Cross Connected RSL

[JWest 0]

There has been an incident thread discussing use of the cross connected RSL. Moving the discussion here to continue it in a more appropriate and visible area.

In responce to this incident the manufacturer has said RTFM. The issue is that the manual -Found here http://www.jumpshack.com/download/RacerOwnersManualOctober2003.pdf- does not contain information about the risks or proper procedures required when using a cross connected RSL. Since the manufacture is not going to put out this information it is our responsibility to inform the community of the risks and procedures involved with using a cross connected RSL.

To summarize from the other thread:

1. The cross connected RSL is designed to postpone a reserve deployment until both main risers are completely separated from the harness.

2. The manual does not contain much information about the cross connected RSL.

3. The manufacturer has released additional information about the cross connected RSL. This was done in 1996, not all of the information is in the manual released in 2003. Those can be found here: http://www.jumpshack.com/default.asp?CategoryID=TECH&PageID=RSL2&SortBy=DATE_D

http://www.jumpshack.com/default.asp?CategoryID=TECH&PageID=2SQUARESOUT&SortBy=DATE_D

http://www.jumpshack.com/default.asp?CategoryID=TECH&PageID=RSL&SortBy=DATE_D

4. The proper procedures for using a cross connected RSL is to always detach one or both of the quick release shackles once under a good canopy.

5. The proper procedure for a total or PCIT malfunction is to go straight to silver, do not cut away first.

6. The risk involved with cutting away during PCIT malfunction is that the cross connected RSL lanyard will wrap around the reserve risers and choke off the reserve if it deploys after the reserve. An example can be seen here: https://youtu.be/5dvy7ywQK18?t=1m3s

8. If you or someone you knows uses a cross connected RSL make sure they are fully aware of the risks and procedures involved with jumping it.

[JeffCa 0]

I don't think #4 is actually something that you need to do because of the double-sided RSL, but maybe somebody will correct me. It's just a recommended practice that Jump Shack suggests for *any* RSL. You only have to disconnect if you have a 2-out, before you consider cutting the main.

It should also be pointed out that a Racer double-sided RSL can be converted to a single-sided RSL, which eliminates these particular risks (while introducing others that are flaws of "regular" RSLs). It can be done in 2 ways, either in the field by the jumper, or with a modification by a rigger. Contact Jump Shack for details.

"So many fatalities and injuries are caused by decisions jumpers make before even getting into the aircraft. Skydiving can be safe AND fun at the same time...Honest." - Bill Booth

[fcajump 153]

FWIW -

In line with the discussion of "correct" emergency procedures being taught...

This video: Cutaway! Australian Parachute Federation's malfunction training video shows a one-hand per handle and one procedure only (always cutaway then silver).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBNf-HsD3Ms

I don't dispute the notion that one must know one's gear and its idiosyncrasies... just that having gear that does not match the common training is going to lead to problems.

Just another piece to the puzzle.

JW

Always remember that some clouds are harder than others...