Maintenance
8.3 Safety Inspection Checklist
Once a year, take your wheelchair to a qualified
technician for a thorough inspection and servicing.
Therefore refer to the service manual and spare parts
list, available on the internet at www.invacare.com.
Regular cleaning will reveal loose or worn parts and
enhance the smooth operation of your wheelchair. To
operate properly and safely, your wheelchair MUST
be cared for just like any other vehicle. Routine
maintenance will extend the life and efficiency of
your wheelchair. Clean upholstery with mild soap
and water or spray disinfectant using a sponge. DO
NOT use bleach or wash in a washing machine.
CAUTION!
– As with any vehicle, the wheels and tires
should be checked periodically for cracks and
wear, and should be replaced if damaged.
Initial adjustments should be made to suit your personal
body structure and preference. Thereafter follow these
maintenance procedures:
Inspect/Adjust Initially
q
Ensure wheelchair rolls straight (no excessive drag/pull
to one side).
q
Inspect for loose or missing hardware on frame and
folding mechanism.
q
Inspect for bent frame or folding mechanism.
q
Check that the wheel locks DO NOT interfere with tires
when rolling.
q
Check that the wheel lock pivot points are free of wear
and looseness.
q
Check that the wheel locks are easy to engage.
q
Ensure that the wheel locks prevent the wheelchair
from moving when engaged.
q
Inspect the seat and back for rips and sagging.
q
Inspect the seat and back for loose or broken hardware.
q
Inspect the back cane hand grips for
wear/looseness/deterioration.
q
Inspect tires and casters for flat spots, cracks or wear.
Replace if necessary.
q
Check that there is no excessive side movement or
binding in the rear wheels when lifted and spun.
q
Inspect rear wheels for cracks in the rim or cracked or
broken spokes. Replace if necessary.
q
Inspect handrims for signs of rough edges.
q
Inspect axle assembly for proper tension by spinning
caster. Caster should come to a gradual stop.
q
Adjust front casters/forks bearing system if wheel
wobbles noticeably or binds to a stop.
q
Ensure wheel bearings are clean and free of moisture.
q
Check headtube locknuts for tightness.
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Inspect casters for cracks and wear.
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Inspect front casters for cracked, bent or broken spokes.
q
Clean upholstery and armrests with mild soap and
water.
q
Check that all labels are present and legible. Replace
if necessary.
q
Check that all movable parts are locked correctly in
place before use (stabilizing bar, mudguard, armrest, leg
rest, anti-tipper, rear wheel axle, see chapters 3, 4 &
7). If you find anything wrong, have your wheelchair
checked immediately by a qualified technician/dealer.
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