O W N E R S M A N G3 U A L
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 User Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Packing Instructions for Ram Air Reserve with Freebag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Assembly of RSL (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 The 3-Ring Release System. . . . . . .
INTRODUCTION Congratulations on your purchase of a Mirage harness/container system. The Mirage is the finest harness/container system available anywhere, and with proper care and use it will last for many years. It is the purpose of this manual to provide you with the information necessary to enable you to care for and use your Mirage properly. It is our hope you will enjoy your Mirage as much as we enjoyed building it for you.
WARNING Low Speed Parachute Limited to use from Airplane under 150 mph Skydiving is a hazardous activity that can result in injury or death. Parachutes sometimes malfunction even though they are properly designed, built, assembled, packed, maintained and used. The results of such malfunctions are sometimes serious injury or death.
Packing the Reserve Container TOOL LIST 1. Complete Mirage packing data card 2. Lead seal, press, and thread 3. Cypres loop, washer, and silicon 4. Bodkin/T-bar 5. Long pull up cord 6. Temporary pin 7. Temporary pile velcro tabs 8. Leverage Bar or Packing Paddle [Fig. 1] Helpful Hint: Count and keep track of your tools! Fig.
Packing the Reserve Container Attach the square reserve to the container system. Attach the steering toggles, set the deployment brake length according to canopy manufacturers instructions. [Fig. 4] Fig. 4 Fig. 5 Stow excess reserve canopy steering line in velcro keeper. Mate toggle to velcro on reserve risers. Repeat on opposite riser. [Fig. 5 & 6] Fig. 7 Attach temporary pile velcro tabs to the hook side of velcro on the line stow pocket of reserve freebag.
Packing the Reserve Container Fold canopy in accordance to canopy manufacturers instructions. Mirage Systems recommends P.R.O. pack style. After flaking and laying the container down, insure that all suspension lines are placed into the center of the canopy. Centering the suspension lines improves deployment. All suspension lines should be centered the entire length of the cocoon. [Fig. 9] Fig. 9 Cocoon the canopy to the width of the reserve freebag mouth lock. Canopies cocooned wider may increase bulk.
Packing the Reserve Container The second S fold is placed over the first fold. This begins to create the desired wedge shape of the reserve container. [Fig. 12] Helpful Hint: The second fold should be 6-8 inches overall. The majority of the bulk should be towards the bottom of the reserve container. Fig. 12 Pull remaining center cell back creating the MOLAR shape [Fig.
Packing the Reserve Container Place canopy onto the freebag. [Fig. 15] Helpful Hint: After placing canopy on the bag work one side at a time into the freebag. Insure the bodkin is between the MOLAR “ears”. Fig. 15 Close the freebag mouth lock using the safety stow. [Fig. 16] Helpful Hint: The microline lock stows should be 2 inches, Dacron line lock stows may require up to 3”. Fig.
Packing the Reserve Container Here is a suggested reserve closing loop length chart. Prestretched loops are measured from the washer to the end of the closing loop. [Fig. 18] Reserve Closing Loop Canopy Size Loop Length PD-113 rsv PD-126 rsv PD-143 rsv PD-160 rsv PD-176 rsv PD-193 rsv PD-218 rsv PD-253 rsv 3.75" 4.00" 4.25" 4.50" 4.75" 5.25" 6.00" 6.00" +/+/+/+/+/+/+/+/- 1/4" 1/4" 1/4" 1/4" 1/4" 1/4" 1/4" 1/4" IMPORTANT: Reserve ripcord pull force must remain under 22 lbs pull force.
Packing the Reserve Container Push freebag into the reserve container, filling the corners and make space for the reserve pilot chute. [Fig. 21] Helpful Hint: Place your knee on the center freebag grommet while pulling up on the #4 and #5 side flaps, and work the canopy into the corners and away from the center grommet. This is important for bulk distribution and proper pilot chute seating and should be repeated often. Fig. 21 Fig.
Packing the Reserve Container Distribute the remaining 3-4 ft of bridle on top of the #1 closing flap.[Fig. 25] Fig. 25 Thread pull up cord through the spring pilot chute. Center the pilot chute base over the #1 closing flap grommet. [Fig. 26] Fig. 26 While keeping all pilot chute fabric out of the spring, compress the pilot chute. [Fig. 27] Helpful Hint: Holding the pull up cord in mouth will help control the spring. The pull up cord helps guide the pilot chute while you compress with your hands. Fig.
Packing the Reserve Container Using a leverage bar with the pull up cord for leverage, pull the closing loop up through the #2 Pilot chute cap closing sequence. Pin using the temporary closing pin. [Fig. 28] IMPORTANT: There should not be pilot chute fabric inside of the compressed coils of the spring. Helpful Hint: If an actual leverage bar is not available, a wrench or packing paddle can be used. Fig. 28 After pilot chute cap is pinned, force the pilot chute down into the reserve freebag. [Fig.
Packing the Reserve Container Place your foot on top edge of the reserve pilot chute cap. Push the pilot chute towards the bottom while pulling the #3 flap closed. Remove and replace temporary pin. [Fig. 31] Helpful Hint: Remember to remove the temporary pin once the grommets are touching. With adequate pressure to contain the pilot chute, the temporary pin can be remove and repositioned to the #3 closing flap. Fig. 31 Once #3 flap is pinned, force the pilot chute down into the freebag. [Fig.
Packing the Reserve Container Once the #4 and #5 side flap grommets are drawn towards the center over the closing loop, unthread the #5 flap. Keep pressure on the #4 flap and once again reposition the temporary pin onto the #4 closing flap. [Fig. 34]. After closing flap #4, close flap #5. Remove and reposition the temporary pin. Helpful Hint: The Mirage pilot chute spring produces up to a 40lb spring force. REMEMBER to keep adequate pressure to contain it while repositioning the temporary pin. Fig.
Packing the Reserve Container Before sealing the container, count and inspect ALL tools that were used. [See Fig.1] Seal reserve pin with 5 lb seal thread. [Fig. 37] IMPORTANT: Do not forget to replace the completed packing data card in the proper pocket. Fig. 37 Close the reserve pin cover using all three tuck tabs. [Fig.38] Helpful Hint: Tucking the right (#1), larger tab under first then the smaller left (#2) will make it easier to close.
The RSL System The Reserve Static Line System (RSL) is optional equipment on the Mirage harness/container. If it is not installed on your Mirage, you do not need to read this section. If you would like to have the RSL installed on your Mirage, you may contact Mirage Systems at the address on the back of this manual. To properly use a system equipped with an RSL, you must be familiar with it’s assembly, operation and function.
The RSL System Mate 5/8” hook Velcro to rear reserve riser. [Fig. 3] Fig. 3 Attach the snap shackle to the main riser RSL ring and inspect routing. The RSL shackle must not interfere with the operation of the 3-Ring System. [Fig. 4] Fig. 4 Prior to closing flap #6, thread reserve ripcord through the RSL rings [Fig.5], with the ring on the RSL lanyard between the two rings on flap #6. After closing flap #6, neatly tuck the excess lanyard under the reserve closing flap.
The 3-Ring Release System 3 RING HISTORY The 3-Ring Release System was invented in 1976. It was the first practical release that allowed parachutists to jettison their main canopies in one motion by simply pulling a single handle. Not only is the 3-Ring easier to operate than previous canopy release systems, it is also more reliable. Once the main is jettisoned, the only things left on the harness are two smooth rings that cannot snag a deploying reserve.
The 3-Ring Release System USE OF 1-INCH (TYPE 17) RISERS Type 17 risers (1” wide) are a high-performance piece of equipment. High-performance translates to low durability. We recommend inspecting Type 17 risers frequently for wear, abrasion, cuts, burns or other damage. In particular, look on the back of the risers for signs that the webbing is stretching away from the grommets. Such separation is cause for riser replacement. Change the risers between 200 and 400 jumps.
Assembly of the 3-Ring Release System Before assembling the 3-Ring release, make sure the risers aren’t twisted or reversed. Lay the Mirage face down, as you would to pack it. Thread each cable into its housing and mate 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. With the rings of the riser facing forward, pass the large ring on the end of the riser through the large harness ring from above.
Assembly of the 3-Ring Release System Bring the white loop over the small ring only and then through the riser grommet so it pokes out the back of the riser. [Fig. 3] IMPORTANT: For the proper leverage reduction, the white loop must only travel over the smallest ring. Fig. 3 Continue threading the white loop through the end fitting on the cable housing. The flat side of the end fitting should be against the riser. [Fig. 4] Fig.
The 3-Ring Release System PRE-JUMP INSPECTION FOR THE 3-RING RELEASE Before jumping the Mirage, check the 3-Ring release system for the following: 1) Each ring passes through only one other ring. 2) The white loop passes through only the small ring. 3) The white loop passes through the end fitting on the cable housing without twisting. 4) Nothing passes through the white loop except the yellow cable.
Assembly of Centerline Collapsible Pilot Chute Set out your main canopy, main bag and new pilot chute. Find the bridle attachment point on your main canopy [Fig. 1]. Remove the #4 Rapid link from the bridle. Be sure to unscrew the barrel fully, that will help you to install it later. Fig. 1 Feed the end of the bridle through the grommet in the top of the main bag from the outside in.
Assembly of Centerline Collapsible Pilot Chute Pass the white collapse line and the bridle through the Rapid link by passing them through the open gate of the link. At this point, a small screwdriver or other similar tool can be used to straighten out the second fabric loop [Fig. 4] Fig. 4 Feed the male end of the connector link through the gap in the second loop until it protrudes through the loop, the thread the barrel over the male end, closing the link. Tighten lightly with a wrench [Fig. 5] Fig.
Assembly of Centerline Collapsible Pilot Chute Pass the large loop at the end of the bridle through the canopy bridle attachment loop, then pass the entire assembly, starting with the pilot chute handle through the loop in the bridle. [Fig. 7] Fig. 7 Cinch tight [Fig. 8] If these instructions are at all unclear or you have any questions, CONSULT A RIGGER. Fig. 8 IMPORTANT: In order for the collapsing pilot chute to work properly, it must be cocked before every jump.
Assembly of Standard Pilot Chute Feed the large loop of the bridle through the grommet in the top of the main bag from the outside in. [Fig. 1] Fig. 1 Pass the large loop at the end of the bridle through the canopy bridle attachment loop, then pass the entire assembly, starting with the pilot chute handle [Fig. 2] through the large loop in the bridle. Fig. 2 Cinch tight [Fig. 3] Fig.
Packing the Main Container The Mirage container system is compatible with practically any ram-air main parachute that will fit into the container. This manual does not provide specific instructions for folding the main canopy; that information must be obtained from the manufacturer’s instruction manual for each canopy. Fold the canopy and pack it into the Mirage deployment bag according to those instructions. Once you have placed the canopy into the main deployment bag, begin stowing the suspension lines.
Packing the Main Container Lay the secondary riser covers over the risers. Make sure that they are tucked into the riser channel. [Fig. 5] Helpful Hint: The secondary riser covers are made of a material that will take a shape after use. Take a little extra time on the first 10 pack jobs to insure proper packing of these covers. This extra time will insure the proper shaping of the secondary riser covers, which should not be visible once the main riser covers are packed. Fig. 5 Thread the pull-up cord.
Packing the Main Container Close flap #2, being sure the main bridle is routed out from under the right side of the #2 flap. Mate the 1” velcro on the bridle line to the 1” velcro on the main flap. Lay excess bridle line to the right. [Fig. 8] Fig. 8 Close flap #3. [Fig. 9] Helpful Hint: To help with main container symmetry, keep the main deployment bag centered or a little to the left inside the main pack tray. Pulling on the main flaps while closing has a tendency to push the bag to one side. Fig.
Proper Bridle Routing for Main Container Proper routing of the main bridle for standard righthanded main deployment [Fig. 1]. Note that the bridle passes from the right of the container, to the pin, and back out to the right. It does not cross over the #2 flap. Fig. 1 IMPORTANT: Do not cross the main bridle from left side to right side of the main pin cover flap, as this may cause a slow deployment or a main pilot chute in tow [Fig. 2].
Packing the Main Pilot Chute Fig. 1 There are many ways to fold a main pilot chute. Mirage Systems provides these illustrations to demonstrate one method. If using ROL deployment, mate the bridle velcro to the harness velcro to the mouth of the ROL pouch on the back of the leg pad. Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Store excess bridle line on the hand deploy pilot chute and leave approximately 8” of bridle length. Fold the pilot chute in half and proceed to fold as in illustrations. [Fig. 1-5] Fig. 4 Fig.
Maintaining Your Mirage INTRODUCTION Your Mirage will last longer, look better and function correctly if it is maintained properly. A Mirage actually requires very little maintenance unless it is subjected to unusual conditions such as a jump into salt water or a muddy landing. INSPECTING YOUR MIRAGE The best approach to maintaining your rig is to periodically spend a few minutes examining every detail on it. This inspection should be done at least every month.
Maintaining Your Mirage YOUR MIRAGE IS MANUFACTURED MOSTLY FROM NYLON. NYLON IS VERY DURABLE, BUT IS SUSCEPTIBLE TO DAMAGE FROM SEVERAL SOURCES: 1 Sunlight. The ultraviolet rays in sunlight quickly and permanently weaken nylon. Keep your Mirage out of direct sunlight as much as possible. 2 Acids. Nylon is also damaged by acids. Keep your Mirage away from hangar floors, dirty car trunks and similar areas where acids may be found.
Replacement Parts Components on any device tend to wear out with repeated use. Risers and pilot chutes are limited lifetime components. With repeated use the materials break down, losing their structural integrity. Other parts such as breakaway handles, reserve ripcords, reserve pilot chutes and reserve freebags at times are lost after an emergency procedure. Container size and serial numbers are necessary to insure that the proper replacement part is ordered.
User Instructions HOW TO PUT THE HARNESS/CONTAINER ON. When putting on your Mirage, first place you arms through the main lift web. The container should be resting on your shoulders. [Fig.1] Fig 1 Next, slip the leg straps on. Tighten the leg straps until they fit comfortably. [Fig. 2] IMPORTANT: Make sure the leg strap is threaded properly through the friction adapter. If you have any questions consult your rigger or instructor.
User Instructions Thread the chest strap through the friction adapter. Tighten until comfortable. [Fig. 4] Fig 4 IMPORTANT: Make sure the chest strap is threaded properly through the friction adapter. If you have any questions consult your rigger or instructor. [Fig. 5} Fig 5 Once you have the leg and chest strap tightened, stow all excess webbing away. Excess webbing can cause an entanglement during deployment or could be grabbed inadvertently. [Fig.
User Instructions IMPORTANT: This is not an alternative to a first jump course. To active the main deployment process, the main pilot chute must be placed in the air stream. Helpful Hint: The best body position to perform the main pilot chute deployment is with the left hand above the head with the right hand firmly grasping the handle, while maintaining a good arched body position. [Fig.7] Toss the main pilot chute into the air stream located next to your body.
Appendix The triangle method is an alternative method of folding the reserve bride line for better bulk distribution. Begin by removing all twists in the reserve bridle. Start by folding the bridle back from freebag attachment point at 60º. Continue making 60º folds in a triangle pattern. Every fourth fold alternate folding over with an under fold. This keeps the bridle from twisting. Continue until there is 3-4 feet left to be placed on the #1 closing flap. [Fig.
MIRAGE G3 HARNESS/CONTAINER SYSTEM G3 G4 Mirage Systems, Inc. Post Office Box 820 DeLand, Florida 32721 Shipping Address 1501A Lexington Ave. DeLand, Florida 32724 www.miragesys.
