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.
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
Check regularly
Check the Maillon Rapide regularly visually. If they show visible flaws (dents, rust, deformation), have been incorrectly loaded or cannot be screwed shut by hand, they must be replaced immediately.
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
Legpad nitinol wire
The nitinol wire is located in a pocket under the legpad and helps to stretch the legpad for comfort. It can be replaced if damaged. To remove the wire, grasp it with two fingers and pull it out slowly (A). When installing, squeeze the circular wire into an oval (B) and push it into the pocket on one side. Always check that the connection is on the outside of the legpad (C). Now bend the nitinol wire so you can push it into the pocket on the other side (D).
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.