Invacare T6 User Manual

Owner’s Operator and Maintenance Manual

Crossfire

Series

Wheelchairs

Crossfire T6

Crossfire Titanium

Crossfire All Terrain

™

DEALER: This manual MUST be given to the user of the wheelchair.

USER:

this manual and save for future reference.

BEFORE using this wheelchair, read

For more information regarding

Invacare products, parts, and services,

please visit www.invacare.uk

 WARNING

DO NOT OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND UNDERSTANDING THIS MANUAL. IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT YOUR INVACARE DEALER OR INVACARE CUSTOMER SUPPORT BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO USE THIS EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE INJURY AND/OR EQUIPMENT DAMAGE MAY OCCUR.

NOTE: Updated versions of this manual are available on www.invacare.uk.

Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 2 Part No 1148078

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SPECIAL NOTES ................................................................................ 6

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS .................................................... 8

Tyre Pressure Conversion .....................................................................................................................10

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES ................................................. 11

Stability Warning.......................................................................................................................................11

Operating Information.............................................................................................................................12

Tyre Pressure and Information .............................................................................................................13

Weight Training ........................................................................................................................................13

Weight Limitation.....................................................................................................................................13

SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING ......................................................... 14

Stability and Balance.................................................................................................................................14

Coping with Everyday Obstacles......................................................................................................15

A Note to Wheelchair Assistants....................................................................................................16

Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward......................................................................................16

Reaching, Leaning - Backwards .........................................................................................................16

Tipping.........................................................................................................................................................17

Tipping - Curbs .........................................................................................................................................17

Stairways.....................................................................................................................................................18

Transferring To and From Other Seats..............................................................................................19

SECTION 3—SAFETY INSPECTION ................................................... 20

Safety Inspection Checklist.....................................................................................................................20

Inspect Initially ......................................................................................................................................20

Inspect/Adjust Weekly........................................................................................................................21

Inspect/Adjust Monthly.......................................................................................................................21

Inspect/Adjust Periodically.................................................................................................................22

Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................22

Maintenance...............................................................................................................................................23

Maintenance Safety Precautions .......................................................................................................23

Suggested Maintenance Procedures ................................................................................................23

SECTION 4—FOOTREST ................................................................... 25

Adjusting/Replacing Standard Footrest................................................................................................25

Replacing the Footrest........................................................................................................................25

Adjusting the Footrest........................................................................................................................25

Installing/Adjusting Optional Clamp on Raised Footrest ................................................................26

Installing..................................................................................................................................................26

Part No 1148078 3 Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Adjusting ................................................................................................................................................26

Replacing/Adjusting Optional Adjustable Angle Footrest...............................................................26

Replacing the Footrest........................................................................................................................26

Adjusting Footplate Angle..................................................................................................................27

Adjusting Footplate Depth.................................................................................................................27

SECTION 5—ARMS ......................................................................... 28

Installing the Swingaway Padded Armrest Socket Assembly..........................................................28

Adjusting Swingaway Padded Armrest Height...................................................................................29

SECTION 6—BACK ......................................................................... 30

Unfolding/Folding the Back.....................................................................................................................30

Back Angle Adjustment...........................................................................................................................30

Adjustable Tension Back Upholstery...................................................................................................32

The Adjustable Tension Straps.........................................................................................................32

The Back Upholstery Cover..............................................................................................................32

Replacing Adjustable Tension Back Upholstery............................................................................32

Removing/Installing Foldover Back Upholstery .................................................................................33

Removing Foldover Back Upholstery..............................................................................................34

Installing Foldover Back Upholstery ................................................................................................34

Back Height Adjustment (Adjustable Backs Only)............................................................................35

SECTION 7—SEAT ........................................................................... 36

Replacing Adjustable Tension Seat Upholstery.................................................................................36

SECTION 8—WHEELS ....................................................................... 38

Removing/Installing Rear Wheels .........................................................................................................38

Adjusting Quick-Release Axles..............................................................................................................39

Replacing Quad-Release Axles ..............................................................................................................39

Adjusting Quad-Release Handles..........................................................................................................40

In and/or Out........................................................................................................................................40

Removing Play from Rear Wheels ...................................................................................................40

Handrim Replacement.............................................................................................................................41

Repairing/Replacing Rear Wheel, Tyre/Tube.....................................................................................42

Adjusting Wheelbase Length (Adjusting Center of Gravity)..........................................................42

Repositioning the Camber Tube Mounting Brackets ..................................................................44

Repositioning the Camber Tube Mounting Bracket Socket Screws........................................44

Reversing the Camber Tube Mounting Bracket Direction........................................................45

Adjusting Wheelbase Width..................................................................................................................46

Removing/Installing/ the Camber Tube ...............................................................................................47

Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 4 Part No 1148078

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Removing the Camber Tube .............................................................................................................47

Installing the Camber Tube ...............................................................................................................47

Adjusting the Camber Tube...................................................................................................................48

Determining Toe In/Toe Out................................................................................................................49

Adjusting Fork Tension...........................................................................................................................50

Removing/Installing/Repositioning the Caster Assemblies..............................................................51

Standard Forks......................................................................................................................................51

Removing Front Caster ................................................................................................................51

Installing Front Caster ...................................................................................................................51

Suspension Forks..................................................................................................................................51

Removing the Caster .....................................................................................................................51

Installing the Caster .......................................................................................................................52

Removing/Installing the Fork Assembly...............................................................................................52

Removing Fork Assembly...................................................................................................................52

Installing Fork Assembly.....................................................................................................................53

Removing/Installing the Elastomers (Suspension Forks Only) .......................................................54

Removing the Elastomer ....................................................................................................................54

Installing the Elastomer.......................................................................................................................54

SECTION 9—WHEEL LOCKS ............................................................. 55

Replacing/Adjusting the Wheel Locks .................................................................................................55

Replacing the Wheel Lock.................................................................................................................55

Adjusting the Wheel Lock .................................................................................................................55

Changing Wheel Lock Handle Position...............................................................................................56

Converting Wheel Lock From Push-to-Lock to

Pull-to-Lock or Pull-to-Lock to Push-to-Lock..........................................................................................57

Converting From Push-to-Lock to Pull-to-Lock...........................................................................57

Converting From Pull-to-Lock to Push-to-Lock...........................................................................57

SECTION 10—ANTI-TIPPER ............................................................. 58

Adjusting/Replacing Anti-tipper.............................................................................................................58

Adjusting Anti-tipper...........................................................................................................................58

Replacing Anti-tipper...........................................................................................................................59

LIMITED WARRANTY ..................................................................... 60

Part No 1148078 5 Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs

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.

SIGNAL WORD MEANING

DANGER

WARNING

CAUTION

Danger indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

Warning indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

Caution indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

NOTICE

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

Serial number information is located under the seat of the chair.

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.

Some countries require product returned for service be cleaned and sanitised. Please consult your dealer prior to returning product.

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.

 WARNING

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.

Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 6 Part No 1148078

SPECIAL NOTES

 WARNING

SEAT POSITIONING STRAP

ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch as the seat positioning strap is an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the seat positioning strap), Invacare Top End strongly recommends ordering the seat positioning strap as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user. The 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, seat positioning strap MUST be replaced IMMEDIATELY.

Because TOP END wheelchairs are made to the specifications of the original owners it is unlikely that refurbished product would be suitable to other user’s needs.

Part No 1148078 7 Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

NOTE: All specifications are approximate.

CROSSFIRE T6 CROSSFIRE

TITANIUM

FRAME: 6061T6 Aluminum Grade 9 Titanium 6061T6 Aluminum

FRONT FRAME: Tapered front end (Standard), V-Style (Optional) Tapered front end (Standard)

FRONT FRAME ANGLE: 70°, 75°, 80°, 85° or 90° 90°

FOOTREST: Tubular footrest in same material as frame (Standard),

Adjustable Angle NCO, Plastic or Carbon Fiber Cover (Optional)

SEAT HEIGHT Front: 16 to 21 inches (40.64 to 53.34 cm)

(Fixed)

Rear: 14 to 20 Inches (35.56 to 50.8 cm) (Fixed),

Ergo Level Seat (Optional)

ARMS (OPTIONAL): Swing-away Style

SIDE GUARDS (OPTIONAL)

FOLDING BACK: FIXED BACK:

SEAT WIDTH: 12 to 18 inches (30.48 to 45.72 cm) (Standard),

(48.26 to 50.8 cm ) (Optional),

Tapered Seat Width (Optional)

SEAT DEPTH: 14 to 18 inches (35.56 to 45.72 cm) (Standard), 19 to 20 inches

BACK STYLE: Folding (Standard), Fixed (Optional)

Removable, Folding, Removable with Fender

Fixed Aluminum, Fixed Carbon Fiber

19 to 20 inches

(48.26 to 50.8 cm) (Optional)

CROSSFIRE ALL

TERRAIN

Front:19 to 21 inches (48.26

to 53.34 cm) (Fixed)

Rear:15** to 20 Inches (38.10

to 50.8 cm) (Fixed)

12 to 18 inches (30.48 to

45.72 cm) (Standard), 19 to

20 inches (48.26 to 50.8 cm )

(Optional),

BACK HEIGHT

ADJUSTABLE: 8 to 11, 10 to 14, 12 to

16, 14 to 18, or 16 to

20 inches

(20.32 to 27.94, 25.4 to

35.56, 30.48 to 40.64,

35.56 to 45.72, 40.64 to 50.8 cm)

FIXED: Not Available 20.32 to 40.64 (8 to 16

BACK ANGLE

FOLDING: FIXED:

BACK UPHOLSTERY: U850 Black - Adjustable Tension by Straps

SEAT UPHOLSTERY: U850 Black - Adjustable Tension by Straps

AXLE POSITIONS/CENTER OF GRAVITY:

REAR WHEEL AXLE: Quick Release (Standard), Quad-Release or Titanium (Optional)

Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 8 Part No 1148078

-15°, -10°, -5°, 0° and 5° Not Available

Adjustable to 4¼ inches (10.8 cm) in two positions:

Amputee Position: -2¼ to 2 inches (-5.72 to 5.08 cm)

Active Position: 1¼ to 5½ inches (3.18 to 13.97 cm)

8 to 11, 10 to 14, 12 to

16, 14 to 18, or 16 to

20 inches

(20.32 to 27.94, 25.4 to

35.56, 30.48 to 40.64,

35.56 to 45.72, 40.64 to 50.8 cm)

inches)

-15°, -10°, -5°, 0° and 5° 0°, 3°, 6°, and 9°

8 to 11, 10 to 14, 12 to 16,

14 to 18, or 16 to 20 inches

(20.32 to 27.94, 25.4 to

35.56, 30.48 to 40.64, 35.56 to 45.72, 40.64 to 50.8 cm)

20.32 to 40.64 (8 to 16 inches)

-15°, -10°, -5°, 0° and 5°

0°, 3°, 6°, and 9°

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

CROSSFIRE T6 CROSSFIRE

TITANIUM

REAR WHEEL CAMBER

CAMBER TUBE: 0°, 3°, 6°, or 9°

REAR WHEELS*

REAR WHEEL TYPE:

REAR WHEEL SIZE:

HANDRIMS: Aluminum Anodized (Standard)

WHEEL LOCKS: Push to Lock (Standard) or Scissor lock (Optional)

FRONT FORKS: Non-Suspension (Standard), Suspension (Optional)

CASTERS

CASTER SIZE: CASTER TYPE:

ANTI-TIPPERS: Optional

WEIGHT: 8.85 kg (19.5 lbs) 8.39 kg (18.5 lbs) 13.61 Kg (30 lbs)

SHIPPING WEIGHT: 30 lbs (13.6 kg)

High Performance with Primo Tyres (Standard),

Spinergy® Spox, knobby, KIK® and Kenda Tyres

22, 24 or 25 inch (55.88, 60.96, or 63.5 cm)

(Standard), 26 inch

(66.04 cm) (Optional)

3, 4 or 5 inch (7.62, 10.16, 12.7 cm )

Semi-pneumatic (Standard), Soft Roll or Lighted

(Optional)

Titanium, Coated, Natural Fit® (Optional)

(Optional)

CROSSFIRE ALL

TERRAIN

High Performance with

Knobby tyres (Standard)

Spinergy® Spox (Optional)

24 inch (60.96) or

25 inch (63.5 cm)

8 inch

Pneumatic (Standard)

WEIGHT LIMITATION: 250 lbs (113.4 kg)

NOTE: 40.64 x 40.64 cm seat, rear wheels and minimal options are included in the weight.

*NOTE: Refer to Tyre Pressure Conversion.

**NOTE: 15 inch rear seat height only available with 24 inch rear wheels.

Part No 1148078 9 Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

Tyre Pressure Conversion

NOTE: PSI rating is printed on the side of the tyre.

NOTE: Conversion formula: 1 psi = 6.895 kPa (appox. 7 kPa).

PSI KILOPASCALS

50 345

55 379

60 414

65 448

70 483

75 517

80 552

85 586

90 621

95 655

100 690

105 724

110 758

115 793

120 827

Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 10 Part No 1148078

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

 WARNING

SECTION 1 - GENERAL GUIDELINES contains important information for the safe operation and use of this product. DO NOT use this product or any available 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 unable to understand the Warnings, Cautions or Instructions, contact a healthcare professional, dealer or technical personnel before attempting to use this equipment - otherwise, injury or damage may occur.

Stability Warning

The position of the footrest, camber tube, back angle, the tautness of the back upholstery as well as the user's condition are directly related to the wheelchairs stability. Any change to one or any combination of the five may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. Use EXTREME caution when using a new seating position. The addition of anti-tippers may be required.

FOOTREST POSITION

CAMBER TUBE

BACK ANGLE

BACK UPHOLSTERY

USER CONDITION

FOOTREST POSITION ●

CAMBER TUBE ●

BACK ANGLE

BACK UPHOLSTERY

USER CONDITION

✓

✓✓✓✓

✓✓

●

✓✓

●

✓

●

NOTE: When changes to the left hand column occur, follow across the chart and refer to the ✓ procedure to maintain the proper stability, safety and handling of the racing chair.

Part No 1148078 11 Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

Operating Information

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.

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 wheelchair may tip over.

DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.

DO NOT attempt to stop a moving wheelchair with wheel locks. Wheel locks are not brakes.

NEVER leave an unoccupied wheelchair on an incline.

DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily injury may occur. Before attempting to transfer in or out of the wheelchair, every precaution should be taken to reduce the gap distance. Turn both casters parallel to the object you are transferring onto. Also be certain the wheel locks are engaged to prevent the wheels from moving.

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.

Because TOP END wheelchairs are made to the specifications of the original owners it is unlikely that refurbished product would be suitable to other user’s needs.

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.

DO NOT stand on the frame of the wheelchair.

Check all Allen screws that secure the footrest/raised footrest system to the wheelchair frame before using the wheelchair, especially if engaging in any contact sport.

Anti-tippers MUST be used at all times. When outdoors on wet, soft ground or on gravel surfaces, anti-tippers may not provide the same level of protection against tip over. Extra caution MUST be observed when traversing such surfaces. 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.

Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 12 Part No 1148078

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

Weight

Capacity

Label

Camber

Tube

NOTE: Wheels removed for clarity.

Unless otherwise noted, all service and adjustments should be performed while the wheelchair is unoccupied.

ALWAYS use the handrims for self-propulsion. Inasmuch as the handrims are an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the handrims), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the handrims as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.

DO NOT use the footplate as a platform when getting in or out of the wheelchair.

Tyre Pressure and Information

DO NOT use your wheelchair unless it has the proper tyre pressure (p.s.i.). DO NOT overinflate the tyres. Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tyre to explode and cause bodily harm. The recommended tyre pressure is on the sidewall of the tyre. Refer to Tyre Pressure Conversion on page 10.

Replacement of the tyre 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 Limitation

Invacare's Top End Crossfire T6 and Crossfire Titanium wheelchairs have a weight limitation of 250 lbs.

A weight limitation label is on the camber tube of the chair.

Part No 1148078 13 Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs

FIGURE 1.1 Weight Capacity Label

SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING

“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 manoeuvering 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 recognises 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

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.

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 positioning straps for additional safety while involved in activities that shift your weight.

DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than stability will allow. Make sure 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.

Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 14 Part No 1148078

SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING

Center of

Gravity

Unoccupied

Occupied

Lengthening the

Wheelbase

Shortening the

Wheelbase

Rear of

Wheelchair

 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.

The position of the footrest, camber tube, back angle, the tautness of the back upholstery as well as the user's condition are directly related to the wheelchair's stability. Any change to one or any combination of the five may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. Use EXTREME caution when using a new seating position. The addition of anti-tippers may be required.

NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.1.

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-care professional before attempting active use of 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.

• Lengthening the wheelbase will increase the stability and maintain standard manoeuvrability of the wheelchair.

• Shortening the wheelbase will decrease the stability, increase the manoeuvrability and distribute additional weight onto the rear wheels.

FIGURE 2.1 Stability and Balance

Coping with Everyday Obstacles

Part No 1148078 15 Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs

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.

SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING

Reaching, Leaning, and Bending - Forward

Reaching, Leaning, and Bending - Backwards

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.

 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.

Also, be aware of any removable (detachable) parts. These must NEVER be used to move the wheelchair or as 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.

Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward

NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.2.

Position the front casters so that they are extended as far forward as possible and engage wheel locks.

 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.

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.

Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 16 Part No 1148078

FIGURE 2.2 Reaching, Leaning and Bending

- Forward

SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING

Tipping

 WARNING

DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.

DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant.

When tipping 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 and/or pinch points. Apply a continuous motion until the balance point is achieved. At this point, the assistant will feel a difference in the weight distribution. Turn the wheelchair in the desired direction if necessary. Slowly lower the wheelchair in one continuous movement.

Tipping - Curbs

 WARNING

Invacare does not recommend that sport wheelchairs be used where traversing curbs present an obstacle. Possible injury to occupant and/or assistant(s) can occur. Transfer to an everyday use wheelchair is recommended if any such obstacles may be encountered.

NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.3 on page 18.

After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair, use the following method to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.

Turn the anti-tippers, if equipped, so the wheels are facing UP. Unless the first assistant has exceptional upper body strength, it is recommended that two assistants perform this operation. 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 stabilising 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 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.

Part No 1148078 17 Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs

SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING

 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. Turn the anti-tippers so the wheels are facing down.

FIGURE 2.3 Tipping - Curbs

Stairways

 WARNING

Concerning stairway access: Invacare does not recommend that wheelchairs be transported up or down stairways with occupant in the wheelchair. Possible injury to occupant and/or assistant(s) can occur. Transfer to an everyday use wheelchair is recommended.

Extreme caution is advised when it is necessary to move an occupied wheelchair up or down a stairway. Invacare recommends that, if possible, the user be removed from the wheelchair prior to moving. Invacare recommends using two 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. If equipped, turn the anti-tippers up. Refer to Footrest on page 25.

2. 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.

3. 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 it as the first assistant places one foot on the next stair and repeats procedure.

4. The wheelchair should not be lowered until the last stair has been negotiated and it has been rolled away from the stairway.

Crossfire™Series Wheelchairs 18 Part No 1148078

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