How to Install a Rope Bridge Here are some step-by-step instructions on how to build a 2-rope rope bridge. Have a read and if anything is unclear don't hesitate to contact us (613-674-2728 or bb6k@atlanticbraids.com) or post a comment with your question on our How To video (www.youtube.com/atlanticbraids), Facebook page (www.facebook.com/atlanticbraids) or via Twitter (@BridgeBuilder6k). ***IMPORTANT*** Before starting you will need to pick up 10 clips (5 per line) in order to tension the lines as demonstrated below. We strongly recommend heavy duty threaded links (quick links) as shown in the photos, 1/2" x 3300 lbs. links are what were used below and are available at most hardware stores. An inferior clip poses the risk of bending or breaking which could result in the clip springing back or persons falling during tensioning and causing injury. Screw shut the links before tensioning. Always put safety first! Step 1: Wrap the first tree to anchor the rope with a friction hitch. The number of wraps required will depend on the roughness of the bark. Step 2: Tie a simple overhand knot on a loop at the end of the rope. This is to attach a clip to the end of the rope in case it slips. 1
Step 3: Put the clip on the rope. Step 4: Now clip it to the running end. You are now ready to take the running end of the rope across the obstacle. Step 5: On the other side of the obstacle about 4 feet from the second tree (support), tie an alpine butterfly knot to attach clips for tensioning the loops 2
Step 6: After a couple of wraps place another clip as shown. Step 7: Put two clips on the alpine butterfly loop. Step 8: You are now ready to begin lacing up the tensioning loops. 3
Step 9: Run the rope back and forth from the tree clip to each of the clips on the alpine butterfly loop. Then screw close the links. Step 10: You are now ready to tension the rope. Pull as hard as you can on the free end. Step 11: The loops you laced up between the clips will give you some mechanical advantage and help you get the rope tight. 4
Step 12: After pulling the rope tight, wrap the tree again while maintaining tension on the rope. Step 13: In the final steps, attach another safety clip to the tree with another overhand knot on the loop, and clip it as shown. Step 14: Here is the finished tensioning arrangement. 5
Step 15: Repeat steps 1-14 for the top (hand rail) rope. The hand rail should be located about 4 feet above the foot rope. Step 16: HAVE FUN!!! 6
Safety Information Please read and follow all precautions listed below. These precautions should be considered a minimum level of safety. Always take advantage of any opportunity to increase the level of safety. Intended use: The BridgeBuilder6000 is only intended for recreational rope bridge building activities. This line is not intended for critical applications and should not be used as such. Recommended Set Up: The BridgeBuilder6000 is intended to be set up between two strong and secure permanent objects such as mature trees. Tri-pod set ups and other non-permanent attachment points may not provide the strength and stability required for proper set up and are not recommended for this product. Tensioning will apply a large amount of force on the attachment points which is why they must be extremely strong and secure to prevent injury. Safe Working Load: The "6000" in the name BridgeBuilder6000 comes from the spliced break strength of the rope (which is an average of 6000 lbs.). Due to the different stresses placed on the rope through knots and other environmental factors, a 10:1 safety factor has been set for this line. This translates into a maximum load of 600 lbs. that can be placed on the rope at any one time. Safety Equipment: To provide the maximum level of security, helmets and safety harnesses should be worn during use of the rope bridge. Clipping the safety harness to the upper support line offers added security in the event of a fall or partial fall from the bottom line. Always use certified safety equipment that meets or exceeds the requirements of the activity for which it is being used. Regular Inspection: All ropes are susceptible to wear, cuts and damage due to abrasion and other environmental factors. All efforts should be made to ensure the rope is not used over sharp edges or any surface that may damage the rope. The polyester jacket is intended to protect the Dyneema core but it too can be damaged. Inspection should be carried out to look for damaged areas before every use as well as during prolonged set-ups. Chafing or wear is normal, however any areas of broken cover or cut fibers would require the rope to be taken out of service and either repaired or retired. Safe Heights: The BridgeBuilder6000 can be set up between trees, over small creeks and over ditches however safety should always be priority number one. The height should always be kept at a level that will prevent injuries. Always be aware of what is under you! Clear the area of debris and other objects that could cause injury in the event of a fall. Adult Supervision: Supervision of the set-up and use of the rope bridge is a must. There should always be an adult present to monitor that the rope is set-up and used correctly and to assist if there are any difficulties along the way. Choking Hazard: As with any rope or cable, these types of products can pose choking hazards in the hands of young children or if used incorrectly. Always be aware of this risk and ensure ample supervision is provided to prevent the misuse of the rope. For any inquiries about the use or any other aspect of the BridgeBuilder6000 please contact us by phone at 1 (613) 674-2728 or by email at bb6k@atlanticbraids.com.