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Parachute Rigger Handbook

FAA-H-8083-17A Version 2015 (Change 1)
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Chapter 7

Repairs, Alterations, and Manufacture

Removal of Mildew

The following steps should be taken when removing mildew from the parachute:

  1. Wash affected area with mild soap and water solution.
  2. Rinse affected area thoroughly with fresh, clear water.
  3. Hang assembly in drying tower in accordance with the section titled, Drying a Parachute.

Removal of Petroleum Products

Hydrocarbons usually do not harm nylon. Petroleum products, such as oil or grease, have a greenish or brownish appearance. Wash the affected area by repeated applications of mild soap and water solution until the affected area is clean. Each application shall be followed by a rinse in clean fresh water. Once complete, hang assembly in drying tower in accordance with the section titled, Drying a Parachute.

Removal of Bloodstains

The following steps should be taken when removing bloodstains from the parachute:

  1. Soak the stained area in cold water.
  2. Hand wash affected area with mild soap and water solution.
  3. Rinse affected area thoroughly with fresh clean water.
  4. Hang assembly in drying tower in accordance with the section titled Drying a Parachute.

Removal of Soil

The following steps should be taken when removing soil from the parachute:

  1. Hang the parachute and shake to remove most of the dirt and sand.
  2. Brush lightly with a soft-bristled brush.
  3. If the assembly is extremely contaminated, perform the following:
  1. Wash only the soiled areas in warm water with a mild soap.
    1. Rinse affected area thoroughly with fresh clean water.
  1. Hang assembly in drying tower in accordance with the section titled, Drying a Parachute.

Drying a Parachute

The procedure for drying a parachute is critical. Asymmetric shrinkage may occur if the parachute is dried unevenly. Perform the following steps:

  1. Remove pilot chute assembly and/or drogue/slider control line.
  2. Hang parachute full-length or the seams may experience uneven shrinkage creating a built in turn.
  3. Hang reserve parachute assembly by all four connector links for the same time.

Cleaning the Parachute

Sometimes during the inspection process, excessive amounts of dirt or debris are found caused from misuse or poor landing. Also, there are occasions when the customer may request that the assembly be cleaned.

Washing a parachute is not recommended unless deemed absolutely necessary because washing it can weaken and/ or increase the permeability of the fabric. Washing can also cause shrinkage in the nylon fabric, tapes, and the other components. Do not dry clean parachutes. Parachute components may be spot cleaned or cleaned as a unit, and care must be taken that the cleaning process does not do more damage than the original soiling.

Hand Washing (If Absolutely Necessary)