Perfect Descent 230 Series User manual

SERIAL#:
Operations Manual for the
230 Series
Speed Drive
Direct Drive
0123 EN 341:2011-1A
EN 360:2002, RFU PPE-R/11.128 V1
ALWAYS READ INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE
THIS OPERATIONS MANUAL MUST REMAIN WITH THE PERFECT DESCENT AT
ALL TIMES AND MUST ONLY BE REMOVED BY THE END USER. THIS MANUAL
CONTAINS INFORMATION ABOUT THE SAFE USE OF THE PERFECT DESCENT
CLIMBING SYSTEM AS WELL AS REGISTRATION AND WARRANTY INFORMATION.
ENSURE THAT IT IS READILY AVAILABLE TO OPERATORS AT ALL TIMES.

Copyright © 2020, C3 Manufacturing - 230 Series-Speed Drive-Direct Drive REV 09/2020 PN 100125 2
Facilities using the Perfect Descent Climbing System should refer to, and abide by the Climbing Wall
Association Operations Standards which provides guidelines for the indoor climbing industry, including
age restriction, waiver forms, belay checks and climbing facility operating procedures. Also refer to and
abide by the Climbing Wall Association’s Engineering Standards, the climbing industry standard for
load distribution and anchor point placement for articial climbing walls. Instructions contained herein
supersede any information in the aforementioned publications. Both publications are available through
the Climbing Wall Association (CWA).
Climbing Wall Association, Inc.
6672 Gunpark Dr. Suite 101
Boulder, CO 80304
Phone: [phone] www.climbingwallindustry.org
The following safety symbols are used throughout this manual to highlight potential dangers.
Failure to adhere to any precautions highlighted can result in death, serious injury, or equipment
damage.
Ensure that you read and understand all safety procedures related to the working environment and
the task you are performing.
Danger - Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in serious
injury or death.
Warning - Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result
in serious injury or death.
Indicates an acceptable situation or condition.
Indicates an unacceptable condition.
Indicates important information regarding health and safety or care of equipment.

Copyright © 2020, C3 Manufacturing - 230 Series-Speed Drive-Direct Drive REV 09/2020 PN 100125 3
Climbing is an inherently dangerous activity. Operators of the Perfect Descent Climbing
System are responsible for the safety and supervision of climbers using this equipment.
C3 Manufacturing LLC requires all operators to be trained before using this product. These
instructions must be provided to operators before use of the Perfect Descent Climbing
System and retained for reference by operators. Owners and operators must read,
understand (or have explained), and heed all instructions, labels, marking, and warnings
supplied with this product, and with any associated products intended for use with the
Perfect Descent Climbing System.
FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
DANGER
The Perfect Descent Climbing Systems Speed Drive auto-belay may be used for speed
climbing. Speed climbers must be supervised at all times. The climber and the person(s)
supervising must monitor the lanyard for proper retraction during the ascent. A system to
alert the climber in the event of slack developing in the lanyard must be in place. The climber
must be instructed to stop climbing immediately upon being alerted. If the unit fails to retract
or fails to keep pace with the climber, the device must be removed from service immediately
and sent to the nearest authorized service center for inspection and repair.
A SLACK LINE FALL CAN CAUSE SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH.
Owners and operators must have devised an emergency rescue plan for any climber in distress
at all sites operating the Perfect Descent Climbing Systems. Operators must inform
users of the Perfect Descent of the procedure for rescuing a climber in distress prior to climbing.
SPEED CLIMBING
SITE PLAN RESCUE
Owners and operators must abide by all Standards, International,
Federal, State and Provincial laws, and any specic health and safety
regulations pertaining to the installation and use of this product.
HEALTH AND SAFETY

Copyright © 2020, C3 Manufacturing - 230 Series-Speed Drive-Direct Drive REV 09/2020 PN 100125 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CERTIFICATION..............................................................................................................6
1.0 - DESCRIPTION OF PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM .....................................7
1.1 - PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM HOUSING ELEMENTS................................. 7
1.2 - PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM LABELS AND MARKINGS ........................7-8
2.0 - PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM MODEL 220 SPECIFICATIONS ..................8
3.0 - UNPACKING THE PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM......................................9
3.1 - PRIOR CONSIDERATIONS................................................................................... 9
3.2 - CONTENTS IN PACKAGE .................................................................................... 9
3.3 - UNPACKING THE PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM................................ 9
3.4 - TRANSPORTATION............................................................................................. 9
4.0 - INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS..............................................................................9
4.1 - PRIOR CONSIDERATIONS....................................................................................... 9
4.1.1 - MOUNTING HEIGHT - LANYARD LENGTH ....................................................... 9
4.1.2 - MOISTURE..................................................................................................... 10
4.1.2.2 - OUTDOOR USE ...................................................................................... 10
4.1.3 - PLACEMENT.............................................................................................10-11
4.1.4 - HANDLING..................................................................................................... 11
4.2 - ANCHORING THE PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM USING
APPROVED ANCHORAGE HARDWARE................................................................11-12
4.2.1 - MOUNTING POINTS AND ORIENTATION....................................................... 12
4.2.2 - EYEBOLT........................................................................................................ 12
4.2.3 - INSTALLATION CARABINER.......................................................................... 13
4.2.4 - ANCHOR SHACKLE ....................................................................................... 13
4.2.5 - COMPATIBILITY OF ANCHORAGE COMPONENTS ........................................ 13
4.3 - ANCHORING THE PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM,
CUSTOM INSTALLATION.......................................................................................... 13
4.3.1 - UTILIZING UNITS FOR DESCENDING FROM ELEVATED PLATFORMS..... 13
5.0 - TRAINING.............................................................................................................14
5.1 - USER INSTRUCTION ............................................................................................. 14
6.0 - USAGE LIMITATIONS............................................................................................15
7.0 - HARNESSES.........................................................................................................15
8.0 - SUPERVISION DURING USE ..................................................................................15
9.0 - PROPER DESCENDING METHOD...........................................................................16

Copyright © 2020, C3 Manufacturing - 230 Series-Speed Drive-Direct Drive REV 09/2020 PN 100125 5
10.0 - CARABINER OPERATION ....................................................................................17
11.0 - CARE, MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE................................................................18
11.1 - REPLACING THE LINE (AND CARABINER) ......................................................... 18
11.2 - CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS ................................................................................ 18
11.3 - MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE ........................................................................... 19
11.4 - STORAGE............................................................................................................ 19
11.5 - SPARE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES..................................................................... 19
12.0 - LABELS AND MARKINGS....................................................................................20
13.0 - PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM INSPECTION ........................................24
13.1 - DAILY INSPECTION............................................................................................. 24
13.2 - WEEKLY INSPECTION ......................................................................................... 24
13.3 - FORMAL INSPECTION ........................................................................................ 24
13.3.1 - FORMAL INSPECTION FREQUENCY............................................................ 24
13.3.2 - CONTROL OF EQUIPMENT .......................................................................... 25
13.3.3 - FORMAL INSPECTION PROCEDURE............................................................ 25
13.3.3.1 - DIAGRAM ............................................................................................ 25
13.3.3.2 - FORMAL INSPECTION LOG ................................................................. 25
13.3.3.3 - FORMAL INSPECTION CHECKLIST ..................................................... 26
13.3.3.4 - FORMAL INSPECTION PROCEDURAL STEPS, HOUSING .................... 26
13.4 - FORMAL INSPECTION DIAGRAM ....................................................................... 27
13.5 - FORMAL INSPECTION CHECKLIST .................................................................... 28
13.6 - FORMAL INSPECTION LOG ................................................................................ 29
13.7 - LANYARD WEAR EXAMPLES .............................................................................. 30
14.0 - FACTORY RECERTIFICATION ..............................................................................31
14.1 - FACTORY RECERTIFICATION.............................................................................. 31
14.2 - OWNER REGISTRATION...................................................................................... 31
14.3 - WHEN FACTORY SERVICE OR RECERTIFICATION IS NECESSARY ..................... 31
14.4 - HOW TO OBTAIN FACTORY SERVICE.................................................................. 32
14.5 - SERVICE AND INSPECTION LOGS ...................................................................... 32
14.6 - FACTORY SERVICE LOG.................................................................................33-34
WARRANTY INFORMATION ..........................................................................................35

Copyright © 2020, C3 Manufacturing - 230 Series-Speed Drive-Direct Drive REV 09/2020 PN 100125 6
CERTIFICATION
• If the Perfect Descent is resold outside of the country of destination, the reseller must provide
instructions for use, service, maintenance and repair in the language of the country of use.
• The Perfect Descent can be used as a climbing system device only in combination with other
components. It shall not be deemed suitable for use until it is ensured that the entire system
complies with the requirements of appropriate regional, state, and federal directives/standards.
• Perfect Descent conforms to regulation (EU) 2016/425 and complies with the following prevailing
safety regulations:
o AS/NZS 1891: Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices - Part 3: Fall arrest devices
o CSA Z259.2.3-99: Descent control devices
o ANSI/ASSE Z359.4: Safety requirements for assisted-rescue and self rescue systems,
subsystems and components
o EN 341: 2011-1A: Personal protection equipment against falls from
height-descender devices, RFU PPE-R/11.128 V1
o EN 360: 2002: Personal protective equipment against falls from a height
- Retractable type fall arresters
• Notied body for CE type examination
o TÜV SÜD Product Service GmbH
Ridlerstraße 65 80339
München, Germany
• Body controlling the manufacture of this PPE:
o TÜV SÜD Product Service GmbH
Ridlerstraße 65 80339
München, Germany
• Declaration of Conformity: EU Declaration of Conformity can be downloaded at:
o https://www.perfectdescent.com/certications/
• Manufacture Information
o C3 Manufacturing LLC
3809 Norwood Drive Unit 4
Littleton, CO 80125 USA
o EU importers may apply their name and address on the device next to the specication
label, and into this Operation Manual to comply with government regulations.

Copyright © 2020, C3 Manufacturing - 230 Series-Speed Drive-Direct Drive REV 09/2020 PN 100125 7
1.0 DESCRIPTION OF PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM
The Perfect Descent Climbing System is a controlled descent device for recreational climbing, and is used in
indoor climbing gyms, on portable climbing walls, or on challenge courses. It is installed where a top-rope
would be, thus eliminating the need for a belayer by providing a hands-free belay for the climber. Once the
climber lets go of the wall, however, the climber cannot hang suspended by the Perfect Descent Climbing
System, and will automatically be lowered to the ground at a continuous, controlled rate. The line automatically
retracts into the unit, permitting repeated descents. The Perfect Descent Climbing System is NOT designed for
lead climbing. The Perfect Descent Speed models have a retraction rate greater than 4.6Mps (15fps) and may
be used for speed climbing. The Speed Drive Model may be used in conjunction with IFSC homologated
climbing wall for World Record events.
1.1 PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM HOUSING ELEMENTS (DIAGRAM PAGE 8)
• INSTALLATION HANDLE
o Connection point for anchoring the Perfect Descent Climbing System to the climbing
structure. Also serves as a carrying handle. Anchoring elements must always secure
through the installation handle.
• BRAKE HOUSING
o The metal housing that contains the brake mechanism. 
• TAMPER RESISTANT SCREWS (Not Labeled)
o Provides evidence that the system has been tampered with by someone other than an authorized
factory representative. NEVER open the housing or attempt a eld repair.
Serious injury could result.
• NOZZLE
o Helps seal the unit, prevents contaminants from entering the housing, prevents line twisting.
• LINE
o 26mm (1.02”) PA/HDPE wear-indicating webbing. This is a yellow lanyard with a black wear
indicator on each side. Should the lanyard wear through on any indicator, it must be replaced.
• SWIVEL CARABINER
o Provides a self-locking attachment means to the climber’s harness. (swivel and carabiner may be
separate items)
1.2 PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM LABELS AND MARKINGS
• FRONT LABELS
o Displays product logo or product drive type.
• INSTRUCTION LABEL
o Explains inspection before use and installation instructions. Reading the back label is not a
substitute for reading and understanding these Operator Instructions.
• DATE OF MFG/SERVICE DATE LABEL
o Completed by the manufacturer. Provides information vital to the inspection and factory
service procedures explained in Section 14. This label is located on the side of the unit.
• SPECIFICATION LABEL
o Contains model specic information.
• SPEED DRIVE WARNING LABEL (optional)
o Contains speed drive warnings and specications.

Copyright © 2020, C3 Manufacturing - 230 Series-Speed Drive-Direct Drive REV 09/2020 PN 100125 8
Serial Number
I-XXXX
Front Label
Installation Handle
(type B shown)
Instruction Label
Brake Cover
Line (Lanyard)
Nozzle
Brake Housing
Nozzle Clip
Housing
Service Date Label
Manufacture Date
Specification Label
Speed Drive
Warning Label
(optional)
Swivel Carabiner
2.0 PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
• Line specs: 8.5, 12.2, or 16.1m (28, 40, or 53ft.) long, comprised of 26mm (1.02”) PA/HDPE Webbing
o Mounting height Minimum Maximum
• 8.5m (28’) 4.25m (14’) 8.5m (28’)
• 12.2m (40’) 7.9m (26’) 12.2m (40’)
• 16.1m (53’) 10.5m (34.5’) 16.1m (53’)
• Maximum weight of climber: 140kg (310lbs)
• Minimum weight of climber: 11.5 kg (25lbs)
• Descent rate: <2m/s (6.6ft/s)
• Retraction Rate Speed Drive > 4.6m/s (15ft/s)
• Retraction Rate Direct Drive ≈.61m/s (2ft/s)
• Materials
o Casing: stainless steel and aluminum
o Line: minimum breaking strength 15.6kN (3,500lbs)
o Internal parts: stainless steel and/or aluminum
• Case Dimensions: 40x24x19 cm (16x9.5x7.5 in)
• Net Weight: 13.1-14kg (29-31lbs)

Copyright © 2020, C3 Manufacturing - 230 Series-Speed Drive-Direct Drive REV 09/2020 PN 100125 9
3.0 UNPACKING THE PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM
3.1 PRIOR CONSIDERATIONS
• Ensure that this operations manual is readily available to Perfect Descent users at all times. It contains
information relating to the safe use of the Perfect Descent Climbing System and includes all product
registration and warranty information. It may only be removed by the end user.
• DO NOT DISPOSE OF THE PACKAGING
o The cardboard box and internal packing materials will be required for the return of the unit for factory
maintenance and inspection. Please keep the packaging in a safe, dry place until required.
3.2 CONTENTS IN PACKAGE
• The Perfect Descent Climbing System is packaged in a cardboard box and contains:
o 1 Perfect Descent Climbing System
o 1 Lanyard, either 8.5, 12.2, or 16.1 meters (28, 40, or 53 feet)(installed).
o 1 Operations Manual
3.3 UNPACKING THE PERFECT DESCENT CLIMBING SYSTEM
• Upon receipt of the unit, rst inspect the box for signs of shipping damage.
If there appears to be damage, contact your Perfect Descent reseller.
• Check to see that all labels are axed to the Perfect Descent and legible.
• Check the Date of Manufacture/Service Date Label for the “Next Service
Due.” If the date shown has passed or the label is missing or illegible,
contact your Perfect Descent reseller.
• Log on to www.PerfectDescent.com to register your product.
• Read the Operations Manual and familiarize yourself with all aspects of
installation, operation, care and maintenance.
3.4 TRANSPORTATION
• If the Perfect Descent is to be returned to C3 Manufacturing or an
authorized service center for servicing please return it in the original
packaging. Repackage Perfect Descent as shown:
4.0 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
4.1 PRIOR CONSIDERATIONS
4.1.1 MOUNTING HEIGHT - LANYARD LENGTH
• Perfect Descent auto belays are available in three different lanyard lengths. The lanyard must always
be equivalent to or greater in length than the anticipated mounting height. Units with excessive lanyard
length may experience improper lanyard spooling that can result in jerky or rapid descent. Always select
the lanyard that most closely matches the mounting height and avoid using long lanyards on short
walls. The user may replace long lanyards with shorter lanyards to accommodate lower mounting
heights. Never replace a shorter lanyard with a longer lanyard as the unit will not operate properly.
Longer lanyards can only be installed by C3 Manufacturing or an authorized service center. Refer to
section 2.0 for further mounting height information.

Copyright © 2020, C3 Manufacturing - 230 Series-Speed Drive-Direct Drive REV 09/2020 PN 100125 10
4.1.2 MOISTURE
4.1.2.2 Outdoor Use
• The braking mechanism of the Perfect Descent Model 230 is sealed for use in an outdoor
environment; however, if moisture is allowed to remain in contact with the other components, the useful
life of the Perfect Descent Climbing System may be reduced. The Perfect Descent Climbing System has
one opening where water can enter the internal mechanism: the nozzle. When the Perfect Descent
Climbing System is installed correctly with the nozzle facing straight down, moisture will ow primarily
over the protective housing, or drain out through the nozzle opening. It is important that the Perfect
Descent Climbing System is installed in an upright position.
• DO NOT MOUNT THE PERFECT DESCENT CLIIMBING SYSTEM HORIZONTALLY
Mounting the device horizontally will permit moisture to accumulate inside the housing. Prolonged
exposure to moisture, wet or damp lanyards will cause corrosion to the mechanism and can
contribute to mechanical malfunction such as diculty in retracting or extracting line. Every
effort must be made to protect the Perfect Descent Climbing System from direct and/or extreme
weather conditions. Lanyards that become wet must be allowed to dry naturally before retracting
and storing. All models must be stored in a clean dry environment when not in use, when the
temperature is expected to remain below freezing for more than 72 hours, or when it is expected
that the device will not be used for a period of time greater than 1 week (7 days). Any device used
outdoors must be inspected for proper function daily and also after any exposure to precipitation.
• Ensure that the brake mechanism is dry prior to operation. If the brake mechanism remains
wet a climber may experience an increased rate of descent or jerky descent.
When transporting or storing the Perfect Descent Climbing System on a portable rock wall, always
remove the device, or cover it with a waterproof cover to prevent water damage. This is especially
important if the device will be transported or stored in a horizontal position, where water or road
salts can enter and remain trapped inside the mechanism for extended periods. A protective cover
can be created from a plastic bag or tarpaulin, as long as the cover prevents water from entering
and remaining inside the Perfect Descent Climbing System. Remove or cover the unit whenever the
rock wall is laid horizontally. Do not lay the Perfect Descent Climbing System down where water
can enter and remain inside the unit.
4.1.3 PLACEMENT
• Install the Perfect Descent Climbing System with sucient clearance to permit freedom for the device
to rotate several inches back-and-forth and side-to-side. DO NOT rigidly mount the Perfect Descent
Climbing System to the climbing wall, as this can result in premature wear of the line.
DO NOT rigidly mount the Perfect Descent Climbing System to the climbing wall.