Küschall KSL User manual

Active wheelchair
User manual

küschall® is a registered trademark.
© Küschall AG, Switzerland
Every eort has been made to ensure that the contents of this publica-
tion are fully up-to-date at the time of going to print. As part of its
ongoing improvement of products, Küschall® AG reserves the right to
modify existing models at any time. Küschall® dealers will be notied of
any such modications. Any use of this publication, or of parts thereof,
as well as any reproduction of images, must have the written consent of
Küschall® AG.
This product complies with Directive 93/42/EEC
concerning medical devices.

Content
3
Contents
1General 5
1.1Information about the User Manual 5
1.2Symbols 5
1.3Limitation of liability 5
1.4Copyright protection 6
1.5Warranty conditions 6
2Safety 7
2.1Safety information 7
2.2Correct use 7
3Technical data 8
3.1Dimensions and weight 8
3.2Environmental conditions 9
3.3Tyre pressure 9
3.4Identification label 9
4Components and their function 10
4.1Overview 10
4.2Parking brakes 11
4.3Backrest cover 12
4.4Antitipper 12
4.5Seat cushion 13
4.6Accessories 13
5Set-up 14
6Using the wheelchair 15
6.1Safety information 15
6.2Braking during use 15
6.3Getting in and out of the wheelchair 15
6.4Driving and steering the wheelchair 16
6.5Negotiating steps and kerbs 17
6.6Going up and down stairs 19
6.7Negotiating ramps and slopes 19
6.8Stability and balance when seated 21
7Transport 23
7.1Safety information 23
7.2Removing and fitting the rear wheels 23
8Maintenance 25
8.1Safety information 25
8.2Maintenance schedule 25
8.3Cleaning 28
8.4Disinfection 28
9Troubleshooting 29
9.1Identifying and repairing faults 30
10Adjustments and adaptations 31
10.1Adjusting the footrest 31
11After use 32
11.1Re-use 32
11.2Disposal 32

Content
4

General
5
1General
1.1 Information about the User Manual
Thank you for choosing a Küschall® wheelchair.
This User Manual contains important information about using
the wheelchair. In order to ensure safety when using your
wheelchair, read the User Manual carefully and follow the
safety information.
The equipment of your wheelchair may differ from the
descriptions and diagrams given here due to the wide range
of models available.
1.2 Symbols
Warnings
In this User Manual warnings are indicated by symbols. The
warning symbols are accompanied by a heading that
indicates the severity of the danger.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation that could result in
serious injury or death if it is not avoided.
CAUTION
Indicates a hazardous situation that could result in
minor or slight injury if it is not avoided.
IMPORTANT
Indicates a hazardous situation that could result in
damage to property if it is not avoided.
Tips and recommendations
NOTE
Gives useful tips, recommendations and information
for efficient, trouble-free use.
1.3 Limitation of liability
All the information and warnings in this User Manual have
been drawn up in accordance with current standards and
regulations, the latest technological developments, and our
expertise and experience over many years.
Küschall AG accepts no liability for damage arising from:
Non-compliance with the User Manual
Incorrect use
Natural wear and tear
Incorrect assembly or set-up by the purchaser or a third
party
Technical modifications
Unauthorised modifications and/or use of unsuitable
spare parts
The written authorisation of Küschall AG must be obtained
before installing additional adaptations on a Küschall
wheelchair. Otherwise no liability claims can be made.

General
6
1.4 Copyright protection
This User Manual is protected by copyright. It may not be
reprinted or copied or transferred to third parties in part or in
full without the prior written consent of the manufacturer.
1.5 Warranty conditions
Warranty claims against Küschall AG may only be made by the
distributor and not by the wheelchair user. The warranty
conditions appear as a separate document in the sales
documentation.

Safety
7
2Safety
This section contains important safety information for the
protection of the wheelchair user and assistant and for safe,
trouble-free use of the wheelchair.
2.1 Safety information
WARNING! Risk due to driving style being
unsuitable for the conditions
There is a risk of skidding on wet ground, gravel or
uneven terrain.
Always adjust your speed and driving style to the
conditions (weather, surface, individual ability, etc.).
WARNING! Risk of injury
In a collision you could sustain injury to parts of your
body that extend beyond the wheelchair (e.g. feet or
hands).
- Avoid an unbraked collision
- Never drive into an object head-on
- Drive carefully through narrow passages.
WARNING! Risk due to wheelchair being out of
control
At high speed you could lose control of your
wheelchair and overturn.
- Never exceed a speed of 7 km/h.
- Avoid collisions in general.
2.2 Correct use
The wheelchair is propelled manually and should only be
used for independent or assisted transport of a disabled
person with mobility difficulties. When used without an
assistant, it should only be used by persons who are physically
able to use the wheelchair safely (e.g. to propel themselves,
steer, brake). The wheelchair should only be used indoors and
on level ground and accessible terrain.
WARNING!
Any other or incorrect use of the wheelchair could
lead to hazardous situations.

Technical data
8
3Technical data
3.1 Dimensions and weight
Seat width (SB)
34–42 cm
Seat depth (ST)
37.5 / 40 / 42.5 cm
Seat height front
(SHv) 50 cm
with 24‘‘ wheels
Seat height rear
(SHh) 38–48 cm
Lower leg length
(UL) 35-50 cm
Backrest height (RH)
30–46.5 cm
Seat angle (SW)
variable 2–12 cm
standard 7 cm
Backrest angle (RW)
74°–90°
Total width (GB) 1)
SW + 23 cm
Total length (GL) 2)
75°: Approx. 83 cm
90°: Approx. 76 cm
Weight 3)
7 kg
Maximum user
weight
100 kg
1) At 3° wheel camber
2) Depending on seat angle, lower leg length, rear wheel
position and seat depth
3) With standard configuration, may vary (+/–)

Technical data
9
3.2 Environmental conditions
Do not expose the wheelchair to temperatures below -20°C or
above 40°C.
3.3 Tyre pressure
The ideal pressure depends on the tyre type:
Tyre Max. pressure
Low-resistance tyre 7 bar 700 kPa 101 psi
Treaded tyre (marathon) 7.5 bar 750 kPa 108 psi
Slick tyres (speed run) 10 bar 1000 kPa 145 psi
Mountain bike tyre 4 bar 400 kPa 58 psi
Tubed tyre, carbon wheel 14 bar 1400 kPa 202 psi
IMPORTANT!
The air pressure in tubed tyres on carbon wheels
must be not less than 10 bar in order to prevent
damage to the carbon rim.
Inflate tubed tyres regularly using a suitable pump.
3.4 Identification label
The identification label is attached to the frame of your
wheelchair and gives the following information:
KÜSCHALL K-SL 2008 SB 40 cm
Küschall AG
Benkenstrasse 260
4108 Witterswil
SWITZERLAND
10/04/2009 Read User Manual
100 kg
SN 01234567890
www.kuschall.com
Active wheelchair, tipping backwards possible !







Manufacturer’s address
Product description
Date of manufacture
Instruction to read the User Manual
Maximum user weight
Serial number
Warning that this is an active wheelchair and can tip
backwards.

Components and their function
10
4Components and their function
4.1 Overview
Push handles
Backrest
Rear wheel with handrim
Removable axle
Front wheel
Footrest
Brake
Frame
Seat cushion
Clothes-guard
Short description
The KSL is a rigid frame wheelchair.
NOTE
The equipment of your wheelchair may differ from
the diagram as each wheelchair is manufactured
individually to the specifications in the order.

Components and their function
11
4.2 Parking brakes
The parking brakes are used to immobilise the wheelchair
when it is stationary to prevent it from rolling away.
WARNING! Risk of overturning
If you apply the parking brakes while you are moving
the wheelchair will stop suddenly.
- Never apply the parking brakes while you are
moving.
The parking brakes will not operate correctly unless
there is sufficient air in the tyres.
(see Section 3.2 – Tyre pressure)
Standard brake
To apply the brake, push the brake lever forwards as far as
possible.
To release the brake, pull the brake lever backwards.
Performance brake
To apply the brake, push the brake lever forwards as far as
possible.
To release the brake, pull the brake lever backwards.
Active brake
To apply the brake, pull the brake lever forwards beside or
between your knees as far as possible.
To release the brake, push the brake lever backwards
beside or between your knees.

Components and their function
12
4.3 Backrest cover
You can adjust the tension of the backrest cover as required.
Adjusting the backrest cover
Remove the backrest cushion.
Loosen the Velcro® tapes on the rear of the backrest cover
by simply pulling on them.
Tighten or loosen the tapes as required then reattach
them.
4.4 Antitipper
An antitipper prevents the wheelchair from tipping
backwards.
Activating the antitipper
Push the antitipper downwards against the spring and
swivel it backwards through 90° until it engages.
CAUTION! Risk of tipping
An activated antitipper can catch when negotiating
a step or an edge.
Always deactivate the antitipper before driving over
a step or kerb.

Components and their function
13
Deactivating the antitipper
Push the antitipper downwards against the spring and
swivel it inwards through 90° until it engages.
Setting the height
Press the spring pin on the antitipper and push the inner
section to the position required. Allow the spring pin to
engage in the nearest hole.
4.5 Seat cushion
A suitable cushion is needed to provide an even pressure
distribution on the seat.
4.6 Accessories
Safety belt
Your wheelchair can be fitted with a safety belt which will
prevent you from falling out of the wheelchair.
Fitting a safety belt
IMPORTANT
Safety belts must be fitted by a specialist dealer.
Remove the backrest cover and attach the Velcro®
fastener to the backrest at the required height. Ensure
that the fastener is at the front.
Opening the safety belt
Push in the PRESS button and pull the catch out of the
buckle . The safety belt opens.
Closing the safety belt
Push the catch into the buckle 
Pull the belt until you are held securely in the
wheelchair.
Air pump
The air pump is supplied with a valve adapter. Depending on
the size of valve on your model, you may need to reverse the
adapter on the pump’s air outlet.
Remove the lock nut
Remove the valve adapter
Turn it around and reinstall it
Replace the lock nut.
Passive illumination
You can attach 2 reflectors to the rear wheels.

Inbetriebnahme
14
5Set-up
CAUTION!
Before using the wheelchair, check its general
condition and its main functions. (See Section 8 –
Maintenance)
Your specialist dealer will supply your wheelchair ready for
use. Your dealer will explain the main functions and ensure
that the wheelchair meets your needs and requirements .

Using the wheelchair
15
6Using the wheelchair
6.1 Safety information
CAUTION! Risk of crushing
There may be a very small gap between the rear
wheel and the mudguard with the risk that you
could trap your fingers.
- Ensure that you always propel your wheelchair
using the handrims only.
CAUTION! Risk of crushing
There may be a very small gap between the rear
wheel and the parking brake with the risk that you
could trap your fingers.
- Ensure that you always propel your wheelchair
using the handrims only.
CAUTION! Risk of accidents
Loose rear wheels or uneven tyre pressure can have
a huge effect on handling.
- Before each journey, check the tyre pressure and
ensure that the rear wheels are securely attached.
6.2 Braking during use
Whilst you are moving, you brake by transferring force to the
handrim with your hands.
Hold the handrims and press evenly with both hands until
the wheelchair stops.
WARNING! Risk of overturning
If you apply the parking brakes while you are moving
the wheelchair may stop suddenly and you could fall
out of it.
CAUTION!
The handrims (especially MaxGrepp and Supergripp)
can get hot if you brake for a long time. There is a
risk of burning your hands.
- Wear suitable gloves.
6.3 Getting in and out of the wheelchair
WARNING! Risk of overturning
There is a high risk of overturning during the
transfer.
- Only get in and out without assistance if you are
physically able to do so.
WARNING! Risk of overturning
The wheelchair could tip forwards if you stand on
the footrest.
- Never stand on the footrest when getting in and
out.
CAUTION!
If you release or damage the brakes the wheelchair
could roll away out of control.
- Do not support yourself on the brakes when
getting in and out.

Using the wheelchair
16
IMPORTANT!
The mudguards and armrests could become
damaged.
- Never sit on the mudguards or armrests when
getting in and out.
Apply the parking brakes.
Place your feet on the ground.
Hold the wheelchair and, if necessary, also hold a fixed
object in the vicinity.
6.4 Driving and steering the wheelchair
You drive and steer the wheelchair using the handrims.
Before driving without an assistant you must find your
wheelchair’s tipping point.
WARNING! Risk of tipping
The wheelchair can tip backwards if it is not fitted
with an antitipper . When finding the tipping point,
an assistant must stand immediately behind the
wheelchair to catch it if it tips over.
To prevent tipping, install an antitipper device.
CAUTION!
A heavy load hanging on the backrest can affect the
wheelchair’s centre of gravity.
- Change your driving style accordingly.
Finding the tipping point
Release the brake.
Roll forwards a short distance, grasp both handrims firmly
and pull backwards with a slight kick.
The shift in weight and steering in opposite directions
with the handrims will enable you to identify the tipping
point.

Using the wheelchair
17
6.5 Negotiating steps and kerbs
WARNING! Risk of overturning
When negotiating steps you could lose your balance
and tip the wheelchair over.
- Always approach steps and kerbs slowly and
carefully.
- Do not go up or down steps that are higher than
25 cm.
CAUTION
An activated antitipper prevents the wheelchair
from tipping backwards.
- Deactivate the antitipper before going up or down
steps or kerbs.
With an assistant
Going down a step
Move the wheelchair right up to the kerb and hold the
handrims.
The assistant should hold both push handles, place one
foot on the tipper aid (if installed) and tilt the wheelchair
backwards so that the front wheels lift off the ground.
The assistant should then hold the wheelchair in this
position, push it carefully down the step and then tilt it
forwards until the front wheels are back on the ground.

Using the wheelchair
18
Going up a step
Move the wheelchair backwards until the rear wheels
touch the kerb.
The assistant should tilt the wheelchair using both push
handles so that the front wheels lift off the ground, then
pull the rear wheels over the kerb until the front wheels
can be placed back on the ground.
Without an assistant
WARNING! Risk of tipping
When going down a step without an assistant you
could tip over backwards if you cannot control your
wheelchair.
- First learn how to go down a step with an assistant.
- Learn how to balance on the rear wheels (Section
6.3).
Going down a step
Move the wheelchair right to the kerb, lift the front wheels
and keep the wheelchair balanced.
Now slowly roll both rear wheels over the kerb. While
doing this, hold the handrims firmly with both hands until
the front wheels are back on the ground.
Going up a step
Reverse the wheelchair until the rear wheels are on the
kerb, lift the front wheels and keep the wheelchair
balanced.
Roll both rear wheels over the kerb and reverse until the
front wheels can be placed on the ground. While doing
this, hold the handrims firmly with both hands.

Using the wheelchair
19
6.6 Going up and down stairs
WARNING! Risk of overturning
When negotiating stairs you could lose your balance
and overturn your wheelchair.
- Always use 2 assistants when negotiating stairs
with more than one step.
You can go up and down stairs by taking them one step at
a time, as described above. The first assistant should stand
behind the wheelchair holding the push handles. The
second assistant should hold a solid part of the front
frame to steady the wheelchair from the front.
6.7 Negotiating ramps and slopes
WARNING! Risk due to wheelchair being out of
control
When negotiating slopes or gradients your
wheelchair could tip backwards, forwards or
sideways.
- Always have an assistant behind the wheelchair
when approaching long slopes.
- Avoid lateral slopes and
- Avoid slopes of more than 7°
- Avoid jerking when changing direction on a slope.
CAUTION!
Your wheelchair could run away even on slightly
sloping ground if you do not control it using the
handrims.
- Use the parking brakes if your wheelchair is
stationary on sloping ground.

Using the wheelchair
20
Going up slopes
To go up a slope, you must create some momentum, keep up
the momentum and control the direction at the same time.
Bend your upper body forwards and propel the
wheelchair with quick, powerful strokes on both
handrims.
Going down slopes
When going down slopes, it is important to control your
direction and particularly your speed.
Lean back and carefully allow the handrims to run
through your hands. You should be able to stop the
wheelchair at any time by gripping the handrims.
Caution! Risk of burning
The handrims (especially MaxGrepp and Supergripp)
can get hot if you brake for a long time. You could
burn your hands.
- Wear suitable gloves.