TiLite Aero 2GX, Aero X, XC, SX, TX Owner's Manual

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SERIAL NUMBER ______________________

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I WARNING - READ THIS MANUAL

DO NOT OPERATE THIS WHEELCHAIR WITHOUT FIRST READING AND UNDERSTANDING THIS OWNERS MANUAL. IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT YOUR TiLITE DEALER OR TiLITE CUSTOMER SUPPORT AT (800) 545-2266 BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO USE THIS WHEELCHAIR. IF YOU IGNORE THIS WARNING, YOU MAY FALL, TIP OVER OR LOSE CONTROL OF THE WHEELCHAIR AND SERIOUSLY INJURE YOURSELF OR OTHERS OR DAMAGE THE WHEELCHAIR.

I WARNING - WHEELCHAIR SELECTION

TILITE MANUFACTURES A WIDE VARIETY OF WHEELCHAIRS TO MEET THE VARIED NEEDS OF WHEELCHAIR USERS. HOWEVER, TILITE IS NOT YOUR HEALTH CARE ADVISOR, AND WE KNOW NOTHING ABOUT YOUR INDIVIDUAL CONDITION OR NEEDS. THEREFORE, THE FINAL SELECTION OF THE PARTICULAR MODEL, AND HOW IT IS ADJUSTED, AND THE TYPE OF OPTIONS AND ACCESSORIES NECESSARY REST SOLELY WITH YOU, THE WHEELCHAIR USER, AND THE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL THAT IS ADVISING YOU. CHOOSING THE BEST CHAIR AND SETUP FOR YOUR SAFETY DEPENDS ON SUCH THINGS AS:

1. YOUR DISABILITY, STRENGTH, BALANCE AND COORDINATION;

2. THE TYPES OF HAZARDS YOU MUST OVERCOME IN DAILY USE (WHERE YOU LIVE AND WORK AND OTHER PLACES YOU ARE LIKELY TO USE YOUR CHAIR); AND

3. YOUR NEED FOR OPTIONS FOR YOUR SAFETY AND COMFORT (SUCH AS ANTI-TIPPERS, POSITIONING BELTS OR SPECIAL SEATING SYSTEMS).

IF YOU IGNORE THIS WARNING, YOU MAY ENDANGER YOUR HEALTH.

I WARNING - TIE-DOWN RESTRAINTS

TILITE RECOMMENDS THAT WHEELCHAIR USERS NOT BE TRANSPORTED IN VEHICLES OF ANY KIND WHILE IN WHEELCHAIRS. AS OF THIS DATE, THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HAS NOT APPROVED ANY TIE-DOWN SYSTEM FOR TRANSPORTATION OF A USER WHILE IN A WHEELCHAIR IN A MOVING VEHICLE OF ANY TYPE. IT IS TILITE’S POSITION THAT USERS OF WHEELCHAIRS SHOULD BE TRANSFERRED INTO APPROPRIATE VEHICLE SEATING FOR TRANSPORTATION AND SHOULD USE THE RESTRAINTS MADE AVAILABLE BY THE AUTO INDUSTRY. TILITE CANNOT, AND DOES NOT, RECOMMEND ANY WHEELCHAIR TRANSPORTING SYSTEMS.

I WARNING - SEATING RESTRAINTS

IT IS THE OBLIGATION OF YOUR DEALER AND THE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS WHO ARE ADVISING YOU TO DETERMINE IF YOU REQUIRE A SEATING RESTRAINT OR POSITIONING SYSTEM IN ORDER TO ENSURE THAT YOU CAN SAFELY OPERATE YOUR WHEELCHAIR. SERIOUS INJURY CAN OCCUR IN THE EVENT OF A FALL FROM A WHEELCHAIR.

Note: The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice. An updated version of this Owners Manual may be available at www.tilite.com

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

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Thank you for purchasing a TiLite!

Located in a 50,000 square foot facility in the southeastern corner of Washington State, TiLite is surrounded by miles of potato fields. Our biggest distraction is the occasional wind-blown tumbleweed, which gives us plenty of time to think about innovative designs and cutting-edge materials.

Your hand made TiLite wheelchair is the result of extensive research into wheeled mobility. It represents the latest in state-of-the-art design and performance. TiLite combines the finest frame and component materials with sophisticated manufacturing and quality control procedures, ensuring you many years of exceptional performance and durability.

Please take a moment to register your new TiLite with the registration card on page 10 or at

http://www.tilite.com under the “CONTACT TiLITE” tab. This will allow us to better serve you

should you have any questions regarding your TiLite.

At TiLite we took great pride in building you “The Ultimate Ride”. Once again thank you for choosing TiLite.

Sincerely,

The TiLITE family.

David Lippes Alan Ludovici Marty Ball

Chairman & CEO VP of Engineering VP of Sales

Ken Winward Iain Bampton Ed Owings

VP of Quality Fabrication Supervisor Technical Director

Mark Westphal Josh Anderson Rick Forman

Customer Service Director VP of Marketing President

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Complete and mail the form on the next page

Why Should You Register:

1. Increase your use and enjoyment of your TiLite by receiving updates from TiLite with product information, maintenance tips and industry news.

2. Enable TiLite to contact you or your health care provider if servicing is needed for your wheelchair.

3. Provide your feedback to TiLite regarding your experience and needs, thereby enabling TiLite to further improve product designs.

All information you provide to TiLite when you register will be protected by TiLite as required by applicable laws and regulations and will be used solely by TiLite.

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Name _______________________________________________________________

Address _____________________________________________________________

City ___________________State/Province __________

Zip/Postal Code ___________ Country_______________

PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM

Complete and mail this form

Email ______________________________D ay Phone No. _____________

Model _______________________Serial No.__________________

Purchased From _________________________Date of Purchase: ___________

1. Method of purchase: (check all that apply) Medicare Insurance MedicaidOther __________________________

2. This product was purchased for use by: (check one) Self Parent Spouse Other

3. Reasons for purchasing a TiLite: Reputation

Yes

Quality of Service:

No _________________________________________

Yes

Timeliness of Delivery:

No ______________________________________

Yes

Quality of Product:

No _________________________________________

Advertisement: (Please Specify)__________________________

Dealer Relative Friend Therapist/Doctor

4. Were your expectations met in the following areas? If not, please specify.

____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________

5. What additional features, if any, would you like to see on this or future TiLite products?

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CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: WARNINGS 1

GENERAL WARNINGS 1

A. SAFETY INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE 1 B. ACCLIMATING TO YOUR NEW CHAIR 1 C. WEIGHT LIMITATION 1 D. PREVENTING ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES 1 E. CHANGING/ADJUSTING YOUR WHEELCHAIR 2 F. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS 2 G. STREET USE 2 H. TERRAIN 2 I. MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY 3 J. WEIGHT TRAINING 3 K. OBTAINING ASSISTANCE 3 L. STANDING ON YOUR CHAIR 4

WARNINGS FOR SAFE USE OF YOUR WHEELCHAIR 4

A. LEARNING TO DO A “WHEELIE” 4 B. CLIMBING A CURB OR SINGLE STEP 4

C. CLIMBING A FLIGHT OF STAIRS 5 D. DESCENDING A CURB OR SINGLE STEP 5 E. DESCENDING A FLIGHT OF STAIRS 6

WARNINGS REGARDING FALLING AND TIPPING OVER 6

A. CENTER OF GRAVITY—STABILITY AND BALANCE 6

B. TRANSFERRING IN AND OUT OF YOUR WHEELCHAIR 7 C. DRESSING/UNDRESSING IN YOUR CHAIR 8 D. BENDING/LEANING/REACHING 8 E. MOVING BACKWARD 9 F. WHEELIES 9 G. OBSTACLES 9 H. CURBS/STEPS 10 I. HILLS/SLOPES/RAMPS 10 J. STAIRS 11 K. ESCALATORS 11 L. ASSISTANTS AND ATTENDANTS 11

WARNINGS REGARDING COMPONENTS AND OPTIONS 11

A. ANTI-TIPPERS 11

B. SEAT SLINGS/CUSHIONS 12 C. UPHOLSTERY FABRIC 12 D. SEATING SYSTEMS 12 E. POSITIONING OR SEAT BELTS 13 F. ARMRESTS 13 G. FOOTRESTS/HANGERS 14 H. REAR WHEELS 14 I. QUICK-RELEASE AXLES 14 J. PNEUMATIC TIRES 15 K. REAR WHEEL LOCKS 15 L. CASTER PIN LOCKS 15 M. PUSH HANDLES 16

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N. FASTENERS 16 O. POWER DRIVE 16 P. UNAUTHORIZED PARTS AND ACCESSORIES 16

CHAPTER 2: SAFETY INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE & TROUBLESHOOTING 17

INTRODUCTION 17 SAFETY INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE 17 CLEANING

Cleaning the Frame 19 Cleaning the Cross Tubes 19 Cleaning the Upholstery 19

Axles and Moving Parts 19

STORAGE 19

TROUBLESHOOTING

CHAPTER 3: FOOTRESTS 21

INTRODUCTION 21

FLIP-UP FOOTREST; ANGLE ADJUSTABLE FLIP-UP FOOTREST; DEPTH ADJUSTABLE FLIP-UP FOOTREST; AND DEPTH AND ANGLE ADJUSTABLE FLIP-UP FOOTREST (2GX, Aero X, SX, TX, X and XC) 21

Replacing or Adjusting the Height of the Footrest (SX, X and XC) 21

Adjusting the Height of the Footrest (2GX, Aero X and TX) 22 Replacing the Footrest (2GX, Aero X and TX) 22 Adjusting the Angle of the Footrest (2GX, Aero X, SX, X and XC) 22 Adjusting the Depth of the Footrest (2GX, Aero X, SX and X) 23

HIGH MOUNT FLIP-UP FOOTREST; ANGLE ADJUSTABLE HIGH MOUNT FLIP-UP FOOTREST; DEPTH ADJUSTABLE HIGH MOUNT FLIP-UP FOOTREST; AND DEPTH AND ANGLE ADJUSTABLE HIGH MOUNT FLIP-UP FOOTREST (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC) 23

Replacing or Adjusting the Height of the Footrest 23

Adjusting the Angle or Depth of the Footrest 24

90º HANGER FLIP-UP FOOTRESTS; 90º HANGER DEPTH ADJUSTABLE FLIP-UP FOOTRESTS (2GX, AERO X AND SX)

Replacing or Adjusting the Height of the Footrest 24

Adjusting the Depth of the Footrest 24

90º HANGER DEPTH AND ANGLE ADJUSTABLE FLIP-UP FOOTRESTS (2GX, AERO X AND SX) 25

Replacing, or Adjusting the Height of, the Footrest 25

Adjusting the Angle of the Footrest 25 Adjusting the Depth of the Footrest 25

SWING-AWAY HANGERS (SX)

Swing-Away Hangers (Aero X, 2GX) 26

1-PIECE, OVER-CENTER FOLDING FOOTREST (2GX, AERO X, TX AND X)

Replacing or Adjusting the Height of the Footrest 26

Adjusting the Angle of the Footrest 26

1-PIECE FLIP-UP FOOTREST (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX AND X) 26 Replacing or Adjusting the Height of the Footrest 27

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CHAPTER 4: BACKRESTS, PUSH HANDLES AND STROLLER HANDLES 28

ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT BACKREST (STRAIGHT OR 8º BEND) (WITH OR WITHOUT INTEGRATED PUSH HANDLES)(SX AND X) 28

Adjusting the Backrest Height 28

ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT BACKREST (STRAIGHT OR 8º BEND) (WITH OR WITHOUT INTEGRATED PUSH HANDLES)(2GX AND AERO X)

Adjusting the Backrest Height 28

ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT BACKREST (WITH OR WITHOUT INTEGRATED PUSH HANDLES) (TX AND XC)

Adjusting the Backrest Height 29

NON-FOLDING FIXED HEIGHT & ANGLE BACKREST (TX AND XC)

STROLLER HANDLES (SX AND X) 30

Adjusting the Height of the Receiver 30

HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE PUSH HANDLES (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX AND X)

CHAPTER 5: ARMRESTS 31

TUBULAR SWING AWAY ARMREST (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X, AND XC) 31

Adjusting the Height of the Tubular Swing Away Armrest (2GX, Aero X, TX and XC) 31 Adjusting the height of the Tubular Swing Away Armrest Receiver (2GX and Aero X) 31 Adjusting the Height on the Armrest Receiver (SX and X) 31

REMOVABLE DESK ARM AND REMOVABLE DESK ARM WITH TRANSFER LOOP (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC)

Adjusting the Armrest Height 32 Removing 32

Replacing 32

CHAPTER 6: SIDE GUARDS 34

CLOTH SIDE GUARDS (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC)

Removing/Replacing Cloth Side Guards

RIGID REMOVABLE AND QUAD REMOVABLE SIDE GUARDS (ALUMINUM AND CARBON FIBER) (AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC)

Using Rigid Side Guards 34 Adjusting Rigid Side Guards 34 Removing Rigid Side Guard Assembly 34

Reinstalling Rigid Side Guard Assembly 35

FIXED-IN-PLACE SIDE GUARDS (ALUMINUM OR CARBON FIBER) (TX AND XC)

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CHAPTER 7: BACK UPHOLSTERY, SEAT UPHOLSTERY AND

SEAT CUSHIONS

PADDED NYLON BACK UPHOLSTERY (AERO X, SX AND X) 36

Replacing the Upholstery 36

TENSION ADJUSTABLE BACK UPHOLSTERY (STRAPS) (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC) 36

Adjusting the Tension 36

Replacing the Upholstery 37

“HOOK & LOOP” ADJUSTABLE BACKREST UPHOLSTERY (TX AND XC)

Adjusting the Tension 37

Replacing the Upholstery 37

TENSION ADJUSTABLE BOLT-ON SEAT SLING (SX, X AND XC)

Adjusting the Tension 38 Replacing the Upholstery 38

TENSION ADJUSTABLE SLIDE-IN SEAT SLING (2GX, AERO X AND TX)

Adjusting the Tension 39 Replacing the Upholstery

TILITE SEAT CUSHION (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC) 40

Replacing the Foam Insert to Your TiLite Seat Cushion 40

CHAPTER 8: AXLE PLATES AND CAMBER PLUGS (CENTER OF GRAVITY; REAR SEAT HEIGHT) 41

ADJUSTING THE CENTER OF GRAVITY (SX AND X) 41

ADJUSTING THE REAR SEAT HEIGHT (SX AND X) 42

ADJUSTING THE REAR WHEEL SPACING/REPLACING THE CAMBER PLUGS (SX AND X)

ADJUSTING THE CENTER OF GRAVITY (TX) 43

ADJUSTING THE REAR SEAT HEIGHT (TX) 44

ADJUSTING THE REAR WHEEL SPACING/REPLACING THE CAMBER PLUGS (TX)

ADJUSTING THE CENTER OF GRAVITY (2GX AND AERO X) 45

ADJUSTING THE REAR SEAT HEIGHT (2GX AND AERO X)

ADJUSTING THE REAR WHEEL SPACING/REPLACING THE CAMBER PLUGS (2GX AND AERO X) 46

ADJUSTING THE CENTER OF GRAVITY (XC) 47

ADJUSTING THE REAR SEAT HEIGHT (XC)

ADJUSTING THE REAR WHEEL SPACING/REPLACING THE CAMBER PLUGS (XC)

ADJUSTING TOE-IN/TOE-OUT 48

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CHAPTER 9: AXLES AND AMPUTEE ADAPTERS 50

STAINLESS AND TITANIUM QUICK RELEASE AXLES (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC) 50 Adjusting the Quick-Release Axle 50

QUAD QUICK-RELEASE AXLES (SX, TX, X, XC AND AERO X)

Adjusting the Quad Quick Release Handle 51

Adjusting the “Play”

AMPUTEE ADAPTERS (SX, X AND AERO X)

CHAPTER 10: WHEEL LOCKS 53

STANDARD PUSH TO LOCK (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC) 53

Replacing the Push to Lock Wheel Lock 53

UNI-LOCK (2GX, AERO X, SX, X, TX AND XC) Adjusting the Uni-Lock Wheel Lock 54 Replacing the Uni-Lock Wheel Lock 54 Changing the Uni-Lock From the Push to the Pull Position 54 Repositioning the Handle of the Uni-Lock Wheel Lock 54

UNI-LOCK WITH EXTENSION HANDLES (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC) 55

COMPOSITE SCISSOR LOCK (2GX, AERO X, SX, TX, X AND XC)

Adjusting the Composite Scissor Lock 55

Replacing the Composite Scissor Lock 56 Removing the Scissor Lock Spring 56

CHAPTER 11: CASTERS, FORKS AND CASTER PIN LOCKS 58

FRONT CASTERS AND FORKS (SX, X AND XC) 58

Replacing Front Fork Assemblies 58

FRONT CASTERS AND FORKS (TX) 59 Replacing Front Casters 59

FRONT CASTERS AND FORKS (2GX AND AERO X) 60

Replacing Front Casters 60 Replacing Front Fork Assemblies 60 Adjusting Front Seat Height 60

CASTER PIN LOCKS (SX, X) 61

CASTER PIN LOCKS (2GX, AERO X AND TX)

ADJUSTABLE ANGLE CASTER BARREL (SX AND X) 62

Adjusting the Angle 62

ADJUSTABLE ANGLE FORK (2GX AND AERO X)

Replacing Front Forks 59

ADJUSTABLE CASTER POSITION (2GX AND AERO X) 63

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FLOATING CASTERS (2GX, AERO X, SX, X, TX AND XC) 63

FROG LEGS® (2GX, AERO X, SX, X, TX, X AND XC) 64

Replacing the Elastomer Shock 64

CHAPTER 12: REAR WHEELS 65

REAR WHEELS WITH QUICK RELEASE AXLES (ALL MODELS) 65 Removing 65 Replacing 65

REAR WHEELS WITH QUAD RELEASE AXLE (ALL MODELS) Removing Replacing 65

HANDRIMS (ALL MODELS) 66 Replacing the Handrim

REAR WHEEL SPACERS (ALL MODELS)

Adjusting Rear Wheel Spacing 67

REAR ANTI-TIPS (ALL MODELS) 68

Adjusting 68

MOUNTING THE REAR ANTI-TIP RECEPTACLE (SX AND X)

MOUNTING THE REAR ANTI-TIP RECEPTACLE (TX AND XC)

MOUNTING THE REAR ANTI-TIP RECEPTACLE (2GX AND AERO X) 69

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CHAPTER 1: WARNINGS

GENERAL WARNINGS

A. SAFETY INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE

I WARNING

It is important to keep your wheelchair in proper working condition. Chapter 2 of this Manual outlines the safety inspections that you should make before each use of your chair, as well as weekly, quarterly and annual inspections.

1. ALWAYS inspect and maintain your TiLite wheelchair strictly in accordance with the instructions and charts in Chapter 2.

2. If you detect a problem in the course of your inspections or maintenance, ALWAYS have the chair serviced or repaired to correct the problem BEFORE using the chair.

3. ALWAYS have your chair completely inspected and serviced by an authorized TiLite supplier at least once a year.

4. ALWAYS perform your safety inspections and any maintenance or adjustments while the chair is unoccupied (unless this Manual expressly states otherwise).

If you fail to inspect or maintain your wheelchair as directed in this Manual, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

B. ACCLIMATING TO YOUR NEW CHAIR

I WARNING

Each wheelchair is a unique piece of medical equipment, with unique handling, maneuvering and ride characteristics. Whether you are a new wheelchair user or have years of experience, you MUST take the time to acclimate to this particular chair before you begin riding. Start slowly and take the time to learn the handling, maneuvering and ride characteristics of this chair. For example, your previous chair may have been a heavier and less responsive chair, and, therefore, you may be used to using more force than is necessary to maneuver your TiLite chair.

over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

If you ignore these warnings, you may fall, tip

C. WEIGHT LIMITATION

I WARNING

TiLite wheelchairs have a weight limit of 250 pounds (113.6 kilograms). This weight limitation applies to the combined weight of the user and any items carried by the user. DO NOT exceed this weight limit.

or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

If you exceed the limit, you may fall, tip over

D. PREVENTING ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES

I WARNING

1. You MUST be properly and fully trained in the safe use of this wheelchair by your health care advisor BEFORE you use this chair.

2. Together with your health care advisor, you MUST analyze your level of function and ability and develop your own methods for safe use that best suit you based on your level of function and ability.

3. You MUST learn the limits of your ability and operate this wheelchair within such limits. This means you must PRACTICE the maneuvers you will need to perform, such as bending, reaching and transfers, until you know the limits of your ability. ALWAYS practice with the assistance of someone who can help you until you know what can cause, and how to avoid, a fall or tip-over. NEVER try a new maneuver on your own until you are sure you can do it safely.

4. ALWAYS learn as much as you can about the places where you will be using your chair before you get there. ALWAYS be alert for hazards and learn how to avoid them.

5. Anti-Tippers MUST be used with your wheelchair at all times. Because anti-tippers are an option on this wheelchair, TiLite strongly recommends you order the anti-tippers as they are an important safeguard for the wheelchair user.

6. Together with your health care advisor, you MUST analyze your medical condition to determine whether you are capable of using this chair safely and/or what options or accessories you will require in order to use this chair safely (e.g., pressure-relief cushions, seat belts).

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

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CHAPTER 1: WARNINGS

E. CHANGING/ADJUSTING YOUR WHEELCHAIR

I WARNING

1. Use extreme caution when changing or adjusting the conguration of your TiLite wheelchair. When you change or adjust the conguration, you may increase the risk of a tip-over. Therefore, you should consult your authorized TiLite dealer BEFORE you change or adjust the conguration. Further, TiLite recommends that you use anti-tippers at all times, and this is particularly true after you have changed or adjusted the conguration of your chair.

2. Unauthorized modications to your chair, or the use of parts not supplied or approved by TiLite, may change the chair

structure, may cause a safety hazard, including an increased risk of a tip-over, and will void the warranty.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

F. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

I WARNING

1. Riding your TiLite wheelchair on wet, icy or other slick surfaces increases the risk of losing control of the wheelchair or tipping over. Use extra care if you must ride your chair on any such surface. If you have any doubt about your ability to negotiate a particular surface, ALWAYS ask for assistance.

2. Titanium does not rust or corrode. Aluminum does not rust, but it will corrode. However, contact with water or excess moisture may still damage parts or components of your TiLite wheelchair that are made from other materials and could cause such parts or components to fail. Therefore, DO NOT:

a. use your chair in a shower, pool or other body of water, b. leave your chair in a damp location, or c. fail to dry your chair as soon as you can if it gets wet or if you use water to clean it.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

G. STREET USE

I WARNING

1. As a wheelchair rider, you MUST obey all trafc rules pertaining to pedestrians (use of crosswalks, etc.). Most states do

not permit wheelchairs to be ridden on public roads, streets or highways (i.e., as one would drive a car), so you should

not do so without rst consulting the trafc laws in your own state. Even if legal, riding your wheelchair on public roads,

streets or highways is extremely dangerous and is not recommended.

2. At all times when riding your wheelchair in public areas (sidewalks, crosswalks, parking lots, etc.), be very alert to the danger of motor vehicles.

3. At night, or when lighting is poor, use reective tape on your chair and clothing.

4. Due to your low position, it may be hard for drivers to see you. This is particularly true in situations where drivers may be driving in reverse, such as parking lots. If at all possible, make eye contact with drivers before you go forward. When in doubt, yield until you are sure it is safe, even if you have the right-of-way.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

H. TERRAIN

I WARNING

Your TiLite wheelchair is designed for riding over rm, relatively smooth surfaces such as concrete and asphalt outdoors and indoor ooring (wood, tile, etc.) and carpeting. Your TiLite wheelchair is NOT designed for riding over sand, loose soil

or rough terrain. Do NOT operate your chair in such terrain. You may damage the wheels or axles or loosen fasteners of your chair.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

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CHAPTER 1: WARNINGS

I. MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY

I WARNING

TiLite wheelchairs are NOT designed to be used for seating in a motor vehicle, and TiLite wheelchairs do NOT meet Federal standards for motor vehicle seating.

1. NEVER sit in your chair while in any type of moving vehicle (bus, automobile, van, truck, boat, train, etc.). In an accident or sudden stop, you may be thrown from the chair. In an accident or sudden stop, a wheelchair seat belt will NOT prevent injuries and may, in fact, cause injuries.

2. ALWAYS transfer to an approved vehicle seat before the vehicle begins moving.

3. ALWAYS secure yourself in the approved vehicle seat using the proper seating restraints (in a motor vehicle, lap/ shoulder belts; in a plane, lap belts, etc.).

4. NEVER transport your chair in the front seat of a vehicle. Movements of the vehicle may cause the chair to shift and interfere with the driver’s ability to control the vehicle.

5. When transporting your chair in a moving vehicle, ALWAYS secure your chair so that it cannot roll or shift. In most cases, stowing it in the trunk is the safest alternative.

6. NEVER use any chair that has been involved in a motor vehicle accident. A wheelchair that has been involved in a motor vehicle accident may be damaged in ways that are not readily apparent and which could cause the chair to fail in use.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

J. WEIGHT TRAINING

I WARNING

NEVER use your TiLite wheelchair for weight training. When your chair was set up with the assistance of your health care

advisor, your center of gravity was determined based on your weight, the conguration of your chair and your abilities.

If you engage in weight training activities in your chair, you are altering the total weight supported by your chair and the distribution of that weight. The center of gravity of your chair may not be appropriate with the additional weight or with the different distribution of weight, which may cause the chair to tip over. The additional weight could exceed the weight limit for the chair and damage the chair. If you intend to engage in weight training, TiLite recommends that you utilize weight training equipment with built-in seating and that you transfer to that seating rather than using your chair.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

K. OBTAINING ASSISTANCE

I WARNING

For The Wheelchair User:

ALWAYS make sure that each person who assists you reads and understands this entire Manual, especially the Warnings in Chapter 1.

For Attendants/Assistants:

1. ALWAYS work with the user’s health care advisor to learn safe methods to assist the wheelchair user and to determine which methods are best suited to your abilities and those of the user.

2. ALWAYS communicate to the user what you plan to do before you do it and explain what you expect the user to do while you are taking such action. This will put the user at ease and reduce the risk of an accident due to a miscommunication.

3. ALWAYS use good posture and proper body mechanics in order to avoid injury to your back.

4. When you lift or support the user or tilt the chair, ALWAYS bend your knees slightly and keep your back as upright and straight as you can.

5. Wheelchair push handles are designed to provide a secure location for an attendant to grip the rear of the wheelchair to prevent a fall or tip-over. ALWAYS make sure the wheelchair has push handles and ALWAYS use them. REGULARLY check to make sure the push handle grips are securely seated on the back canes so they will not rotate or slip off.

6. If you are going to tilt the chair backward, ALWAYS remind the user to lean back.

7. If you are going to descend a curb or single step, ALWAYS lower the chair slowly in one easy movement. NEVER let the chair drop the last few inches to the ground. This may damage the chair or injure the user.

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CHAPTER 1: WARNINGS

8. ALWAYS become familiar with the user’s wheelchair and all of its parts and components. In particular, be very aware of any removable parts. Removable parts must NEVER be used for a hand-hold or lifting supports because they may inadvertently release, resulting in possible injury to the user and/or assistant.

9. Anti-tippers may present a tripping hazard to the attendant. To avoid tripping over the anti-tippers, unlock and rotate anti-tip tubes up, out of the way. However, if you must leave the user unattended, even for a moment, ALWAYS rotate the anti-tippers back into the down position and lock the rear wheels using the wheel locks. This will reduce the risk of a tip-over or loss of control of the chair.

10. When you are learning a new assistance technique, ALWAYS have an experienced attendant help you before attempting it on your own.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

L. STANDING ON YOUR CHAIR

I WARNING

Your TiLite wheelchair has been designed for use as a wheelchair, not as a step ladder. NEVER stand on your TiLite wheelchair.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

WARNINGS FOR SAFE USE OF YOUR WHEELCHAIR

A. LEARNING TO DO A “WHEELIE”

I WARNING

DO NOT attempt to perform a “wheelie” in your wheelchair because of the dangerous nature of this kind of maneuver.

TiLite recognizes that some wheelchair users will ignore this warning. If you should choose to ignore this warning, you should follow these steps to help learn to do a “wheelie” as safely as possible (but doing a “wheelie” is never completely safe and TiLite assumes no responsibility for any injury you may sustain as a result of doing a “wheelie”):

1. Read and follow the Warning for “WHEELIES” on page 9 of this Manual.

2. NEVER attempt to learn how to do a wheelie without the assistance of someone strong enough to catch you should you start to tip over (a “spotter”). Your spotter should read and be completely familiar with this entire Manual, especially this Warning and the Warning for “WHEELIES” on page 9 of this Manual.

3. Instruct your spotter to stand at the rear of your chair. Your spotter must be agile enough to move with you and your chair to prevent a tip-over.

4. Instruct your spotter to keep his or her hands BENEATH the push handles or backrest rigidizer bar so that he or she is ready to catch you if you exceed the balance point of the rear wheels and start to tip over backward.

5. When your spotter is in position and is ready, place your hands on the forward portion of the handrims. Using the handrims, make a quick BACKWARD movement of the rear wheels, quickly followed by a hard FORWARD thrust. This will tilt the chair up on the balance point of the rear wheels. DO NOT remove your hands from the handrims after either the backward movement or forward thrust so that you can continue to manipulate the rear wheels to maintain your balance on the two rear wheels.

6. Use SMALL movements of the handrims to maintain your balance on the two rear wheels.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

B. CLIMBING A CURB OR SINGLE STEP

I WARNING

1. NEVER attempt to negotiate a curb or single step without assistance.

2. Instruct your assistant to stand at the rear of your wheelchair, with the front of the wheelchair facing the obstacle. NEVER attempt to negotiate any such obstacle backward.

3. Instruct your assistant to tilt the chair up on the rear wheels so that the front casters clear the curb or step.

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4. Instruct your assistant to slowly move the chair forward and to gently lower the front casters to the upper level as soon as you are sure that they are beyond the edge of the curb or step.

5. Instruct your assistant to continue to roll the chair forward until the rear wheels contact the face of the curb or step.

6. Instruct your assistant to lift and roll the rear wheels up to the upper level.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

C. CLIMBING A FLIGHT OF STAIRS

I WARNING

TiLite does NOT recommend that its wheelchairs be transported up stairways with the user in the wheelchair.

However, TiLite recognizes that wheelchair users may, on occasion, have no other choice. Only if you have no alternative,

you should follow these steps to climb up a ight of stairs.

1. NEVER attempt to negotiate more than one step unless you have two (2) able-bodied adult assistants.

2. ALWAYS position the chair and rider facing away from the stairs, with one assistant at the rear (facing away from the stairs) and one at the front of the chair (facing the rider).

3. The assistant at the rear of the chair is in control of this procedure. He or she must tilt the chair back to its balance point on the rear wheels. NEVER attempt to lift a wheelchair by lifting on any removable (detachable) parts, including upholstery and removable push handles or push handle grips.

4. The second assistant at the front must rmly grasp a non-detachable part of the front frame (but NOT swing-away

hangers) with both hands and lift the chair up and over one stair at a time.

5. Each assistant then carefully moves up to the next stair.

6. Repeat steps 1 through 5 for each stair, until you reach the landing.

7. When you reach the landing, the assistants should roll the chair backward on the two rear wheels until the front casters have cleared the last step, at which point the assistants can gently lower the front casters to the landing.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

D. DESCENDING A CURB OR SINGLE STEP

I WARNING

1. NEVER attempt to negotiate a curb or single step without assistance.

2. When you are still several feet from the edge of the curb or step, instruct your assistant to stand at the rear of your wheelchair and turn it around so you are facing AWAY from the obstacle.

3. NEVER attempt to negotiate any such obstacle facing forward.

4. Instruct your assistant to carefully step backwards, pulling the chair backwards, until he or she is off the curb or stair and standing on the lower level. The assistant should watch his or her step over his or her shoulder when backing up in this manner.

5. Instruct your assistant to carefully pull the chair backward until the rear wheels reach the edge of the curb or step, and to then allow the rear wheels to slowly roll down to the lower level.

6. Instruct your assistant that, when the rear wheels are safely on the lower level, he or she may then tilt the chair backward to the balance point of the rear wheels, thereby raising the front casters off the upper level.

7. Instruct your assistant to slowly roll the chair backward on the rear wheels, taking small steps until the front casters have cleared the step or curb and, when clear, to gently lower the front casters to the ground at the lower level.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

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E. DESCENDING A FLIGHT OF STAIRS

I WARNING

TiLite does NOT recommend that its wheelchairs be transported down stairways with the user in the wheelchair.

However, TiLite recognizes that wheelchair users may, on occasion, have no other choice. Only if you have no alternative,

you should follow these steps to descend a ight of stairs.

1. NEVER attempt to negotiate more than one step unless you have two (2) able-bodied adult assistants.

2. ALWAYS position the chair and rider facing down the stairs, with one assistant at the rear (facing down the stairs) and one at the front of the chair (facing the rider).

3. The assistant at the rear of the chair is in control of this procedure. He or she must tilt the chair back to its balance point

on the rear wheels and roll it to the edge of the rst step. NEVER attempt to lift a wheelchair by lifting on any removable

(detachable) parts, including upholstery and removable push handles or push handle grips.

4. The second assistant at the front must stand at the third step from the top and rmly grasp a non-detachable part of the

front frame (but NOT swing-away hangers) with both hands. The second assistant must lower the chair one stair at a time by letting the rear wheels roll over the stair edge. Each assistant then carefully moves down to the next stair.

5. Repeat steps 1 through 4 for each stair, until you reach the ground level.

6. When you reach the ground level, the rst assistant should carefully lower the front casters to the ground.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

WARNINGS REGARDING FALLING AND TIPPING OVER

A. CENTER OF GRAVITY—STABILITY AND BALANCE

I WARNING

Most falls or tip-overs occur when you go beyond the center of gravity of you and your wheelchair. TiLite wheelchairs are designed to remain stable and upright in normal daily use and activities so long as you do not exceed the center of gravity. The most stabile setup is with the rear wheels in the most rearward postion on the chair. Anti-tips will help prevent the chair from tipping over backwards.

Every movement you make in your chair, and the rapidity with which you move, will have an affect on your center of gravity. The more you shift your body weight and the greater the speed at which you shift it, the greater the impact on your center of gravity in your chair.

There is a point where your wheelchair will tip forward or backward or to the side—which is a function of your center of gravity in the chair—its center of balance and stability. The type of chair, the setup of your chair, the options on your chair and the changes you make to the setup or options will all affect the center of gravity and therefore the stability of the chair. As the stability decreases, the risk of a fall or tip-over increases.

Set forth below is a list of various types of adjustments that you may be able to make to your wheelchair, depending on the

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wheelchair model you own, and a brief description of how those adjustments will affect your center of gravity:

1. The position of the rear wheels is the most signicant factor affecting your center of gravity. The more you move the rear

wheels forward, the more likely your chair will tip over backward.

2. The distance between the rear wheels. The less distance between the rear wheels, the greater the likelihood your chair will tip over to the side.

3. The amount of rear wheel camber. The less camber, the greater the likelihood your chair will tip over to the side.

4. The height of your seat. As you raise the height of your seat, you raise your center of gravity and increase the likelihood of all types of tip-overs.

5. The angle of your seat. As you increase the angle of your seat (relative to the oor), your position in the chair is shifted

toward the rear of the chair, increasing the likelihood your chair will tip over backward.

6. The angle of your backrest. As you increase the angle of your backrest (relative to the seat), your position in the chair is shifted toward the rear of the chair, increasing the likelihood your chair will tip over backward.

7. The height of your seat back. As you lower the height of your seat back, you make it easier to lean back in your chair, which in turn shifts your center of gravity rearward and increases the likelihood your chair will tip over backward.

8. The position of your front casters. As you move your front casters rearward on the frame (toward the rear wheels), you increase the likelihood your chair will tip over forward.

Other factors will affect your center of gravity:

1. A change in your body position, posture or weight distribution. For example, if you lean forward you shift the center of gravity forward and increase the likelihood of tipping over forward.

2. Riding your chair on a ramp or slope. On an up-slope, your weight shifts to the rear and a backward tip-over becomes more likely. On a down-slope, your weight shifts to the front of the chair and a forward tip-over becomes more likely.

3. The use of a backpack or other options, and the amount of weight added by those options. For example, carrying a lot of weight in a backpack will shift the center of gravity rearward and increase the likelihood of tipping over backward. However, using a TiLite seat pouch beneath the seat sling to carry heavier items will lower your center of gravity and reduce, but not eliminate, your risk of a tip over.

In order to reduce the risk of a tip-over, you should:

1. CONSULT your doctor, nurse or therapist to nd out what axle and caster position and other chair conguration options

are best for you.

2. CONSULT your authorized TiLite dealer BEFORE you modify or adjust your wheelchair. Often, an adjustment you wish to make can be offset by another that you have not considered. For example, you may want to adjust the back angle rearward, which will increase the likelihood of a rear tip-over. You might not think you could counteract this tendency by moving the rear wheels backward. Your authorized TiLite dealer will be able to give you expert, personalized advice in such matters. See “Changing/Adjusting Your Wheelchair” on page 2 of this Manual.

3. ALWAYS have someone assist you until you learn your chair’s balance points and are completely comfortable in your ability to operate your chair under all conditions so as to avoid tip-overs.

4. ALWAYS use anti-tippers. See “Changing/Adjusting Your Wheel Chair” on page 2 of this Manual.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

B. TRANSFERRING IN AND OUT OF YOUR WHEELCHAIR

I WARNING

Transferring in or out of your wheelchair is one of the most dangerous things you can attempt relating to your wheelchair. It requires good balance, agility and upper body conditioning. At some point in every transfer, there is no wheelchair seat beneath you and the seat, bed, etc. to or from which you are transferring is not beneath you either.

Important rules that will help to reduce the risk of a fall during a transfer are discussed below:

1. ALWAYS work with your health care advisor to learn safe transfer methods.

2. ALWAYS ask your health care advisor to teach you proper body positioning during a transfer and how to support yourself during a transfer.

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3. ALWAYS have someone assist you when you transfer until you have learned how to transfer safely and have developed the upper body strength and coordination to transfer safely.

4. ALWAYS move your chair as close as you can to the seat (bed, etc.) to which you are transferring. If possible, use a transfer board.

5. ALWAYS lock the rear wheels using wheel locks before you transfer. This keeps the rear wheels from rolling. If your wheelchair is equipped with caster pin locks, ALWAYS lock them before you transfer. Caster pin locks keep the front casters from rotating (but not from rolling). NOTE: Wheel locks and caster pin locks will NOT keep your chair from sliding away from you or tipping.

6. If your wheels have pneumatic (inatable) tires, ALWAYS make sure to keep the tires properly inated at all times. The

wheel locks may slip if the tire pressure is low, which may cause the chair to roll unexpectedly during a transfer.

7. ALWAYS rotate the front casters as far forward as possible and turn them to the seat (bed, etc.) to which you are transferring.

8. ALWAYS remove the wheelchair armrests, or swing them out of the way, so they do not impede your movement during the transfer.

9. If possible, ALWAYS remove the footrests, or swing them out of the way, to ensure your feet do not get caught between

the footrests. TiLite strongly recommends that you place your feet on the oor when you are transferring to or from your

chair.

10. NEVER put your weight on the footrests when you are transferring to or from your chair because this may cause the chair to tip over and/or roll away.

11. When transferring into your chair, ALWAYS transfer as far back onto your seat as possible in order to reduce the risk that the chair will tip over or move away from you causing you to fall.

12. If possible, ALWAYS try to avoid falling into your chair uncontrollably when transferring into your chair. This places undue stress on your chair’s components, and if your chair does start to move or tip you will not be ready to regain control.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

C. DRESSING/UNDRESSING IN YOUR CHAIR

I WARNING

When you engage in activities while seated in your chair such as dressing or undressing or changing your clothes, your weight will shift. Since your attention may be directed to the activity in question rather than maintaining your balance, your risk of falling or tipping over is increased. To reduce this risk, get dressed or undressed or change your clothes while seated in a regular chair or on a bed. If you must get dressed or undressed or change your clothes while seated in your wheelchair:

1. ALWAYS rotate the front casters so they are trailing forward. This makes the chair more stable. NOTE: To get your front

casters to trail forward, rst move your chair forward and, second, back up. By moving backward, your front casters will

rotate and trail forward.

2. ALWAYS lock your anti-tippers in the down position so the risk of a backward tip-over is minimized. If your chair does not have anti-tippers, back it up against a wall and lock both rear wheels using your wheel locks.

3. If your chair is equipped with caster pin locks, ALWAYS engage them.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

D. BENDING/LEANING/REACHING

I WARNING

When you bend, reach or lean from your chair you will affect the center of balance of your chair. Therefore, bending, reaching or leaning may cause you to fall or tip over. In order to avoid falling or tipping over, you must determine your

particular safety limitations given the conguration of your chair and your body weight and type. To do this, practice bending,

reaching and leaning activities (and various combinations of such activities) under the supervision of your health care advisor. Do this BEFORE attempting active use of your chair. The following will help you avoid falling or tipping over when bending, reaching or leaning from your chair:

1. NEVER bend, reach or lean in a way that requires you to move forward in your seat.

2. ALWAYS keep your buttocks in contact with the backrest and the seat cushion when bending, reaching or leaning.

3. NEVER shift your weight in the same direction you are bending, reaching or leaning.

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4. NEVER reach or lean to the rear unless your chair has anti-tippers locked in place.

5. NEVER reach with both hands. By keeping one hand free, you may be able to catch yourself to prevent a fall if the chair starts to tip.

6. NEVER reach or lean over the top of the seat back. If you do so you may damage the seat back tubes, which could cause you to fall.

7. ALWAYS move your chair as close as possible to the object you are trying to reach.

8. NEVER shift your weight to the footrests.

9. NEVER try to pick up an object from the oor by reaching down between your knees. You are less likely to tip over if you reach to the side of your chair when picking up an object on the oor.

10. DO NOT lock the rear wheels when bending, reaching or leaning backward. Locking the rear wheels creates a tip point and makes falling or tipping over more likely.

11. When bending or leaning, ALWAYS grasp one rear wheel with one hand. This will help to prevent a fall if the chair starts to tip over.

12. ALWAYS rotate the front casters until they are trailing forward. This will make the chair more stable. NOTE: To get

your front casters to trail forward, rst move your chair forward past the object you want to reach and, second, back up

alongside the object. By moving backward, your front casters will rotate and trail forward.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

E. MOVING BACKWARD

I WARNING

When you propel backward, you will tend to shift your weight backward, making a tip-over more likely. In addition, you may be unable to see an obstruction that could block one of your wheels and cause a tip-over. Therefore, use extreme caution when propelling backward. If you must propel backward:

1. ALWAYS propel slowly with smooth, short strokes.

2. MAKE frequent stops to check for obstructions in your path.

3. If your chair has anti-tippers, ALWAYS make sure to lock them in place.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

F. WHEELIES

I WARNING

Balancing in your chair on just the rear wheels with the front casters in the air is known as doing a “wheelie.” DOING A WHEELIE IS DANGEROUS. A fall or tip-over is very likely. However, if you can do a “wheelie” safely, you may be able to overcome curbs and obstacles that would otherwise impede you.

NEVER attempt to learn to do a “wheelie” without rst consulting your health care advisor to make sure you are a good

candidate to learn to do a “wheelie.” NEVER attempt to learn to do a “wheelie” without an assistant that can catch you if you should happen to start to fall. NEVER attempt to learn to do a “wheelie” unless you are a skilled rider of this chair. See “Learning to do a ‘Wheelie’” on page 4 of this Manual.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

G. OBSTACLES

I WARNING

When riding outdoors, uneven pavement, sidewalk irregularities, potholes and other obstacles and road hazards can be dangerous. When riding indoors, doorway thresholds, plush carpeting and other obstacles can be dangerous. In order to avoid these risks:

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1. ALWAYS be alert for such dangers.

2. ALWAYS scan the area ahead of you as you ride.

3. REMOVE or cover threshold strips between rooms.

4. INSTALL ramps at entry or exit doors from your residence. Make sure the transition from such ramps to the pavement or other surface is smooth and does not have an abrupt drop-off.

5. ALWAYS make sure the oors where you live and work are level.

6. KEEP all oors where you live and work free of obstacles and hazards.

7. When riding UP and over an obstacle, lean your upper body slightly FORWARD.

8. When riding DOWN from a higher to a lower level, press your upper body BACKWARD lightly.

9. ALWAYS keep both hands on the handrims as you go over an obstacle.

10. NEVER push or pull on any object, such as a door knob or door jamb or furniture, in order to propel your chair.

11. If your chair has anti-tippers, lock them in place before you go UP over an obstacle.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

H. CURBS/STEPS

I WARNING

Curbs and steps are extremely dangerous obstacles.

1. NEVER attempt to go up or down a curb or step without an assistant UNLESS:

a. you are a very skilled rider of your chair; and b. you have previously learned to safely do a “wheelie” in your chair; and c. you are sure you have the strength and balance to control your chair during any such maneuver.

2. ALWAYS unlock and rotate anti-tippers up and out of the way so they do not prevent you from executing this maneuver.

3. Even if you are a highly skilled rider, NEVER attempt to climb or descend a curb or step more than 4” high.

4. ALWAYS go straight up or down a curb or step. NEVER climb or descend at an angle.

5. ALWAYS be aware that the impact of dropping down from a curb or step can damage your chair or cause components to become loose. If you perform such maneuvers, inspect your chair more frequently.

If you are not highly skilled at tilting the chair, or the step or the curb is more than 4” high, ALWAYS have an assistant

help you negotiate curbs and steps. Your assistant must rst read the Warnings contained in this Manual in their entirety,

especially the sections titled “Climbing a Curb or Single Step”, “Climbing a Flight of Stairs”, “Descending a Curb or Single Step” and “Descending a Flight of Stairs” on pages 4-6.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

I. HILLS/SLOPES/RAMPS

I WARNING

The center of balance of your chair is affected by the slope of the surface over which you are riding. Because your center of balance will be affected, your chair will be less stable when it is at an angle. This is especially true when riding on a slope sideways. Furthermore, do not assume anti-tippers will prevent a fall or tip-over under these conditions. The following rules may help to avoid a fall or tip-over:

1. ALWAYS go up or down a slope, hill or ramp as straight as possible. If you try to cut the corner, you will be traversing the slope, hill or ramp sideways to the slope and your risk of tipping over sideways will increase.

2. NEVER use your chair on a slope greater than 10%—a slope with an elevation greater than one foot in height for every ten feet in length.

3. NEVER stop on a steep slope. If you stop on a steep slope, you may not be able to maintain control of the chair.

4. NEVER use rear wheel locks as a brake to slow or stop your chair. Wheel locks are NOT brakes. Doing so will most likely cause the chair to veer out of control.

5. NEVER try to turn around or change direction when going up or down a slope.

6. ALWAYS stay in the CENTER of a ramp.

7. NEVER start up or down a ramp unless you are certain the ramp is wide enough for its entire length so your wheels will not fall off the edge.

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8. In order to control your speed, ALWAYS keep pressure with your hands on the handrims when going down a hill, slope or ramp. DO NOT go too fast. Excessive speed may cause you to lose control of your chair, or it may cause your

casters to utter which can cause a fall or tip-over.

9. ALWAYS lean or press your body in the UPHILL direction. This will help shift your weight to counteract the change in the center of balance caused by the hill, slope or ramp.

10. ALWAYS ask for assistance if you have any concerns at all about your ability to maintain safe control of your chair on a hill, slope or ramp.

11. ALWAYS be alert for wet or slippery conditions or surfaces, any changes in the grade of the slope (such as a lip, bump or depression), and any drop-off or lip at the bottom of a slope. For example, even a 3/4 inch lip at the bottom of a ramp can cause the front casters to stop and cause the chair to tip forward.

12. Ramps at your home and work must meet all legal requirements for your area, including building codes. If you are having a ramp installed at your home or work, ALWAYS make sure it complies with local legal requirements.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

J. STAIRS

I WARNING

NEVER use your wheelchair on stairs without the assistance of at least two (2) able-bodied assistants or attendants and ONLY AFTER such assistants or attendants have read and understand the Warnings “Climbing a Flight of Stairs” and “Descending a Flight of Stairs” on pages 5-6.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

K. ESCALATORS

I WARNING

NEVER use your wheelchair on an escalator, not even with an assistant or attendant.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

L. ASSISTANTS AND ATTENDANTS

I WARNING

Before you permit any person to assist you in any aspect of riding your wheelchair, you MUST require that the assistant or attendant fully read, understand and follow the Warnings contained in this Manual.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

WARNINGS REGARDING COMPONENTS AND OPTIONS

A. ANTI-TIPPERS

I WARNING

Anti-tippers are an optional accessory that can help to prevent your chair from tipping over backward. However, even the use of anti-tippers will not guarantee that your chair will not tip over backward. Also, they will not prevent your chair from tipping over sideways or forward.

TiLite strongly recommends you use anti-tippers with your wheelchair. This is most especially true:

1. if you are a new wheelchair rider; or

2. even if you are an experienced rider but you are switching to a new wheelchair, regardless of whether the prior chair was as lightweight as your TiLite; or

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3. even if you are an experienced rider in your TiLite chair but you have made any modications or adjustments to the conguration of your chair, such as changing the position of the front or rear wheels, changing the seat height, changing the camber or changing the seat or back angle. Any modication or change to your chair can make it easier to tip over and you should use anti-tippers until you have adapted to the modied conguration; or

4. even if you are an experienced rider in your TiLite chair but your physical condition has changed.

In order to properly use your anti-tippers, please follow the following rules:

1. Your anti-tippers should be between 1-1/2 inches to 2 inches off the ground when they are locked in place in the “down” position.

2. If your anti-tippers are set too LOW, they may “catch” on obstacles that you can expect to encounter in normal wheelchair use. If this happens, you may tip over and fall.

3. If your anti-tippers are set too HIGH, their ability to prevent a backward tip-over will be limited and they may not prevent a tip-over at all.

4. ALWAYS keep your anti-tippers locked in place in the “down” position unless:

a. You have an attendant (but your attendant must rotate the anti-tippers into the “down” position whenever he or she

leaves you unattended in your chair, even for a moment), or

b. You have to climb or descend a curb or step or overcome an obstacle. Even if this is the case, only unlock the anti-

tippers if you can safely climb or descend the curb or step or overcome the obstacle and make sure the anti- tippers are locked in the “up” position.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

B. SEAT SLINGS/CUSHIONS

I WARNING

TiLite seat slings (which are standard equipment) and foam cushions (which are optional equipment) are not designed for the relief of pressure. If you have pressure sores, or are at risk to get them, you may need a special pressure-relieving cushion or other seating system. If you have pressure sores, consult with your doctor immediately. If you are at risk to develop pressure sores or do not know if you are at risk, consult with your doctor as to the most appropriate seating system for you. TiLite has NO information about your medical condition and assumes no responsibility should you choose the wrong seating system for your medical needs. You MUST regularly check your seat sling while you are seated in your wheelchair to ensure that the tension is properly adjusted so that your weight does not cause the seat sling to touch the cross tubes beneath the seat sling.

TiLite also offers a limited number of seat cushions manufactured by other manufacturers. However, the selection of any of these products is a decision to be made by you and your doctor or therapist. TiLite has NO information about your medical condition and assumes no responsibility should you choose the wrong seating system for your medical needs.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may develop pressure sores, which can be a life-threatening complication from wheelchair use.

C. UPHOLSTERY FABRIC

I WARNING

1. If the fabric of your seat sling or seat back becomes worn or torn, ALWAYS replace it immediately. If you fail to do so, the seat sling or seat back upholstery may sag or fail.

2. The upholstery on your chair is ame retardant. Laundering or allowing the upholstery to become wet repeatedly will reduce the ame retardant qualities of the fabric.

3. DO NOT “drop down” into your chair. By placing undue force on the upholstery, you will weaken the fabric and it may become worn sooner than it otherwise would. If you do “drop down” into your chair on a regular basis, inspect and replace the upholstery more often.

4. The upholstery on your chair will weaken with age and use. Regularly inspect your upholstery for fraying, thin spots, or stretching of the fabric at the rivet holes.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

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D. SEATING SYSTEMS

I WARNING

TiLite does not sell any seating systems specically designed for use with TiLite wheelchairs, nor does TiLite recommend

any particular seating system. If your doctor or therapist recommends that you use a seating system with your TiLite chair, always consult with an authorized TiLite dealer to determine if the recommended seating system is compatible with your TiLite chair. In addition, the following warnings must be followed:

1. If you add a seating system to your TiLite chair, you will affect its center of balance. This may cause the chair to tip over. Therefore, NEVER install a new seating system on your own. Instead, have it installed by an authorized TiLite dealer who can assist you in making other necessary adjustments to ensure your center of balance is maintained as closely as possible to what you are used to.

2. As with other changes to the conguration of your chair that affect its center of balance, if you add a seating system to your TiLite chair, ALWAYS use anti-tippers until you have fully learned to control your chair in its new conguration.

3. Keep in mind that adding a seating system also may inhibit the proper operation of a folding back wheelchair.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

E. POSITIONING OR SEAT BELTS

I WARNING

TiLite hook & loop, non-padded seat belts and Bodypoint® non-paded hip belts, both of which are optional equipment, are intended ONLY for use as a positioning aid for simple positioning needs, such as posterior pelvic tilt. These belts will not

be sufcient for persons with more involved positioning needs. Only your health care advisor can determine the proper

positioning products for your situation. If used improperly, positioning or seat belts can cause severe injury or even death. If your health care advisor has instructed you to use positioning or seat belts, make sure they instruct you on the proper usage of such belts, and such professional should supervise your use of such belts to ensure you can use them safely.

1. Belts must t snugly in order to work properly. However, they must not be so snug they interfere with your breathing. Your health care advisor should be able to slide his or her open hand at between the belt and your body.

2. Make sure you do not slide down in your chair while wearing a belt. If this should happen, you may suffer chest compression or be suffocated due to pressure from the belt.

3. Do not use a positioning or seat belt unless you are capable of removing the belts easily in an emergency. If you cannot do this, consult with your health care advisor for other options to help with your posture.

4. There are devices that help to keep you from sliding down in the seat of your wheelchair, such as a pelvic wedge.

Consult with your health care advisor to nd out if you need to use such a device in conjunction with positioning or seat

belts to mitigate the risks described above.

5. NEVER use positioning or seat belts as a motor vehicle restraint. These types of belts are not intended to protect the wheelchair rider from the forces involved in a vehicle accident, and they may, in fact, cause you to be injured. TiLite recommends wheelchair users ALWAYS transfer to appropriate motor vehicle seating when traveling in a motor vehicle.

Note to Attendants/Assistants: NEVER use positioning or seat belts as a patient restraint (a restraint requires a doctor’s order) or on a wheelchair user who is comatose or agitated.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

F. ARMRESTS

I WARNING

Armrests are optional equipment on TiLite wheelchairs. TiLite armrests are detachable and are not designed to support the weight of your wheelchair. Therefore, NEVER lift your chair by its armrests. If you do, they may detach, causing you to drop the chair, or you may break the armrests or cause them to become loose and break at a later time unexpectedly. ALWAYS lift your chair by grasping the non-detachable parts of the main frame (not including the swing-away hangers).

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

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Folding Owners Manual

CHAPTER 1: WARNINGS

G. FOOTRESTS/HANGERS

I WARNING

Certain footrests are standard equipment with TiLite wheelchairs. Other, more specialized footrests are optional equipment. The following rules should be followed with respect to footrests:

1. ALWAYS allow for AT LEAST 2 inches of clearance between the ground and the lowest point on the underside of your

footrests. If you set your footrests too LOW, they may “catch” on obstacles you can expect to nd in normal use of your

chair. If your footrests “catch,” the chair may stop and tip forward.

2. NEVER lift your wheelchair by grasping the footrests or the swing-away hangers. Footrests and swing-away hangers are detachable and are not designed to support the weight of your chair. If you do, the footrests or the swing-away hangers may detach, causing you to drop the chair, or you may break the footrests or the swing-away hangers or cause them to become loose and break at a later time unexpectedly.

3. READ and understand the warnings under “Transferring In and Out of Your Wheelchair” on pages 7-8 of this Manual. There is important information in that section regarding your footrests and transfers.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

H. REAR WHEELS

I WARNING

Rear wheels are standard components on your wheelchair. The positioning of the rear wheels is a critical factor in locating the center of balance of your chair. Any change to your rear wheel position will change your center of balance. Therefore, use extreme caution when making any adjustment to the position of your rear wheels.

1. As you move the rear wheels and axles forward on your chair, you shift the center of balance FORWARD. This means it is easier for your chair to tip over backward.

2. As you move the rear wheels and axles backward on your chair, you shift the center of balance BACKWARD. This means your chair is less likely to tip-over backward. However, even if your rear wheels and axles are set as far back as possible, the chair can still tip-over backward.

3. ALWAYS consult with your health care provider to determine the best rear wheel/axle setup for you based on your weight and body type and your abilities to control the chair.

4. Once you and your health care provider have determined the best rear wheel/axle setup for you, NEVER change the setup UNLESS you are sure you are not at risk to tip over.

5. If you do change the rear wheel/axle position, you MUST adjust the positioning of the rear wheel locks to ensure they work properly to lock the rear wheels. When relocating the rear wheel locks, make sure the locking arm indents the tire by at least 1/8th inch when the wheel lock is in the “locked” position.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

I. QUICK-RELEASE AXLES

I WARNING

Stainless quick-release axles are a standard TiLite wheelchair component. Other axle types are optional equipment. Quickrelease axles are designed to make your rear wheels easy to remove quickly. However, if not used properly, they can be dangerous.

NEVER use your chair UNLESS you are sure that both quick-release rear axles are locked into place in the axle receiver. If an axle is not fully locked into place, the rear wheel may come off during use of the chair and cause you to fall. You can

tell when the axle is locked into place because the quick-release button in the center of the axle will pop out fully. It is also a

good idea to pull on the wheel to double-check that the axle is securely locked as a nal precaution.

If you ignore these Warnings, you may fall, tip over or lose control of the wheelchair and seriously injure yourself or others or damage the wheelchair.

Folding Owners Manual

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TiLite Aero 2GX, Aero X, XC, SX, TX Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual