Maintenance harness
ADVANCE recommends that you visually inspect the harness regularly for signs of wear. This includes checking the general condition, the condition of the seams and straps and the functioning of the buckles. In addition, the rescue parachute must be regularly aired and repacked. Any defects (damaged seams, webbing, etc.) must be repaired immediately by the manufacturer or an authorized service center.
Ultraviolet radiation, temperatures below -20°C and above +60°C, humidity, salt water, aggressive cleaning agents, improper storage as well as mechanical stress (e.g. grinding on the ground) accelerate the aging process.
The life span of your harness can be extended considerably if you pay attention to the following points:
- Allow wet or damp harness to dry completely at room temperature or outside in the shade. Repack the reserve regularly.
- Thoroughly rinse a harness that has been in contact with salt water with fresh water. Always repack the reserve.
- Clean the harness only with fresh water and neutral soap if necessary, never with solvents.
- Check the main connection bridle between the harness and the reserve after every reserve deployment.
- Have the harness checked by a qualified person after any very high loading (e.g. serious impact).
- Inspect the harness regularly for defective seams and straps, especially the reserve connection and the seams of the main carabiners.
- Do not subject the harness to extremes of temperature and make sure it gets adequate ventilation, to prevent condensation forming.
- Do not expose the harness unnecessarily to the sun (UV radiation) before and after the flight.
Air-Foam Hybrid
The foam protector does not require any special care, but it should definitely be inspected for possible damage after an impact. In case of damage to the outer shell, the protector must be replaced. If you are flying with the Permanent Protector system, also check the sleeve of the protector element.
Inspection
Inspect your harness regularly for damage and have it thoroughly visually inspected by a professional every 24 months. The inspection includes a visual assessment of the fabric, straps and connections, major stitching and main carabiners. All parts are inspected for tears, kinks, pre-damaged seams, damage and severe wear. Detected damage requires the harness to be professionally repaired before the next flight.
You can find more information about the check in the "Service" chapter of this manual or at www.advance.swiss.
Carabiner service life
EDELRID ALIAS
Maximum 5 years
The main support carabiners are high quality EDELRID Alias Alu Carabiners (58 g, 23 kN). Aluminium carabiners must be regularly visually inspected for metal discolourations, dents, obvious scratches or cracks. In addition you must be careful that a carabiner is always loaded vertically – along its major axis. If a carabiner shows any of the above visually evident conditions or has been incorrectly loaded, both carabiners must be replaced immediately. In any case the carabiners must be replaced no later than 5 years after being put into service or first flight (if unknown, 5 years after production date), and may not be used again. The production date is printed on the carabiner.
Overstress
When using the product there is always the risk of unpredictable overstress in flight, for example caused by flying conditions or a surprise bump in the air. In rare cases the product could suffer damage. This is especially disappointing in that, usually, neither the manufacturer nor the pilot can be held responsible. Light products tend to be more susceptible to damage due to overstress.
Repairs
You should never carry out harness repairs yourself. The various seams are prepared with the greatest precision. Only the manufacturer or an authorised Service Centre should carry out repairs with original materials.
Removing & replacing components
General
The AXESS 5 is delivered with a built-in main protector, SAS-TEC elements, seatboard and acceleration system. All individual parts can be easily removed, e.g. to carry out any repairs or to replace them.
1. SAS-TEC Back protection
First open the reserve V-connection channel at the shoulders, then open the rear zipper facing the back pocket.
2. Main protector
Access via zipper at the bottom of the back compartment.
3. SAS-TEC Side protection
Access via zipper on the upper edge of the SAS-TEC elements.
4. Seatboard
Pulled out from lower rear end of seat shell, after releasing the Velcro.
5. Speed system
Unloop Brummel hooks and unthread speed lines. The elastic tensioner can be replaced separately.
Disposal
Environmental protection plays an important role in the selection of materials and the manufacture of an ADVANCE product. We use only non-toxic materials and fabrics that are subjected to continuous quality and environmental impact assessments. When your equipment reaches the end of its useful life, please remove all metal parts (recycling) and dispose of straps and material in the designated facilities.