This is a step by step guide on how to setup and install our backyard zip line kit!
LOCATION SELECTION
The location selection process is super important, it will work even if the area is flat but if you can have a perfect location it makes the backyard zip line even faster.
The first step is to select a start and end location where the rider of the zip line can easily get on and off.
Clear the zip line lane of obstructions by at least a 5FT. below the zip line and at least 5FT. on either side. hazards such as sharp objects, large rocks, branches or any other potential hazards.
Trees selected must be healthy and at least 38 inches in circumference or 12 inches in diameter.
Fun Fact: Most zip line cables can apply 800 to 3,000 pounds of horizontal force to an anchor point.
Please ensure the anchor points (attachment points of the zip line) are only on healthy trees that meet the very important criteria of being at least 38 inches in circumference or 12 inches in diameter.
If using posts, please ensure the wooden posts are 12" Diameter, minimum. The posts must be sunk 4 FT. in the ground, or 10% of post length plus 2FT. Secure the post with 6 inches of concrete around the post. Then please include guy cables and ground anchors to posts.
Safety should be the highest priority.
CABLE SLOPE & SAG
Cable Slope should be at a maximum of 3%(3FT. drop per 100FT. of distance). Cable tension is measured by cable sag:
- The cable, when bearing the weight test, should sag below the end where the cable is attached
- The sag needs to be 2% of zip line's total length. (2FT. per 100FT. of cable)
- The sage is measured at the cable's lowest point
PLEASE TEST THE ZIP LINE BEFORE USING THE ZIP LINE!!!
STEPS TO INSTALLING YOUR BACKYARD ZIP LINE KIT!
Step 1:
Setup the sling cable (End Point) at the correct height and connect the turnbuckle to the sling cable (make sure the turnbuckle is fully extended).
Step 2:
Attach the main cable (looped end) to the turn buckle. Unravel the main line.
Step 3:
Remove the tree protector pipe from the main line. Then thread the non-looped side of the main cable first through the spring brake then the zip line trolley.
Step 4:
Put the tree protector pipe back on the main line. Then put the main line around
the start point tree (at the desired height).
Push the spring brake and the trolley all the way to the end near the looped end of the line. Take the long main cable and wrap it around the start point tree and the looped end will connect to the turnbuckle on the end point tree. Ensure the rubber tubing is against the bark of your tree.
Step 5:
Have a helper or two use broomsticks to hold the main line high in the air (this will help you install the U-Clamps). Then attach the u-clamps on the main cable (at the start point).
- With two helpers supporting the trolley and cable, pull the wrapped cable as tight as you can with your hands. While holding tight with one hand attach the first u-clamp and tighten slightly, 2’ from tree. DO NOT PUT A UCLAMP CLOSE TO THE TREE - It should be in a teardrop shape, not snug around the tree.
- Repeat the above until you removed as much slack by hand as possible. Then tighten first U-clamp to 30 foot pounds of torque, or as snugly as you can with hand tools. Do not over-tighten!
- Tidy up your excess cable by simply coiling it up and securing and covering the coil with duct tape
Step 6:
Use turnbuckles to tighten carefully and double check initial installation work. The zip line can support many times the weight of most riders. The loops, U-clamps, and attachments tree are more prone to failure. If they are not assembled correctly, they must be checked very carefully and frequently.
• Tighten the turnbuckle - tighten the centre part to adjust the zip line. Until it “appears” almost horizontal or straight. Do not over tighten.
Have questions? Contact us to help with your Backyard Zip Line Kit!