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over-handling the glider low above ground. We recommend using
only weight shift.
Landing
Similarly to the take-off, the D-light’s landing characteristics are
easy. In turbulent conditions it is advisable to apply about 15% of
brake, to increase stability and the feeling of the glider.
Before landing, adopt the standing position as this is the most
effective and the safest way to compensate the touch down with
your legs. Again we recommend training the landing manoeuvre,
as it might be useful to be able to land in small places, especially
in an unknown cross country terrain. Learn to evaluate the wind
direction by observing the signs on the ground and your drift
while making turns. This is useful for cross country, when landing
away from your usual landing field. Another advice we suggest
taking into account in stronger winds is to head for the landing
field earlier, thus making sure you reach them. Likewise, always
look for possible alternatives downwind.
Maintenance
General advice
Careful maintenance of your glider and the following simple
guidelines will ensure a much longer airworthiness and performance
of your wing:
• Pack your glider after you land and do not expose it to
unnecessary UV radiation, by leaving it unpacked in the landing.
The sun UV radiation degrades the cloth and line material.
• Fold your glider as recommended under “Packing instructions”
below.
• If the glider is damp or wet when you pack it, partially unfold
it at home to allow it to dry. Do not dry it in direct sunlight.
• Avoid exposing the glider to violent shocks, such as the leading
edge hitting the ground.
• Avoid dragging the glider on the ground or through rocky
terrain as you might damage the lines or canopy.
• Avoid stepping on the lines or canopy, especially when they
are lying on a hard surface.
• Avoid exposing the glider to salt water, as it damages the lines
and the canopy material (wash with fresh water).
• Avoid bending your lines, especially in a small radius.
• Avoid opening your glider in strong winds without first
untangling the lines.
• In general, avoid exposing your glider to very hot or humid
environments, UV radiation or chemicals.
Packing instructions
It is important to pack your glider correctly, as this prolongs its
lifespan. We recommend that you fold the glider like an accordion,
neatly aligning the cell walls with the leading edge reinforcements,
side by side. The wing should then be folded in three parts or two
folds. The wing should be packed as loosely as possible. While
packing be careful not to trap any grasshoppers inside your canopy
as they will chew through the canopy cloth. By adhering to these
few simple guidelines you ensure that your glider last longer and
preserves its best performance. for longer.
Storage
Correctly packed, store your glider in a dry place at room
temperature. The glider should not be stored damp, wet, sandy,
salty or with objects inside the cells of the glider. Keep your
equipment away from any chemicals.
Cleaning
If necessary always clean your glider with fresh water and a cloth
only, without using any cleaning chemicals. This includes both
lines and canopy. More importantly, always remove stones or
sand from the canopy as they will gradually damage the material
and reduce the glider’s lifespan.
Repair
To repair small damages (less than 5cm) to the canopy, you may
use rip stop repair patches. Greater damages, including damage
to stitches and lines, should be repaired by a specialized repair
shop. Damaged lines should be replaced by a Triple Seven dealer.
When replacing a line it should always be compared with the
counterpart for adjusting the appropriate length. After the line was
repaired, the wing should be inflated before flying, to ensure that
everything was done correctly. Major repairs, such as replacing
panels, should only be carried out by a Triple Seven distributor or
Triple Seven. If you are unsure about the damage or in any doubt
please contact Triple Seven.
