Backyard Play Places Blog

Brake Block Kit

2010-03-28T11:41:00.000-07:00

With the start of the zip line season we have had many questions on adding a brake to an existing zip line. We have added a new brake block kit to our website, click here to view brake block kit. http://stores.cmplaygrounds.com/-strse-268/Brake-Block-Kit/Detaill.bok We have also added installation tips online for viewing as well @ http://site.cmplaygrounds.com/Zip-Line-Tips.html The brake block kits are towards the bottom of the page underneath the zip line install tips.

Step 1

First you will need to unscrew the 4 screws holding the plastic protector on the front of the brake block. Next unbolt the 4 bolts holding the brake block together and pull brake block apart.

Step 2

Bolt the brake block back together with the zip line cable running through the middle. Make sure the end of the block that the protector screws back on is facing the start of the zip line ride. Then slide the plastic protector over the cable and screw it back onto the brake block.

Step 3

The next step is to figure out where to put the anchor and how much bungee rope you will need. These positions will probably need to be adjusted but we can at least get you a good starting point. In general you will need double the amount of bungee rope compared to how far the end of the zip line is off of the ground. If the end of your zip line is 10' off of the ground you will need about 20' of bungee rope. The distance from where the brake block sits at rest and the end of your zip line ride should be equal to the length of bungee rope you are using. Slide your brake block to this point on your cable. Tie one end of the bungee rope to the brake block. Take the other end of the bungee rope and walk toward the start of the zip line just untill the brake wants to start to slide. This is approx. where you want to screw in the ground anchor. Make sure you screw it in the ground about 5' or 6' to the side of the zip line cable so you don't run into the bungee rope when riding down the zip line. Tie the other end of the bungee rope to the ground anchor.

Step 4

Make sure and test your brake block using your trolley and weights before you ride. Step 3 will probably need adjustments depending upon the weight of the riders as well as the speed and distance of the zip line. The easiest way to adjust the brake is to unscrew the anchor and move it to a new location.

I hope this helps in making your zip line a little safer to rider. Feel free to pour on the questions. Thank you and happy zipping.

Zip Line Install Tips

2009-08-07T20:56:00.000-07:00

We have decided to run a new promotion with our website (www.backyardplayplaces.com) to encourage people to ask questions and leave comments for others about their backyard playgrounds. Every month we will pick a different topic to blog about. Anyone who writes in this blog will receive a 5% off entire purchase coupon* good at www.backyardplayplaces.com. (Limit one discount per customer)

August's topic will be about zipline kits. We are in the process of installing our zip line kit and will post pictures soon. Before installing your own zip line you want to make sure that you have 2 solid ancors to attach your zip line to.

Once you determine the ancors then you want to make sure that you have a clear path and make sure that the ancors are suitable enough to allow about a 6% drop in cable. That is a 6' drop for every 100' of cable. This is a good starting point and can be adjusted later to dial in the correct speed. You will also want to take into consideration about a 2% drop in cable for sagging. Once the path is clear it is time to set up the cable. I use a chain wrapped around one anchor with a turnbuckle and at the other anchor I use just the cable. It is a good idea on the end with just the cable to use some rubber tubing to help protect your anchor.

You will want to pull the cable as tight as you can with the turnbuckle fully extended. This will give you the most amount of adjustment to pull the cable just right. Once the cable is hung and tight then it is time for a test run. After testing you want to make sure the cable is still tight and retighten turnbuckle and clamps. Make sure that there is no cable slippage. You will want to make sure riders are going to be able to stop before reaching the end of the ride. A brake block with bungee rope will help slow the riders down at the end of the ride.

A rope may be added to the pully to assist walking it back to the starting point. I would highly recommend using a harness if zipline is any distance off of the ground. Also if there is a good distance in the cable it is a good idea to add a seat so your hands and arms don't get too tired. To purchase parts and accessories for your zipline kit please don't forget to shop www.backyardplayplaces.com

Remember, installing and operating a safe zip line is your responsibility. Establishing a safe operating procedure is essential. Always consult a professional when installing a zip line. Children should always be supervised and taught how to operate the zip line safely.

Welcome

2009-05-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Backyardplayplaces.com discussion page. This page was designed to share ideas, pictures, and ask questions about building the ultimate backyard. Feel free to ask any questions regarding backyard structures and activities. Anywhere from, what is the best ground material for play areas to designing and setting up a zip line to building a rope bridge. I have lots of experience and many ideas for backyard fun. I will answer all questions to the best of my ability, no matter how difficult. Thank you for all your comments and I look forward to helping you. Disclaimer - no information provided by Backyard Play Places shall be viewed as professional instruction or advice. All written or spoken material is opinion and does not guarantee safety. When installing backyard toys professional help should be obtained. All persons are wholly responsible for the safe selection, installation and operation of their play equipment.