PDG Mobility STELLAR LEAP Owner's Operation And Maintenance Manual
STELLAR LEAP
DEALER This manual must be given to the user of the
wheelchair.
USER Before using this wheelchair read this entire
manual and save it for future reference.
MANUAL TILT WHEELCHAIR
Owner’s Operation and Maintenance Manual
Attendant/Assistants: Before assisting the user of this
wheelchair, you must read this manual and save for
future reference.
For more information regarding PDG products,
parts and service, please visit www.pdgmobility.com
PAGE 2
WARNING
Serial Number
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.
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
PAGE 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Special Notes ………………………………………4
2 Safety Summary…………………………….......5
3 Safety Handling of Wheelchairs ………….6
3.1 Stability and Balance………………..6
3.2 Tilting……………………………………….7
3.3 Stairways and Escalators………….8
3.4 Transferring to and from Other
Seats………………………………………..8
3.5 Percentage of Weight
Distribution………………………………9
3.6 Reaching, Leaning, and Bending
Forward……………………………………9
4 Environmental Conditions ………………….9
5 Standard Features …………………………….11
6 Unpacking and Assembly ………………….12
6.1 Inspection………………………………12
6.2 Out of Box Assembly………………12
6.3 Storage…………………………………..12
7 Safety Inspection Checklist ……………….13
8 Troubleshooting ……………………………….14
9 Maintenance ……………………………..…….14
10.4 Seat Depth.. ………………………….20
10.5 Backrest…………..…………………....21
10.6 Rear Wheels…………………………..21
10.7 Anti-Tip Tubes.…………………….…23
10.8 Front Casters …..…………………...24
10.9 Wheel Locks ..………………………..24
10.10 Seat-to-Floor Heights ………..….26
10.11 Seat Tilt …………………………………27
10.12 Anterior Tilt (Optional)..…………28
10.13 Dynamic Backrest Recline
(Optional) …………………………………..29
10.14 Gas Strut & Cable Assembly.…..30
10.15 Adjustable Angle Push Bar
Handle (Optional)………….………..….31
10.16 Heel Loops (Optional)…………….32
10.17 Padded Calf Straps (Optional)..32
10.18 Headrest (Optional)……………….32
10.19 Postural Support Device or Lap
Belt (Optional)…………………………….32
10.20 Tilt Range……………………………….33
10.21 Oxygen (O2) Tank Holder
(Optional)……………………………………34
10.22 IV (Intravenous) Pole Mount
(Optional)……………………………………34
10.23 Motor Vehicle Use …………….….34
9.1 Inspection……………………………………14
9.2 Storage………………………………………..15
9.3 Suggested Maintenance
Procedures………………………………………..15
10 Set Up & Adjustments …..…………………15
10.1 Front Rigging …………………..……15
10.2 Foot Plates ………………….………..17
10.3 Armrests…………………………...….19
11 Contacting your Supplier to Obtain
Service……………………………………………….36
12 Damage Requiring Service By Qualified
Service Agent…………………………………….36
13 ISO Test Information
Disclosure…………………….……………………36
14 Limited Warranty.……………………………..37
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
PAGE 4
1 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.
All wheelchair set-up and adjustments must be performed by a qualified technician.
NOTE – THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT
NOTICE. An updated version of this owner’s manual may be available at www.PDGMobility.com
INDICATIONS FOR USE – The Stellar LEAP Manual Tilt Wheelchair is intended to provide mobility to
persons restricted to a seated position.
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
• Does not have the required ability to adequately manage the functions of a manual tilt-in-
space wheelchair and does not have a capable caregiver for the required assistance
• Cannot tolerate prolonged periods in a seated position
• Cannot tolerate prolonged periods in a seated position with posterior tilt
• Cannot tolerate prolonged periods in a seated position with a reclined back position
• Is susceptible to significant skin shear due to the relative movement of a reclining backrest
• Cannot tolerate an anterior seated position
1
• Highly agitated occupants
1
For dynamic recline backrest and anterior tilt options only
1
1
WHEELCHAIR USER - As a manufacturer of wheelchairs, PDG endeavors to supply a wide variety of
wheelchairs to meet the 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 – Wheelchair users are NOT to be
transported in vehicles of any kind while in wheelchairs. If transportation in a vehicle in the
wheelchair is required, the wheelchair must be equipped with PDG factory installed Transport-Ready
Tie-down mounting points. The wheelchair must be restrained from movement using a government
approved wheelchair tie-down system and the vehicle must be equipped with government approved
anchor points.
Users of wheelchairs should be transferred into appropriate seating in vehicles for transportation and
use should be made of the restraints made available by the auto industry. PDG cannot and does not
recommend wheelchair transportation systems.
RESTRAINT DEVICES and SEAT BELTS - IT IS THE OBLIGATION OF THE HOME 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.
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
PAGE 5
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
2 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
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 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 wheelchair, every precaution should be taken to reduce the
gap distance. Turn both casters towards 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 attempt to move up or down an incline that is wet, icy or contains an oily 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.
♦ 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.
Use seat restraint as recommended by home dealers, therapists, and other healthcare professionals.
The Stellar LEAP transfer assist should only be brought into the transfer assist (anterior tilt) position on
stable, level ground.
The Stellar LEAP transfer assist should only be brought into the transfer assist position with the wheel
locks engaged.
The anterior tilt mechanism should only be operated when the wheelchair is occupied to avoid risk of
accident or injury.
♦ In the case of strong and/or sudden spasms, cramps or similar the user should only go to anterior tilt
under supervision of a care giver.
♦ Improper use of the anterior tilt feature could cause the user to fall forward, possibly resulting in injury
or death. Anterior tilt should only be used when recommended by a licensed healthcare professional.
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
PAGE 6
Positioning belts should be considered to meet the user’s specific safety requirements.
Tire Pressure
♦ If pneumatic tires are supplied, DO NOT use your wheelchair unless it has the proper tire pressure
(psi). DO NOT over inflate the tires. Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tire to explode
and cause bodily harm.
Weight Training
♦ PDG DOES NOT recommend the use of this wheelchair as a weight training apparatus. PDG
wheelchairs have NOT been designed or tested as a seat for any kind of weight training. If the
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 and Age Limitations
The Stellar LEAP Wheelchair has a weight limitation of 250 Ibs, unless otherwise specified by PDG. Further, the
Stellar LEAP is not to be used by persons under the age of 12 years.
3 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 frequently encountered architectural carriers.
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.
3.1 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.
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
Figure 3.1: Assistant positioning for
tubes
Figure 3.2: Assistant positioning for
tubes
PAGE 7
A Note to Wheelchair Assistants
When assistance to the wheelchair user is required, remember to use good body mechanics. Keep
you back straight and bend your knees whenever tilting the wheelchair or traversing curbs, or other
impediments.
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 technique, have an experienced assistant help before attempting it alone.
3.2 Tilting
♦ WARNING: DO NOT tilt the wheelchair without assistance.
When tilting the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a nonremovable (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.
climbing curbs, for wheelchair with step
climbing curbs, for wheelchair without step
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 results 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 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. 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
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
Figure 3.3: Assistant positioning
for climbing stairs
Figure 3.4: Transferring to and
from other seats
PAGE 8
backward far enough for the front casters to clear the edge of the curb.
3.3 Stairways and Escalators
WARNING – DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily injury may occur.
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, once
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.
3.4 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.
1. Position the wheelchair as close as possible alongside the seat to
which you are transferring, with the front casters pointing toward it. Engage wheel locks. Shift body
weight into seat with transfer.
2. During independent transfer, little or no seat platform will be beneath you. Use a transfer board if at all
possible.
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
Figure 3.5: Center of gravity location
Figure 3.6: Forward reach in
wheelchair
Figure 3.7: Reaching
PAGE 9
3.5 Percentage of Weight Distribution
WARNING – DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move
forward in the sear 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 you
particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring
activities in several combinations in the presence of a qualified
health professional BEFORE attempting active user of the
wheelchair.
3.6 Reaching, Leaning, and Bending Forward
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.
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.
Bending Backward
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.
objects on the ground
Reaching Objects on Ground
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.
4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Warning
1. Use extra care if you must ride your chair on a wet or slick surface. If you are in doubt, ask for help.
2. Contact with water or excess moisture may cause your chair to rust or corrode. This could cause your
chair to fail.
a. Do not use your chair in a shower, pool or other body of water. The chair tubing and parts are
NOT water-tight and may rust or corrode from the inside.
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
PAGE 10
b. Avoid excess moisture (for example, do not leave your chair in a damp bathroom while taking
a shower).
c. If your chair does get wet (from cleaning or otherwise), dry it as soon as possible.
3. Terrain
a. Your wheelchair is designed for use on firm, regular, even surfaces such as typical interior
spaces, concrete or asphalt.
b. Operating your wheelchair in sand, loose soil or over rough terrain may damage wheels, the
footrest, or other components of your wheelchair.
NOTE - Failure to heed these warnings could result in severe injury to yourself or others as well as damage
your chair.
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
1
9
PAGE 11
5 STANDARD FEATURES
Figure 5.1: Standard Features
Lower Frame
2 Upper Seat Frame
3 Sub-Frame Assembly
4 Gas Strut Assembly (Yellow Spring)
5 Removable – Adjustable Height Armrest –
Single Post
6 Front Caster
7 Rear Wheel
8 Standard Hand Rims
Rear Axle Bolt
10 Wheel locks
11 Backrest
12 Plug-in Front Rigging
13 Composite Foot Plate
14 Tilt Activator (Trigger)
15 Rear Anti-Tipper
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
PAGE 12
6 UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY
NOTE – Unless the Stellar LEAP is to be assembled immediately, retain cartons and packing materials for use in
storing the wheelchair until assembly is required
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.
6.1 Inspection
Examine exterior of the PDG Stellar LEAP for nicks, dents, scratches or other damages. Inspect all components.
If damage is evident, notify your Dealer/Carrier immediately.
6.2 Out of the Box Assembly Instructions
When unpacking a Stellar LEAP, you will need to assemble the armrests, backrest, rear wheels and, front
rigging (if applicable), connect the cable from the strut to the tilt activator (trigger) and anti-tip tubes to
complete the set-up.
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 30.
Front Rigging
Installing the front rigging depends on the type of front rigging included with chair – For plug-in front rigging,
squeeze the front-rigging trigger and slide the front rigging into the rectangular cross-sections on the side of
the upper frame until the latch aligns and engages with the upper frame hole and snaps into place.
Arm Assembly
Install the arm assembly by simply sliding the arms into the slotted arm receivers on the frame.
Anti-Tip Tubes
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/un-titled
positions before dispensing the wheelchair.
6.3 Storage
Store the repackaged PDG Stellar LEAP in a dry area and DO NOT place other objects on top of the repackaged
wheelchair.
Class 1 Medical
Rev. 0
Loading...