System information

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. If any wear or damage is found,
have it repaired immediately by a qualified rigger. Delaying repairs may result in a malfunction.
PARTICULAR ATTENTION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THESE AREAS:
1 Breakaway System. Refer to the 3-Ring maintenance section in this manual for detailed
information on inspecting the canopy releases.
2 Reserve System. This includes the reserve ripcord, locking loop, pins, handle, housing, container
and associated stitching. You should not attempt any repairs or modifications to any of these items
unless you are a master rigger. You can, however, spot little problems before they become major.
3 Harness. The harness should be inspected periodically for broken stitching or frayed webbing.
Main risers, in particular, are subject to wear. See the 3-Ring maintenance section of this manual.
Type 17 mini risers should be replaced every 200-400 jumps depending on wing loading.
4 Main Container. Inspect the plastic stiffeners in the container flaps and replace any that are bro-
ken. Replace any grommets that are badly deformed or are pulling out of their setting. Replace any
worn out spandex pouches, which could result in a premature deployment
5 Main Pilot Chute. Check the center line (the length of nylon tape inside 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. If your Mirage is
equipped with a collapsing main pilot chute, look for wear in moving parts.
6 Closing Loop. The main container is held shut with a closing 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 result. Replace the loop with a duplicate if wear is noticed.
CAUTION: Never jump a Mirage with a worn main or reserve closing loop
.