B52 Inst
B52 Inst
B52 Inst
T h e Tr a n g o B - 5 2 i s t h e f i r s t b e l a y d e v i c e w h i c h was designed from a total perfor mance point-ofv i e w. In developing the B-52 we didn't stop
INSTRUCTIONS
designing w hen we got a device that had g r eat s t o p p i n g p o w e r. T h a t p a r t w a s e a s y. Fr o m t h e r e w e went on to tweak it so it has an almost frictionless and jam-free feed and superb modulation so that it rappels as smoothly as a lar ge Figure-8 (without twisting the rope). In addition the B-52 is an
www.trango.com 800.860.3653
c l i m b e r f r o m b e l o w. A n d i n a p i n c h , b e u s e d a s a n e m e r g e n c y a s c e n d e r.
the B-52
can
Please read this carefully before use. It contains all the necessary information you need to correctly use the B-52 belay/rappel device for mountaineering and climbing. Incorrect use or improper maintenance can lead to serious accidents or death! It is therefore necessary to receive adequate training (knowledge of techniques and of security measures) before using this device. Practice these techniques in a safe and risk free location before using your B-52 in the field. These are not belaying or rapelling instructions. Thorough knowledge of these techniques is required before using the B-52. USE ONLY THE TECHNIQUES ILLUSTRATED Any other uses are potentially dangerous. The user is responsible for the risks to which he exposes himself. If you cannot accept this responsibility, do not use the B-52. The manufacturer and resellers of the B-52 decline any and all responsibility for any damage or other type of negative consequence that may occur due to the use of this article. METHODS OF USE (SEE ILLUSTRATIONS ON BACK) Be careful; the amount of braking power which the B-52 can develop is directly related to the diameter and the type of rope, (UIAA and UIAA in conformity with UNI EN 892) used. If you use new, thin or very smooth-running ropes, practice the techniques described here in a safe and risk free location before using the the B-52 in the field. When descending, always use a backup knot (prusik), especially if there are objective dangers present. Make sure the prusik knot does not jam up against the B-52 (fig.4), or it may not lock up when needed. ATTENTION: never let go of the rope with your brake hand. You and your partners safety depend on you. It is important to always tie a blocking knot in the free end of the rope to eliminate the risk of rappelling off the end of the rope. Rappel smoothly and in control so as to avoid excessive heat which will cause rapid wear of the B-52 itself and could damage your rope. IMPORTANT Always use locking carabiners (locked) to attach the B-52 to your harness. Only use equipment suitable for mountaineering and rescue which is compatible with the applicable European (CE) directives. The cable attached
to the B-52 is for carrying convenience only. Do not use it in any loadbearing capacity. MAINTENANCE Replace the B-52 if it shows any sign of corrosion. Clean the B-52 with fresh water and dry with a non abrasive cloth. STORAGE Store the B-52 in a cool, dry place, and keep away from heat sources and corrosive substances. LONGEVITY It is impossible to predict the life of any piece of climbing or rescue equipment. Useful life depends on many factors. Inspect your B-52 for any signs of wear before each use and replace it if necessary. CONTACT If you have any questions or require any additional information please contact Trango: 800.860.3653 -or- www.trango.com
W A R N I N G
This product is designed for climbing and mountaineering only. Climbing, and any other activity for which this product may be used, is inherently dangerous. It is the user's responsibility to understand and follow all instructions for proper use.
INSTRUCTIONS
Belaying the Leader
1
Fig. 1 Rig the B-52 as you would any tube-style device. The brake rope must pass over the side with the Trango logo. Attach the B-52 only to the belay point of your harness using a locking carabiner, as described by your harness manufacturers instructions. Feed rope or take it in as required by the climber. Be sure to keep your brake hand on the rope.
Fig. 2 To catch a fall, move your brake hand back to lock off the ropes. The fall will be stopped quickly but dynamically. In a hard or long fall the B-52 will provide a dynamic catch and some rope may run through the device before the falling climber is stopped. Wear leather gloves to prevent rope burn. Practice catching falls with a secure back up before attempting these skills in the field.
Rappelling
3
Fig. 3 The B-52 can be used as a smoothing running rappel device. The brake ropes must pass over the side with the Trango logo. Use a prussik knot to back up and control the descent.
PRUSIK KNOT
Tie a back up knot in the bottom of the rope to prevent rapelling off the end.
Fig. 4 Be sure to prevent the prussic knot from coming in contact with the B-52, or it will jam. Extend the B-52 from your harness using a runner.
PRUSIK KNOT
The fall will automatically be stopped by the bottom rope being pinched by the top rope. Fig. 6a A hanging climber can be lowered but this is an advanced skill that must be practiced before use in the field.
6a
6b
6c