Mike, the issue with this particular polish chute was that is was packed in a sleave (like a condom), and most riggers were refusing to pack them after a few had been seen to deploy. For some this was a liability issue, however, many take the view that if they would be unwilling to use it in an emergency, then they would suggest that others (less experienced - as we all are I hope) also don't use it - they would probably re-pack if insisted as a dried, re-packed canopy is better than one that has got wet several times and not been re-packed.
Most UK chutes have a 15 year life. The harness may be longer depending on condition at that point. However, an out of date chute is more likely to save you than none at all. -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Mike Borgelt Sent: Thursday, 6 November 2003 1:34 PM To: Discussion of issues relating to Soaring in Australia. Subject: Re: [Aus-soaring] Parachutes At 01:47 AM 6/11/03 +1100, you wrote: > Ken, 20yrs. The list includes most types which we normally use in >gliders, including the slimpacks and thinbacks. If the equipment has >exceeded that time, it is to be taken out of service. We have 8 which are >suddenly of no use, and I suspect many other clubs are in a similar >situation. I was told "someone at GFA office"was informed. As there >is a requirement to have a serviceable parachute for comps, this may >affect some entrants to this years events. Forwarded for your >information. Regards Glenn Mclean Anybody needing a new chute as a result of this contact us at the details below for a new National parachute. Back, chair and seatpacks available, variety of colours and 3 size canopies. One for real save we know about in Australia. Sure it isn't P.A. limiting their liability tail? Are there real engineering reasons for this limitation? The Brits have just grounded some Polish gliders for what looks to be manufacturer liability rather than real engineering reasons. Mike Borgelt Instruments - manufacturers of quality soaring instruments phone Int'l + 61 746 355784 fax Int'l + 61 746 358796 cellphone Int'l + 61 428 355784 Int'l + 61 429 355784 email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] website: www.borgeltinstruments.com _______________________________________________ Aus-soaring mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://lists.internode.on.net/mailman/listinfo/aus-soaring _______________________________________________ Aus-soaring mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://lists.internode.on.net/mailman/listinfo/aus-soaring
