Strong Enterprises Para-Cushion 303 Back User manual

Owner’s Manual
For packing and maintenance of
Para-Cushion
model 303 Back
Part number: 124105
with
Diaper equipped
26ft. Mid-Lite Canopy
Part number: 420550
Division of S.E. Inc.
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837
Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com [email protected]
Current Release: April 2010
Manual P/N 510086
Price $25.00

! WARNING !
Parachuting is a hazardous activity that can result in serious injury or death. Failure to follow
all warnings, instructions and required procedures may result in serious injury or death.
Parachutes sometimes malfunction, even when they are properly designed, built, assembled,
packed, maintained and used. The results of such malfunctions are sometimes serious injury
or death. There are so many factors, both human and natural, beyond our control that we want
you to clearly understand that by using or intending to use our parachutes, you are assuming a
considerable risk of personal injury or death. If you are not willing to assume that risk, please
return the parachute to the dealer where it was purchased for a full refund.
DISCLAIMER
There are NO WARRANTIES which extend beyond the description of the parachutes in this manual
and neither the seller nor any agent of the seller has made any afrmation of fact or promise
with respect to the parachutes except those that appear therein.
The liability of the seller is limited to the duty to replace defective parts found upon examination
by the manufacturer to be defective in material or workmanship within 7 days after purchase
and found not to have been caused by any accident, improper use, alteration, tampering, abuse
or lack of care on the part of the purchaser.

3
Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ............................................................ 4
1.1 Scope .......................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 FAA Approval............................................................................................................. 4
1.3 Operational Limitations............................................................................................ 4
1.4 Repack Cycle .............................................................................................................. 4
1.5 General Description of Models .................................................................................. 4
1.6 Model Description ...................................................................................................... 5
1.7 Options ..................................................................................................................... 5
1.8 System Function ........................................................................................................ 6
1.9 Care of your 303 Back Emergency Parachute System ............................................ 6
1.10 Service Life............................................................................................................... 7
1.11 Preight Inspection ................................................................................................. 7
1.12 Fitting the Parachute Harness ............................................................................... 7
1.13 Plan ahead................................................................................................................ 8
1.14 How to get out of the aircraft .................................................................................. 8
1.15 How to open your Parachute ................................................................................... 8
1.16 How to Steer............................................................................................................. 9
1.17 How to Land............................................................................................................. 9
1.18 Recovery ................................................................................................................... 9
1.19 Customer feedback ................................................................................................ 10
2.0 303 Parts List ........................................................11
3.0 Required Packing Tools ......................................... 13
4.0 Prepare Parachute for Packing .............................. 14
5.0 Inspection ............................................................. 14
6.0 Canopy Spec Chart ................................................. 14
7.0 Packing the 303 Back ........................................... 15
7.1. Pleat and Long Fold................................................................................................ 15
7.2. Securing the Diaper................................................................................................ 16
7.3. Risers Placement .................................................................................................... 18
7.4. First Line Stow ....................................................................................................... 18
7.5 Excess or Half Line Stow......................................................................................... 19
7.6 Remaining Line Stows............................................................................................. 20
7.7 Skirt Placement ....................................................................................................... 22
7.8 Placing Canopy Into Container............................................................................... 22
7.9 Closing the container............................................................................................... 23
8.0 Repair Guidelines ................................................. 27
9.0 Changing Pilot Chute Loop and Cap ........................ 28
10.0 Installing Toggles ................................................ 30

4Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
1.0 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a new Para-Cushion Emergency Parachute System from Strong
Enterprises. It is the nest available anywhere and with a little care, should last you a very long
time. Rest assured that your new Para-Cushion has been constructed to retain the durability,
reliability, and comfort that Strong Enterprises has been building into its products for over 45
years. We welcome your comments so that we may continue to improve our products and help
make ying safer and more comfortable.
1.1 Scope
This owner’s manual constitutes the manufacturer’s instructions for the operation, packing, and
maintenance of the Para-Cushion Back Model 303 (PCB 303) Emergency Parachute System.
1.2 FAA Approval
Originally certied in 1973 under TSO C-23b, standard category, the Para-Cushion parachute
assemblies were upgraded in 1992 and are now FAA approved under TSO C-23c, category B (in
accordance with AS 8015A and FAR 21, Subpart O). A copy of this approval is on the inside of
the back cover.
1.3 Operational Limitations
When using 26 ft. Mid-Lite Canopy (Strong Enterprises Part Number 420550), this Para-
Cushion is limited to use by persons up to 254 lbs (115kg) fully equipped (person, clothes, and
equipment including parachute) at up to 150 knots IAS.
1.4 Parachute Repack Interval
Your PCB 303 is subject to a 180-day inspection and repack cycle. FAR 91.15 requires that
“no pilot of a civil aircraft may allow a parachute that is available for emergency use to be
carried in that aircraft unless it is an approved type and....it has been packed by a certicated
and appropriately rated parachute rigger within the preceding 180 days.” An FAA Senior or
Master parachute rigger with a back type rating must pack the PCB 303. If your Para-Cushion
is exposed to moisture or damage, it should be inspected and repacked sooner than the 180-day
maximum.
Note!
The 180-day repack cycle required by regulation is a maximum. If for any reason your
parachute is not in the condition it was when packed, it should be inspected and repacked,
regardless of the time since previous packing.
1.5 General Description of Models
The Para-Cushion series of Emergency Parachutes, including the model PCB 303, are FAA
approved, manually operated emergency parachute systems tted with a round, steerable
canopy.
The Para-Cushion series includes back, seat, and chair types and several variations of each.
The newer version of the back type (the 303, introduced in 1987), has fabric riser covers and is
slightly shorter than the original Para-Cushion Back, it combines the best features of both the
back and seat types and extends from the shoulders to the thighs..
The newer version of the seat type (the 304, introduced in 1988), has fabric riser covers and is
slightly taller than the original Para-Cushion Seat.
The unique system design (U.S. Patent #3,908,937), with externally mounted pilot chute, allows
for a soft, exible container with protected ripcord pins.

5
Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
Depending on canopy type, the complete system weighs between 14-1/2 and 15-3/4 pounds.
This manual covers Para-Cushion Back 303 packed with the following Strong Enterprises
emergency canopies:
• 26-foot Standard Lo-Po PN.420510
• 26-foot Military Lo-Po PN.420520
• 26-foot Mid-Lite PN. 420550
• 26-foot Lite PN. 420601
All four canopies are manufactured with low porosity (Lo-Po) cloth that restricts airow,
allowing a slower, more stable rate of descent than conventional parachute cloth.
1.6 Model Description
The PCB 303 measures 24” (60 cm) tall by 16” (40 cm) wide by 3” (7 cm) thick and weighs
approximately 15 lbs. (6.5 kg).
The PCB 303 is recommended for use in airplanes where head room is at a minimum such as
an ASW-27, a PW-5, a Cap-10, a Zlin 50, a Christen Eagle, the front seat of an RV-4 and many
others. In many cases it is possible to replace the airplane back cushion with the Strong
Para-Cushion Back Parachute System.
1.7 Available Options
Fully Adjustable Harness - Allows wearer to adjust the harness using seven adjustment points•
for a perfect t. Works very well for clubs where different people will be using the system,
also works well for the non-pilot seat in two seat airplanes where different passengers will be
carried.
Aerobatic Harness - This harness option moves the snaps that normally sit on top of the
•
pilot’s legs, to your chest, where there is no pressure from a seat belt. This works best where
a Hooker Harness Ratchet type seat belt is used.
Quick Ejector Snaps - This is the Military type hardware that can be used in place of the
•
standard B-12 snaps. Works best for former military pilots who have become accustomed to
this type of hardware.
Capewell Riser Releases - For landing in high wind conditions allows the pilot to release the
•
parachute, to prevent dragging. Disadvantages - Heavy and expensive hardware.
Oxygen Pocket - Pocket built in to the system for a bail out bottle. (Pocket only)
•
ELT Pocket - Pocket built in to the system for the pilots ELT. (Pocket only)•
Sheepskin Pad - Sheepskin pads keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.•
Installed using the Velcro channels already in place on your system.
Aero Pad - A zip-on seat pad held in place by the pilots weight to restrain the Para-Cushion
•
and prevent shifting during high G maneuvers.
G-Pad - An auxiliary pad that attaches to the back pad of any Para-Cushion. The G-pad
•
is formed to snugly t around the pilot’s sides providing extra support during high G
maneuvers.
Lumbar Pad- Attaches to any Para-Cushion and provides support on the lower back area
•
Custom Monogram - We can monogram your name, N number, or anything that space will •
allow on the front of your container.
Survival Equipment Pocket - Storage space built in to the container, to hold personal items
•
such as a cell phone, signal mirror, energy bar and a small rst aid kit.

6Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
1.8 System Function
The Para-Cushion is activated by pulling the ripcord handle. This withdraws the ripcord pins and
releases the locking loops allowing the pilot chute to eject, catch air and extract the parachute
canopy from the container. A “diaper” is sewn to the skirt at the bottom of the canopy and is
where some of the suspension lines are stowed. The balance of the lines are stowed inside the
container. On deployment, the canopy and suspension lines are extracted from the container.
The diaper is released as the last stows deploy, allowing the canopy to inate.
Typically, it takes about 2 to 3 seconds from ripcord pull to fully inated canopy, traveling
a vertical distance of 150 to 300 feet. This does NOT mean that you should plan on jumping
or pulling at 300 feet. Deployment time and distance depend on, among other factors, your
airspeed.
1.9 Care of your PCB 303 Emergency Parachute System
Observe these precautions to maximize the service life of your Para-Cushion Emergency
Parachute System. Parachutes are simultaneously very rugged and quite delicate. They are
life saving devices and should be treated with great care. Parachutes are made of nylon, a very
strong and durable, but not invincible, material. Nylon is deteriorated by small amounts of acid
and weakened by ultraviolet sunlight. These surface effects do not seriously inuence thicker
materials, such as webbing or pack material, but canopy cloth is very vulnerable. If your Para-
Cushion is opened or used, it should be taken to a certied parachute rigger, or returned to the
manufacturer for airing, drying, inspection and repack. FAR 65.129 requires that no parachute
be packed, maintained, or altered in any manner that deviates from procedures approved by
the manufacturer.
The parachute should be left unopened inside its protective container ready for use. When you
take your Para-Cushion to your rigger for servicing, they will be glad to allow you to pull the
ripcord yourself, give you a functional demonstration, and answer all your questions. We urge
you NOT to open your parachute in the eld for demonstration purposes. Foreign objects can
cause costly damage the canopy.
When your Para-Cushion is in the aircraft, care must be exercised to ensure that it is not
damaged. Be sure that it does not come in contact with any sharp or loose metal surfaces, or
any objects within the plane, which might cut or snag it. All metal edges and exposed nuts and
bolts, etc. should be taped or covered to prevent wear on the parachute container. Be sure that
your parachute does not come in contact with water, oils, acids, grease, dirt, agricultural or re
retardant chemicals. When not in use, store your Para-Cushion in its carrying bag in a clean,
dry, protected area. If in doubt as to its condition, consult your nearest parachute rigger or
Strong Enterprises.
CAUTION
LEAVING THE PACKED PARACHUTE SYSTEM EXPOSED TO THE
SUN WILL GREATLY DECREASE ITS SERVICE LIFE.

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Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
1.10 Service Life
FAR 65.129 requires that “No certicated parachute rigger may pack a parachute that is not
safe for emergency use”. The continued airworthiness of an assembly is at the discretion of
the FAA licensed parachute rigger’s inspection during re-pack. While proper care can no
doubt extend its usefulness, an older parachute should be examined more closely for signs
of deterioration. Your parachute is a sensitive piece of life saving equipment and should be
treated as such. However, it should not be expected to last forever, even with proper care.
1.11 Preight Inspection
The parachute must be inspected by the wearer prior to each use. Check it visually for any
unsafe condition. Be sure the harness is not twisted or misrouted. Be sure, the ttings are
not rusted. Be sure the ripcord handle, is securely in it’s pocket (under the fabric pocket
covering). Lift the Velcro on the back pad and check the ripcord pins. Be sure they are
properly seated in their loops. All pins should extend at least 1/2-inch beyond the fabric
locking loop. Be sure the rigger’s seal thread is still intact around the last pin. That’s your
assurance it has not been opened since it left the rigger’s packing table. Check the packing
data card in the nearby pocket to be sure that the parachute has been inspected and repacked
within the previous 180 days.
1.12 Fitting the Parachute Harness
Strong Enterprises produces 3 basic harness designs: the standard xed harness, the fully
adjustable harness, and the aerobatic harness. Below, please nd proper tting for each of
these models.
Standard Fixed Harness - This harness has 3 adjustment points, one on the chest, and one
on each leg. If you are putting the parachute on for the rst time, unsnap the hardware on
the straps, loosen the three adjustment points, and slip your arms through the main lift web
(the vertical straps in front), much like putting on a jacket. Next, reach between your legs,
pick up each leg strap, untwist them if necessary, and snap them in place on each side of the
lower portion of the main lift webs. Lean forward, pull the leg straps below your hips, and
tighten them snugly, yet comfortably around your thighs. Finally, snap and adjust the chest
strap. Fold and stow the webbing ends in the elastic keepers. Be sure the ripcord handle is
securely stowed, yet accessible.
Fully Adjustable Harness - The fully adjustable harness allows you to custom t your harness.
To properly adjust this harness, rst loosen all adjustment points all the way out. Then put
on the parachute as explained above being sure to t the leg straps snugly. Then stand
at attention and take up the slack in the main lift web (vertical straps) by pulling on the
harness ends located just above the leg pads. This should pull the straps down snug over your
shoulders. Next adjust the horizontal back strap (located behind you at the leg junction) to
come in contact with your back. This strap need not be tight for a comfortable t. Finally,
snap and adjust the chest strap, fold and stow the webbing ends in the elastic keepers. Be
sure the ripcord handle is securely stowed, yet accessible.

8Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
Aerobatic Harness - The Aerobatic, or two-point harness moves the snaps normally located
on the leg, to the middle of the chest, thereby preventing interference with your seatbelt. To
properly don this harness, loosen the two adjusters all the way out. Slip your arms through the
main lift webs (the vertical straps in front), much like putting on a jacket. Then reach between
your legs, pick up the right leg strap, untwist if necessary and thread the right strap through
the loop located on the right main lift web at the leg junction. Take care not to twist the strap.
Next, snap it in place at the chest on the opposite (Left) main lift web. Repeat the process for
the left strap. The straps should be adjusted tight, but not so tight that it restricts your ability
to stand upright. Resist the urge to over tighten the straps once you are seated. Fold and stow
the webbing ends in the elastic keepers. Be sure the ripcord handle is securely stowed, yet
accessible.
1.13 Plan Ahead
Be prepared in the event of an emergency situation. Know and rehearse your emergency
procedures before they are needed. With the parachute on, sit in your cockpit and fasten your lap
and shoulder belts. Be certain these are over your parachute harness. Wear gloves, helmet and
goggles, even headphones if you normally use them. Mentally organize your bailout procedure.
Inspect your cockpit for projections or sharp edges that may damage the parachute, or injure
you. Consider canopy ejection, oxygen disconnect, or other requirements that you may be faced
with. All these things take time, and an emergency leaves you little time for errors. Generally,
you are better off staying with the aircraft if it’s controllable. However, your margin of safety is
reduced as time passes evaluating your situation. With time, many predicaments can get worse.
Make your decision quickly because all these actions consume altitude.
1.14 How to get out of the aircraft
It boils down to two steps: Get clear of the aircraft, then pull your ripcord. In that order. If the
parachute begins to open while you’re still aboard, the wind may inate it, dragging you out or
into the tail. Also, it may entangle with the aircraft. There are no other hard and fast rules
- the craft may be tumbling, spinning, or inverted. Get yourself out any way you can. Unless
you’re above 15,000 feet, clear the aircraft and pull your ripcord immediately. There is enough
oxygen to breath and you’ll be descending into denser air. It also gives observers an opportunity
to get a x on your position.
1.15 How to open your Parachute
The ripcord handle is located near the chest strap on the wearer’s left front of the harness. The
key is to LOOK at the ripcord handle, rather than fumble or tug on a harness tting. Beneath
the fabric cover, the ripcord handle is held in place by a pocket. Look at it rst because it may
have been dislodged by your exit. REACH over and grab it with both hands (or typically with
your right hand and left thumb), and PULL. YANK IT HARD.
This is no time to be gentle! Actually pulling, which uses the muscles of your forearms, is not
as effective as pushing, which takes advantage of your upper arm strength. If it doesn’t come
free on the rst pull, check to make sure it is the handle in your hand, not some other piece of
hardware. Back the handle up to the housing to create slack in the cable, then punch it out
again. The entire cable assembly should come completely out of the housing. To reduce the pull
force, push the handle in the direction that the protective ripcord housing points - rather than
straight out from your chest.
The ripcord housing on the Para-Cushion 303 Back comes over your shoulder, so push the
handle down toward your feet. By having both hands together on the handle, you also reduce

9
Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
the chance of the canopy or lines entangling with an extended limb. Keep your feet together
for the same reason. Body position is secondary to pulling.
Remember - LOOK-REACH-PULL.
1.16 How to Steer
Having a steerable parachute reduces your rate of descent, increases your stability, and
allows you to avoid obstacles (buildings, trees, water, power lines, etc.). The parachute drifts
with the wind and has a forward speed of about 6 MPH, which can be directed with or against
the wind using the built-in steering vents in the rear.
The canopy may be turned by pulling down on the steering line rings or webbing toggles,
located on the rear of the risers, just above your head. An 8-12 inch pull will produce the best
rate of turn. Excessive pulling will not improve the performance.
1.17 How to Land
Ideally, you want to reduce your landing speed by facing into the wind (or quartering slightly).
Avoid all but very slight turns below 200 feet.
Put your feet and knees tightly together and point your toes slightly so you don’t land on
your heels. The tension caused by keeping your ankles and knees pressed tightly together
increases their individual support, reducing your chance of injury. Keep your elbows in and
try to look at the horizon, not down at the ground. This will give you a better idea of your
altitude (much like looking out the side, rather than over the nose during landing).
Maneuver the canopy as necessary to avoid all obstacles. In the event of a tree or power line
landing, keep your feet together so you don’t straddle a limb or wire. Be prepared to slide
through and hit the ground afterwards. You should be able to avoid power lines, but if not,
throw away the ripcord — it is three feet of dangling electrical conductor. To prepare for a
water landing, the chest strap may be unfastened (except with the Aerobatic harness) as long
as you cross your arms in front of the harness to prevent falling out. Depth perception over
water is difcult at best, so do not attempt to leave your harness “just above” the water.
1.18 Recovery
If the wind keeps your canopy inated after touchdown, you may be dragged. Pull in on the
lines closest to the ground to spill some air, and then run around the canopy to collapse it.
In the event of a water landing, take a deep breath just before you splash down. Once under
water, unfasten your harness straps and swim as far as possible upstream, allowing the
canopy to blow away from you. Entanglements with soggy nylon cloth and lines can weigh
you down.
If suspended from a power line, do not attempt to climb down, and do not accept assistance
from anyone until the power has been shut off.

10 Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
1.19 Customer Feedback
In our effort to continuously improve our products, processes, and services, we invite you to
send us your comments. As a user of this equipment, you are uniquely suited to provide us with
valuable feedback regarding design and/or performance. Tell us what you like. Tell us what you
don’t like. Send us an email or mail us a letter to:
Strong Enterprises
11236 Satellite Blvd.
Orlando, Florida 32837
[email protected]
www.strongparachutes.com

11
Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
124100
Harness and Container
Assembly
2.0 Parts list
26-foot Standard Lo-Po PN.420510
26-foot Military Lo-Po PN.420520 Mil
26-foot Mid-Lite PN. 420550
26-foot Lite PN. 420601
611366
Ripcord Assembly
790121
Pilot Chute, Lil Grabber 861043 Locking Loop (White) 799030 Cap for Pilot Chute
816005
Carrying Bag 510086 Owner’s Manual

12 Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
CAUTION
THE MIDLITE CANOPY HAS A MAXIMUM RECOMMENDED
WEIGHT LIMIT (WEARER, CLOTHES, AND EQUIPMENT) OF 254
LBS. (115 KG).
Note!
Ripcord cable length is measured from the tip of the endpin to the ball swage. Pin space
is measured from tip to tip.
Note!
On new closing loops, a tolerance of minus 0 or plus 1/8-inch is allowed from the
referenced at dimensions when measured under moderate (nger) tension. Some
stretching is to be expected with previously packed loops.
Note!
Standard 2” x 3/8” parachute rubber bands were used on early production units.
Later, a heavier version of the same was cut in half, rendering a 2” x 3/16” band.
Current production utilizes a shorter 1-1/4” x 3/8” stow band which does not require
doubling. Some units have a combination, using the smaller stow bands on the diaper
and “half” line stows. All Rubber Band Stows may be doubled.
Note!
Do not remove heat shrink tubing to check tightened links. (Visual of where nut is on
threads will give needed reference to verify link is tight.)

13
Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
3.0 Required Packing Tools
A - Shot Bags at least 4
B - Line Separator 1 ea
C - Pilot Chute Locking Rod 1 ea
D - Pilot Chute Locking Strap 1ea
E - T-handles 3 ea
F - Pull-Up Cords 3 ea
G - Tension Plate 1 ea
H - Tension Hook 1 ea
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H

14 Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
4.0 Prepare Parachute for Packing
Lay the harness, container and canopy down on the table with the wearer facing down. Apply
tension using tensioning devices.
Gather the appropriate tools as listed in Section 3.0. Always count your tools to ensure you
don’t leave any in the packed parachute.
5.0 Inspection
Inspect the entire assembly for completeness and any damage.•
Inspect pilot chute and bridle.•
Check that the Larks head knot on the pilot chute is secure.•
Inspect Apex area.•
Check over entire canopy for damage.•
Inspect lines for damage.•
Check line sequence and control lines.•
Perform a complete suspension line continuity check.•
Check that the screws are tight in the L-Bars.•
Check that links are tight in the L-Bars.•
Inspect Harness and Container assembly.•
Check that the elastic stow bands stretch and are in good condition.•
Check tackings for tightness and condition.•
Inspect Hardware for functionality and condition.•
Inspect Harness for nicks, abrasions and sun damage.•
6.0 Canopy Spec Chart
CANOPY: MIL. LOPO REG. LOPO MID-LITE LITE
Diameter 26 ft 26 ft 26 ft 26 ft
Canopy weight (lbs/kg) 7.75 /3.50 7.5/3.40 7.4/3.35 7.3/3.30
Max. total suspended weight (lbs/kg) 254/115 254/115 254/115 175/80
Max. deployment speed (kts) 150 150 150 130
No. of gores 24 24 24 22
No. of panels per gores 4 4 4 3
Suspension line strength lbs/kN 650/2.9 650/2.9 400/1.78 400/1.78
Radial tape strength lbs/kN 250/1.11 250/1.11 200/0.89 200/0.89
Canopy Cloth Ripstop Nylon Ripstop Nylon Ripstop Nylon Ripstop Nylon
Canopy Cloth porosity (CFM) 30-50 30-50 30-50 30-50
Suspension line material Braided Nylon Braided Nylon Braided Nylon Braided Nylon
No. Circular reinforcing tapes 3 1 1 1
Turn speed (360 degrees) 6-8 sec 6-8 sec 6-8 sec 5-7 sec
Forward Speed (MPH/km/h) 6-8/10-12 6-8/10-12 6-8/10-12 8-10/12-16
Opening time (varies w/ speed) 1.1-2.5 sec 1.1-2.5 sec 1.1-2.5 sec 1.1-2.5 sec
TSO Category C-23c Cat.B C-23c Cat.B C-23c Cat.B C-23b
Rate of Descent fps/mps
w/225 lbs/100 kg
(Lite w/175 lbs/80 kg)
18.6/5.7 18.6/5.7 18.6/5.7 19.6/6.0

15
Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
Always perform inspection described in
Chapter 5.0 before beginning packing
procedures.
All directional references (left,
right, etc.) are from the wearer’s
perspective.
7.1 Pleat and Long Fold
7.1.1
Lay the harness, container and canopy
down on the table as if the wearer
were facing down. Apply tension using
tensioning devices. Inspect the entire
assembly for completeness and any
damage. Flake canopy and pleat in the
normal manner with an equal number
of gores to each side.
7.1.2
Fold the skirt up 90° on each side
parallel to the radial seams.
7.0 Packing the PCB 303
Emergency Parachute System

16 Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
7.1.3
Long fold in fths (fold both sides to
meet at the center, then fold in thirds,
overlapping) tight and narrow.
7.2 Securing the Diaper
7.2.1
Spread the diaper out at. Bring the
lines in the LEFT-HAND GROUP
ONLY loosely up over the skirt.
!WARNING!
DO NOT tuck the lines inside the folded canopy. Tucking the lines
in the canopy can cause serious burns to the canopy and lines.

17
Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
7.2.2
Wrap the diaper around the skirt and
left line group.
7.2.3
Pass the three (two on older models)
locking rubber bands through their
respective grommets in the diaper.
Secure the diaper by stowing the
left line group through each of the
three (or two) rubber bands, stowing
from top to bottom making 1-1/2 inch
bights. Unless the shorter (1-1/4”)
rubber bands are used, these rubber
bands should be doubled to hold the
line stows securely.
!WARNING!
Put only the left half of the lines inside the diaper. Otherwise,
the purpose of the diaper will be defeated, allowing it to release
before all the lines are unstowed.

18 Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
7.3 Riser Placement
Lay risers in the container and spread
the links so they are not on top of
one another. Take a bight of line
immediately above the links and stow
in rubber bands.
7.4 First Line Stow
7.4.1
Grasp both line groups together
about 9” from the left link. (The
slack in the right line group will be
toward the link; the lines toward the
canopy should be even.) As you make
your rst line stow in the pack tray,
separate the right and left line groups,
and pull slightly more tension on the
right side line group (the one attached
to the skirt), so there is about an extra
1/2” of slack in the left side lines. This
will insure that during deployment,
the lines on the left side line group
are not pulled so tight that they will
unstow prematurely from the diaper.
Continue stowing the rest of the lines
in the pack tray with a single wrap of
the stow band.

19
Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
7.4.2
Stow the rst bight of lines in the
third rubber band on the wearer’s
lower left corner of the container.
7.5 Excess Line Stows
(Right Line Group)
The resulting “excess” length of line
(about 20 inches) from the right riser
will have only one-half the total
number of suspension lines. Stow
this excess from the right line group
on the right side of the container, in
the upper right inboard rubber band.
To do this, route the lines diagonally
from the rst stow to the top of the
container, and stow using the rubber
band closest to the center of the pack
tray. At this point, all lines between
the canopy and the container should
be even.
Note!
When the 3-stow diaper is used, this bight may be doubled back on itself before being placed in the rubber
band. With the 2-stow diaper, this will not be necessary. Unless the shorter (1-1/4 inch) rubber bands are
used (See note in the parts list, Section 2.0), this rubber band should be doubled.

20 Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 303 Back
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.strongparachutes.com
7.6 Remaining Line Stows
7.6.1
Proceed with stowing the remainder of
the lines. The next stow is in the upper
left corner of the container.
7.6.2
Continue stowing down, up, down until
a total of ve rubber band stows are on
the left side of the container. There
should be two stows in the top left
corner, and three stows in the bottom
left corner.