Zip-Line Build Pics: posts, chain, seat, bumper, steps

Here is the starting pressure treated lumber post for the zip-line. I used two ground anchors which join together and attach to the wire. The first anchor position was not in line with the zip-line and it caused too much lateral force on the pulley resulting in a broken pulley. I used the second ground anchor to properly align the system. The horizontal section of chain 2/3rds up was used to increase line tension and balance bending forces on the post. Note that the post is angled backwards about 10 degrees from vertical. This also reduces bending forces. Two pulleys are used to reduce the force on each pulley. I used 1" diameter oak dowels as steps on the post so that the kids could climb up. It is difficult at first to balance but they quickly got the hang of it.

Here is the disk swing seat tied to the trolley of the zip line.

Here is the end post of the zip line showing the pulley on top and the chain to the ground anchor.

I needed a pad to wrap around the end post so that the kids don't get hurt. I looked at pads for basketball poles but they were very expensive. I found a camping pad and wrapped it around the pole with the included straps. It is doubled over itself to increase thickness. It works great. I ended adding a few more straps to secure it better than shown in the pictures.

You can get a camping pad like this at Amazon: