Hey all,
I've been a little concerned with my fifth line FDS system. Every time I pull the bar while the kite is reasonably powered up, the fifth line gets pinched between the depower (trim) line and the bar opening and it has begun to fray.



Is this something I should be concerned about? I typically don't initiate the FDS, so that line doesn't get much use but I'd hate to lose the kite if I ever needed to pull the safety QR.

I don't want to assume it was set up wrong (bought it from John @ PZ), but the FDS line travels from the little aluminum block, down the trim line, inside a ring, then inbetween the two trim lines and finally into the bar. I'll take pictures next time I have the lines all undone if anybody can't understand what I'm trying to say (sorry...).

If this doesn't sound right, would anybody have any insights or photos on how it should be set up? :puzzled:

Appreciate any thoughts you guys may have!

Here is the link to the full size photo for a closer look:

http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/3968/gopr0051.jpg

I don't think that's a big deal. If you cut to the 5th line there is not going to be a whole lot of pressure on the kite and that's a hefty line so it shouldn't break. That's a different bar setup then my Pulse (which is also on a FDS) so I can't say if its set up correctly or not but if it came from John I assume it is. Seems to be fraying just like normal depower lines that get a bit chewed up as they pass through the bar (especially if they are double lines with a splitter on a spinning shackle to keep them from twisting or they've gotten wet and sandy / salty). Unless others who know the setup you have express concern, I would not worry and if it ever shows significant structural damage just replace it with a line from John or your local climbing or boating store.

at present it doesnt appear to be a problem..........try waxing your lines or sailkote (dry lube) works to reduce chaffing/wear..................................

Awesome, thanks guys!!

the bar is setup correctly,

what it looks like from the picture is the tip of the internal spliced portion inside the hollow braid is coming out the side... you can pull it out a little and trim it off.

if this is not the case and it really is fraying and looks fragile... please remove that FDS end-line from the bar setup.... mail it to me in an envelope and i'll repair/replace it for free.

You're the best, John. I'll look at it a bit closer tonight and see what the deal is.