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Strong Enterprises Owner’s Manual. Para-Cushion model 306 Squadron Seat
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel: (407) 859-9317 Fax: (407) 850-6978
www.strongparachutes.com sales@strongparachutes.com
1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a new Para-Cushion Squadron Seat Model 306 Emergency Parachute
System from Strong Enterprises. It is one of the finest 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 50 years. We welcome your comments so that we may continue to improve our
products and help make flying safer and more comfortable.
1.1 Scope
This owner’s manual constitutes the manufacturer’s instructions for the operation, packing and
maintenance of the 306 Squadron Seat Emergency Parachute System.
1.2 FAA Approval
Originally certified 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, (in accordance with
AS 8015A, category B and FAR 21, Subpart O). A copy of the FAA Approval Letter is on the inside
of the back cover of this manual.
1.3 Operational Limitations
When using the 26ft 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 Para-Cushion 306 Squadron is is designed for a 365-day repack cycle. Your countries laws may
dictate a stricter schedule, check your local regulations. The Para-Cushion 306 Squadron must be
packed by an FAA certificated parachute rigger, or foreign equivalent, with an appropriate rating
or returned to Strong Enterprises for inspection and repack. If your Para-Cushion is exposed to
moisture, excessive dirt or is damaged it should be inspected sooner than the maximum allowed.
Note!
USA current repack regulations can be found in FAA FAR 91.307
1.5 Model Description
The unique Para-Cushion system design (U.S. Patent #3,908,937), with externally mounted pilot
chute, allows for a soft, flexible container with protected ripcord pins. The Para-Cushion, is an FAA
approved, manually operated emergency parachute system.
The Para-Cushion 306 Squadron Seat (P/N:121108) was designed specifically for the bucket style
seat pan used in Warbirds such as the SNJ, T-6, T-34, T-28, P-51 and many others.
The pack and cushion combination measures 13” (33cm) x 16.5” (42cm) x 6.5” (16.5cm) thick
(minimum) and is shaped to fit fully into the seat providing a large, stable, comfortable seat for the
pilot. The back and seat cushion utilize 1/2” (1.25cm) Confor® foam padding for comfort and support.
Additionally, it is possible to add extra lumbar and back support by using the removable lumbar
support pad, and G pad cushion (sold separately).
The 26’ (7.92m) Mid-Lite parachute is block constructed using low porosity (Lo-Po) fabric. This fabric
allows less air flow than conventional parachute fabric and therefore provides a slower, more stable
rate of descent.
Summary of Contents for Para-Cushion 306 Squadron Seat
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