Invacare At'm Manual

Owner’s Operator and Maintenance Manual
DEALER: This manual MUST be given to
the user of the wheelchair.
USER: BEFORE using this wheelchair, read
this manual and save for future reference.
For more information regarding
Invacare products, parts, and services,
please visit www.invacare.com
At’m

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
At’m 2Part No. 1125035
 WARNING
A qualified technician MUST perform the initial set up of this wheelchair. Also, a
qualified technician MUST perform all procedures in the service manual.
DO NOT use this product or any availa le optional equipment without first
completely reading and understanding these instructions and any additional
instructional material such as owner’s manuals, service manuals or instruction
sheets supplied with this product or optional equipment. If you are una le to
understand the warnings, cautions or instructions, contact a healthcare
professional, dealer or technical personnel efore attempting to use this equipment
- otherwise, injury or damage may occur.
 ACCESSORIES WARNING
Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction
with Invacare accessories. Accessories designed y other manufacturers have not
een tested y Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products.
REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
Refer to the table below for part numbers of additional documents which are referenced
in this manual.
NOTE: Updated versions of this manual are available on www.invacare.com.
MANUAL PART NUMBER
At’m Service Manual 1125078
MK5™NX™Electronics 1110532

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part No. 1125035 3At’m
TABLE OF CONTENTS
REFERENCE DOCUMENTS ................................................................. 2
REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT ............................................................... 5
SPECIAL NOTES ................................................................................ 6
LABEL LOCATION ............................................................................ 7
At’m ...............................................................................................................................................................7
TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS .................................................... 8
SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES ................................................... 9
Controller Settings/Rep ir or Service ...................................................................................................9
Tire Pressure ...............................................................................................................................................9
Accessories Inform tion ...........................................................................................................................9
Oper tion Inform tion............................................................................................................................10
B tteries......................................................................................................................................................11
Ch rging B tteries ...............................................................................................................................12
Grounding Instructions ...........................................................................................................................12
R in Test.....................................................................................................................................................12
Weight Tr ining ........................................................................................................................................13
Weight Limit tion.....................................................................................................................................13
SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION ..................................................... 14
SECTION 3—SAFETY/ ANDLING OF W EELC AIRS ......................... 16
St bility nd B l nce.................................................................................................................................16
Coping With Everyd y Obst cles.........................................................................................................17
A Note to Wheelch ir Assist nts ........................................................................................................17
Lifting/St irw ys ........................................................................................................................................17
Re ching, Le ning nd Bending - Forw rd......................................................................................18
Re ching nd Bending - B ckw rd ...................................................................................................19
SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLES OOTING .................... 20
S fety Inspection Checklists...................................................................................................................20
Inspect/Adjust Initi lly .........................................................................................................................20
Inspect/Adjust Weekly........................................................................................................................21
Inspect/Adjust Monthly.......................................................................................................................21
Inspect/Adjust Periodic lly.................................................................................................................21
Troubleshooting Guide ...........................................................................................................................22
SECTION 5—W EELC AIR OPERATION ........................................... 23

TABLE OF CONTENTS
At’m 4Part No. 1125035
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Oper ting the Wheelch ir......................................................................................................................23
Turning the Power On/Off................................................................................................................23
Using the Joystick to Drive the Ch ir .............................................................................................24
Using the Horn.....................................................................................................................................24
Joystick Switches nd Indic tors ...........................................................................................................25
On/Off Button ......................................................................................................................................25
Speed Control Knob ...........................................................................................................................25
Joystick....................................................................................................................................................25
Inform tion G uge Displ y ................................................................................................................25
Multi Function Ch rger Port .............................................................................................................27
Resetting the Circuit Bre ker................................................................................................................27
SECTION 6—SEAT ........................................................................... 29
Removing/Inst lling the Se t...................................................................................................................29
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................29
Inst lling..................................................................................................................................................29
Repl cing Se t Positioning Str p ...........................................................................................................31
SECTION 7—JOYSTICK .................................................................... 32
Disconnecting/Connecting the Joystick...............................................................................................32
Disconnecting .......................................................................................................................................32
Connecting ............................................................................................................................................32
Repositioning the Joystick.......................................................................................................................33
SECTION 8—BATTERIES .................................................................. 35
W rnings For H ndling nd Repl cing B tteries ...............................................................................35
Recommended B ttery Type .................................................................................................................35
Removing/Inst lling the B ttery P ck...................................................................................................36
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................36
Inst lling..................................................................................................................................................36
Removing/Inst lling the B tteries From/Into the B ttery P ck ......................................................37
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................37
Inst lling..................................................................................................................................................38
Ch rging B tteries ....................................................................................................................................39
Ch rging Using n Independent Ch rger .......................................................................................39
SECTION 9—MOTORS ..................................................................... 42
Eng ging/Diseng ging the Motors .........................................................................................................42
SECTION 10—FRONT RIGGINGS ...................................................... 44

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part No. 1125035 5At’m
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Inst lling/Removing the Front Rigging Assembly ...............................................................................44
Inst lling..................................................................................................................................................44
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................44
Adjusting Footrest Height ......................................................................................................................45
SECTION 11—W EELS AND CASTERS .............................................. 46
Repl cing Front C sters..........................................................................................................................46
Adjusting Forks .........................................................................................................................................47
Removing/Inst lling the Drive Wheels ................................................................................................47
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................47
Inst lling..................................................................................................................................................48
Repl cing the Fl t Free Tires on the Wheel Rim..............................................................................48
SECTION 12—TRANSPORTING T E W EELC AIR ........................... 49
GLOBAL LIMITED WARRANTY (EXCLUDING CANADA) ................... 51
CANADA LIMITED WARRANTY ...................................................... 52
REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT
The benefits of registering include:
1. S fegu rding your investment.
2. Ensuring long-term m inten nce nd servicing of your product.
3. Receiving upd tes with product inform tion, m inten nce tips nd industry news.
Register ONLINE at warranty.invacare.com
Ple se h ve your model number nd purch se d te v il ble to complete your registr tion.
Any registr tion inform tion you submit will only be used by Inv c re Corpor tion nd protected
s required by pplic ble l ws nd regul tions.

SPECIAL NOTES
At’m 6Part No. 1125035
SPECIAL NOTES
Signal words are used in this manual and apply to hazards or unsafe practices which
could result in personal injury or property damage. Refer to the table below for
definitions of the signal words.
NOTICE
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO
CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
WHEELCHAIR USER
As a manufacturer of wheelchairs, Invacare endeavors to supply a wide variety of
wheelchairs to meet many needs of the end user. However, final selection of the
type of wheelchair to e used y an individual rests solely with the user and his/her
healthcare professional capa le of making such a selection.
WHEELCHAIR TIE-DOWN RESTRAINTS AND SEAT RESTRAINTS
Wheelchair users should NOT e transported in vehicles of any kind while in
wheelchairs. As of this date, the Department of Transportation has not approved
any tie-down systems for transportation of a user while in a wheelchair, in a moving
vehicle of any type.
It is Invacare’s position that users of wheelchairs should e transferred into
appropriate seating in vehicles for transportation and use e made of the restraints
made availa le y the auto industry. Invacare cannot and does not recommend any
wheelchair transportation systems.
 WARNINGS
Wheelchairs should e examined during maintenance for signs of corrosion (water
exposure, incontinence, etc). Electrical components damaged y corrosion should
e replaced IMMEDIATELY.
Wheelchairs that are used y incontinent users and/or are frequently exposed to
water may require replacement of electrical components more frequently.
Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction
with Invacare accessories. Accessories designed y other manufacturers have not
een tested y Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products.
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. The seat positioning strap is a position-
ing elt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress
loads such as auto or aircraft safety elts. If signs of wear appear, elt MUST e
replaced immediately.
SIGNAL WORD MEANING
DAN ER Danger indicates an imminently hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNIN Warning indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION Caution indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, may result in property damage.

LABEL LOCATION
Part No. 1125035 7At’m
LABEL LOCATION
At’m
NOTE: Warning
label 112 068 is also
located on the
opposite side.
NOTE: Warning label
112 069 is also located
on the opposite side.
Serial Number Label is
located on inside of
the base frame tube.

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS
At’m 8Part No. 1125035
TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS
*NOTE: Values for range are calculated for maximum chair weight rating using largest batteries
applicable (M17 - 12 SLSM gel cell/PE 12V 12SLA), per test procedures described in
ANSI/RESNA WC/VOL2-1998 Section 4 and meet federal reimbursement requirements for this
product. While considered typical, they are derived based on certain ideal conditions. Variances in
battery condition, user weight, usage pattern or overall terrain conditions will result in actual
values for range that differ from these stated values. Users should become accustomed to how their
unique conditions impact their individual results. Users should become familiar with the battery
discharge indicator on the joystick to determine the range of their wheelchair. Refer to Charging
Batteries on page 39 for more information about the battery discharge indicator.
PARAMETERS At’m
SEAT WIDTH: 16, 18 inches
SEAT DEPTH: 14, 16 inches
BACK HEIGHT: 18, 21 inches
SEAT-TO-FLOOR: 20 inches
OVERALL WIDTH (EXCLUDING JOYSTICK): 25.5 inches
OVERALL HEIGHT
FOR 16 INCHES WIDE:
FOR 18 INCHES WIDE:
38 inches
41 inches
OVERALL LENGTH (INCLUDING ANTI-TIPPERS): 35.5 inches
WEIGHT
BASE WITHOUT BATTERY PACK/BOX:
SEAT:
BATTERY PACK/BOX:
34 lbs
14 lbs
26 lbs
SHIPPING: 90 lbs
DRIVE WHEELS/TIRES: 12½ x 2¼ inches
CASTER WITH PRECISION SEALED BEARINGS: 6-inch solid
UPHOLSTERY: Black Nylon
BATTERY SIZE (TWO [ ] REQUIRED): M17 - 12 SLSM gel cell
PERFORMANCE
SPEED (M.P.H.):
MAXIMUM RAMP/SLOPE CAPABILITY:
*RAN E (VARIABLE):
WEI HT LIMITATION:
3¾
6°
Up to 12 miles
250 lbs

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
Part No. 1125035 9At’m
SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
 WARNING
SECTION 1 - GENERAL GUIDELINES contains important information for the safe
operation and use of this product.
Controller Settings/Repair or Service
Set-up of the Electronics Control Unit is to be performed only by a qualified technician.
he final adjustments of the controller may affect other activities of the wheelchair.
Damage to the equipment could occur if improperly set-up or adjusted. Reprogramming
the controller reduces the stability/control of the wheelchair. Other program settings
could cause the wheelchair to tip over resulting in serious injury to the user and/or
damage to the surrounding property. If any individual other than a qualified technician
performs any work on these units, the warranty is void.
Wheelchairs should be examined during maintenance for signs of corrosion (water
exposure, incontinence, etc). Electrical components damaged by corrosion should be
replaced IMMEDIA ELY.
Wheelchairs that are used by incontinent users and/or are frequently exposed to water
may require replacement of electrical components more frequently.
Tire Pressure
DO NOT use your wheelchair unless it has the proper tire pressure (P.S.I.) - otherwise
the wheelchair may not drive correctly, stop correctly or may e perience erratic
performance.
Maintain tire pressure at a minimum of 30 p.s.i.
DO NO overinflate the tires. Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tire to
explode and cause bodily harm. he maximum inflation pressure is listed on the side wall
of the tire.
Accessories Information
EX REME care should be exercised when using oxygen in close proximity to electric
circuits and other combustible materials. Contact your oxygen supplier for instruction in
the use of oxygen.
Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction with
Invacare accessories. Accessories designed by other manufacturers have not been tested
by Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
At’m 0 Part No. 1125035
Operation Information
Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction with
Invacare accessories. Accessories designed by other manufacturers have not been tested
by Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products.
Performance adjustments should only be made by professionals of the healthcare field or
persons fully conversant with this process and the driver's capabilities. Incorrect settings
could cause injury to the driver, bystanders, damage to the chair and to surrounding
property.
After the wheelchair has been set-up, check to make sure that the wheelchair performs to
the specifications entered during the set-up procedure. If the wheelchair does NO
perform to specifications, turn the wheelchair Off immediately and reenter set-up
specifications. Repeat this procedure until the wheelchair performs to specifications.
ALWAYS shift your weight in the direction you are turning. DO NO shift your weight in
the opposite direction of the turn. Shifting your weight in the opposite direction of the
turn may cause the inside drive wheel to lose traction and the wheelchair to tip over.
DO NO tip the wheelchair without assistance.
Anti-tippers MUS be used at all times. When outdoors on wet, soft ground or gravel
surfaces, anti-tippers may not provide the same level of protection against tip over. Extra
caution MUS be observed when traversing such surfaces.
DO NO shift your weight or sitting position toward the direction you are reaching as the
wheelchair may tip over.
DO NO make sharp turns in the forward or reverse direction at excessive speed. Failure
to observe this warning can cause the wheelchair to tip over and may result in injury to
users, bystanders and/or damage to product.
DO NO attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat.
DO NO lean over the top of the back upholstery to reach objects behind you, as this may
cause the wheelchair to tip over.
ALWAYS keep hands and fingers clear of moving parts to avoid injury.
DO NO engage or disengage the motor engagement handles until the power is in the Off
position.
DO NO attempt to transfer into or out of the wheelchair without the motor engagement
handles in the engaged (horizontal) position.
DO NO operate on roads, streets or highways.
DO NO climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 6°.
DO NO attempt to move up or down an incline with a water, ice or oil film.
NEVER leave an unoccupied wheelchair on an incline.
DO NO attempt to drive over curbs or obstacles. Doing so may cause your wheelchair
to turn over and cause bodily harm or damage to the chair.
DO NO stand on the frame of the wheelchair.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
Part No. 1125035 At’m
DO NO stand on the flip-up footboard, or front footrests, otherwise damage may occur.
When getting in or out of the wheelchair, make sure that the flip-up footboard is in the
upward position, or swing the footrests to the outside of the wheelchair.
DO NO attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by
means of any removable (detachable) parts of the wheelchair may result in injury to the
user or damage to the wheelchair.
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. he seat positioning strap is a positioning belt
only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress loads such as
auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, belt MUS be replaced immediately.
he basket under the seat is designed for light items such as jackets and umbrellas. DO
NO overload the basket.
Ensure that the items stored in the basket are fully contained within the basket - otherwise
they could become entangled with the friction drive and may cause injury to the user or
damage the wheelchair.
Before performing any maintenance, adjustment or service verify that on/off switch on
the joystick is in the off position.
DO NO leave the power button in the On position when entering or exiting your
wheelchair.
Avoid storing or using the wheelchair near open flame or combustible products. Serious
injury or damage to property may result.
Batteries
he warranty and performance specifications contained in this manual are based on the
use of deep cycle gel cell batteries. Invacare strongly recommends their use as the power
source for this unit.
Carefully read battery/battery charger information prior to installing, servicing or
operating your wheelchair.
ALWAYS transport the battery pack/box in an upright and secure manner. o prevent
damage, do not transport the battery pack/box with other objects that could suddenly
shift during transportation, unless they are secured or in a different vehicle area. DO NO
transport battery pack/box with gas cans or similar containers in the same vehicle area.
he use of rubber gloves is recommended when working with batteries.
Some battery manufacturers mold a carrying strap and/or hold down flanges directly into
the battery case. Batteries that interfere with the battery box cannot be used for these
applications. Attempting to “wedge” a battery into a battery box may damage the box,
the battery and/or be a fire hazard, resulting in serious injury or further damage to
property.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
At’m 2 Part No. 1125035
Charging Batteries
 DANGER
When using an extension cord, use only a three wire extension cord having at least
16 AWG (American Wire Gauge) wire and the same or higher electrical rating as
the device eing connected. Use of improper extension cord could result in a risk of
fire and electric shock.
Three prong to two prong adapters should not e used. Use of three prong adapters
can result in improper grounding and present a shock hazard to the user.
NEVER attempt to recharge the batteries by attaching cables directly to the battery
terminals.
DO NO attempt to recharge the batteries and operate the wheelchair at the same time.
DO NO attempt to recharge the batteries when the wheelchair has been exposed to ANY
type of moisture.
DO NO attempt to recharge the batteries when the wheelchair is outside.
DO NO sit in the wheelchair while charging the batteries.
Read and carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each charger (supplied or
purchased). If charging instructions are not supplied, consult a qualified technician for
proper procedures.
Ensure the pins of the extension cord plug are the same number, size, and shape as those
on the charger.
DO NO under any circumstances cut or remove the round grounding plug from the
charger AC cable plug or the extension cord plug.
rounding Instructions
DO NO , under any circumstances, cut or remove the round grounding prong from any
plug used with or for Invacare products. Some devices are equipped with three-prong
(grounding) plugs for protection against possible shock hazards and fire. Where a
two-prong wall receptacle is encountered, it is the personal responsibility and obligation
of the customer to contact a qualified electrician and have the two-prong receptacle
replaced with a properly grounded three-prong wall receptacle in accordance with the
National Electrical Code. If you must use an extension cord, use only a three-wire
extension cord having the same or higher electrical rating as the device being connected.
In addition, Invacare has placed RED/ORANGE warning tags on some equipment. DO
NO remove these tags.
Rain Test
Invacare has tested its power wheelchairs in accordance with ISO 7176 “Rain est.” his
provides the end user or his/her assistant sufficient time to remove his/her power
wheelchair from a rain storm and retain wheelchair operation.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
Part No. 1125035 3 At’m
DO NO leave power wheelchair in a rain storm of any kind.
DO NO use power wheelchair in a shower.
DO NO store power wheelchair in a damp area for an extended period of time.
Direct exposure to excessive rain or dampness may cause the chair to malfunction electrically
and mechanically, may cause the chair to prematurely rust or may damage the upholstery.
Check to ensure that the battery pack is securely fastened, that all electrical connections
are secure at all times and joystick boot is not torn or cracked where water can enter.
DO NO use the wheelchair if the joystick boot is torn or cracked. If the joystick boot
becomes torn or cracked, replace immediately.
Weight Training
Invacare does not recommend the use of its wheelchairs as a weight training apparatus.
Invacare wheelchairs have not been designed or tested as a seat for any kind of weight
training. If occupant uses said wheelchair as a weight training apparatus, Invacare shall
not be liable for bodily injury and the warranty is void.
Weight Limitation
he At’m wheelchairs have a weight limitation of 250 lbs.

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION
At’m 4 Part No. 1125035
SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION
 WARNING
CAUTION: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ THIS INFORMATION
REGARDING THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC
INTERFERENCE ON YOUR POWERED WHEELCHAIR.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) From Radio Wave Sources
Powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters (in this text, oth will e referred to
as powered wheelchairs) may e suscepti le to electromagnetic interference (EMI),
which is interfering electromagnetic energy (EM) emitted from sources such as
radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two way radios, and
cellular phones. The interference (from radio wave sources) can cause the powered
wheelchair to release its rakes, move y itself, or move in unintended directions. It
can also permanently damage the powered wheelchair's control system. The
intensity of the interfering EM energy can e measured in volts per meter (V/m).
Each powered wheelchair can resist EMI up to a certain intensity. This is called its
"immunity level." The higher the immunity level, the greater the protection. At this
time, current technology is capa le of achieving at least a 20 V/m immunity level,
which would provide useful protection from the more common sources of radiated
EMI.
There are a num er of sources of relatively intense electromagnetic fields in the
everyday environment. Some of these sources are o vious and easy to avoid.
Others are not apparent and exposure is unavoida le. However, we elieve that y
following the warnings listed elow, your risk to EMI will e minimized.
The sources of radiated EMI can e roadly classified into three types:
1) Hand-held Porta le transceivers (transmitters-receivers with the antenna
mounted directly on the transmitting unit. Examples include: citizens and (CB)
radios, "walkie talkie", security, fire and police transceivers, cellular telephones,
and other personal communication devices).
NOTE: Some cellular telephones and similar devices transmit signals while they are ON,
even when not being used.
2) Medium-range mo ile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks,
am ulances and taxis. These usually have the antenna mounted on the outside of
the vehicle; and
3) Long-range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial roadcast
transmitters (radio and TV roadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM)
radios.
NOTE: Other types of hand-held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers,
M/FM radios, TV sets, CD players, cassette players, and small appliances, such as elec-
tric shavers and hair dryers, so far as we know, are not likely to cause EMI problems to
your powered wheelchair.

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION
Part No. 1125035 5 At’m
 WARNING
Powered Wheelchair Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Because EM energy rapidly ecomes more intense as one moves closer to the
transmitting antenna (source), the EM fields from hand-held radio wave sources
(transceivers) are of special concern. It is possi le to unintentionally ring high
levels of EM energy very close to the powered wheelchair's control system while
using these devices. This can affect powered wheelchair movement and raking.
Therefore, the warnings listed elow are recommended to prevent possi le
interference with the control system of the powered wheelchair.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as radio and TV stations,
amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones can affect
powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters.
FOLLOWING THE WARNINGS LISTED BELOW SHOULD REDUCE THE
CHANCE OF UNINTENDED BRAKE RELEASE OR POWERED WHEELCHAIR
MOVEMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
1) Do not operate hand-held transceivers (transmitters receivers), such as citizens
and (CB) radios, or turn ON personal communication devices, such as cellular
phones, while the powered wheelchair is turned ON;
2) Be aware of near y transmitters, such as radio or TV stations, and try to avoid
coming close to them;
3) If unintended movement or rake release occurs, turn the powered wheelchair
OFF as soon as it is safe;
4) Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the powered
wheelchair, may make it more suscepti le to EMI (NOTE: There is no easy way
to evaluate their effect on the overall immunity of the powered wheelchair); and
5) Report all incidents of unintended movement or rake release to the powered
wheelchair manufacturer, and note whether there is a source of EMI near y.
Important Information
1) ) 20 volts per meter (V/m) is a generally achieva le and useful immunity level
against EMI (as of May 1994) (the higher the level, the greater the protection);
2) This device has een tested to a radiated immunity level of 20 volts per meter.
3) The immunity level of the product is unknown.
Modification of any kind to the electronics of this wheelchair as manufactured y
Invacare may adversely affect the EMI immunity levels.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
At’m 6 Part No. 1125035
SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF
WHEELCHAIRS
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the close attention of the wheelchair
user as well as the assistant. his manual points out the most common procedures and
techniques involved in the safe operation and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is
important to practice and master these safe techniques until you are comfortable in
maneuvering around the frequently encountered architectural barriers.
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. he techniques that are discussed on the
following pages have been used successfully by many.
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that
may differ from those described in this manual. Invacare recognizes and encourages each
individual to try what works best for him/her in overcoming architectural obstacles that
they may encounter, however ALL WARNINGS and CAU IONS given in this manual
MUS be followed. echniques in this manual are a starting point for the new wheelchair
user and assistant with “safety” as the most important consideration for all.
Stability and Balance
 WARNING
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap.
The seat positioning strap is a positioning elt only. It is not designed for use as a
safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety elts. If
signs of wear appear, elt MUST e replaced immediately.
Be aware that carrying heavy o jects on your lap while occupying the wheelchair
may adversely affect the sta ility of the wheelchair, resulting in serious odily injury
to the user, damage to the wheelchair and surrounding property.
This wheelchair has een designed to accommodate one individual. If more than
one individual occupies the wheelchair this may adversely affect the sta ility of the
wheelchair, resulting in serious odily injury to the user and passenger and damage
to the wheelchair and surrounding property.
o assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you must at all times
maintain proper balance. Your wheelchair has been designed to remain upright and
stable during normal daily activities as long as you do not move beyond the center of
gravity. DO NO lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than the length of the
armrests.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
Part No. 1125035 7 At’m
Coping With Everyday Obstacles
Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles can be alleviated somewhat by learning
how to manage your wheelchair. Keep in mind your center of gravity to maintain stability
and balance.
 WARNING
DO NOT attempt to reach o jects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick
them up from the floor y reaching down etween your knees.
Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, ending or
ending forward, it is important to use the casters as a tool to maintain sta ility and
alance.
Many activities require the wheelchair user to reach, end and transfer in and out of
the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to the normal alance, cen-
ter of gravity, and weight distri ution of the wheelchair. To determine and esta lish
your particular safety limits, practice ending, reaching and transferring activities in
several com inations in the presence of a qualified healthcare professional efore
attempting active use of the wheelchair.
A Note to Wheelchair Assistants
 WARNING
DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair y any remova le (detacha le) parts. Lift-
ing y means of remova le (detacha le) parts of the wheelchair may result in injury
to the user and/or damage to the wheelchair.
When assistance to the wheelchair user is required, remember to use good body
mechanics. Keep your back straight and bend your knees whenever tipping the
wheelchair or traversing curbs or other impediments.
When learning a new assistance technique, have an experienced assistant help you before
attempting it alone.
Lifting/Stairways
 WARNING
DO NOT attempt to move an occupied power wheelchair etween floors using a
stairway. Use an elevator to move an occupied power wheelchair etween floors. If
moving a power wheelchair etween floors y means of a stairway, the occupant
MUST e removed and transported independently of the power wheelchair.
Extreme caution is advised when it is necessary to move an unoccupied power
wheelchair up or down the stairs. Invacare recommends using two assistants and
making thorough preparations.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
At’m 8 Part No. 1125035
 WARNING
DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair y any remova le (detacha le) parts.
Lifting y means of any remova le (detacha le) parts of a wheelchair may result in
injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.
The weight of the wheelchair without the user is approximately 74 l s. Use proper
lifting techniques (lift with your legs) to avoid injury.
Follow this procedure for moving the wheelchair between floors when an elevator is not
available or lifting the wheelchair is necessary:
NOTE: When using a stairway to move the wheelchair, seat and any accessories, move all
wheelchair components away from the stairway prior to reassembly.
1. Remove the occupant from the wheelchair.
2. ransfer the wheelchair to the desired location. Refer to ransporting the Wheelchair
on page 49.
 WARNING
DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair etween floors. Serious odily
injury may occur.
Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward
 WARNING
DO NOT attempt to reach o jects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick
them up from the floor y reaching down etween your knees.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 3.1.
Position the front casters so that they are extended as far forward as possible and engage
motor release levers.
FIGURE 3.1 Re ching, Le ning nd Bending - Forw rd

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
Part No. 1125035 9 At’m
Reaching and Bending - Backward
 WARNING
DO NOT lean over the top of the ack upholstery. This will change your center of
gravity and may cause you to tip over.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 3.2.
Position wheelchair as close as possible to the desired object. Point the front casters
rearward to create the longest possible wheelbase. Reach back only as far as your arm will
extend without changing your sitting position.
FIGURE 3.2 Re ching nd Bending - B ckw rd

SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING
At’m 20 Part No. 1125035
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 e checked periodically for cracks and
wear and should e replaced as necessary.
Initial adjustments should be made to suit your personal body structure needs and
preference. hereafter follow these maintenance procedures:
Inspect/Ad ust Initially
❑Check pneumatic tires for proper inflation.
❑Ensure that the wheelchair rolls straight (no excessive drag or pull to one side).
❑Ensure all clothing guard fasteners are secure.
❑Clean seat upholstery and armrests.
❑Ensure armrest pads sit flush against arm tubes.
❑Ensure seat is secured to wheelchair frame.
❑Ensure seat release latches are functional. Replace if necessary.
❑Inspect seat upholstery for rips or sagging.
❑Ensure no excessive side movement or binding occurs when drive wheels are lifted
and spun when disengaged (freewheeling).
❑Ensure 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.
❑Ensure that casters are free of debris.