Our vertical carbon fiber Arc Frame connects to the backpack by sliding into webbing pockets at the top and bottom of the backpack.
The pockets each contain a "stay holster insert" which covers the ends of stay to help prevent them from punching through the pockets. The inserts have metal sandwiched inside of them making them difficult to wear through.
The inserts are replaceable, and should be checked after 500-1,000 miles, especially if starting a long hike with a used pack.
Instructions:
- Remove the three horizontal frame bars by pulling from the center until the end pops out. They flex easily and come in and out easily.
- The vertical stays are difficult to remove. Pull up on the stay pocket, and pull down hard on the stay until the top end slips out of the pocket.
- If the old inserts did not come out with the stay, slide something skinny (like a tent stake, or a horizontal stay) through the flaps and pull them out.
- Replace the stay inserts if they are worn or punctured. Make sure the stay is between the two flaps on the inserts and is fully in place at the bottom and top.
- Put the bottom of the vertical stay in first. Use one of the horizontal stays like a shoe-horn to pry/guide the top back into the upper pocket. It should go in without too much fuss.
- Flex the three horizontal stays back into place. They should be behind the vertical stays.
