WARNING/CAUTION notices as used in this manual apply to hazards or unsafe practices which
could result in personal injury or property damage.
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THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
WHEELCAIR 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 be used
by an individual rests solely with the user and his/her healthcare professional capable of making
such a selection.
WHEELCHAIR TIE-DOWN RESTRAINTS AND SEAT POSITIONING STRAPS
Invacare recommends that wheelchair users NOT be 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 be transferred into appropriate seating in
vehicles for transportation and use be made of the restraints made available by the auto industry.
Invacare cannot and does not recommend any wheelchair transportation systems.
SPECIAL NOTES
NOTICE
AS REGARDS RESTRAINTS - SEAT POSITIONING STRAPS - IT IS THE OBLIGATION OF THE DME DEALER,
THERAPISTS AND OTHER HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS TO DETERMINE IF A SEATPOSITIONING STRAP
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.
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SAFETY SUMMARY
SAFETY SUMMARY
OPERATING INFORMATION
W ARNING
Unless otherwise noted, all service and adjustments should be performed while the wheelchair is
unoccupied.
After ANY adjustments, repair or service and BEFORE use, make sure all attaching hardware is
tightened securely - otherwise injury or damage may result.
To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, r eaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence of a qualified health care 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 wheelchair to tip over.
DO NOT shift your weight or sitting position toward the direction you are reaching as the wheel-
chair may tip over.
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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 tip over
and cause bodily harm or damage to the wheelchair.
DO NOT use unauthorized parts, accessories, or adapters other than those authorized by Invacare.
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.
DO NOT stand on the frame of the wheelchair.
NON-RECLINERS ONL Y: Anti-tippers MUST BE attached at all times. Inasmuch as the anti-tippers are
an option on this wheelchair (You may order with or without the anti-tippers), Invacare strongly
recommends ordering the anti-tippers as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.
Anti-tippers MUST be fully engaged. Ensure that the release button of the anti-tipper fully protrudes
out of the hole on the bottom of the wheelchair frame.
Ensure both anti-tippers are adjusted to the same height.
When changing the seat-to-floor height, the height of the anti-tippers must be adjusted as well.
DO NOT use the footplate as a platform when getting in or out of the wheelchair.
AL W AYS wear your SEA T POSITIONING STRAP. Inasmuch as the SEA T POSITIONING STRAP is an option on
this wheelchair (Y ou may order with or without the SEA T POSITIONING STRAP), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the SEA T POSITIONING STRAP as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.
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SAFETY SUMMARY
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TIRE PRESSURE
DO NOT use your wheelchair unless it has the proper tire pressure (p.s.i.). DO NOT overinflate the
tires. Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tire to explode and cause bodily harm.
Recommended tire pressure is listed on the side of the tire.
Replacement of a pneumatic tire or tube MUST be performed by a qualified technician.
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 LIMIT ATION
The Tracer DLX / SX / SX RECLINER / TITAN wheelchairs have a weight limitation of 250 lbs.
SAFETY SUMMARY (CONTINUED)
WARNING
TRACER RECLINER ONLY:
WARNING
ALWAYS make sure that the wheelchair is stable BEFORE using the recliner.
Anti-tippers MUST BE attached at all times.
ALWAYS engage both wheel locks while reclining or inclining (reverse recline) the wheelchair.
Make sure detent pin of the spreader bar is completely extended through the hole in the handle
BEFORE using the wheelchair.
Make sure both back canes are at the same angle BEFORE releasing the handles of the recline
mechanisms.
Mount the rear wheels in the Rear Wheel Offset Bracket ONL Y. NEVER reposition the rear wheels to
the forward position, stability of the wheelchair will decrease.
TO HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS/ASSISTANTS:
The Tracer SX Recliner wheelchair MUST be operated by a healthcare professional or assistant
when in ANY reclined position.
Make sure the patient is properly positioned in the wheelchair before reclining or inclining (reverse recline) to maintain maximum stability and safety.
When returning the occupant of the wheelchair to the full upright position, more body strength will be
required for approximately the last twenty (20) degrees of incline (reverse recline). Make sure to use
proper body mechanics (use your legs) or seek assistance if necessary to avoid injury.
Assistants MUST be prepared to support the weight of the occupant when reclining, or returning the occupant of the wheelchair to the full upright position.
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SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
Safety and Handling of the wheelchair requires the 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 the 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. 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 CAUTIONS given in this manual
MUST be followed. 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
WARNING
AL WA YS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch
as the SEA T POSITIONING STRAP is an option on this
wheelchair (Y ou may order with or without the Seat
Positioning Strap), Invacare strongly recommends
ordering the Seat Positioning Strap as an additional
safeguard for the wheelchair user.
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. Invacare recommends using seat/chest positioning straps 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.
SAFETY/HANDLING
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.
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 tipping the wheelchair or traversing curbs, or other impediments.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by 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.
Also, be aware of detachable parts such as armrests or
legrests. 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 you before attempting it alone.
PERCENTAGE OF WEIGHT
DISTRIBUTION
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to
move forward in the seat or pick them up from
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 healthcare professional BEFORE attempting
active use of the wheelchair.
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Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When
reaching, leaning, or bending forward, it is important
to use the front casters as a tool to maintain stability
and balance.
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Example 46% 54% 103 lbs. 130 lbs.
UNOCCUPIED OCCUPIED
FUNCTIONAL REACH FROM A
WHEELCHAIR
The approximate reach-limit values shown in the accompanying graph were derived on the basis of a
sample of 91 male and 36 female wheelchair users.
Note the difference between the maximum and the
comfortable reach limits, a subjective but important
consideration in design.
CENTER OF
GRAVITY
REACHING, LEANING AND
BENDING - FORWARD
Position the front casters so that they are extended as
far forward as possible and engage wheel locks. DO
NOT ATTEMPT TO REACH OBJECTS IF YOU HAVE
TO MOVE FORWARD IN THE SEAT OR PICK THEM
UP FROM THE FLOOR BY REACHING DOWN
BETWEEN YOUR KNEES.
FORWARD REACH
(ADULT)
COMFORTABLEMAXIMUM
INCHES
REACHING, LEANING - BACKWARDS
WARNING
DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery. This will change your center of gravity
INCHES
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.
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SAFETY/HANDLING
TIPPING
WARNING
DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.
When tipping the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp
the back of the wheelchair on a non-removable (nondetachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant before tipping the wheelchair and remind him/her to lean
back. Be sure the occupants feet and hands are clear
of all wheels.
After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair, use one (1) of the following methods to tackle
curbs, short stairs, etc.
Tipping - Curbs: 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.
WARNING
When lowering the front casters of the wheelchair, DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last
few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant and/or damage to the
wheelchair.
Tipping - Curbs: Method 1 - Wheelchair
without Step Tubes
This method requires two (2) assistants. The second
assistant should be positioned at the front of the 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. Turn the anti-tippers so the anti-tip wheels
are pointing up, The wheelchair should be tilted back
to the balance point and, in one continuous upward
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.
WARNING
When lowering the front casters of the wheelchair, DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last
few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant and/or damage to the
wheelchair.
Roll the wheelchair backward 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.
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Step Tube
METHOD 1 - WHEELCHAIR WITH STEP TUBE
Roll the wheelchair forward and slowly lower the front
of the wheelchair in one continuous movement onto
the sidewalk. 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 - WHEELCHAIR WITHOUT STEP TUBE
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SAFETY/HANDLING
STAIRWAYS
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AL WA YS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch
as the SEA T POSITIONING STRAP is an option on this
wheelchair (Y ou may order with or without the Seat
Positioning Strap), Invacare strongly recommends
ordering the Seat Positioning Strap as an additional
safeguard for the wheelchair user.
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. Invacare recommends using
two (2) assistants and making thorough preparations. Make sure to use ONLY secure, nondetachable parts for hand-held supports.
Follow this procedure for moving the wheelchair between floors when an elevator is NOT available:
WARNING
TRANSFERRING TO AND FROM
OTHER SEATS
WARNING
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.
Also be certain the wheel locks are engaged
to help prevent the wheels from moving.
CAUTION
When transferring, position yourself as far back
as possible in the seat. This will help prevent
broken screws, 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.
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 nondetachable 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.
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.
ESCALATORS? SORRY!
DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily injury may
occur.
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SAFETY/HANDLING
FOLDING AND UNFOLDING THE
WHEELCHAIR
WARNING
Keep hands and fingers clear of moving parts
to avoid injury.
Opening
1. Open the wheelchair by grasping the push handle of
the wheelchair closest to you.
2. Tilt the wheelchair towards you (raising theopposite wheel and caster off the ground/floor).
3. Push downward on the TOP of the seat rail closest to
you where the seat upholstery is attached until the
wheelchair is fully open.
4. Engage both wheel locks, open the footrest/legrest
for clearance and transfer into the wheelchair. Refer
to TRANSFERRING TO AND FROM OTHERSEATS in this section of the manual.
Recliner Models
FOLDING.
1. Push in detent pin on one side of spreader bar.
2. While holding spreader bar, pull out handle until
the release pin is out of the handle of the back
cane.
3. Drop the spreader bar to one side.
4. Lift up on the seat upholstery.
5. Lift up on the two (2) crossbraces.
UNFOLDING.
1. Lift the wheelchair to one side.
2. Push down on the raised side of the wheelchair.
WARNING
Make sure detent pin of the spreader bar is
completely extended through the hole in the
handle BEFORE using the wheelchair.
3. Push in detent pin on the handle of the spreader
bar and insert into the handle of the back cane.
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"HAMMOCK OR SLING SEAT" MODELS
Closing
1. Swing footrest/legrest in locked position to the front
of the wheelchair.
2. Pivot footplates upward to vertical position.
3. With both hands, grasp the middle of the seat upholstery at the front and back edge and lift up.
NOTE: If wheelchair is equipped with carry straps, the
wheelchair may be closed by pulling up on the straps.
4. Engage both wheel locks, open the footrest/legrest
for clearance and transfer into the wheelchair.
Refer to TRANSFERRING TO AND FROMOTHER SEATS in this section of the manual.