Closing Loop Vigilance: Mastering Inspection & Replacement

Knowing When to Replace: Vigilance in Closing Loop Inspection

The integrity of your closing loop is paramount to proper container closure and avoiding premature deployments. Determining when a loop needs replacement isn't just about adhering to a rule; it's about proactive risk management.

• USPA Guideline: The United States Parachute Association (USPA) sets a critical benchmark: replace a closing loop when it exhibits 10% wear.

• Interpreting "10% Wear": While a precise measurement can be difficult to achieve, 10% wear typically manifests as noticeable signs of deterioration. This isn't just about a single strand; it's about the overall fiber integrity.

• The "Fuzzy" Rule: A Conservative Best Practice: A more practical and conservative approach is to replace a closing loop as soon as it begins to look "fuzzy," showing any visible fraying, thinning, or irregularities in its braided structure. If you can see individual fibers separating, or the loop appears less robust than new, it's time for replacement.

• Beyond Visible Wear: Consider other factors: * Age and Cycle Count: Even if not visibly worn, older loops can be degraded. * UV Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can weaken synthetic fibers. * Suspicion: If you ever have any doubt about a loop's integrity, replace it. The cost of a new loop is negligible compared to the potential consequences of failure.

Understanding the Hazards: Why Closing Loop Integrity Matters

The consequence of neglecting closing loop wear can be severe. As a loop deteriorates, its tensile strength diminishes, significantly increasing the likelihood of it breaking prematurely during freefall.

* The Horseshoe Malfunction: A worn closing loop can lead to a horseshoe malfunction. This is a partial deployment where the main parachute's deployment bag (D-bag) exits the container, but the pilot chute has not been thrown by the jumper. The container will no longer hold the bag, but the main canopy may or may not be extracting.

• Navigating a Compromised Situation: In a horseshoe malfunction, your rig's lower profile will no longer be rigid, making it potentially more challenging to locate your main deployment handle amidst the flapping fabric. While the immediate response is to attempt to locate and activate the main handle (a maximum of 2-3 methodical attempts/seconds), this scenario underscores the critical importance of prevention.

• Prevention is Paramount: The discussion of emergency procedures (EPs) is vital for every skydiver. However, the most effective "response" to a worn closing loop is to replace it proactively. Vigilant gear maintenance is your first and most effective line of defense against preventable malfunctions.

Closing Loop Replacement

While the mechanics of closing loop replacement might seem straightforward, this is a procedure that requires precision. For those with little experience with this task, it's a good idea to have a qualified FAA Rigger or USPA Instructor inspect your work. Incorrect loop length or tension can compromise safety,

1. Gather Your Tools: You'll need a new, appropriately sized closing loop, the existing washer, and a packing tool.

2. Careful Removal: Carefully remove the old closing loop. Retain the washer that sits on the loop – this washer is essential for proper pin tension and should always be present. Take note of the original knot's position.

3. Prepare the New Loop: Place the new closing loop alongside the old one. Form a simple overhand knot in the new loop, aiming to match the length of the old loop's knot. The goal is to achieve the correct finished length.

4. Insert: Slide the retained washer onto the new loop. Carefully re-insert the new closing loop into the container's grommet.

5. Verify Tension: This is the most critical step. After inserting the main closing pin, the tension on the closing loop must be correct. It should be firm, providing positive resistance, but not excessively tight or loose. An experienced rigger or instructor can demonstrate and verify proper tension. 6.

6. Post-Jump Adjustments: Loop length can sometimes settle after a few jumps. It's good practice to re-inspect the loop tension after your first 2-3 jumps following replacement and readjust if needed to maintain optimal tension.

Making Your Own Loops: Getting Hands-On with Your Rig

For skydivers keen to dive deeper into their gear knowledge and basic rigging, crafting your own closing loops is a skill worth having. It's a precise task, but one you can definitely master with some practice and the right guidance, often needing just a few tools.

Heads up, though: While you can certainly make your own closing loops,,if you have little experience with this task, it's a good idea to have a qualified USPA Rigger or Instructor inspect your work. An incorrect closing loop can lead to big problems, so ensuring it's right is key.

To support your learning, we've created a comprehensive instructional video that demonstrates both the replacement of a worn closing loop and the process of constructing a new one. This video is an excellent supplemental resource to hands-on instruction and supervision

he closing loop, though small, represents a crucial link in your gear's integrity and your safety in the sky. By truly understanding its role, vigilantly inspecting its condition when you pack, and performing replacements when needed – knowing that for those with little experience, it's a good idea to have a qualified rigger or instructor inspect your work – you uphold the highest standards of responsible skydiving and gear care. Your attention to detail is your ultimate defense.

Need your gear inspected? Contact us with any rigging questions.