Drive Spitfire Scout User manual

SPITFIRE SCOUT
OWNER’S MANUAL

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I. PREFACE 3
II. SAFETY NOTICES 4
III. SAFETY GUIDELINES 6
IV. EMI & RFI INFORMATION 13
V. PARTS 14
VI. SETUP 16
VII. COMFORT ADJUSTMENTS 20
VIII. ASSEMBLY & DISASSEMBLY 22
IX. OPERATION 25
X. BATTERIES & CHARGING 26
XI. INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE 28
XII. BASIC TROUBLESHOOTING 32
XIII. SPECIFICATIONS 33
XIV. LIMITED WARRANTY 34
XV. ACCESSORIES 36
TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Please read this Owner’s Manual before operating your scooter for the first time.
Improper use or unfamiliarity of the scooter may result in harm, injury, or traffic
accidents.
This Owner’s Manual includes operation instructions, assembly instructions, and best
practices to ensure maximum use from your scooter.
The symbols used throughout this Owner’s Manual are explained below. Read
carefully, and fully understand the sections marked with these symbols:
WARNING –Improper use could lead to death, serious injury, hazardous
conditions, or product malfunction.
ATTENTION –Improper use could lead to injury and/or damage to your
scooter.
SUGGESTION –Follow these instructions for best practices, and to keep
your scooter in prime operating order.
This Owner’s Manual includes a repair maintenance record chart and warranty. Please
keep it in a safe place, or with the scooter.
If someone else uses the scooter, please provide a copy of the Owner’s Manual for
their consideration.
This Owner’s Manual is composed from the product design and specifications at the
time of publication. As designs change, some illustrations and pictures in the manual
may not correspond to the scooter that you purchased. We reserve the right to make
design modifications.
This product has been designed to provide a comfortable and secure solution for
individuals limited to a seated position who are capable of operating a scooter.
The manufacturer disclaims all responsibilities for any personal injury or property
damage which may occur as a result of improper or unsafe use of this product.
I. PREFACE

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II. SAFETY NOTICES
Read and follow the information in the owner’s manual.
Fully charge the battery after every trip and prior to using the scooter. If you do not
frequently use the scooter fully charge the batteries every two weeks to prevent
battery failure.
If the battery gauge drops to red, charge the scooter as soon as possible.
Completely discharging the batteries may damage the batteries, or shorten the
expected life of the batteries.
Batteries contain lead and lead compounds. Wear proper safety attire when
handling batteries.
Only use sealed lead acid AGM or gel-cell batteries in this product.
Keep metal objects away from the battery terminals, electric shock may occur.
Always replace both batteries at the same time for optimum performance.
Always make sure the power is turned off when getting in and out of the scooter.
Always make sure freewheel levers are in the drive position before getting in or out
of the scooter.
Do not put the scooter in freewheel when on an incline or decline.
To ensure the user’s familiarity with the scooter’s operation, practice driving at low
speeds in a spacious hazard-free area travelling forward, backward, left, right,
decelerating, maneuvering up inclines, and down inclines.
Avoid unnecessary movement of the scooter.
Never reach, lean or bend when driving your scooter.

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II. SAFETY NOTICES
Avoid exposure to moisture, standing water, rain, snow, ice or salt when possible.
Store in a clean and dry condition.
Do not drive your scooter at night without proper lighting.
Do not remove the anti-tip wheels.
Keep your feet on the foot board at all times during operation.
Do not stand on the foot board.
Keep your hands and feet away from moving parts while driving.
Be aware of loose fitting clothes that can become caught in the drive wheels.
Do not connect an extension cord to the battery charger.
Disassembling the controller, motor, or charger by anyone other than an
authorized Drive Medical service agent is prohibited, and voids any applicable
warranty.
Do not take your scooter on roads or highways.
Do not operate your scooter when you are tired, or after consuming alcohol.
Be cautious when driving your scooter in busy areas or shopping malls.
Under no circumstances should the scooter be used as a seat in a motor vehicle.
Do not attempt to lift your scooter by any parts other than the frame.
If you will be seated in your scooter for an extended period of time, power off the
scooter. This will prevent inadvertent movement from unexpected throttle contact.

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GENERAL GUIDELINES
Before operating your scooter fully read and understand this Owner’s Manual.
Be sure to follow the setup instructions prior to using your scooter for the first time.
Users may encounter difficult maneuvering situations such as narrow doorways,
travelling up and down ramps, cornering, and travelling on uneven terrain. Be sure to
lower the speed, take your time, and carefully maneuver the scooter.
MODIFICATIONS
Do not modify, remove, disable, or add any parts, features, or functions on your
scooter. Drive Medical offers a wide variety of accessories for your scooter to help
accommodate your needs.
WARNING –Do not modify your scooter in any way; doing so will void the
warranty.
SAFETY CHECK
ATTENTION –Inspect the following components before each use:
Electrical connections –secure and free from corrosion
Freewheel Levers –engaged in drive position
Batteries –fully charged and free from corrosion
If you notice a problem please contact your authorized Drive Medical Provider for
assistance.
III. SAFETY GUIDELINES

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WEIGHT CAPACITY
This scooter has a maximum weight capacity that should never be exceeded. Please
refer to Section XII SPECIFICATIONS for this information. The maximum weight
capacity includes the user and any accessories.
WARNING –Exceeding the maximum weight capacity will void your
warranty. Drive Medical will not be held responsible for injuries and/or
damages resulting from failure to observe weight capacities.
WARNING –Do not carry passengers on your scooter. Your scooter is
designed and tested for one user to operate while seated.
INCLINE GUIDELINES
Use caution when approaching inclines or declines; if necessary lower the speed
before travelling on a slope.
When travelling up an incline try to keep the scooter moving forward. If you must
come to a stop, use caution and slowly accelerate the scooter forward.
When travelling down an incline lower the speed on your scooter to the slowest
setting, and proceed cautiously. If the scooter is travelling down the incline faster than
you expected, slowly release the throttle to come to a stop, then slightly push the
throttle forward to continue safely down the incline.
WARNING –Never put the scooter in freewheel model while on an
incline.
WARNING –Drive your scooter straight up or down an incline, never
backwards. Erratic movements, or back and forth patterns may increase
the chance of tipping.
III. SAFETY GUIDELINES

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WARNING –Do not travel up an incline with the seat completely reclined
without an attendant. Inclines vary, and doing so may decrease stability.
WARNING –Do not, under any circumstances, travel on a slope greater
than the maximum climbing angle for this scooter. Please refer to Section
XII SPECIFICATIONS for this information. Exceeding the climbing angle
may cause unstable conditions.
FREEWHEEL GUIDELINES
Your scooter is equipped with manual freewheel levers to maneuver the unit without
power. The manual freewheel levers can be engaged or disengaged.
Disengaged, or “freewheel” mode, releases the locking mechanism on the gearbox
allowing the scooter to roll freely with or without power.
Engaged, or “drive” mode, secures the locking mechanism on the gearbox preventing
the scooter from rolling freely.
WARNING –Never attempt to personally put your scooter in freewheel
mode while seated in the unit.
WARNING –Never put the scooter in freewheel mode while on an incline.
This may cause uncontrollable movements.
ATTENTION –When your scooter is in freewheel mode you may feel
resistance when maneuvering; this is normal, and prevents damage to the
gearbox.
ATTENTION –Please refer to Section V PARTS to locate the freewheel
levers on your scooter.
SUGGESTION –If you hear a “clicking” noise when engaging the throttle,
but the scooter will not move –turn off the power, engage the freewheel
levers, and power back on to continue.
III. SAFETY GUIDELINES

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BRAKES & STOPPING
Coming to a stop in your scooter can simply be done by releasing the throttle. The
throttle will automatically return to the center position, and the scooter will come to a
stop.
ATTENTION –Quickly moving the throttle in the opposite direction of
travel will cause the scooter to come to an abrupt stop, and if held
continuously in the opposite direction may cause erratic movements if
you are unfamiliar with the controls.
Your scooter is equipped with two types of brake systems:
Regenerative brakes –when the throttle is returned to the center position, or
stop neutral position, regenerative brakes use electricity to quickly decelerate
the vehicle.
Park brakes –once the scooter comes to a complete stop the park brake
activates automatically locking the drive wheels.
OUTDOOR OPERATION & INCLEMENT WEATHER PRECAUTIONS
While your scooter is purposed for in-home use to assist you in daily living activities;
Drive Medical understands there are times you need to operate the scooter outdoors,
and has designed it to perform superbly on level outdoor surfaces.
ATTENTION –When operating outdoors avoid uneven terrain, soft
surfaces, tall grass, loose gravel, loose sand, fresh water, salt water, edges
of streams, lakes or oceans. If you are unsure about a surface, avoid it.
Exposure to inclement weather should always be avoided. If you find yourself caught
in inclement weather while operating your scooter, proceed to the closest shelter
immediately. Completely dry your scooter before operating, charging, or storing.
III. SAFETY GUIDELINES

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STEPS, CURBS & FIXED OBSTACLES
Use extreme caution when operating your scooter near curbs, porches, stairs,
escalators, drop-offs, unprotected ledges, and raised areas.
WARNING –Never attempt to navigate your scooter over a fixed obstacle
taller than the maximum ground clearance. Please refer to Section XII
SPECIFICATIONS for this information.
WARNING –Never attempt to navigate your scooter backwards over an
obstacle.
WARNING –Never attempt to operate your scooter on steps or
escalators.
ATTENTION –Refer to the following guidelines and diagrams when
travelling over a fixed obstacle lower than the maximum ground
clearance of your scooter:
To maneuver up a fixed obstacle –Approach slowly, and make sure the front of the
scooter is perpendicular to the obstacle. Increase the forward speed until the scooter
has cleared the obstacle, and then you may reduce the speed or return the throttle to
neutral.
To maneuver down a fixed obstacle –Approach slowly, and make sure the front of the
scooter is perpendicular to the obstacle. Reduce the forward speed just before the
front wheels come in contact with the obstacle, and remain at the reduced speed until
scooter has cleared the obstacle, and then you may increase the forward speed.
CORRECT
APPROACH:
INCORRECT
APPROACH:
III. SAFETY GUIDELINES
C
U
R
B
C
U
R
B

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TRANSPORTING YOUR SCOOTER
When transporting your scooter by vehicle it should be securely stowed in the back of
a van, truck, or trunk of a car. Adjustable parts should be removed or properly secured
during transport.
WARNING –Do not sit in your scooter while in a moving vehicle.
POSITIONING BELT (OPTIONAL)
A safety belt may be included with your scooter. Your authorized Drive Medical
Provider, assistive technology therapist, or healthcare professional are responsible for
determining your requirement for a safety belt to operate your scooter safely. Once
determined, securely fasten the safety belt.
WARNING –The safety belt is not designed for use as a seat belt in a
motor vehicle, or any other transportation device.
TRANSFERS
Always have an attendant present while transferring in and out of your scooter.
ATTENTION –To reduce the possibility of an injury; perform transfers
after the following steps are followed:
Safely reduce the distance between your scooter and the object you are transferring
onto, ensure your scooter is not in freewheel mode, turn the power off, and flip up or
remove the armrests.
WARNING –Position yourself as far back possible before transferring, and
never place your weight or downward force on adjustable parts.
III. SAFETY GUIDELINES

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PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS, Rx DRUGS, ALCOHOL & SMOKING
You must exercise awareness, caution, care, and common sense when operating your
scooter. Always keep in mind your own limitations, and substance use when operating
your scooter.
WARNING –Never use your scooter while under the influence of alcohol
or mind altering substances.
WARNING –Never smoke while seated in your scooter. Damaged or worn
upholstery increases the risk of fire hazard, and should be replaced
immediately.
ATTENTION –Be aware of your own physical limitations when
familiarizing yourself with the scooter.
ATTENTION –Be aware of precautions, warnings, and safety issues when
taking prescribed or over-the-counter drugs while operating your scooter.
III. SAFETY GUIDELINES

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Electromagnetic interference (EMI) tests have shown to produce adverse effects on
the performance and control of electrically powered mobility devices.
EMI can be produced from different sources such as cellular phones, two-way radios,
radio stations, television stations, amateur radio transmitters (HAM), wireless
computer links, microwave signals, paging transmitters, and transceivers used by
emergency vehicles.
The EMI waves can cause unintentional movement of the scooter, or damage to the
controller. Every electrical powered mobility device has a resistance to EMI. The
higher the resistance level the greater the protection. The intensity of the interference
can be measured in volts per meter, V/m.
At this time, current technology is capable of achieving an immunity level of 20 V/m,
which provides protection from more common sources of EMI. Your scooter, with no
modifications, has an immunity level of 20 V/m.
EMI becomes more intense as you move closer to the source. The EMI produced from
hand-held radios are of special concern. It is possible to unintentionally bring high
levels of EMI very close to the scooter’s control system, effecting your movement and
braking. The warnings listed below are recommended to prevent possible interference
with the control system of your scooter.
WARNING –Do not operate hand-held transceivers such as CB (citizens
band) radios, or turn on personal communication devices, such as cellular
phones, while the scooter is powered on.
WARNING –Be aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or television
stations, and avoid close proximity.
WARNING –If you experience unintended movement or brake release
occurs, power off as soon as it is safe. Please report EMI incidents to Drive
Medical.
IV. EMI INFORMATION

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Please refer to the diagram below to identify your scooter parts. Familiarize yourself
with the terminology to better understand part references throughout the Owner’s
Manual.
1. Seat Back
2. Armrests
3. Seat Base
4. Control Panel
5. Basket
6. Tiller Adjustment Knob
7. Front Wheel Lock
8. Seat Swivel & Release Lever
9. Seat Post
10. Battery Pack
11. Charge Port
12. Circuit Breaker
13. Footboard
14. Accessory Post
15. Freewheel Lever
16. Anti-tip Wheels
V. PARTS

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Please refer to the diagram below to identify your scooter control panel and its
functions. Familiarize yourself with the terminology to better understand references
throughout the Owner’s Manual.
1. Battery Indicator
2. Horn Button
3. Speed Dial
4. Throttle
5. Key Switch
6. Key
7. Diagnostic Light (the red light
on the battery indicator will
also display flash codes when
a problem exists)
V. PARTS

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Your scooter requires assembly prior to initial use. Please be sure to follow these steps
to properly set up your scooter.
Step 1:
Insert the seat post into the base of the
scooter with the battery lock around the
post. Secure tightly with the provided
nut and bolt at the desired height.
Step 2:
Place the battery pack onto the front half
of the scooter directly in front of the seat
post. Then swivel the battery lock so the
long side rests on top of the battery
pack, and lock into place.
Step 3:
While lifting up on the seat release lever,
place the seat onto the seat post.
Release the lever and rotate the seat
until it locks into place.
VI. SETUP

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Step 4:
Insert the armrests into the attachment
points in the seat frame so that the
armrests face forward. Secure the
armrests in place with the provided star
knobs at the desired width.
Step 5:
Attach the front basket by aligning the
bracket on the tiller with the mounting
holes on the basket, and then push down
to secure in place.
Step 6:
Fully charge the scooter by inserting the
round charger connector into the battery
charging terminal on the battery pack,
and then insert the 3-pronged plug into a
standard electrical outlet.
VI. SETUP

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VI. SETUP
Optional (DLX Models Only):
Your scooter comes with interchangeable
shrouds, allowing you to customize your
scooter to your liking. The DLX models
come with the red shrouds installed, and
a spare set of blue shrouds included in
the box. The shrouds can be
interchanged by hand, or using a small
pry tool. Be sure not to scratch the
painted shrouds while using the pry tool.
Control Panel Shroud Replacement:
Using your thumb, gently grip the top of
the color panel and lift upward until the
panel releases. The new panel will snap
into place.
Front Shroud Replacement:
Reach underneath the front shroud, and
gently push up on the color panel until it
releases from the scooter. The new panel
will snap into place.

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VI. SETUP
Rear Shroud Replacement:
Reach underneath the rear shroud, and
gently push up on the color panel until it
releases from the scooter. The new panel
will snap into place.

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VII. COMFORT ADJUSTMENTS
Prior to using your scooter, you may want to make adjustments for optimum comfort.
Make all adjustments with the scooter off, and unoccupied. You may need the tool-kit
included with your scooter to make these adjustments.
WARNING –Some components of your scooter are heavy, and you may
need assistance to lift or carry. Please refer to Section XII SPECIFICATIONS
for component weights.
WARNING –Do not make any adjustments while an occupant is seated in
the scooter.
Seat Swivel Adjustment:
The seat can be rotated and locked in
position at 45° intervals. Lift up on the
handle under the left side of the seat and
turn the seat to the desired position,
releasing the handle to lock the seat in
place.
WARNING –Return the seat to
the forward position before
driving.
Seat Height Adjustment:
Remove the seat from your scooter, then
remove the nut and bolt holding the seat
post in place. Adjust the seat post to the
desired height, and reinstall the nut and
bolt removed. Be sure the nut and bolt
are tightened securely to reduce
vibrations, and improve stability.