After a cutaway or losing a component, many jumpers wonder whether their rigger is allowed to swap parts made by another manufacturer into their rig. The answer is somewhat nuanced: The Federal Aviation Administration may allow it, compatibility may not, and manufacturer restrictions may prohibit it.
FAA guidance clarifies which components require approval. Advisory Circular 105-2e section 13.c defines approved components as everything not associated with the main parachute system. The harness and container, reserve canopy, lines, slider, connector links, reserve static line, reserve pilot chute, freebag and ripcords are part of the approved system. Main parachutes do not require FAA approval. The FAA defines “main parachute components” as those that depart with the main canopy if it is jettisoned, excluding the RSL.
The Circular also addresses mixing components from different manufacturers. It states, “The assembly or mating of approved parachute components from different manufacturers may be made by a certificated, appropriately rated parachute rigger in accordance with the parachute manufacturer’s instructions and without further authorization by the manufacturer or the FAA.”
The FAA defines major components earlier, in section 13.a. “For the purposes of this AC, a parachute assembly normally, but not exclusively, consists of the following major components: a canopy, a deployment device, a pilot chute or drogue, risers, a stowage container, a harness and an actuation device (ripcord). There are, of course, some lesser parts associated with these major components such as connector links, bridles and hardware.”
Taken together, this guidance allows your rigger to exchange compatible, approved components unless the manufacturer objects. In some cases, instructions in the manufacturer’s manual, website or markings on the components themselves prohibit substitutes of certain items or prohibits it under certain conditions. When no prohibition exists, a knowledgeable rigger—if certain—may make the decision.
However, some components may appear compatible but are not. Cutaway and reserve-ripcord handles do not always fit properly in another manufacturer’s harness pockets. Cable lengths are critical and should never be guessed. Some reserve pilot chutes have subtle design features that make them incompatible with other rigs.
Although main parachutes components do not require approval, compatibility still matters: Some toggles do not fit certain risers. Some pilot chutes do not work well with certain deployment bags. Sliders come in different sizes for specific reasons.
You might consider some good, but expensive, advice: Carry spares. If you lose your reserve pilot chute, freebag, cutaway handle or reserve ripcord after a malfunction, it can take a few days to several weeks for replacements to arrive from the factory. Many manufacturers offer parts kits for just this reason, or you can have your rigger order them separately, which requires the serial number of the rig and knowing which spares to order. Budget around $600 for the set, keep it in your gear bag and include it when you sell your rig. That makes you and your rigger sure that all replacement parts are designed to work specifically with your rig.
Kevin Gibson D-6943
FAA Master Rigger and Designated Parachute Rigger Examiner. Rahlmo’s Rigging at Skydive Orange in Virginia