PDG Mobility Stellar Installation guide

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Class 1 Medical Device
Registration CA 004986
Owner’s Operation & Maintenance Manual
STELLAR Manual Tilt Wheelchair
March 2008
Class 1 Medical Device
Registration CA 004986
DEALER: This manual must be given to the user of the wheelchair
USER: Before using this wheelchair, read this entire manual and
save for future reference
For more information regarding PDG products,
parts and service, please visit www.pdgmobility.com

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WARNING
Do not operate this equipment without first reading and understanding this manual. If you are unable to
understand the warnings and instructions, contact a health care professional such as a doctor or
therapist who is familiar with this type of product before attempting to use this equipment. Otherwise,
injury or damage may result.
Refer to this manual regularly for maximum safety and performance.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents........................................................................................................................................................2
Special Notes ...............................................................................................................................................................3
Safety Summary...........................................................................................................................................................3
Safety Handling of Wheelchairs................................................................................................................................4
Standard Features.......................................................................................................................................................8
Unpacking and Assembly..........................................................................................................................................8
Safety Inspection Checklist........................................................................................................................................9
Troubleshooting .........................................................................................................................................................10
Maintenance .............................................................................................................................................................10
Procedures
Procedure 1 - Front Riggings....................................................................................................................................11
Procedure 2 - Arms....................................................................................................................................................12
Procedure 3 - Seat and Back ..................................................................................................................................12
Procedure 4 - Rear Wheels.......................................................................................................................................13
Procedure 5 - Front Casters .....................................................................................................................................13
Procedure 6 - Seat to Floor Heights........................................................................................................................14
Procedure 7 - Adjustable Seat Tilt...........................................................................................................................14
Procedure 8 - Adjust Gas Strut and Cable Assembly..........................................................................................15
Procedure 9 – Motor Vehicle Use ...........................................................................................................................17
Disclosure and Warranty ..........................................................................................................................................20

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SPECIAL NOTES
WARNING/CAUTION notices as used in this manual apply to hazards or unsafe practices which could
result in personal injury or property damage.
NOTICE: THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
WHEELCHAIR USER
As a manufacturer of wheelchairs, PDG endeavors to supply wheelchairs to meet many needs of the
end user. However, final selection of the type of wheelchair to be used by an individual rests solely with
the user and his/her health care professional capable of making such a selection.
WHEELCHAIR TIE-DOWN RESTRAINTS AND SEAT RESTRAINTS
PDG recommends that wheelchair users NOT be transported in vehicles of any kind while in wheelchairs.
As of this date, Transport Canada, and the Department of Transportation has not approved any tie-down
systems for transportation of a user in a moving vehicle of any type while in a wheelchair.
It is PDG’s position that users of wheelchairs should be transferred into appropriate seating in vehicles for
transportation and that use be made of the restraints made available by the auto industry. PDG can not
and does not recommend any specific wheelchair transportation systems.
REGARDING RESTRAINTS - SEAT BELTS - IT IS THE OBLIGATION OF THE HME DEALER, THERAPISTS AND OTHER
HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS TO DETERMINE IF A SEATING RESTRAINT IS REQUIRED TO ENSURE THE SAFE
OPERATION OF THIS EQUIPMENT BY THE USER. SERIOUS INJURY CAN OCCUR IN THE EVENT OF A FALL FROM
A WHEELCHAIR.
SAFETY SUMMARY
OPERATING INFORMATION
WARNING
To determine and establish particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities
in several combinations in the presence of a qualified health professional BEFORE attempting active use
of the wheelchair.
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat.
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to pick them up from the floor by reaching down between
your knees.
DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery to reach objects from behind as this may cause the
wheel chair to tip over.
DO NOT shift your weight or sitting position toward the direction you are reaching as the wheelchair may
tip over.
DO NOT tilt the wheelchair without assistance.
DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily injury may occur.
DO NOT attempt to stop a moving wheelchair with the wheel locks. WHEEL LOCKS ARE NOT BRAKES.
Before attempting to transfer in or out of the wheelchair, every precaution should be taken to reduce the
gap distance. Turn both casters toward the object you are transferring onto. When transferring to and
from the wheelchair, ALWAYS ENGAGE BOTH WHEEL LOCKS.
DO NOT operate on roads, streets or highways.
DO NOT climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 9°.
DO NOT attempt to move up or down an incline with a water, ice or oil film.
DO NOT attempt to ride over curbs or obstacles. Doing so may cause your wheelchair to turn over and
cause bodily harm or damage to the wheelchair.
DO NOT use unauthorized parts, accessories, or adapters other than those authorized by PDG.
DO NOT attempt to lift wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts.

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DO NOT stand on the frame of the wheelchair.
For products supplied with anti-tippers, anti-tippers must be attached at all times.
Do not use the footplate as a platform when getting in or out of the wheelchair.
ALWAYS wear your seat restraint.
TIRE PRESSURE
If pneumatic tires are supplied, DO NOT use your wheelchair unless it has the proper tire pressure(p.s.i.).
DO NOT over inflate the tires. Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tire to explode and cause
bodily harm.
Replacement of a pneumatic tire or tube MUST be performed by an authorized PDG Dealer or Qualified
Technician.
WEIGHT TRAINING
PDG DOES NOT recommend the use of its wheelchairs as a weight training apparatus. PDG 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, PDG shall NOT be liable for bodily injury and the warranty will
be voided immediately.
WEIGHT LIMITATION
The PDG Stellar wheelchair has a weight limitation of 350 lb. unless otherwise specified by PDG.
SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires close attention of the wheelchair user as well as the
assistant. This 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 frequently encountered architectural
barriers.
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The 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. PDG recognizes and encourages each individual to try what works best in
overcoming architectural obstacles that they may encounter. Techniques 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
To 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.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the center of gravity.
PDG recommends using seat restraints for additional safety while involved in activities that shift your
weight.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than the length of the armrests. Make sure the
casters are pointing in the forward position whenever you lean forward. This can be achieved by
advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.
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/balance.
A NOTE TO WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANTS
When assistance to the wheelchair user is required, remember to use good body mechanics. Keep your
back straight and bend your knees whenever tilting the wheelchair or traversing curbs, or other
impediments.

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Be aware of any removable (detachable) parts. These must NEVER be used for hand-held or lifting
supports, as they may be inadvertently released, resulting in possible injury to the user and/or assistant(s).
When learning a new assistance technique, have an experienced assistant help before attempting it
alone.
TILTING
WARNING: DO NOT tilt the wheelchair without assistance.
When tilting the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a non-removable(
non-detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant before tilting the wheelchair and remind him/her
to lean back. Be sure the occupant’s feet and hands are clear of all wheels.
TILTING - CURBS:
After mastering the techniques of tilting the wheelchair, use this procedure to tackle shallow curbs, short
stairs, etc.
METHOD 1 - WHEELCHAIR WITH STEP TUBES
Apply a continuous downward motion until the
balance point is achieved and the front casters clear
the curb. At this point, the assistant will feel a difference
in the weight distribution.
Roll the wheelchair forward and slowly lower the
wheelchair in one continuous movement. Do not let the
wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This
could result in injury to the occupant. Push the
wheelchair forward until the rear wheels roll up and
over the curb.
METHOD 2 - WHEELCHAIRS WITHOUT STEP TUBES
Unless the first assistant has exceptional upper body strength, it is recommended that METHOD 2 use two (2)assistants.
The second assistant should be positionedat the front ofthe
wheelchair lifting upward on a non-removable (non-
detachable) part of the wheelchair frame when lifting the
wheelchair and stabilizing the wheelchair when the
wheelchair is being lowered to the ground.
The first assistant should stand on the sidewalk and turn the
wheelchair so that the rear wheels are against the curb. The
wheelchair should be tilted back to the balance point and, in
one continuous downward movement, the rear wheels
should be pulled up and over the curb. DO NOT return the
front casters to the ground until the wheelchair has been
pulled backward far enough for the front casters to clear the
edge of the curb.
WHEELCHAIR WITHOUT STEP TUBE
WHEELCHAIR WITH STEP TUBES

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STAIRWAYS
WARNING: Do not attempt to lift a wheelchair by lifting on any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by
means of any removable(detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in injury to the user or damage to
the wheelchair.
Extreme caution is advised when it is necessary to move an occupied wheelchair up or down the stairs.
PDG recommends using two(2) assistants and making thorough preparations. Make sure to use ONLY
secure, non-detachable parts for hand-held supports.
Follow this procedure for moving the wheelchair between floors
when an elevator is NOT available:
1. After the wheelchair has been tilted back to the balance
point, one assistant (in the rear) backs the wheelchair up
against the first step, while securely grasping a non-removable
(non-detachable) part of the wheelchair for leverage.
2. The second assistant, with a firm hold on a non-detachable
part of the framework, lifts the wheelchair up and over the stair
and steadies the wheelchair as the first assistant places one (1)
foot on the next stair and repeats STEP 1.
3. The wheelchair should not be lowered until the last stair has
been negotiated and the wheelchair has been rolled away
from the stairway.
ESCALATORS? SORRY! DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily
injury may occur.
TRANSFERRING TO AND FROM OTHER SEATS
WARNING: BEFORE attempting to transfer in or out of the
wheelchair, every precaution should be taken to reduce gap
distance. Turn both casters toward the object you are
transferring onto. Also be certain the wheel locks are
engaged to help prevent wheels from moving.
CAUTION - When transferring, position yourself as far back as
possible in the seat. this will prevent damaged upholstery and
the possibility of the wheelchair tipping forward.
NOTE: This activity may be performed independently
provided you have adequate mobility and upper body
strength.
Position the wheelchair as close as possible along side the
seat to which you are transferring, with the front casters pointing toward it. Engage wheel locks. Shift
body weight into seat with transfer.
During independent transfer, little or no seat platform will be beneath you. Use a transfer board if at all
possible.

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FUNCTIONAL REACH FROM A WHEELCHAIR
PERCENTAGE OF WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
WARNING: DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick them up frm
the floor by reaching down between your knees.
Many activities require the wheelchair owner to reach, bend
and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These movements
will cause a change to the normal balance, the center of
gravity, and the weight distribution of the wheelchair. To
determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice
bending, reaching and transferring activities in several
combinations in the presence of a qualified health professional
BEFORE attempting active use ofthe wheelchair.
FUNCTIONAL REACH FROM A WHEELCHAIR
Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning,
bending forward, it is important to use the front casters as a tool to
maintain stability and balance.
The approximate reach-limit values shown in the accompanying
graph were derived on the basis of a sample of 91 male and 36
female subject wheelchair users. Note the difference between
the maximum and the comfortable reach limits, a subjective but
important consideration in design.
REACHING, LEANING and BENDING - FORWARD
Position the front casters so that they are extended as far as possible and
engage wheel locks. DO NOT LEAN FORWARD OF THE ARMRESTS.
REACHING, LEANING - BACKWARDS
WARNING - DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery. This will
change your center of gravity and may cause you to tip over.
Position wheelchair as close as possible to the desired object. Point front
casters forward to create the longest possible wheelbase. Reach back only
as far as your arm will extend without changing your sitting position.
Center of Gravity shifts when
reachin
g
forward

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PDG Stellar - Standard Features
1. Removable Armrest
2. Arm Release Button
3. Gas Strut Assembly (yellow spring)
4. Swing Away Front Rigging
5. Foot Plate
6. Front Caster
7. Tilt Activator (trigger)
8. Rear Wheel
9. Push Handle
10. Back Upholstery
11. Rear Axle Bolt
12. Lower Frame
13. Upper Seat Frame
14. Lap Belt (optional)
UNPACKING
1. Check for any obvious damage to the carton or its contents. If damage is evident, notify your
Dealer/Carrier immediately.
2. Remove all loose packing from the carton.
3. Carefully remove all components from the carton.
NOTE: Unless the PDG Stellar is to be assembled immediately, retain cartons and packing materials for
use in storing the wheelchair until assembly is required.
OUT OF THE BOX ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS:
When unpacking a new Stellar, you will need to assemble the armrests, backrest, front rigging (if
applicable), connect the cable from the strut to the tilt activator (trigger) and anti-tip tubes to complete
the set-up .
1. Installing the backrest - The seat frame has two bolts installed along the left and right side of the rear of
the seat frame. Remove these bolts on each side and place the backrest subassembly into the back
of the seat frame and replace bolts and fasten securely. To attach tilt actuator cable to the back
post (trigger) follow instructions shown on page 12.
2. Installing the front rigging depends on the type of front rigging included with chair – For plug-in front
rigging, push in the button on the side of the upper tube and slide into the frame until the button aligns
with the hole on the frame and snaps into place. For the “swing-away” style front rigging, mount the
front rigging on top of the already mounted adaptor and lock into place.
3. Install the arm assembly’s by simply sliding the arms into the slotted arm receivers on the frame.
4. If anti-tip tubes are not already installed on the chair, locate them in the box and slide them into the
receivers at the back underside of the frame so that the rollers are pointing downwards. These will
prevent the chair from overturning if the centre of gravity moves too far rearward and are mandatory
for safety and warranty protection.
IMPORTANT - With the user sitting in the chair, check to ensure the wheelchair is stable in all
tilted/untilted positions before dispensing the wheelchair.
INSPECTION
1. Examine exterior of the PDG Stellar for nicks, dents, scratches or other damages. Inspect all
components. If damage is evident, notify your Dealer/Carrier immediately.

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STORAGE
1. Store the repackaged PDG Stellar in a dry area.
2. DO NOT place other objects on top of the repackaged wheelchair.
SAFETY INSPECTION CHECKLIST
NOTE: Twice a year 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.
Initial adjustments should be made to suit your personal body structure and preference. Thereafter follow
these maintenance procedures:
ITEM INITIALLY
WEEKLY MONTHLY PERIODICALLY
GENERAL
Wheelchair rolls straight (no excessive drag or pull to
one side).
Ensure all hardware is tight
X
X
X
X
WHEEL LOCKS (PROCEDURE 6)
Do not interfere with tires rolling.
Pivot points free of ware and looseness.
Wheel locks easy to engage.
CLOTHING GUARDS
Inspect for bent or protruding metal.
Ensure all fasteners are secure
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
SEAT/BACK UPHOLSTERY (PROCEDURE 3)
Inspect for rips or sagging.
Inspect fastening to ensure they are secure.
X
X X X
REAR WHEELS (PROCEDURE 4)
No excessive side movement or binding when lifted
and spun.
Quick-release axles lock properly.
X
X
X
X
X
FRONT CASTER (PROCEDURE 5)
Inspect wheel/fork assembly for proper tension by
spinning caster; caster should come to a gradual stop.
Wheel bearings are clean and free of moisture.
CAUTION: Wheels and tires should be checked
periodically for cracks and wear, and should be
replaced when necessary.
X
X
X
X
X
X

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ITEM INITIALLY
WEEKLY MONTHLY PERIODICALLY
TIRES (PROCEDURES 5 and 6)
Inspect for flat spots and wear.
If pneumatic tires, check for proper installation.
Inspect rear tires for cracks and wear.
CAUTION: Wheels and tires should be checked
periodically for cracks and wear, and should be
replaced when necessary.
X
X
X
X
X
X
CLEANING
Clean and wax all parts
Clean upholstery and armrests.
Inspect axles are free from dirt, lint, etc.
Inspect tilt slides and roller bearings are free from dirt,
lint, etc.
X
X
X
X
TROUBLESHOOTING
CHAIR
VEERS
RIGHT
CHAIR
VEERS
LEFT
SLUGGISH TURN
OR
PERFORMANCE
CASTERS
FLUTTER SQUEAKS AND
RATTLES
LOOSE-NESS
IN CHAIR CHAIR 3
WHEELS
SOLUTIONS
X X X X X If pneumatic, check
tires for correct and
equal pressure.
X X X X Check for loose stem
nuts and bolts.
X X X X Check caster angle.
X X X Check that both
casters contact the
ground at the same
time.
MAINTENANCE - FINE TUNING THE FIT… ADJUSTMENT GUIDE
The following instructions are intended to provide assistance in making wheelchair adjustments. It is
important to note the initial wheelchair configuration prior to making changes. When making changes,
dealers and users should do so under the guidance of a health care professional who is knowledgeable
of the particular limitation of the wheelchair user. Be sure that when finished, all components are properly
tightened and have been completed in accordance with these instructions. DO NOT over tighten
hardware attaching to the frame. This could cause damage to the frame tubing.
Tools Required
Philips Screw Driver
Allen Keys: 1/8” 5/32”, 3/16”, 8 mm
Adjustable or Open End Wrench: 7/16”, 1-1/4, 1-5/16”
Socket Head Driver with socket Heads: 9/16”, 3/4”, 1-1/4”