGURE 6 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 29 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL cable into the left fabric housing to complete the installation The left housing is mounted so that it is aimed toward the inboard side of the shoulder pad p
13. as where acids may be found If such contamination does occur immediately and thoroughly wash the rig with plenty of warm soapy water Until a rig can be washed baking soda will neutralize most acids If acid damage occurs or is suspected a rigger should thoroughly inspect your Tear Drop 1 Pin 3 Oils and Grease Most petroleum compounds do not weaken nylon they simply stain it Such stains should be promptly removed by a rigger using the proper petroleum solvent 4 Water Water will not damage your rig but may cause some fabric colours to run Salt water will rust the hardware if not promptly and thoroughly washed off with plenty of fresh water Your rig will maintain its new appearance longer if it is kept dry 5 Soil Soil will not damage your rig Brush off the soil after it has dried and gently wash with warm soapy water Be sure that the soil is not in the housings leg snap 3 ring release reserve ripcord pin or loops Consult a rigger if your rig is heavily soiled or extremely dirty 6 Abrasion Nylon quickly frays if dragged over concrete or other rough surfaces Do not drag your rig on the concrete while packing use a packing mat 7 Certification After 10 years your Tear Drop 1 Pin harness container should be returned to Thomas Sports Equipment Ltd for overhaul and re certification THE 3 RING RELEASE SYSTEM INTRODUCTION The 3 Ring release system was invented by the Relative Workshop in 1976 It was the first practica
14. assing under the reserve risers and then upwards behind the main risers as shown in FIGURE 8 Periodic maintenance of the 3 ring release system is strongly recommended Whether equipped with either fabric housings or metal housings Although early tests have indicated that the soft housings will require less maintenance than metal housings The 3 ring FIGURE 7 system should be inspected at least every month or 50 jumps for proper function wear or damage GETTING TO KNOW THE 3 RING Knowing how the 3 ring works will help you assemble and inspect it properly Begin by peeling the release handle from the velcro on the harness Peeling rather than pulling makes it easier to separate the handle from the webbing Look behind the risers near the harness and observe the movement of the yellow cable as you pull the handle When the cable clears the white loop the release is disengaged Now slowly pull one of the risers off the harness As you pull you will notice that the white loop is pulled through the grommet by the action of the smallest ring FIGURE 8 THE 3 RING RELEASE SYSTEM Each ring forms a lever with a ten to one mechanical advantage as it passes through the other A force of 1 000 Ib pounds on the large harness ring exerts a force of only 10 Ib Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 30 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL pounds on the white loop opening shock usual
15. ater or a muddy landing Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 24 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL INSPECTION The best approach in maintaining you rig is to periodically spend a few minutes examining every detail on it This inspection should be done at least once a month If any wear or damage is found it should be rectified immediately putting off repairs may result in a malfunction In addition to inspecting the rig yourself ask your rigger to inspect the entire assembly when the reserve is repacked Particular attention should be given to these areas 1 Breakaway system Refer to the 3 ring section in this chapter for detailed information on inspecting the canopy releases 2 Reserve system This includes the reserve ripcord locking loop pins handle housings container and associated sewing You should not attempt any repairs or modifications to any of these items unless you are an appropriately rated rigger you can however spot little problems before they become major 3 Harness The harness should be inspected periodically for broken stitching of frayed webbing 4 Main container Inspect the plastic stiffeners in the container flaps any broken stiffeners should be replaced Check grommets replace any grommets that are badly deformed or pulling out of their setting A rigger must replace grommets or plastic stiffeners 5 Main pilot chute Check the centerline a length of nylon tape inside
16. d in it The off set grommet is where the 1 pin quick loop is started B Insert the 1 pin quick loop from the inside of the reserve pilot chute up to the off set grommet and pass it through ensuring that the locking washer prevents the 1 pin quick loop from passing through the grommet SEE FIGURE 71 Make sure the adjustment of the 1 pin quick loop is on the outside of the pop top SEE FIGURE 72 C When you have the 1 pin quick loop through the top of the pilot chute cap you then insert the 1 pin quick loop end back down the center grommet of the pilot chute cap leaving the finger trapped end on the outside of the pilot chute This will then be used for tightening the loop when the reserve is packed FIGURE 1 FIGURE 2 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 12 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container D FIGURES 3 4 5 AND 6 show how to close the side flaps and the routing of the square reserve bag bridle As shown in FIGURE 4 3 4 inches of reserve bridle line must be tucked back under the square reserve bag FIGURE 5 shows closing the left hand side of the reserve container FIGURE 6 shows the right hand side flap been closed Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 13 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL FIGURE 3 FIGURE 4 p bv FIGURE 5 FIGURE 6 m QHP
17. e system is as durable as the rest of the harness and container assembly 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 awaiting rigging ready to jump Like all skydiving gear the 3 ring release should be carefully Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 33 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL inspected and operated on a regular basis 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 as a drag across the runway a water landing or exposure to a lot of dust or sand 1 Every month operate the 3 ring release system on the ground Extract the cable completely from the housings and disconnect the risers 2 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 3 Check the velcro on the break away handle and main lift web to be sure it is clean and adequately holds the handle 4 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 cable ends and consult a rigger or the ma
18. ed as shown in FIG 5 7 FIGURE 6 S Fold the rest of the canopy into the reserve bag as shown in FIG 6 8 FIGURE 7 Lock the reserve bag closed with the suspension lines and safety stow only safety stow elastics must be used 9 FIGURE 8 Stow the reminder of the suspension lines into the pouch on the under side of the bag S Fold half of the lines into the left side of the pouch and then the other half into the right side of the pouch Be sure none of the lines are trapped between the Velcro at the mouth of the pouch 10 You are now ready to put the reserve bag into the container FIGURE 1 FIGURE 2 FIGURE 3 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 WIDTH OF DEPLOYMENT BAG WIDTH OF DEPLOYMENT BAG 10 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE FIGURE 4 FIGURE 5 BRIDLE T HANDLE BODKIN T HANDLE BODKIN DEPLOYMENT BAG LOCKING FLAP FIGURE 6 FIGURE 7 Js uM LY s TOT LE TIN YA DEPLOYMENT BAG p o T HANDLE BODKIN 2 CX ma CA lI BRIDLE CUTAWAY SIDE VIEW FIGURE 8 11 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL p fT p Y PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container A The reserve pilot chute is supplied with an aluminum cap on the top with 2 grommets containe
19. edure is activated the main risers separate from the harness which then invokes the lanyard as the risers go away from the harness it puts pressure on the ripcord cable and this then pulls the reserve ripcord pin The reserve ripcord handle stays in the reserve ripcord pocket at all times this allows the jumper to continue the cutaway and reserve pull procedure The ripcord will not hit you in the face MAINTENANCE 1 Make sure the Velcro in the reserve ripcord pocket is always in good working order 2 Make sure the Velcro on the lanyard is always in good in good working order 3 Make sure the bronze fixed bail shackle works correctly and is fastened properly to the main riser at all times 4 Make sure the attachment ring on the main riser is in good order and that no fraying webbing has occurred around the ring 5 AT ALL TIMES MAKE SURE THE LANYARD IS ATTACHED TO TYPE 8 WEBBING RISERS OR TYPE 17 REVERSIBLE RISERS THE STEVENSONS LANYARD PARTS MADE UP AND INSTALLED FIGURE 1 FIGURE 2 FIGURE 3 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 23 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL ERAN ANN dwan 1 M ON RAD W fe NN RY MAINTENANCE amp CARE OF TEAR DROP 1 PIN INTRODUCTION Your Tear Drop 1 Pin will last longer look better and function correctly if it is maintained A Tear Drop 1 Pin actually requires very little maintenance unless it is subjected to unusual conditions such as a jump into salt w
20. em even more frequently in humid muddy or freezing conditions If the Tear Drop 1 Pin becomes immersed in mud or muddy water clean the 3 ring release system with a mild solution of soap and water Any rusted components must be replaced REPLACEMENT PARTS Thomas Sports Equipment supplies replacement parts for its rig at reasonable cost When ordering parts for your rig include the serial number type and date of manufacture of your Tear Drop 1 Pin so the proper items can be quickly supplied This information is written on the manufacturing label on the front of the left hand rear reserve riser REVERSIBLE MINI 3 ring release system IMPORTANT Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 35 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL Like the classic 3 ring risers these mini risers must be removed from the large 3 ring every month or 50 jumps flexed and inspected See REQUIRED PERIODIC MAINTENANCE FOR THE 3 RING Set up the rings as shown below REVERSIBLE MINI 3 ring release system Route the loop through the grommet of the housing and lock with the locking release cable Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 36 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL Mini riser seated Compared to page 32 the standard 3 ring this setting is reversed INSTALLATION OF COLLAPSIBLE PILOT CHUTE 1 Remove old pilot chute and bridle line if fitting to old system 2 Check bag for proper size gr
21. he most innovated on the market today TSE have developed the single pin pop top reserve container giving both safety and ease of packing The TEAR DROP 1 PIN version also lends itself to the CYPRES A A D PATENT NUMBERS U S A 4898346 GERMANY 3805085 EUROPEAN P58903422 7 08 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 2 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL THE MAIN CONTAINER FUNCTION The main canopy may be deployed by either throw away or pull out pilot chute THE THROW AWAY MAIN PILOT CHUTE The throw away is an external pilot chute located in a spandex pocket on the rear of the leg strap or on the bottom of the container The pilot chute is attached to a bridle line Sewn to the bridle line is a curved locking pin This locking pin keeps the main container closed until the pilot chute inflates thus removing the locking pin opening the main container and extracting the main parachute THE PULL OUT MAIN PILOT CHUTE The pull out base mounted pilot chute is a soft handle located on the bottom right hand corner of the main container the pilot chute is stowed inside the main container this connects to a straight pin at the base of the pilot chute Hence base mounted As the handle is pushed straight down the straight pin releases the nylon loop allowing the main container to open The pull action extracts the pilot chute from inside the main container The pilot chute must be thrown manually into the clean
22. hute the bridle line comes out of the bottom left hand side of the main container Close the bottom flap 1 then the top flap 2 left side flap 3 then the right side flap 4 Insert the curved pin through the closing loop from right to left Next dress the container making sure that the risers are correctly positioned Remove the pull up cord Note that the container will not open if the pull up cord is left in Mate the velcro on the pilot chute bridle starting from the top of the pouch on the leg strap and follow along the side of the container putting the extra bridle length under the right hand side flap of the container Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 6 at TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL FOLDING THE PILOT CHUTE Lay the pilot chute out over the leg strap net side up so the edge of the circle is the mouth of the spandex pocket S Fold the bridle line on the half of the pilot chute over the pocket Fold the pilot chute in half over the bridle line see FIGURE 2 then bring the corners up to form a wide triangle see FIGURE 3 Fold the triangle in half forming a skinny triangle see FIGURE 4 Fold the triangle into thirds forming a skinny triangle then fold it once more see again FIGURE 4 Fold the pilot chute in half so that the handle is even with the skirt see FIGURE 5 Then stow the pilot chute into the spandex pocket with the toggle showing at the top FIGURE
23. l release system that allowed parachutist to jettison their main parachute in one motion by simply pulling a single handle Not only is the 3 Ring easier to operate than previous parachute release systems it is also more reliable Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 26 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL Once the main parachute is jettisoned the only remaining items on the harness are two smooth rings that cannot snag a deploying reserve Some other popular release systems can and have interfered with the deploying reserve MODIFYING THE 3 RING RELEASE The great reliability of the 3 ring system results from the correct functioning of every one of its individual components therefore the owner should not modify the system in any way These modifications among others will cause the system not to operate properly Substituting risers that don t have type 2 sheathing for the locking loop Do not use risers that have loops made of kevlar or solid cord Not using a break away handle with cable manufactured with the special yellow coating Teflon This Teflon impregnated coating is important Other plastic coatings may cause the cable to bind in the housings or loops making it difficult or even impossible to jettison the risers Using a break away handle with cables of the wrong length The length of these cables are critical to ensure each riser releases in the proper sequence SOFT RELEASE HOUSINGS I
24. ly totals about 1 000 Ib or 500 Ib on each riser Because of the mechanical advantage provided by the 3 ring design only a force of approximately 1 Ib pound on the top ring keeps the release together This is the important reason for keeping foreign matter for example bits of grass small sticks ect out of the 3 ring assembly When nylon stays in the same position for a long period of time it begins to conform to that position or takes a set If the 3 ring release system stays assembled for too long the nylon can become so stiff that the low drag from a malfunction such as a streamer won t pull the riser off the ring The 3 ring release system must be disassembled flexed and inspected every month or 50 jumps ASSEMBLY OF THE 3 RING RELEASE Before assembling the 3 ring release system ensure the risers are not twisted Lay the container Tear drop 1 Pin face down as you would pack it 1 Thread each cable into its housing and stick the handle to the harness The handle should be positioned as close to the ends of the housings as possible so that no cable is exposed 2 With the rings of the risers facing towards the floor pass the ring on the end of the riser through the large ring from above Fold it back towards the parachute and risers 3 Thread the smallest ring through the middle ring in the same way but make sure it does not pass through the large ring 4 Bring the white loop over the small ring only then through the
25. n April 1990 Mike Furry developed the soft housings for the 3 ring release system The purpose of the soft housings is exactly the same as the metal housings To protect the release cable however assembling the release cable into the soft housings requires a somewhat different technique and a small easily made cable hook This cable hook may be made from a coat hanger wire or similar wire A suggested specification for the cable hook is shown in FIGURE 1 The soft housings are manufactured in two pieces aright and a left section as shown in FIGURE 2 THE 3 RING RELEASE SYSTEM FIGURE 1 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 27 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL LOOP MAY BE REPLACED BY RICIIT A 8 BEND OR ANY CONVENIENT GRIP 3 6 APPROX FIGURE 2 Housing channel in the back pad yoke for the routing of the cutaway cable pu RELEASE CABLE L NS X LEFT HOUSING LEFT INSERTION GUIDE RELEASE HANDLE RIGHT HOUSING THE 3 RING RELEASE SYSTEM INSERTING THE RELEASE CABLE FIGURE 3 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 28 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL Insert both cables into the housings and push them until the release handle is seated on its velcro retainer just below the chest strap behind the main lift web The right cable will exit the right fabric housing as normally expected but the left cable will coil or fold itself ne
26. nufacturer if a burr or hook is present 5 Check the stitching including that which holds the large 3 ring to the harness and the hand tacking that prevent the housings from sliding through their keeper This keeper is a loop of webbing located in the chest strap a few inches above the release handle l 6 Take each riser and vigorously twist and ia flex the webbing near where it passes through each ring The idea is to remove any set of deformation in the webbing Do the same thing to the white loop 7 Check the housings for dents or other obstructions Use the cable to do this 8 Clean and lubricate the release cable with a light silicon spray Put a few drops on a paper towel and firmly wipe the cable a few times A thin invisible film should remain lI REQUIRED PERIODIC MAINTENANCE FOR THE 3 RINGS 9 Inspect the security of the fittings at the end of each housing If one of these fittings were to come off the housing a riser might release prematurely Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 34 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL 10 If any wear is found consult the manufacturer or a rigger before using the Tear Drop 1 Pin 11 Reassemble the system Double check it Make sure the risers aren t twisted Thomas Sports Equipment appreciates any comments from users that relate to the safety operation or maintenance of the 3 ring release It is important to maintain the syst
27. ommet number 4 or 5 only Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 37 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL Thread the red retention line and kill line from the outside of the bag to the inside of the bag Thread the two loops at the bottom of the bridle line into the grommet number or 5 only Insert rapid link into loops forming a circle with the white kill line in the center Attach red retention line using the rapid link to attachment point on canopy Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 38 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL INSTALLATION OF COLLAPSIBLE PILOT CHUTE ATTACHMENT REMEMBER YOU MUST COCK THE SYSTEM BEFORE YOU CLOSE YOUR CONTAINER TO COCK THE PILOT CHUTE PULL THE APEX HANDLE OF THE PILOT CHUTE UNTIL THE CENTRE LINE OF THE PILOT CHUTE IS TAUT DO THIS BEFORE PACKING THE CANOPY INTO THE BAG Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 39 1 2 3 4 5 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING THE TEAR DROP 1 PIN READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL AND BE QUALIFIED BY PROPER INSTRUCTION FOR SPORT PARACHUTING ACTIVITIES CHECK BOTH 3 RING RELEASES TO SEE THAT THEY ARE CORRECTLY ASSEMBLED AND THE RELEASE HANDLE IS SECURELY VELCROED TO THE MAIN LIFT WEB CHECK THE MAIN CONTAINER CLOSURE FOR THE CORRECT PIN POSITION AND THE CORRECT ROUTING OF THE BRIDLE LINE CHECK THE RESERVE CONTAINER FOR CORRECT PIN CLOSURE A
28. ou make any changes even insignificant alterations may have very negative or unforeseen effects THE MAIN Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 5 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL PACKING THE MAIN First refer to the manufacturers instructions for laying out the main parachute setting the brakes and otherwise preparing the main parachute to put into the deployment bag If you are unable to obtain suitable instructions for the main the conventional pack job will generally suffice If you require further instruction seek the advice of a suitable instructor 1 2 Fold the parachute slightly wider than the deployment bag Place the parachute on top of the deployment bag then push the parachute out into the corners of the deployment bag Then close the bag making sure that you have filled out the corners of the bag Thread the locking bungies through the grommets of the bag and stow all the lines on the deployment bag Pull the pilot chute bridle out of the top of the deployment bag until the load bearing ring on top of the parachute seats against the grommet on the top of the main deployment bag Set the deployment bag in the tray of the main container with the lines facing the bottom the container and the pilot chute bridle coming out of the top of the container SEE FIGURE 1 FIGURE 1 WARNING YOUR LINES MUST BE STOWED AT THE BOTTOM OF YOUR CONTAINER When using a throw away pilot c
29. rop 1 Pin please contact us we will be more than willing to help If you have any suggestions or see a need for some changes in the Tear Drop 1 Pin please let us know by calling or writing to Thomas Sports Equipment Pinfold Lane Bridlington East Yorkshire YO16 5XS Tel 44 0 1262 678299 Fax 44 0 1262 602063 FACTS about Thomas Sports Equipment Thomas Sports has been manufacturing parachute equipment since 1968 and has provided services from students to British team members Twenty six years in our sport has provided TSE with a wealth of experience in developing and manufacturing parachute equipment with an enthusiasm and commitment in the complete sense A service second to none This in turn means you can be confident in the knowledge that with TSE you are using the very best available from the initial PLF through to the highest levels of competing Staff qualifications are more than impressive 2 FAA master riggers 2 BPA advanced rigger examiners with a collective total of over 10 000 jumps oversee all aspects of the production maintenance and repairs operations at the loft Every care is taken to ensure that each rig from TSE meets the highest possible standards The Tear Drop 1 Pin is a piggy back harness and container system designed for free fall sport parachuting It is available in a wide variety of container sizes to fit practically any main or reserve canopies on the market today This harness container system is t
30. rt one end of the pull up cord through the grommet in the top and bottom of the bag and tie it to the other end so that it won t slip out during the packing procedure NOTE Some riggers prefer to use a T bar instead of a pull up cord Insert the T bar through the bag from the bottom The T bar or pull up cord will be used later to pull the locking loop through the bagged canopy Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 9 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE 4 FIGURE 1 Dress the canopy to the width of the reserve bag 5 FIGURES 72 3 4 Kneel on the trailing edge and keeping the center seam in the middle of the bundle push the middle of the top of the canopy down to your knees until the bundle resembles two ears as shown in FIG 2 Spread the center of the trailing edge out to the approximate width of the reserve bag and kneel on it again Using a pushing and rolling motion shape the ears so that the bundle resembles the V shape in FIG 3 Then place the reserve bag as shown in FIG 4 The grommet of the reserve bag and the T bar should be right at the crutch of the V formed by the bag 6 FIGURE 5 Kneel on the canopy so that your knee holds the locking flap of the reserve bag in place then stuff each arm of the V into its respective side of the reserve bag The T bar will be effectively surrounded by canopy and should be well fill
31. t of them Because of the size range available on the main parachutes this manual does not contain instructions on inspection and assembling each one for these steps it is the responsibility of a qualified packer to use the appropriate method for any main he she packs and to pack according to the harness container manufacture s instructions Deviating from these instructions results in a void pack job and no responsibility will be held by THOMAS SPORTS EQUIPMENT LIMITED Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 8 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Because of the size range of square reserve canopies available today this manual does not contain instructions on inspection assembling and flaking For these steps the rigger must follow the instructions provided by the canopy manufacturer TYPICAL PRO PACKING EXAMPLE TOOLS REQUIRED 1X TBar 1X Pull up cord cypres type 1X Packing paddle 1 Thoroughly inspect the pilot chute bridle deployment bag canopy lines links locking loop risers container and harness Follow canopy manufactures instructions Attaching the canopy to risers Attaching toggles to steering lines Flaking canopy Folding the nose of the canopy Setting deployment brakes Splitting the tail Stowing the slider Dressing the canopy m 2 O gt 2 gt Prepare the free bag so that it is ready to be packed To do this inse
32. the pilot chute that extends from the handle to the base of the main pilot chute It must be firmly sewn at each end there must be no broken stitches or torn fabric Inspect the seam that joins the pilot chute mesh to the pilot chute fabric If the mesh is torn or badly frayed replace the pilot chute 6 Locking loop The main container is held shut with a locking loop made of nylon suspension line sheathing This loop is subject to wear If it wears out and breaks the main canopy may release prematurely and a malfunction may occur Replace the loop with a duplicate if wear is noticed 7 Velcro Velcro tape has many applications in parachuting However it wears out and looses its adhesive ability after a while It also gets clogged with dirt and bits of grass and should be cleaned occasionally Velcro on the main pilot chute bridle should be replaced after several hundred jumps MAINTENANCE amp CARE OF TEAR DROP 1 PIN CARE Your Tear Drop 1 Pin is manufactured mostly from nylon Nylon is very durable but is susceptible to damage from several sources 1 Sunlight The ultraviolet rays in the sunlight quickly and permanently weaken nylon Keep your Tear Drop 1 Pin out of direct sunlight as much as possible Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 25 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL 2 Acid Nylon is also damaged by acid Keep your Tear Drop 1 Pin away from hangar floors dirty car trunks and similar are
33. ve pilot chute fabric underneath the domed 1 pin pop top cap Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 18 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL FIGURE 22 FIGURE 23 FIGURE 24 PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container T FIGURE 25 shows the preparation for pulling the quick loop U FIGURE 26 shows pulling up the quick loop through the center of the reserve pilot chute V FIGURE 27 and 28 show the stowing of the excess line on the quick loop VI FIGURE 25 FIGURE 26 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 19 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL FIGURE 27 FIGURE 28 PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container W FIGURE 29 shows the 1 pin fabric pop top cap X FIGURE 30 31 AND 32 show how to place the 1 pin fabric pop top cap onto the domed cap of the reserve pilot chute with the aid of a packing paddle FIGURE 29 FIGURE 30 Thomas Sports Equipment Issue 4 01 09 94 Reference Number TSE 004 20 TEAR DROP 1 PIN OWNERS MANUAL FIGURE 31 FIGURE 32 PACKING A SQUARE RESERVE Preparation of the reserve pilot chute and closing the reserve container Y FIGURE 33 34 AND 35 show how to place the 1 pin fabric pop top cap onto the domed cap of the reserve pilot chute Z FIGURE 36 shows the complete job NOW
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