Most repairs of the main pilot chute consist of fabric or mesh  repairs and may be repaired similar to canopy procedures.  The most common damage seen on main pilot chutes is in  the area of the apex and the hand deploy handle.  [Figure A] This area is subject to fairly severe stress and strain. The  following procedure deals with the apex area repair. It should  be noted that if the repair is too complex, it is probably more  cost effective to replace rather than repair the pilot chute. •  Reinforcing tape must be secure. •  Binding must be re-sewn. •  Grommets must be set and secure. 5.  Insert new grommets.  [Figure G] 4.  Punch new holes over the exact position as the original  ones.  [Figure F] 2.  Trim the ends of the tape to match the shape of  the tongue. 3.  Using the single needle machine, reapply the binding  tape around the edge of the tongue.  [Figure E] •  Applicable products: Most main hand deploy pilot  chutes •  Description: Repair of the apex area of a hand deploy  pilot chute •  Authorized repairmen: FAA Senior or Master  Parachute Rigger  •  Materials: E thread and ¾ inch Type-3 tape •  Machines: 301 straight stitch—medium duty 7–11 SPI •  Equipment: Scissors, seam ripper or scalpel, marking  pencil, 6-inch ruler, and hot knife Main Pilot Chute Repair—Top Canopy  Reinforcing Procedure Inspection 7-68