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Strong Enterprises owner’s manual. Para-Cushion model 311 Wedge
11236 Satellite Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837 Tel.: (407) 859-9317 Fax: (407) 850-6978
www.strongparachutes.com
1. Introduction
1.1 Scope
This owner’s manual constitutes the manufacturer’s instructions for the operation, packing, and
maintenance of the 311 Wedge Emergency Parachute System.
1.2 FAA Approval
Originally certified in 1973 under TSO C-23b, standard category, the Para-Cushion parachute as-
semblies were upgraded in 1992 and are now FAA approved under TSO C-23c, category B (in accor-
dance with AS 8015A and FAR 21, Subpart O). A copy of this approval is on the rear back cover.
1.3 Operational Limitations
Limited to use by persons up to 115 kg (254 lbs) fully equipped (person, clothes, and equipment ex-
cept parachute), and up to 150 knots IAS. Maximum recommended weight, (wearer, clothes, equip-
ment) of 175 pounds (79.5 kg) if the Mid-Lite canopy (Part no. 1012-6) is installed).
1.4 Repack Cycle
Your Para-Cushion 311 Wedge pack is subject to a 120 day 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 certificated and appropriately
rated parachute rigger within the preceding 120 days.” The Para-Cushion 311 must be packed by an
FAA Senior or Master parachute rigger with a back type rating. If your Para-Cushion is subjected to
moisture or damage it should be inspected sooner than the 120 day maximum.
1.5 General Description of Models
The Para-Cushion series of Emergency Parachutes, including the model 311, are FAA approved
emergency parachute systems fitted 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.
The back types include the Model 303 ( introduced in 1987) and the model 311 (introduced in 1999).
Both have fabric risers cover and are slightly shorter than the original Para-Cushion Back. The
model 311 is wedge shaped, thicker at the bottom with the pilot chute mounted low. The unique ar-
rangement (U.S Patent # 3,908,937) of each system with its externally mounted pilot chute allows
for a soft flexible container with protecting ripcord pins.
Each complete system weights between 14 1/2 and 15 3/4 pounds depending upon model, and the
