> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://manual.fotokite.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://manual.fotokite.com/maintenance-and-support/tether-replacement.md).

# Tether Replacement

{% hint style="danger" %}
The tether carries power while the Kite is on. When performing any type of maintenance involving exposed wiring or reconnecting the Kite to the Tether, **always power off the Ground Station** by unplug the Ground Station from power.
{% endhint %}

To remove a tether you must always first unplug the Ground Station from power:

* Disconnect the kite using the steps described in [Disconnecting Kite from Tether](/maintenance-and-support/disconnecting-kite-from-tether.md).
* Undo the four fasteners connecting the Ground Station Base to the white plastic cover.
* Remove the cover.
* Ensure the tether brake is released. If the tether does not begin to unspool after a reasonable amount of pressure, press the **Ground Station Emergency Land Button** for three seconds, then try again.
* Begin to unspool the tether.
* Once you have unspooled the tether - remove the tether from the clip and disconnect the connector by holding both ends in each hand. Take care to not apply significant strain to the spool end connector.
* Guide the tether connector end through the Guide Rollers.
* Insert the Tether and guide it through the rollers and level in a reversed process.
  * Pull the Spool end of the tether through the white ring.
  * Bring it down through the roller and to the right through the 4 vertical rollers.
  * Bring it to the right Horizontal Roller to the top
  * Loop it around the right roller and through the vertical rollers again. 
  * Bring the tether to the level wind. Loop it through the level wind rollers so the tether passes through both. 
  * Pull out the connector inside the spool.
  * Connect the two ends and push the connectors back into the spool. 
  * Push the tether into the retaining clip surrounding the hole.
* Rotate the spool to ensure the level wind is at its left-most position. 
* Connect the tether and allow for some of the line to be inserted into the clip inside of the spool. 
* Hand rotate the spool for three-four rotations while providing tension to the tether to allow for the tether to be cleanly spooled. 
* Plug the Ground Station into Power - this will begin to rotate the spool.
* Provide tension to the tether while it is being spooled to ensure consistent spooling.
* Once the tether is fully spooled it will stop rotating. Disconnect the Ground Station from Power.
* Reattach the cover and fasteners. 
* Release the tether brake and reconnect the Kite.


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