Snappi Wheelbase & Interface User Manual
Document No: 053-01 v11 Page 1 of 35 November 2014
Snappi Wheelbase Interface User Manual.doc
Snappi ®
W
HEELBASE
A
ND INTERFACE
U
SER
M
ANUAL
IMPORTANT
Please read these instructions carefully
Before using the Wheelbase or Interface
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Fig 0.1 Wheelbase
(size 1 shown)
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Fig 0.2 Wheelbase Folded
(size 1 shown)
Fig 0.3 Seat Interface
(size 1 shown)
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Fig 0.4 Interface Fitted To Frame
(size 1 shown)
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Item
Description
Page
1 Who to contact if you have difficulty 7
2 Introduction 7 – 8
3 Unpacking 9
4 Preparing the wheelbase for use 9
4.1.1 Unfolding the frame (original locks) 10 – 11
4.1.2 Unfolding the frame (Spring loaded locks) 11 – 12
4.2 Brakes & Tyres 13
4.3 Tilt in Space 14
4.4.1 Interface safety catch 15
4.4.2 Fitting the interface 16
5 Accessories 17
5.1 Shopping Basket 17
5.2 Equipment Carrying Tray 18
5.3 Sun Canopy 19 – 20
5.4 Frame Padding 20
5.5 Rain Cover 21
5.6 Vertical Cylinder Carrier 22 - 23
6 Fitting Special Seat 24
7 Final Checks 25
8 Attendant Pushing 25
8.1 Pushing 25 – 26
8.2 Brakes 26
8.3 Comfort 26
8.4 Lifting and general safety 26-27
9 Cleaning 27
10 Maintenance 27
10.1 Routine maintenance 27
10.2 Six – monthly maintenance 27 – 28
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11 Oxygen Cylinder 29
12 Warranty 29
13 Transporting the Wheelbase 30
13.1 Preparing wheelbase for transport 30 – 32
13.2 Attaching wheelbase to vehicle 33 – 34
14 Repairs 35
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1: Who to contact in difficulty
Tendercare Ltd.
PO BOX 3091, Littlehampton, BN16 2WF
Tel: (01903) 726161 Fax: (01903) 734083
Email: info@tendercareltd.com
Web: www.tendercareltd.com
2: Introduction
The Wheelbase is made of a strong and lightweight aluminium alloy, minimising weight
and providing a very rugged frame. The wheelbase provides a tilt in space facility and has
2 fixed rear wheels and 2 castor wheels at the front for easy steering. The wheelbase
comes in two sizes with corresponding interfaces to suit a range of different seats.
The Interface provides a very lightweight, easy to operate, quick release system that can
be fitted to a wide range of special seating systems. Please note the interface requires
additional framework to fit to a seat, and has been designed to take 19mm (3/4”)
aluminium or mild steel tube.
The interface can be quickly fitted and released from the wheelbase, which can be folded
for transport. The Snappi has been successfully impact tested as a wheelbase and
interface, with the Modular and Snug seating systems. When fitting 3rd party seating
systems to the Snappi, the manufacturer of the system must carry out a risk assessment
before use.
These instructions apply to all sizes.
Interfacing Options:
Seat / Interface Version Maximum Weight (Kg) Maximum Seat Width (mm)
Size 1 50 350
Size 2 50 415
IMPORTANT:
Maximum width; maximum space available for seating systems being fitted into frame.
Maximum weight includes the seat unit, occupant and all accessories.
Frame Weight:
Size 1: 10kg
Size 2: 11kg
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Dimensions (mm)
Snappi Wheelbase Open
Size 1 Size 2
A 944 960
B 571 684
C 992 998
Dimensions (mm)
Snappi Wheelbase Folded
Size 1 Size 2
A 771 798
B 571 684
C 573 560
All sizes and weights are given as a guide. Tendercare ltd reserves the right to amend
specifications at any time as part of their product development programme.
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3: Unpacking
The wheelbase and interface are delivered together in a cardboard carton. This measures
680mm wide x 480mm deep x 1030mm high and weighs approximately 12Kg.
WARNING:
The transit carton is quite bulky so moving and unpacking must be done with care.
Observe all lifting and handling regulations.
Stand the carton upright making sure it is supported and cannot fall over. Open the carton
and remove any packages or packing, which could obstruct the removal of the wheelbase.
Remove the wheelbase.
The carton should contain the following items:
Item Component QTY. Yes No
1 Size 1 or 2 Wheelbase 1
2 Size 1 or 2 Interface 1
3 User Manual 1
IMPORTANT:
The interface will be supplied fitted to the frame. This can easily be separated by releasing
the interface catch, once the frame has been removed from its packaging. Please refer to
section 4.4 for more information on working with the interface.
If any items are damaged or missing, then please contact Tendercare, preferably by email at
info@tendercareltd.com or alternatively please call us on (01903) 726161 within 36 hours of
delivery.
After unpacking and checking you have all components and they are in good condition
dispose of the packaging at your local recycling centre. Alternatively retain and reuse.
4: Preparing the wheelbase for use
WARNING:
When opening or folding the wheelbase, ensure that you hold the frame so that you
avoid any danger of catching your fingers in moving parts.
Keep children clear of the wheelbase during opening and folding.
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4.1.1 Unfolding the Frame (original locks)
Standing at back of wheelbase, place
your foot on the rear crossbar X (see Fig
4.1.1.1) and lift handle labelled Y as far
as it will move.
This will open the frame.
Fig 4.1.1.1
Fig 4.1.1.2
Next locate the 2 plastic locking sliders.
These will be stowed in the “open” position
and are held in place by 2 small spring clips.
Press the 2 silver “Spring pins” in and
slide the 2 locking pieces down over the
lower tube sections.
Fig 4.1.1.3
Fig 4.1.1.4
The pins will spring through the holes in the
sliders and hold them in place (see Fig
4.1.1.4).
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WARNING:
If the locking sliders are not in the correct position, or the spring pins do not
protrude thereby allowing the locking clips to move back up the frame, then the
frame may collapse in use.
Folding the wheelbase: To unlock the frame and fold the wheelbase, reverse the above
instructions.
4.1.2 Unfolding the Frame (Spring loaded locks)
Standing at back of wheelbase, place
your foot on the rear crossbar X (see Fig
4.1.2.1) and lift handle labelled Y as far
as it will move.
This will open the frame.
Fig 4.1.2.1
Fig 4.1.2.2
Once the frame is almost open, the 2 plastic
frame locks will engage with the angled
sections of the lower frame.
Continue to unfold the frame; this will force
the locks up the tubes. There will be some
resistance, as you will be working against the
locking springs.
Once fully open, the frame locks will
snap shut over the front frame, securing
the frame in the open position.
Always check that both locks are fully
closed. In the locked position the guide
bolt ‘B’ will be sat in the top of the slot ‘A’
on the side of the slider as shown (see
Fig 4.1.2.3). If there is any slot visible
above the guide bolt, push the lock down
by hand until it will not move any further.
Fig 4.1.2.3
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Fig 4.1.2.4
To fold the frame:
Standing beside the frame, pull up the 2
locking sliders as shown (see Fig 4.1.2.4).
Whilst holding the locks open, push down
with your arm on the upper frame or push
handle, so that the frame starts to fold.
Release the locking sliders, and fold down
the frame by moving the push handle down
as far as it will move.
IMPORTANT:
Always check that BOTH frame locks are fully closed before using the frame. If they
are not properly engaged, the frame could collapse during use.
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4.2 Brakes
Fig 4.2.1
To apply the brake, put your foot on the top
of brake bar ‘X’ (see Fig 4.2.1) and push
down as shown. The brake will flip down
onto the wheels and lock them.
To release the brake, simply hook your foot
between the middle raised portion of the
brake bar, and the frame crossbar. Then, lift
the brake bar with your foot until it flips back
and stops against the brake stop pins. You
may find it easier to use your hand instead
of your foot to release the brake. If
operating the brake by hand always hold the
brake by the raised section in the middle of
the bar.
Fig 4.2.2
WARNING:
The brake mechanism is spring loaded so care must be taken when operating it.
When operating the brake mechanism ensure that you always keep a firm hold of
the pushchair, keeping your hands well away from the brake mechanism.
Always put the brake on when placing the child in or taking them out of the seat.
Do not leave the pushchair on a slope, even with the brake on. Always ensure that
the pushchair is on level ground to prevent risk of injury to the occupant.
Do not leave the brake on when the pushchair is not in use as this will damage the
rear wheels.
Tyres:
As standard the Snappi wheelbase is supplied with solid tyres, however pneumatic tyres
are also available as an option. If your pushchair is supplied with pneumatic tyres these
need to be regularly checked and inflated if necessary using a hand or foot pump. The
operating pressure for the tyres is 36 PSI (note: do not inflate the tyres above 36 PSI). Do
not use high pressure air lines or mechanical pumps as used in garages to inflate the
tyres.
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4.3 Using the Tilt in Space facility
Fig 4.3.1
To operate the tilt in space mechanism,
place your hand over the push handle
adjustor, and lift the lever ‘L’ (see Fig 4.3.1)
as shown.
This will open the gas strut and tilt the mid
section. Note; The speed of tilt can be
controlled by varying the pressure applied at
lever L.
When tilting with a seat fitted, use your
other hand to support seat as it tilts.
Fig 4.3.2
Fig 4.3.3
To reset the tilt mechanism, hold down lever
L and push down firmly on the front of the
frame interface as shown (see Fig 4.3.3).
Once the mid section is in the desired
position, release lever L. For a 90-degree
‘flat’ position, move the mid section so the
gas strut is fully closed and it will not move
any further before releasing the tilt lever.
IMPORTANT:
Always ensure any harness provided for the child is used and correctly adjusted before
reclining or returning the seat to a more upright position.
Always support the seat when tilting, as the gas springs can be quick to operate. If the seat is
not supported, is may move swiftly and could cause the occupant distress.
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4.4.1 Interface safety catch
The interface includes a 2-stage latch that comprises a main latch and a second safety
latch that prevents accidental release of a seat from the chassis.
The safety catch must be correctly set before the main catch can be operated:
How to operate the safety catch:
Fig 4.3.1
Safety Catch Locked
The safety catch clip is located under the
front right corner of the seat near to the
release lever (See Fig 4.3.1).
Definition of components:
X: Pull handle
Y: Locking Pin
To release the safety catch, pull the handle
“X”, and turn it 90 degrees so that the pin
“Y” is fully retracted.
To lock it, pull “X” and turn 90 degrees in
the opposite direction, so that pin “Y” is fully
protruded and sits behind the interface main
catch “B” (see fig 4.3.3 on next page).
Fig 4.3.2
Safety Catch unlocked
Important:
When fitting or removing the seat, the carer / parent must first ensure that the safety
catch pin is set in the “unlocked” position. It will not be possible to fit or remove the
seat if the latch is “locked”, and attempting to do so may cause damage to the
chassis or the seat.
Once the seat has been fitted, the carer / parent must always lock the safety catch.
Note:
A warning label is positioned on the front right hand portion of the tilt frame on the
chassis, to remind carers to lock the safety catch.
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4.4.2 Fitting the interface
To fit the interface to the frame:
Ensure the secondary latch is unlocked (as
detailed previously in section 4.4.1)
Locate the 2 rear “hooks” on the back of the
interface, over the stainless steel bushings
on the back of the frame interface.
Fig 4.4.1
Fig 4.4.2
Next, push down on the interface so that the
clips snap over the front stainless steel
bushes on the frame interface. Note that
due to the design of the frame interface, it is
not possible to fit the interface backwards. If
fitted the wrong way around the clips will not
close and it will not sit down into the frame.
Once the interface is fitted, always lock the
secondary catch as detailed in section 4.4.1
To release the interface, unlock the
secondary latch, and then lift the release
lever up as shown (See Fig 4.4.3). This will
open the clips and lift them away from the
frame in one movement. Then simply lift the
rear hooks off from the frame.
Fig 4.4.3
IMPORTANT:
Always ensure that the interface clips have latched fully. To test this, press down on the
release lever when fitted and make sure the clips will not move.
Do not attempt to fit the interface backwards. It will not lock in a rearward facing position.
Always ensure that the interface is firmly held on all 4 fixing points (the 4 stainless steel
bushes on the frame interface).
The interface is spring loaded, so ensure your fingers are clear of the clips before fitting.
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5: Accessories
5.1: Shopping Basket
Fig 5.1.1
Fitting / removing the shopping
basket:
There are 4 hanging points
located on the insides of the
side plates (see Fig 5.1.1).
To fit the shopping basket, clip
the snap hooks on the basket
onto the 4 clipping points.
To remove the shopping
basket, unclip the 4 hooks.
The shopping basket includes
an expandable section at the
back to help with loading of
bulky items. To expand the
basket, peel apart the Velcro at
the back to release the extra
material.
Important:
• Always check that the shopping basket is securely fitted before use.
• The maximum carrying load for the shopping basket is 3kg.
• Always ensure that the total load of the occupant, seat and accessories does not
exceed the maximum carry limit stated for the wheelbase (see section 1 of this
manual).
• The shopping basket may remain fitted when folding the wheelbase.
• All contents must be removed from the shopping basket before folding the
wheelbase.
• The contents of the shopping basket must be removed when using the wheelbase
as a seat in a motor vehicle.
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5.2: Equipment Carrying Tray
To Fit the equipment carrying tray:
The equipment-carrying tray has 2 sets of
fixing points on its underside to secure it to
the chassis (see Fig 5.2.1).
Feed the tray under the wheelbase from the
front of the chassis and hook the rear points
‘A’ under the rear cross bar, ensuring that
the tray is in the middle so it sits in-between
the vertical brake bars.
Next, with the front turn catch ‘B’ rotated out
of the way; rotate the tray down so it sits on
the front cross bar.
Finally turn the front catch ‘B’ 90 degrees so
it sits under the front cross bar (this catch
may be quite tight).
Fig 5.2.1
Fig 5.2.2
To remove the tray, unlock catch B, lift up
and remove the tray from the chassis.
Important:
• Always ensure the equipment-
carrying tray is securely fitted before
use.
• The maximum carrying load for the
equipment-carrying tray is 25kg.
• Always ensure that the total load of
the occupant, seat and accessories
does not exceed the maximum carry
limit stated for the wheelbase (see
section 1 of this manual).
• The equipment-carrying tray must be
removed before folding the chassis.
• The equipment-carrying tray must be
removed when using the wheelbase
as a seat in a motor vehicle.
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5.3: Sun Canopy
There are 2 styles of sun canopy available for the Snappi Wheelbase; the ‘Classic Style’
and the ‘Umbrella Style’.
To fit the Classic Style sun canopy:
First unfold the sun canopy.
Then clip the 2 fixing brackets onto the
frame (see arrows, right), so that the top
clip sits in the desired position.
The sun canopy can then by angled to
the desired position.
To remove the sun canopy, simply
unscrew the clips.
(*Seat shown in Fig 5.3.1 is for
illustration purposes only.)
Important:
• You must remove the sun
canopy before folding the frame.
• You must remove the sun
canopy when using the
wheelbase as a seat in a motor
vehicle.
Fig 5.3.1*
To fit the Umbrella Style sun canopy:
Fig 5.3.2
Remove the umbrella from its protective
sleeve.
Next, unclip the frame fixing from the
umbrella by pressing on the button and
pulling apart as shown (See Fig 5.3.2).
Brackets
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Next, unscrew the frame mounting to open
the jaws until it will fit over the frame.
Position the mounting onto the upper frame
tube (see fig 5.3.4 below).
Adjust the angle of the clip so that it is
vertical.
Fig 5.3.3
Fig 5.3.4
When in the desired position, retighten the
screw to lock it onto the frame
Finally, clip the umbrella section back onto
the mounting by pushing the 2 halves of
the clip back together, and open the
umbrella.
If a different angle is needed, simply loosen
the locking screw, move to the required
angle and retighten.
Important:
• You must remove the umbrella
section before folding the frame (the
frame mounting clip can be left in
place).
• The entire sun umbrella must be
removed when using the wheelbase
as a seat in a motor vehicle.
5.4: Frame Padding
Fig 5.4.1
To fit frame padding, wrap around the
section of framework to be padded, and
clip the snap fasteners together(See Fig
5.5.1)Repeat on the other side.
If you are fitting a rain cover as well as the
frame padding, it is important that you fit
the rain cover to the pushchair first and
then fit the frame padding round it. Finally
join the rear flap of material to the sides of
the rain cover with the Velcro tabs.
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5.5: Rain Cover – not suitable for rearward facing Snappi wheelbase
To fit the rain cover:
Attach the 4 push-on clips to the upper
frame of the pushchair, with the open clip
section pointing downwards.
The lower clip fits directly above the nylon
locking slider, while the upper clip attaches
to the upper frame tube.
Feed the open flap of material around the
rear frame, inside the push handles.
Next fold the cover down, and secure the
bottom using the 2 elastic ‘C’ clips.
Finally, join the rear flap of material to the
sides of the rain cover with the Velcro tabs.
To fold the cover back when not needed,
unhook the 2 elastic ‘C’ clips and fold back.
The cover can be secured in the open
position by attaching the C clips to the
upper frame.
Fig 5.5.1
Important:
• The cover is for outdoor use only.
• The cover must be folded back if the child remains in the pushchair when taken
indoors. Otherwise the child may overheat. The cover must also be folded back in
warm sunny weather.
• Ensure your child’s fingers are clear of the frame when folding the rain cover back,
as the scissor action of the cover frame can trap small fingers.
• The rain cover must be completely removed before folding the wheelbase.
• The rain cover must be removed when using the wheelbase as a seat in a motor
vehicle.
• If you are fitting a rain cover as well as the frame padding, it is important that you fit
the rain cover to the pushchair first and then fit the frame padding round it. Finally
join the rear flap of material to the sides of the rain cover with the Velcro tabs.
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5.6 Vertical Cylinder Carrier:
A vertical cylinder carrier is available as an option. This should be provided factory fitted to
the pushchair if ordered at the same time as the chair. If the carrier is ordered after the
pushchair has been supplied, instructions are available in the workshop manual for how to
fit the carrier. Note that fitting the carrier must only be attempted by a qualified
tradesperson; if in doubt please contact Tendercare ltd for further advice.
Fig 5.6.1
Fig 5.6.1, left: The vertical cylinder carrier
as supplied, fitted to the chassis.
To fit a cylinder to the carrier, first open the
cam buckles on the straps (see Fig 5.6.2,
right).
Loosen the strap, then slot the cylinder into
the carrier.
Fig 5.6.2
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Fig 5.6.3
With the cylinder in place, pull on the end of
the strap to tighten, and then close the cam
lock to secure it in place.
To remove a cylinder, loosen the straps and
lift it out.
Notes:
• Always ensure the cylinder is securely strapped into the carrier before using the
pushchair.
• The maximum carrying load for the vertical cylinder carrier is 5kg.
• Depending on the size of bottle used, it could adversely affect the stability of the
pushchair. If this is a concern, a risk assessment must be carried out, and if
necessary stability tests performed on the loaded assembly.
• Always ensure that the total load of the occupant and accessories does not exceed
the maximum carry limit stated for the pushchair (see section 1 of this manual).
The content of the vertical cylinder carrier must be removed before transporting the
pushchair in an adapted vehicle.
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6: Fitting a Special Seat
The interface is designed to bolt onto the base of a special seating system using the 4
base fixing points. The interface should always be fitted with a suitable framework and
includes 4 tube mounting brackets that fit 19mm or ¾” aluminium or mild steel tube.
Due to the wide range of different special seating systems, Tendercare do not supply fixing
brackets for these items. Please refer to the special seat manufacturer’s instructions.
An example set up using the interface is shown below:
Fig 6.0.1
IMPORTANT:
The Snappi has been successfully impact tested as a wheelbase and interface, with the
Modular and Snug seating systems. When fitting 3rd party seating systems to the Snappi, the
manufacturer of the system must carry out a risk assessment before use.
When fitting a 3rd party seat stability may be affected. A test is necessary to confirm that the
static stability is satisfactory. A stability test to meet the requirements of EN.ISO7176 must be
completed by the commissioning wheelchair service. This test must be passed before
handover of the system.
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7: Final checks
1. Check that the special seat is firmly attached to the interface and framework.
2. Check that all harnesses are secure and adjusted properly.
3. Check that the interface is located and locked correctly in the wheelbase.
8: Attendant pushing
8.1 Pushing
Important:
At the start of every journey make sure that the interface is correctly fitted into the frame and
that the locking clips are fully closed. Please refer to section 4.4 ‘Working with the interface’
for more information.
Do not allow children to play with the gas spring release lever.
1. The wheelbase is easy to push over hard, even surfaces but may be more difficult
over rough, uneven surfaces and the wheels can sink into soft ground. Never force
the wheelbase if it becomes stuck, this may cause the rear wheels to lift and the
wheelbase to be tipped forwards. If the wheelbase gets jammed on a stone or
cracked pavement, tip it backwards to raise the front wheel over the obstacle and
then proceed. On soft ground it may be easier to pull the wheelbase backwards.
2. The wheelbase has swivelling front castor wheels and is easily steered simply by
turning the wheelbase in the desired direction.
3. Whenever possible avoid steep and uneven surfaces because there is a danger
that the wheelbase may tip over. If you cannot avoid difficult surfaces you must
take extra care when travelling across them.
4. Do not use the wheelbase in sandy conditions.
5. Always use two hands for pushing the wheelbase.
6. For the comfort of the occupant always avoid pushing too fast or making sudden
fast turns, jerking, jolting and bumping. Many occupants are liable to be affected by
rough handling, which can cause loss of confidence, discomfort or pain.
7. Avoid kerbs. Wherever possible use ramped kerbs or slopes. This will make
pushing the wheelbase easier and safer and will be more comfortable for the
occupant.
8. Avoid steep kerbs and flights of steps because of the danger of losing your grip on
the wheelbase or of the occupant being tipped out. Always use a ramp or lift if
available. Do not push the chair down flights of stairs as this puts strain on the
pushchair and puts the occupant at risk.
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9. To tip the wheelbase backwards when climbing kerbs stand behind and holding
onto the push handle with both hands, press down and pull backwards. The front of
the wheelbase will lift.
IMPORTANT:
Take great care when doing this to avoid the combined weight of the wheelbase and
occupant overcoming your strength and tipping back onto you. Never try to tip the
wheelbase if the occupant is much heavier than you are.
10. Always look well ahead so that you have plenty of time to avoid hazards.
11. Be considerate to other people and watch out for pedestrians who may stop or
suddenly change direction.
8.2 Brakes
Always put the brakes on when placing the child in or taking them out of the seat.
Do not leave the pushchair on a slope, even with the brake on. Always ensure that the
pushchair is on level ground to prevent risk of injury to the occupant.
Do not leave the brake on when the pushchair is not in use as this will damage the rear
wheels.
8.3 Comfort
1. Always be considerate to the occupant.
2. Before setting out on a journey make sure the occupant is comfortably and
correctly seated and that any safety harness is correctly fitted and adjusted.
Always ensure that both feet are supported and that clothing is tucked in and
cannot catch on doorways or other obstructions.
3. Remember the occupant is in front of you. They will want to be part of your
conversations and interests. Also their view will be different to yours when it
comes to looking into shop windows, etc. it can be extremely frustrating to hear
something exciting being discussed when it is situated somewhere behind the
occupant’s eyes, and thus, out of sight.
8.4 Lifting and general safety
1. The wheelbase is designed to carry one person only. Never allow children to play
on, or stand on the footrest or frame. Never hang anything such as bags on the
push handle. If you do, there is a danger of the wheelbase tipping backwards.
2. If it is necessary to lift the wheelbase whilst it is occupied always use two people,
one at the front the other at the back.
3. For your own safety and good practice never lift the empty wheelbase until it has
been properly folded. Always use good lifting practice.
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4. Do not allow children to play with the gas spring release lever.
5. Never leave the child/occupant unattended, even with harness fitted.
6. Keep children clear of the wheelbase during opening and folding.
9: Cleaning
1. To clean the wheelbase or interface, wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
2. For more stubborn stains wipe with a damp cloth and warm water in which a little
mild soap has been dissolved. Dry thoroughly
3. Never use furniture polish or any spirit to clean the frame.
10: Maintenance
Should a problem be found when carrying out the regular checks, it should be immediately
reported to the issuing authority or Tendercare Ltd.
10.1 Routine maintenance
The user’s family can easily carry out the following tasks. No tools are required.
1. Always wipe the wheelbase and seat frame dry. Never put them away damp.
2. Check all nuts, bolts, and hand wheels are tight (daily)
3. Check operation of the brake, folding and reclining mechanisms (weekly).
4. Clean frame when necessary (we suggest at least once a week).
5. If your pushchair is fitted with pneumatic tyres, regularly check the condition of the
tyre. Ensure tyres are inflated to 36 psi (if too low use a suitable hand or foot pump,
do not use an air-line or mechanical inflator, and do not over inflate the tyre). In the
event of a puncture, you will need to purchase a set of tyre levers and a puncture
repair kit form a reputable bicycle shop. Always follow the instructions given in the
puncture repair kit.
If you find any faults refer to your issuing authority or Tendercare Ltd.
10.2 Six-monthly maintenance
Only someone who is a competent tradesman or repairer should carry out this work. If a
major fault is found stop using the wheelbase until it has been corrected.
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1. Fold and open the wheelbase. Check that all movements through the folding
range are free. Examine frame for any damage.
2. Check operation of the wheelbase tilt in space mechanism.
3. Examine nuts, bolts, pivots and frame plugs for tightness and general condition.
4. Examine brake assembly for wear, damage and correct operation.
5. Examine tyres for sharp objects, cuts or splits.
6. Examine castor and wheel bearings for excessive wear.
7. Check castors and rear wheels for free rotation, security and accumulation of fluff
and grit. Remove any fluff and grit with a dry lint free cloth.
8. Check the Interface fits securely into the frame, and that it is not worn or damaged.
9. Check the interface clips to ensure they can rotate freely and that the springs
return the clips to the closed position when released.
For all other repairs refer to your issuing authority or Tendercare Ltd.
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11. Oxygen Cylinder
1. If a portable oxygen cylinder is required, the maximum size recommended by
Tendercare is type PD 455 mm long x 100 mm diameter weight approximately 10
kg. For cylinder and safety information contact:
BOC Gases, Customer Service Centre, Priestley Road, Worsley, Manchester, M28
2UT. Tell: 0800 111 333.
Warnings:
If using medical oxygen cylinders ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
When mounting an oxygen cylinder onto the Snappi Wheelbase care must be taken
to ensure the system will not be damaged in any way. In addition the stability of the
Snappi Pushchair must not be adversely affected. If necessary, stability tests
should be carried out on the loaded assembly.
2. If an oxygen cylinder is required it must be mounted in an approved carrying tray,
be adequately supported and restrained considering the intended use and
environment.
Important:
When the Snappi Wheelbase is used as a seat in a vehicle, the oxygen cylinder and
carrying tray must be removed. Note the vertical carrier is fixed and can be left in
place; however the oxygen cylinder must still be removed.
3. Valve, gauges and fittings must be adequately protected from mechanical damage.
4. When using an oxygen cylinder, users and carers should be aware of the potential
hazard caused by smoking, naked flames or other exposed heat sources, oil or
grease.
5. Because the fitting and use of oxygen are outside the control of Tendercare Ltd,
Tendercare Ltd does not accept any liability relating to the use of oxygen with the
Snappi Pushchair.
12: Warranty
1. Tendercare undertakes to repair or replace free of charge, any parts or part found
to be defective due to manufacturer within a period of 12 months from the date of
delivery.
2. Tendercare Limited will not repair or replace free of charge any part or parts found
to be defective due to abuse, misuse or lack of correct maintenance.
3. Equipment for warranty claims should be returned in a strong carton. There may
be a charge for collection. Contact Tendercare Customer Service Department on
01903 726161.
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13: Transporting the Wheelbase
The wheelbase and interface can be folded for transport in the luggage area of a vehicle.
The wheelbase and interface assembly, (excluding the rearward facing wheelbase) when
fitted to Tendercare’s Snugseat and Modular Seating System has been successfully
impact tested against International Standard ISO 7176-19 and may be used as a vehicle
seat. If being used with any other seating system, a risk assessment must be performed to
ascertain safety, as Tendercare cannot guarantee crash safety with other seating systems.
Tendercare Ltd highly recommends that the transport of children with a body mass of less
than 22kg transfer to a Child Restraint System (sometimes referred to as an infant safety
seat, a child restraint system, a restraint car seat, or ambiguously as car seats) in
compliance with UNECE Regulation 44.04; In order to provide the best possible protection
for the child.
If transfer to a Child Restraint System is not possible, due to the needs of the occupant
e.g. a need for continual postural support, occupant discomfort, anxiety or a dependency
on the medical device, then the decision to carry the occupant in their wheelchair or buggy
should involve an individual risk assessment process. This risk assessment process
should involve a therapist who would be able to support reasons not to transfer the
occupant to a Child Restraint System.
IMPORTANT:
When used as a vehicle seat the following instructions must be followed.
13.1 Preparing the system for transport
1. Check that the child is correctly strapped in the seat using the lap and diagonal
seat belt, ensuring that the following safety requirements are met (note these
instructions are for guidance, and should only be carried out by someone who is
fully trained in the use of wheelchair tie-down and occupant restraint systems) :
a. The occupant lap belt must be routed low over the pelvis, avoiding contact
with the abdomen of the passenger. Lap belt routing should be inside of the
occupant side pad on both left and right sides of the pushchair.
b. The lap belt should not be held away from the occupants body by any part of
the pushchair such as side pads or wheels (please see fig 13.1.1)
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Fig 13.1.1
Note: The belt webbing should not be twisted when in use.
c. The angle of the pelvic belt should be within the optimal zone of 30o to 75o to
the horizontal, as shown in Fig 13.1.2
Fig 13.1.2
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2. Important: Any harness fitted to the pushchair is for postural support only and
must not be used as a transport harness. The pelvic strap must be located as low
down over the hips as possible: It must not cross the stomach of the passenger.
3. Important: In order to ensure that the Butterfly (Chest) harness cannot rise up and
cause harm to the user, every time the harness is in use, you must ensure that all
cam buckles/fixings are properly closed and that the harness is correctly positioned
a minimum of 75mm below the user’s neckline. Failure to comply with this could
result in serious injury.
4. Remove any accessories such as a Pommel, Tray, Rainhood, Shopping
Basket or Carrying Tray.
5. The seat can either be set vertically or adjusted to a mid-tilt position for
transportation.
13.2 Attaching wheelbase to vehicle
1. The wheelbase must be attached to the vehicle using a 4-point wheelchair
webbing restraint.
Note: Such restraints are manufactured by Unwin Safety Systems.
2. Only a trained person should attach the restraints.
3. When fitting the restraints please refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Please
direct any concerns or queries regarding the restraint system to the original
supplier.
4. Position the assembly correctly in the vehicle over the floor track with the front of
the wheelbase facing towards the front of the vehicle (in the direction of travel).
Put The Brakes On*
*The brakes are needed to prevent the pushchair moving whilst fitting the restraints. Once
the pushchair is correctly attached to the vehicle with a 4 point restraint system it is no
longer a requirement for the brakes to remain on.
5. For Snappi pushchairs purchased
prior to November 2012, attach the
front restraints to the floor track and
around the frame where the front
crossbar and vertical tubes meet,
just above the front castors as
shown (See Fig 13.2.1A)
Fig 13.2.1A
Attach
front
restraint
here
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6. Snappi Pushchairs purchased after
November 2012 come with a front
tie down bracket, that fits between
the front castor and frame. Attach
the restraint system to this mounting
point using a standard Karabiner
hook (See Fig 13.2.1B). Note:
Always use the tie down bracket
if present.
Fig 13.2.1B
7. Attach the rear restraints to the floor
track and to the two rear tie down
brackets on the frame. These are
positioned halfway up the rear
frame, just above the brake
mechanism. (See Fig 13.2.2)
Fig 13.2.2
8. To release the wheelbase follow the above instructions in reverse order.
IN EMERGENCY PRESS THE RELEASE BUCKLES
Warning:
The above only secures the wheelbase not the passenger. It is essential that a separate
vehicle harness be fitted providing lap and over the shoulder protection to the passenger
(See Fig 13.2.3 on page 31). We recommend the Unwin Safety Systems Double Inertia Reel
Harness be used.
Tie down
bracket
Attach
Karabiner
Hook here
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Fig 13.2.3
The rearward facing Snappi Wheelbase has not been crash tested for use as a vehicle seat
and must not be used for transportation.
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14: Repairs
1. Repairs: For all repairs contact your issuing authority.
2. Major repairs: For all major repairs e.g. bent or damaged frame, the equipment
should be returned to the factory. Contact Tendercare Ltd customer services on
(01903) 726161.
3. An approved agent may carry out the following repairs and replacements. A
workshop manual is available to repairers from Tendercare Ltd. Replacement of
Wheels, brakes and Gas strut.
Important Points
1. Do not reuse Nylock nuts. Always replace with a new Nylock nut.
2. Always use Loctite thread locking compound Grade 241.
3. Always use recommended components and parts available from Tendercare Ltd.
4. Do not modify or repair the frame.
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