M I R A G E S Y S T E M S

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! "

User Warning ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! #

Packing Instructions for Ram Air Reserve with Freebag ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! $

Assembly of RSL (optional)! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! "%

Assembly of Optional “Fancypants” ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! "&

Assembly of Lumbar Support ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! "'

Assembly of the $(Ring System ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !")

Assembly of Centerline Collapsible Pilot Chute! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ##

Assembly of Standard Pilot Chute ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! #%

Packing Instructions for Main Container! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! #*

Proper Routing of Main Pilot Chute Bridle ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! #)

Packing Instructions for Main Pilot Chute ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! $+

User Instructions ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! $"

Replacement Parts ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! $$

Maintaining Your Mirage ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! $,

Notes ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! $&

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your purchase of a Mirage harness/container system!

The Mirage is the finest harness/container system available anywhere"
and with proper care and use it will last for many years! It is the purpose of this
manual to provide you with the information necessary to enable you to care for and use your
Mirage properly! It is our hope you will enjoy your Mirage as much as we enjoyed
building it for you! Should any aspect of the information contained in this manual be
unclear to you" or should you have questions or concerns about your Mirage which are
not addressed by this manual" you are encouraged to contact Mirage Systems Inc!
at the address below or on the back cover of this manual prior to jumping the Mirage!

The purpose of this manual is to familiarize the Mirage owner

with the function and packing procedures of the Mirage system! It is not
a substitute for a course of instruction" nor does it release the user from responsibility
for the use and maintenance of the system! Although packing instructions are included for
the reserve parachute" note that this operation is governed by applicable laws" and
may not be legally conducted by anyone other than a certificated rigger!

Mirage Systems Inc! is not responsible for use of the Mirage with any parts not
specifically supplied by Mirage Systems Inc! for your Mirage" nor for the use of the
Mirage with any other canopies than those specifically mentioned as compatible on
the system information panel inside the main pack tray! If there are any
questions about equipment compatibility" please contact Mirage Systems Inc!

Mirage Systems Inc!

P!O! Box #$%
DeLand" FL &$'$()%#$%
info@miragesys!com

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 1
 WARNING

Low Speed
Parachute
Limited to use from
Airplane under 150 mph

Skydiving is a hazardous activity that can result in injury or death!

Parachutes sometimes malfunction even though they are properly designed" built" assembled"
packed" maintained and used! The results of such malfunctions are sometimes serious injury or death!

If you use your Mirage" or allow someone else to use it" you are acknowledging sport parachuting’s risks
and accepting the fact that the Mirage and/or its components may malfunction!

If you are not willing to accept the risks of sport parachuting" or if you are not willing to accept
the possibility that your Mirage or its components may malfunction and perhaps cause you to be
injured or killed" then you should reconsider your involvement in sport parachuting!

Training and/or experience are required to lower the risk of serious bodily injury or death!

Never use the Mirage unless you have read and understand this warning" and
A! you have completed a “Controlled Program of Instruction” in the use of this equipment or
B! you have read and understand all appropriate flight manuals and packing instructions!

To lower the risk of death" serious bodily injury" canopy damage" container damage and
hard openings" never exceed #$% kts! deployment speed!

2 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Packing the Reserve Container
TOOL LIST
&# Complete Mirage packing data card
$# Lead seal! press! and thread
'# Cypres loop! washer! and silicone
(# Long pull up cord
)# Temporary pin
*# Temporary pile velcro tabs
+# Leverage Bar or Packing Paddle [Fig# &]
Helpful Hint: Count and keep track of your tools!

Fig# &

Installing the Cypres processing unit

(Also see the Cypres installation manual)
For installation! the processing unit is placed into a
specially bolstered and labeled nylon pocket which is
pre"installed in every Mirage reserve container#
Excess cable is stowed in the flat part of the pocket
underneath the velcro"adjustable flap# If you have to
stow both the thinner EOS cable and the thicker cable
to the control unit! be sure to place the thicker cable so
that it lies on top of the thinner one# [Fig# $]

Fig# $

Installing the EOS and Cypres Control Unit

Feed the EOS and control unit through the opening
and up the built in channel in the reserve pack tray#
The EOS cable is routed through the small slit on the
%& closing flap and into the Cypres channel# Secure the
EOS using the elastic keeper# Insert the control unit
into the control unit transparent pouch in the backpad#
[Fig# ']

Fig# '

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 3
 Packing the Reserve Container
Attach the square reserve to the container system!
Attach the steering toggles and set the deployment
brake length according to canopy manufacturers
instructions! [Fig! "]

Fig! "

Fig! $ Stow excess reserve canopy steering line in velcro keep#

er! Mate toggle to velcro on reserve riser! Repeat on
opposite riser! [Fig! $ & %]

Fig! %

Fig! & Attach temporary pile velcro tabs to the hook side of
velcro on the line stow pocket of reserve freebag!
[Fig! &]
WARNING: Be careful: hook velcro may damage sus#
pension lines!
Thread looped end of bridle through pilot chute loops'
then pass freebag through looped end of bridle to form
a larks head knot! Center bridle on pilot chute loops and
cinch very tight! [Fig! (]

Fig! (

4 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Packing the Reserve Container
Fold canopy in accordance with canopy manufacturers
instructions! Mirage Systems recommends the P!R!O!
pack style! After flaking and laying the canopy down&
ensure that all suspension lines are placed into the cen$
ter of the canopy! Centering the suspension lines
improves deployment! All suspension lines should be
centered the entire length of the cocoon! [Fig! ']

Fig! '

Cocoon the canopy to the width of the reserve freebag

mouth lock! Canopies cocooned wider may increase
bulk! [Fig! "(]

Fig! "(
The first fold places the slider grommet on the edge of
the canopy! [Fig! ""]
Helpful Hint: This fold is usually #$% inches& depending
on the canopy size!

Fig! ""

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 5
 Packing the Reserve Container
The second S fold is placed over the first fold! This
begins to create the desired wedge shape of the reserve
container! [Fig! "#]
Helpful Hint: The second fold should be $%& inches
overall! The majority of the bulk should be towards the
bottom of the reserve container!

Fig! "#

Pull remaining center cell back creating the MOLAR

shape [Fig! "']
Helpful Hint: Rolling what is left of the center cell back(
along with distributing this fabric left and right makes a
good MOLAR shape!

Fig! "'

Unlike the G'( the G$ requires thick MOLAR “ears” in

order to fill the top of the reserve container( which is
thicker than that of the G'! This may be accomplished
by folding the long MOLAR ears under! The normal
range is )%* inches! [Fig! "$]

Fig! "$

6 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Packing the Reserve Container
Place canopy onto the freebag%

TOP After placing canopy on the bag work one side at a

time into the freebag% [Fig% "']
Important: Fill the top of the bag as full as possible%
This is critical to the apearance f te packjob

Fig% "'

Close the freebag mouth lock using the safety stow%

[Fig% "(]
Helpful Hint: Microline lock stows should be ) inches
(' cm)$ Dacron line lock stows may require up to * inch+
es (, cm)%

Fig% "(

Insert all but ! inches ("# cm) of the remaining lines

into the line stow pocket in a S fold manner$ starting at
the very bottom of the pocket after stowing the lines%
[Fig% "&]
Helpful Hint: Remember to remove the pile velcro tabs
and mate the velcro in the pocket% Make sure not to trap
any lines in between the velcro halves% To reduce line
bulk$ distribute the lines evenly throughout the line
pocket%
Reach inside mouth lock with hands and separate reserve
fabric to make room for Cypres%
Fig% "&

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 7
 Packing the Reserve Container
Here is a suggested reserve closing loop length chart"
Reserve Closing Loop
Prestretched loops are measured from the washer to
Canopy Size Loop Length
the end of the closing loop" [Fig" #&]
PD'##) )"*+” ,/' #/-” IMPORTANT: Reserve ripcord pull force must remain
PD'#%! -"((” ,/' #/-” under %% lbs"
PD'#-) -"%+” ,/' #/-”
PD'#!( -"+(” ,/' #/-” Helpful Hint: A label in the main packing tray lists the
PD'#*! -"*+” ,/' #/-” canopies that are compatible with the container" Also
PD'#$) +"%+” ,/' #/-” included are more recommendations on closing loop
PD'%#& !"((” ,/' #/-” length"
PD'%+) !"((” ,/' #/-”

Fig" #&

Thread pull up cord through closing loop and tie off

with bowline knot about ! inches up" [Fig" #$]
Helpful Hint: Treat pull up cord and top #/% inch of
the closing loop with Airtec approved silicone" Airtec
recommends the use of silicone to protect the Cypres
loop" It also helps with reserve pin insertion"

Fig" #$

Place the reserve freebag into the reserve pack tray and
align risers" Then thread pull up cord through the free'
bag" [Fig" %(]

Helpful Hint: Ensure that the reserve risers are correct'

ly routed and pushed all the way into the container"

Fig" %(

8 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Packing the Reserve Container
Push freebag into the reserve container$ filling the cor(
ners# [Fig# %"]

Helpful Hint: This is a good time to reach around the

back and work the Cypres into the canopy$ and work
the canopy around the Cypres#

Fig# %"

Starting at bridle line attachment point on freebag$ fold

bridle in a “V” shape as shown in Fig# %%# While folding$
remove any twists in the bridle# Fold all but &(' ft of
the bridle under the !" closing flap#

Fig# %%

Thread closing loop and pull up cord through Cypres

cutter and !" closing flap# Use temporary pin to pin
closing loop in place# At this point$ no more than "/%”
to &/'” of loop should be able to be pulled up with max(
imum effort# [Fig# %&]
Helpful Hint: Placing your foot on the !" closing flap
while pulling up on the !' and !) side flaps$ work the
canopy into the corners and away from the closing loop#
This is important for bulk distribution and proper pilot
chute seating and should be repeated often# Main riser
covers may be used after reserve side flaps are closed#
Fig# %&

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 9
 Packing the Reserve Container
Distribute the remaining !"# ft of bridle on top of the
$% closing flap&[Fig& '#]

Fig& '#

Thread pull up cord through the spring pilot chute&

Center the pilot chute base over the $% closing flap
grommet& [Fig& '(]

Fig& '(

While keeping all pilot chute fabric out of the spring)

compress the pilot chute& [Fig& '*]
Helpful Hint: Holding the pull up cord in your mouth
will help control the spring& The pull up cord helps guide
the pilot chute while you compress it with your hands&

Fig& '*

10 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Packing the Reserve Container
Using a leverage bar with the pull up cord for leverage!
pull the closing loop up through the "# pilot chute cap$
Pin using the temporary closing pin$ [Fig$ #%]
Remember! there is no "# flap! the reserve pilot chute
is "# in the closing sequence$

IMPORTANT: There should not be pilot chute fabric

inside of the compressed coils of the spring$
Helpful Hint: If an actual leverage bar is not available! a
wrench or packing paddle can be used$

Fig$ #%

After pilot chute is pinned! force the pilot chute down

into the reserve freebag$ [Fig$ #&]
Helpful Hint: Placing your foot on the "# reserve pilot
chute while pulling up on the "' and "( side flaps!
work the canopy into the corners and away from the
closing loop$ This is important for bulk distribution and
proper pilot chute seating and should be repeated
often$ Main riser covers may be used after reserve side
flaps are closed$

Fig$ #&

Accordion fold both top and bottom halves of the pilot

chute canopy as shown! making one long tube$ Thread
pull up cord through flap ") [Fig$ #*]

Fig$ #*

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 11
 Packing the Reserve Container
Fold reserve canopy fabric around the back and under
flap !" as shown# Draw !" closing flap to !$ reserve
pilot chute# Remove and replace temporary pin#
[Fig# "%]
Helpful Hint: Remember to remove the temporary pin
once the grommets are touching# With adequate
pressure to contain the pilot chute& the temporary pin
can be removed and repositioned to the !" closing flap#

Fig# "%

Once !" flap is pinned& force the pilot chute down into
the freebag# Ensure that the reserve pilot chute coils
are all in line# [Fig# "']

Helpful Hint: Placing your foot on the !" closing flap

while pulling up on the !( and !) side flaps works the
canopy into the corners and away from the closing
loop# This is important for bulk distribution and proper
pilot chute seating and should be repeated often# Main
riser covers may be used after reserve side flaps are
closed#

Fig# "'

Thread the pull up cord through both !( and !) closing

flaps# While using the leverage bar draw !( and !)
grommets towards the center# Do not remove tempo*
rary pin yet# [Fig# "$]
Important: Do not force grommets into center# Work
#5 gradually using the helpful hint technique
Helpful Hint: While pulling both side flaps toward the
center& firmly slap the !) reserve side wall seam# This
method will gradually move the grommet closer to the
center without damaging the container# Working both
side flaps together will also help keep the reserve
Fig# "$ container symmetrical#

12 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Packing the Reserve Container
Once the !" and !# side flap grommets are drawn towards
the center over the closing loop$ unthread the !# flap% Keep
pressure on the !" flap and once again reposition the tempo&
rary pin onto the !" closing flap% After closing flap !"$ close
flap !#% Remove and reposition the temporary pin% [Fig% '']
Note: At this point$ very little loop should be able to be
pulled up with maximum effort%
If you are installing an RSL$ see the RSL assembly section in
this manual at this time%
Check to ensure that the !( flap passes under the Type "
retaining strap on the reserve pin cover flap before proceeding%
Fig% ''
Stow the yoke assembly side tucktabs%

Once !# flap is pinned$ work the pilot chute down into

the freebag% Thread the pull up cord through the !(
closing flap% [Fig% '"]
Helpful Hint: Placing your foot on the !" and !# clos&
ing flaps while pulling up on the main riser covers$
works the canopy into the corners and away from the
closing loop% These repeated procedures will help make
the reserve pin cover have a smoother$ flatter look% Any
bowing could allow air to untuck the flap$ exposing the
reserve pin%

Fig% '"

While pulling the closing loop up through the !( clos&

ing flap remove the temporary pin% Pin the closing loop
with the reserve ripcord pin% [Fig% '#]
Helpful Hint: If you are having difficulty getting the
reserve ripcord pin through the closing loop$ re&tempo&
rary pin flap !#$ then work the container more% Waiting
)#* minutes and repeating past helpful hints will make
inserting the reserve ripcord pin easier on the second
try%

Fig% '#

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 13
 Packing the Reserve Container
Before sealing the container! count and inspect ALL
tools that were used" [See Fig"#]
Seal reserve pin with $ lb seal thread" [Fig" %&]
Refer to Poynters Manual for additional information on
sealing reserve"
IMPORTANT: Do not forget to replace the completed
packing data card in the proper pocket! inside the right
front shoulder pad"

Fig" %&

Close the reserve pin cover using all three tuck tabs"
[Fig"%']

Fig" %'

14 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 The RSL System
The Reserve Static Line System (RSL) is optional equipment on the Mirage harness/container! If it is
not installed on your Mirage" you do not need to read this section! If you would like to have the RSL
installed on your Mirage" you may contact Mirage Systems at the address on the back of this manual!
To properly use a system equipped with an RSL" you must be familiar with its assembly" operation and
function! You must also receive training from competent instructors prior to using such a system! It is
not the intention of this manual to provide such training!

FUNCTION
The RSL system consists of a lanyard between the left main riser and the reserve ripcord! It is designed
to use the mechanical force of the released main risers after a cutaway to pull the reserve ripcord pin!
It is not guaranteed to function properly and should not be relied on to activate your reserve!

OPERATION
The RSL is essentially a passive system! A release lanyard is provided to disconnect the system! Use and
operation of the system should be explained by competent instructors!

Assembly of the RSL

Mate #/$” hook Velcro on the RSL lanyard to the %” pile
Velcro on the back of the left rear reserve riser! [Fig! %]

Fig! %

Mate %/&” x % %/&” hook and pile Velcro on the RSL lan'
yard" forming a fold! [Fig!&]

Fig! &

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 15
 Assembly of the RSL
Insert excess RSL lanyard fold into the space behind
the ring cover below the left main harness ring$ [Fig$ %]

Fig$ %

Attach the snap shackle to the main riser RSL ring and
inspect routing$ The RSL shackle must not interfere
with the operation of the %&Ring System$ [Fig$ ']

Fig$ '

Prior to closing flap !"# thread reserve ripcord through

the RSL rings with the ring on the RSL lanyard
between the housing keeper and the RSL retainer ring$
[Fig$(]#
IMPORTANT: Proper configuration of the reserve
ripcord through the RSL rings is critical to the proper
function of the RSL system!

Fig$ (

After closing flap !"# neatly tuck the excess lanyard

under the reserve riser$ [Fig$ "]

Fig$ "

16 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Optional “Fancypants”
Thread elastic through RIGHT legstrap first# leaving no
extra webbing past the buckle! [Fig! "]

Fig! "

Pass elastic through buckle on center bottom of rig!

[Fig! $]

Fig! $

Thread elastic through LEFT legstrap buckle# then stow

excess inside left legpad! [Fig! %]

Fig! %

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 17
 Lumbar Support
Elastic lumber suport is threaded as shown! start"
ing with the buckle on the right of the bottom
backpad channel# [Fig# $]

Fig# $

To adjust! snug or loosen at the buckle# [Fig#%]

Fig#%

When adjusted! tuck buckle and excess strap into

channel# [Fig# &]

Fig# &

18 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Assembly of the 3-Ring Release System

Before assembling the !"Ring release# make sure the ris"

ers aren’t twisted or reversed$ Thread each cable into its
housing and mate the handle to the harness$ The han"
dle should be positioned as close to the ends of the
housings as possible so that little or no cable is exposed$

Photo by Steve Utter

With the rings of the riser facing forward# pass the

large ring on the end of the riser through the large har"
ness ring from above$ Fold it back toward the canopy
and risers$ [Fig$%]

Fig$ %

Thread the smallest ring through the middle ring in the

same way# but make sure it doesn’t pass through the
large ring$ [Fig$ &]

Fig$ &

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 19
 Assembly of the 3-Ring Release System
Bring the white loop over the small ring only and then
through the riser grommet so it pokes out the back of
the riser! [Fig! "]
IMPORTANT: For the proper leverage reduction# the
white loop must only travel over the smallest ring! If
the loop passes through the middle ring also# the sys$
tem may fail!

Fig! "

Continue threading the white loop through the end fit$

ting on the cable housing! The flat side of the end fit$
ting should be against the riser! [Fig! %]

Fig! %

Thread the yellow cable through the white loop# making

sure the loop isn’t twisted! Be careful with the cable so
you don’t bend it too sharply or kink it! Insert the free
end in the channel on the back of the riser! There should
be plenty of excess cable with the cutaway handle
securely mated to the harness! [Fig!&]

Repeat the above steps with the other riser!

Fig! &

20 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 The 3-Ring Release System
PRE!JUMP INSPECTION
FOR THE "!RING RELEASE
Before jumping the Mirage# check the "!Ring
release system for the following:
$) Each ring passes through only one other ring%
&)The white locking loop is made of flat &A
sheathing and passes through only the small
ring%
") The white loop passes through the end fitting
on the cable housing without twisting%
') Nothing passes through the white loop except
the yellow release cable%
() The release handle is securely mated to the
harness# and little or no cable is visible
between the handle and the cable housings%
)) There should be a minimum of (%(” up to a
maximum of *” of cable past the cable housing
end%
The " views at right show a correctly built "!Ring
riser attached to the harness ring and put under
moderate tension% Note the following:
$) The rings overlap each other and maintain
metal!to!metal contact between each other%
&)The rings are aligned in parallel planes%
") The smallest ring is not pulled snug against the
grommet and the white loop is long enough to
give it some play%
') The white locking loop goes straight down
through the center of the riser grommet on its IMPORTANT: If your riser configuration does not
way to the cable housing end fitting; it does match these illustrations# the "!Ring release
not extend past the edge of the grommet hole might not function correctly% You should contact
and then turn back upwards towards the hole% a rigger or Mirage Systems before jumping%

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 21
 Assembly of Centerline
Collapsible Pilot Chute
Set out your main canopy! main bag and new pilot
chute" Find the bridle attachment point on your main
canopy [Fig" #]"
Remove the $% Rapid link from the bridle" Be sure to
unscrew the barrel fully! that will help you installing it
later"

Fig" #

Feed the end of the bridle through the grommet in the

top of the main bag from the outside in" Fold the bridle
if necessary and push the two short loops of fabric (one
covered in yellow Kevlar tape) through the grommet as
well" About #” (&"' cm) should protrude through to the
inside of the main bag [Fig" &]

Fig" &

Guide the open $% Rapid link through the fabric loop

which is backed with yellow Kevlar tape [Fig" (]

Fig" (

22 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Assembly of Centerline
Collapsible Pilot Chute
Pass the white collapse line and the bridle through the
Rapid link by passing them through the open gate of
the link! At this point" a small screwdriver or other simi#
lar tool can be used to straighten out the second fabric
loop [Fig! $]

Fig! $

Feed the male end of the connector link through the

gap in the second loop until it protrudes through the
loop" the thread the barrel over the male end" closing
the link! Tighten lightly with a wrench [Fig! %]

Fig! %

Now pull the loop material over the barrel so the barrel
is covered by the black loop! The collapse line should
exit the bridle between Kevlar and the link should lie as
shown [Fig! &]

Fig! &

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 23
 Assembly of Centerline
Collapsible Pilot Chute
Pass the large loop at the end of the bridle through the
canopy bridle attachment loop! then pass the entire
assembly! starting with the pilot chute handle through
the loop in the bridle" [Fig" #]

Fig" #

Cinch tight [Fig" $]

If these instructions are at all unclear or you have any
questions! CONSULT A RIGGER"

Fig" $

IMPORTANT: In order for the collapsing pilot chute to

work properly! it must be cocked before every jump"
Failure to cock the pilot chute may result in a major
malfunction" To cock the pilot chute! pull the pilot
chute handle while holding the bridle or stepping on
the packed main bag! in order to extract the collapse
line from the bridle" When it is safe to use! the bridle
will be colored in the window near the pin! not white"
Check that the collapse line shows color during a pin
check prior to every jump" If in doubt ASK A RIGGER"

Fig" %

24 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Assembly of Standard Pilot Chute
Feed the large loop of the bridle through the grommet
in the top of the main bag from the outside in! [Fig! "]

Fig! "

Pass the large loop at the end of the bridle through the
canopy bridle attachment loop# then pass the entire
assembly# starting with the pilot chute handle through
the large loop in the bridle! [Fig! $]

Fig! $

Cinch tight! [Fig! %]

Fig! %

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 25
 Packing the Main Container
The Mirage container system is compatible with practi!
cally any ram!air main parachute that will fit into the
container" Instructions for folding the main canopy
must be obtained from the manufacturer’s instruction
manual for each canopy" Fold the canopy and pack it
into the Mirage deployment bag according to those
instructions" Once you have placed the canopy into the
main deployment bag# begin stowing the suspension
lines" Start with the center split locking stow and work
towards the outside" Stows should not exceed $” (% cm)"
[Fig" &]

Fig" &

Fig" $ After making the five locking stows# begin stowing the
lines on the center stows" [Fig" $] Leave approximately
&$!&% inches of suspension line unstowed" This will help
with straighter openings" [Fig" ']
Helpful Hint: Start your lines stows about $"% inches
long and gradually make them smaller after each row"
This helps prevent each line stow from looping over the
row before it and causing a malfunction during deploy!
ment"

Fig" '

Lift the bag over the container# making sure that the
bag remains straight" Stow the risers alongside the
reserve container" Toggles should lie against the reserve
container" [Fig" (]
Helpful Hint: Offsetting the risers side!by!side will
reduce bulk in the riser tray and will give the container
side a smoother look"

Fig" (

26 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Packing the Main Container
Lay the secondary riser covers over the risers! Make
sure that they are tucked into the slot in the riser chan"
nel between the backpad and the reserve container!
[Fig! #]
Helpful Hint: The secondary riser covers are made of a
material that will take a shape after use! For the rig to
look its best$ ensure proper packing of these covers! A
little extra effort will insure the proper shaping of the
secondary riser covers$ which should not be visible once
the main riser covers are packed!

Fig! #

Fold back the main container flaps! Place the main bag
into the main pack tray! Make sure the line stows go to
the bottom of the container!
Helpful Hint: To get the best fit into the main container
insert the main bag with lines down first! Then lift up
on the centerflap with one hand to open the container
and push the top of the bag into place! [Fig %] Make
sure the bag fills the bottom corners! With the bulk
evenly distributed the main container will have a
smooth appearance!

Fig! %

Push the top of the bag down into place and lay the
main bridle out to the right side of the container! [Fig! &]

Thread the pull"up cord through the closing loop in the

'( flap!

Fig! &

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 27
 Packing the Main Container
Close flap !"# being sure the main bridle is routed out
from under the right side of the !" flap$ Mate the %”
velcro on the bridle line to the %” velcro on the main
center flap$ Lay excess bridle line to the right$ [Fig$ &]

Helpful Hint: Kneel on flap !% section of pack job to

push air out and work bag into corners$ Pushing on the
bottom !% flap while pulling on the pull up cord makes
Push this task easier$
Pull

Fig$ &

Close flap !'$ [Fig$ (]

Helpful Hint: Closing one side flap at a time may push
the bag and canopy out the other side$ To help with
main container symmetry# keep the main deployment
bag centered or a little to the left# inside the main pack
tray$

Fig$ (

Close Flap !)# and insert closing pin into loop$ Check
centerline collapsible bridle window to insure that the
main pilot chute is cocked$ The centerline should show
a colored mark# not solid white$ Stow the bridle under
the right main side (!)) flap from near the closing pin
down to bottom of the container$ [Fig$ %*]

Fig$ %*

28 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
Proper Bridle Routing for Main Container
Proper routing of the main bridle for standard right!
handed main deployment [Fig" #]" Note that the bridle
passes from the right of the container$ to the pin$ and
back out to the right" It does not cross over the %& flap"

Fig" #

IMPORTANT: Do not cross the main bridle from left

side to right side of the main pin cover flap$ as this may
cause a slow deployment or a main pilot chute in tow
[Fig" &]" The bridle must be routed on the same side of
the main pin cover as the bridle is routed into the main
pilot chute pouch"

Incorrect routing
Fig" &

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 29
 Packing the Main Pilot Chute
Fig$ & There are many ways to fold a main pilot chute$ Mirage
Systems provides these illustrations to demonstrate
one method$

If using ROL deployment( mate the bridle velcro to the

harness velcro to the mouth of the ROL pouch on the
back of the leg pad$
Fig$ "

Fig$ ) Store excess bridle line on the hand deploy pilot chute
and leave approximately !” ("# cm) of bridle out$ Fold
the pilot chute in half and proceed to fold as in illustra%
tions$ [Fig$ &%']

Fig$ *

Fig$ ' Insert folded main pilot chute in the spandex pouch$
[Fig$ +]
Helpful Hint: No bridle or main pilot chute material
should be exposed$ Exposed bridle may result in a pre%
mature main container opening and horseshoe mal%
function$

Fig$ +

30 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 User Instructions
HOW TO PUT THE HARNESS/CONTAINER ON!

When putting on your Mirage" first place your arms

through the main lift web! The container should be
resting on your shoulders! Next" slip the legstraps on!

Thread the chest strap through the adapter! [Fig!#]

IMPORTANT: Make sure the leg straps and chest strap

are threaded properly through the friction adapters! If
you have any question consult your rigger or instructor!

Fig #

Next" tighten the chest strap until the harness yoke is

parallel over your shoulders! Stow excess webbing in
elastic keeper! [Fig! $]

Fig $

Next" tighten the legstraps until they are comfortable!

Helpful Hint: Leaning forward slightly while tightening

will provide an even tighter fit! The container tends to
slide down the back before the leg straps are tightened!
Leaning forward while cinching the leg straps allows
the user to move the container further up their back!
[Fig! 3]

Fig %

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 31
 User Instructions
Stow the excess webbing under the keepers and into
the pockets in the legpads! [Fig! "]

Fig "

Once you have the leg and chest strap tightened$ stow
all excess webbing away! Excess webbing can cause an
entanglement during deployment or could be grabbed
inadvertently! [Fig!#]

Remove the harness/container by reversing this

process!

IMPORTANT: This manual does not replace proper

training and equipment orientation!

Fig #

32 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Replacement Parts
Components on any device tend to wear out with repeated use! Risers and pilot chutes are limited
lifetime components! With repeated use the materials break down" losing their structural integrity!
Other parts such as breakaway handles" reserve ripcords" reserve pilot chutes and reserve freebags at
times are lost after an emergency procedure! Container size and serial numbers are necessary to
ensure that the proper replacement part is ordered! Please check with your dealer on the current
replacement part prices!
Fig! '
If you are ordering replacement risers that are different
from what you currently have please give the length
(#$’”" ##”" #%”)" color" webbing type (mini or large)" tog&
gle type (Velcro" Velcroless)" and hardware type (stan&
dard or Stainless steel) [Fig! ']

When ordering a main pilot chute different from the

original" please provide the following information:
What type (standard or centerline collapsible)" and
what type of handle (several are available)! Centerline
Fig! # pilot chutes" freefly handles and hackys require color
choices! [Fig! #]
Fig! (
The standard color for breakaway handles is red! Other
colors are available! Embroidery is also available on the
handle! Mirage replacement breakaway handles are
stock lengths" they must be cut to proper length upon
delivery! [Fig! ( ]

Reserve ripcords come in different cable lengths! Rig

size and serial numbers are very important when order&
ing replacement ripcords! Please specify type of handle
Fig! % (standard metal Mirage handle or the soft reserve rip&
cord handle!) [Fig! %]

Reserve freebag and reserve pilot chutes are sometimes

lost after the deployment of the reserve container!
When replacing these parts" the container size and seri&
al number are critical! [Fig! )]

Fig! )

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 33
 Maintaining Your Mirage
INTRODUCTION

Your Mirage will last longer! look better and function correctly if it is maintained properly" A
Mirage actually requires very little maintenance unless it is subjected to unusual conditions such as a
jump into salt water or a muddy landing"

INSPECTING YOUR MIRAGE

The best approach to maintaining your rig is to periodically spend a few minutes examining every
detail on it" This inspection should be done at least every month" If any wear or damage is found! have
it repaired immediately by a qualified rigger" Delaying repairs may result in a malfunction"

PARTICULAR ATTENTION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THESE AREAS:

# Breakaway System" Refer to the $%Ring maintenance section (pg"$&) in this manual for detailed
information on inspecting the canopy releases"

' Reserve System" This includes the reserve ripcord! locking loop! pins! handle! housing! container and
associated stitching" You should not attempt any repairs or modifications to any of these items unless
you are a master rigger" You can! however! spot little problems before they become major"

$ Harness" The harness should be inspected periodically for broken stitching or frayed webbing" Main
risers! in particular! are subject to wear" See the $%Ring maintenance section of this manual" Type #(
mini risers should be replaced every '))%*)) jumps depending on wing loading"

* Main Container" Inspect the plastic stiffeners in the container flaps and replace any that are bro%
ken" Immediately replace any grommets that are badly deformed or are pulling out of their setting"
Replace a worn out spandex pilot chute pouch! which could result in a premature deployment"

+ Main Pilot Chute" Check the center line (the length of nylon tape inside the pilot chute that extends
from the handle to the base) of the main pilot chute" It must be firmly sewn at each end; there must
be no broken stitches or torn fabric" Inspect the seam that joins the pilot chute mesh to the pilot
chute fabric" If the mesh is torn or badly frayed! replace the pilot chute" If your Mirage is equipped
with a collapsing main pilot chute! refer to the instructions that came with it for maintenance pro%
cedures" Pay particular attention to stitching holding the curved main pin to the bridle"

& Closing Loop" The main and reserve containers are held shut with closing loops that are subject
to wear" If the main loop wears out and breaks! the main container may open prematurely and a seri%
ous malfunction may result" If the reserve loop breaks the reserve will open without further ado"
Replace worn loops with a duplicate if wear is noticed"

CAUTION: Never jump a Mirage with a frayed main or reserve closing loop"

34 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
 Maintaining Your Mirage

YOUR MIRAGE IS MANUFACTURED MOSTLY FROM NYLON! NYLON IS VERY

DURABLE" BUT IS SUSCEPTIBLE TO DAMAGE FROM SEVERAL SOURCES:

# Sunlight! The ultraviolet rays in sunlight quickly and permanently weaken nylon! Keep your Mirage
out of direct sunlight as much as possible!

$ Acids! Nylon is also damaged by acids! Keep your Mirage away from hangar floors" dirty car trunks and
similar areas where acids may be found! If such contamination does occur" immediately and thorough%
ly wash the rig with plenty of warm soapy water! Until a rig can be washed" baking soda will quickly
neutralize most acids! If acid damage occurs or is suspected" a rigger should thoroughly inspect your
Mirage! When not in use" your Mirage should be stored in an appropriate storage bag!

& Oils and Grease! Most petroleum compounds do not weaken nylon; they simply stain it! Such
stains should be promptly removed by a rigger using the proper petroleum solvent! Dry cleaning fluid
works well!

' Water! Water will not structurally damage your Mirage" but prolonged agitation in clear water
weakens webbing or may cause some fabric and tape colors to run! Salt water may damage nylon and
rust hardware if not promptly and thoroughly washed off with plenty of fresh water! Your rig will
maintain its new appearance longer if it is kept dry! When washing your rig" be gentle with it! Use
Woolite or similar mild soap and warm water!

( Soil! Soil may damage your Mirage! Brush off the soil after it has dried and gently wash with warm
soapy water! Be sure that the soil is not in the housings" snaps" &%Ring release or reserve ripcord pins
or loops! Consult a rigger if your rig is heavily soiled!

) Sand! Fine sand will weaken and cut webbing and fabrics of all kinds! Prolonged exposure to sand will
shorten the life of the entire parachute assembly!

* Abrasion! Nylon quickly frays if dragged over concrete or other rough surfaces! Do not drag your
rig on the concrete while packing!

Mirage Systems suggests having the container washed every (++ jumps to remove any
sand particles! Sand has sharp edges and accelerates wear!

Remember: A well maintained container is a safer container!

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 35
 Required Periodic Maintenance
for the 3-ring Release
The !"ring release has been in use for many years with excellent results# However$ it requires periodic
maintenance and inspection to ensure proper operation# Generally$ it is NOT recommended that the
risers be attached to the harness when new and “forgotten”# Like all skydiving gear$ the !"ring release
should be carefully inspected and operated on a regular basis#
The following procedures should be done at least every month$ and especially when returning the rig
to service after a layoff$ such as off"season# Immediate inspection is required if it has been subjected to
some abuse such as a drag across the runway$ a water landing or exposure to a lot of dirt or sand# It is
important to maintain the system even more frequently in humid$ muddy or freezing conditions# If the
Mirage becomes immersed in mud or muddy water clean the release system with a mild solution of
soap and water# Dry all components thoroughly# Any rusted components must be replaced#

%# Every month operate the !"ring release system on the ground# Extract the cable completely from
the housings and disconnect the risers#

&# Inspect For Wear# While the system is disassembled$ closely inspect it for wear# Check the white locking
loops (the ones that pass over the smallest ring and through the grommet) to be sure they are not frayed#

!# Check# Check the touch"fastener fabric on the cutaway handle and main lift web to be sure it is
clean and adequately holds the handle#

'# Cable ends# Check the cable ends for a smooth finish# The ends are finished at the factory to have a
smooth$ tapered surface#This prevents the cable from hanging up in the loop# Check the entire cable
on both sides for burrs$ nicks or any irregularities$ paying particular attention to the portions of the
cables that actually pass through the locking loops# Consult a rigger if any problems are found#

(# Cables# Clean and lubricate the release cables with silicone spray# Spray some silicone on a paper
towel and firmly wipe the cables a few times# A thin$ invisible film of lubricant should remain#

)# Stitching# Check the stitching on the risers$ and the stitching holding the large rings to the harness#

*# Cable Housing Stretch# Check the cable housings for solid hand"tacking and proper stretch# Pull the hous"
ings from the free end and expect %"& inches of movement# The bottom ends of the housings$ under the right
chest strap$ should be secure in their pockets and not able to be pulled down more than a half inch#

+# Risers# Take each riser and vigorously twist and flex the webbing at the bottom of the risers$ where
the two release rings are attached# This is to remove any set or deformation of the webbing# Flex the
white locking loop# Check the back of the risers where the webbing meets the grommet to be sure the
webbing is not pulling out from the grommet# Replace risers if this is occurring# Inspect the hard hous"
ing channel entrance hole# If the housing can be pulled through the opening$ the riser should be
replaced#

,# Cable Housings# Check the cable housings for dents or obstructions using the release cables as probes#

%-# End Fittings# Inspect the end fittings on the cable housings# Look for nicks or sharp edges on the
top surface# Ensure the fittings are attached firmly to the housings#

36 M I R A G E S Y S T E M S
!!" If any unusual wear or condition is found consult a rigger or contact Mirage Systems"

!#" Reassemble the system according to the instructions on page !$" Double check it" Ensure the ris%
ers aren’t twisted or reversed"

Notes
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M I R A G E S Y S T E M S 37
MIRAGE G4 HARNESS/CONTAINER SYSTEM

G4

Mirage Systems, Inc.

Post Office Box 820
DeLand, Florida 32721

Shipping Address
1501A Lexington Ave.
DeLand, Florida 32724

www.miragesys.com

phone:386-740-9222 • fax:386-740-9444

M I R A G E S Y S T E M S