Use discount code REOPEN for 10% off zip line kits!

Zip Line Stop Block DIY

 

If you've ever setup a zip line, you most likely are a do-it-yourself type of person. Now, you are looking to construct your own zip line stop block. A stop block is the last layer of protection for you or your kids before they ram into the tree. It exists on a line that blocks any object trying to pass through. Traditionally they can come in wood/metal/plastic blocks, and we'll go over the pros and cons of these solutions. We will also talk about some unconventional methods on how to construct a zip line stop block DIY style. 

As this relates to braking, check out our most common braking methods as there will be some overlap between the two articles. 

Tires

Yes! Don't be afraid to throw some old tires onto your zip line. Tires provide a surprisingly amount of stopping power paired with a cable clamp. The cable clamp will sit behind the tire(s) to stop the tire from sliding as the rider impacts. If you have some old rubber car tires, those are great! If you have rubber tires from a wheelbarrow or wagon that needs retiring, you can purpose them to become your stop block. 

Drill holes into your tire and feed the end zip line cable through the tire. 

 zip line stop block tire
zipline tire brake

 

Stop Block DIY

This will be your most involved method of creating a wooden stop block from scratch. You will need some external tools like a drillbit and a dado blade to cut wood slits. 

1. Start with two 6x6x1 wooden blocks. These will sandwich together on your zip line. 

2. Cut a wooden slit on one of the wooden block so your cable can fit snugly. 

3. Drill holes in corresponding spots in the corners of both of your wooden blocks. This is where you will put in your bolts. 

4. Assemble everything, by sandwiching the two wooden blocks at the end of your cable. Tighten with the bolts. Add one or two cable clamps at the end to secure its placement. 

Gravity

What's a better DIY project than not having to spend any money? Depending on your setup, you can utilize gravity to slow down your rider to a stand still! All you have to do is make the zip line cable looser until the rider uses their weight to create a natural "dip" in the cable. This will take some tinkering as safety is the most important. The "dip" will also vary depending on a person's weight. If you adjust the cable for someone who is 150 pounds, it will ride a lot different and more dangerous for someone who is 70 pounds. Use common sense!

 

Spring

A simple DIY solution but will require you to buy a spring meant to stop zip line riders. The spring will make your braking experience a lot nicer as there's more give to a spring versus a stop block. 

 

Conclusion

To sum up, there are plenty of DIY methods to creating your own zip line stop block. That being said, stop blocks are relatively cheap and are guaranteed to be safe. You can check out our store for safe braking systems that are easy to install. 

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published