SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING
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SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/
TROUBLESHOOTING
NOTE: Every six months or as necessary take your wheelchair to a qualified dealer for a thorough
inspection and servicing. 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.
Safety Inspection Checklists
CAUTION
As with any vehicle, wheels and tires should be checked periodically for cracks and
wear and should be replaced as necessary.
Initial adjustments should be made to suit your personal body structure needs and
preference. Thereafter follow these maintenance procedures:
Inspect/Adjust Initially
❑
Ensure that the wheelchair rolls straight (no excessive drag or pull to one side).
❑
Ensure that the arms are secure but easy to release and adjustment levers engage
properly.
❑
Ensure that adjustable height arms operate and lock securely.
❑
Ensure armrest pads sit flush against arm.
❑
Ensure seat is secured to wheelchair frame.
❑
Ensure seat release latch is functional. Replace if necessary.
❑
Clean seat upholstery and armrests.
❑
Ensure wheel mounting nuts are secure on drive wheels.
❑
Ensure no excessive side movement or binding occurs when drive wheels are lifted
and spun when disengaged (freewheeling).
❑
Inspect caster assembly has proper tension when caster is spun. Caster should come
to a gradual stop.
❑
Loosen/tighten caster locknut if wheel wobbles noticeably or binds to a stop.
❑
Ensure all caster/wheel/fork/headtube fasteners are secure.
❑
Inspect tires for flat spots and wear.
❑
Check pneumatic tires for proper inflation.
❑
Make sure elevate operates smoothly and properly.
❑
Make sure elevate systems drive with reduced speed when seat is in elevated position.
