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Invacare TA4 Owners Manual - Page 3

General, Safety, Overview, Safety/handling Of The Wheelchair, Safety Inspection

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1 GENERAL CONTENTS 7 Symbols ...7 Limited Warranty ...8 2 SAFETY 9 General Guidelines ...9 3 OVERVIEW 15 Label Locations...15 Component Identification ...16 Typical Product Parameters ...17 4 SAFETY/HANDLING OF THE WHEELCHAIR 20 Safety/Handling of the Wheelchair ...20 Stability and Balance ...20 Coping with Everyday Obstacles...23 A Note to Wheelchair Assistants...23 Tipping ...24 Tipping - Curbs...24 Stairways ...25 Escalators ...27 Transferring To and From Other Seats...27 5 SAFETY INSPECTION 28 Safety Inspection Checklist ...28 Troubleshooting...31 Maintenance ...31 Part No 1110545 3 Invacare® A-4® Wheelchair

Section	Page
© 2010 Invacare Corporation. All rights reserved. Republication, duplication or modification in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission from Invacare. Trademarks are identified by ™ and ®. All trademarks are owned by or li...	2
Natural Fit is a registered trademark of Three Rivers.	2
Spinergy is a registered trademark of Spinergy, Inc.	2
3-in-1 oil is a registered trademark of American Home Products Corporation.	2
WD-40 is a registered trademark of WD-40 Company.	2
Loctite 242 is a trademark of the Loctite Corporation.	2
Teflon is a registered trademark of E.I. Du Pont De Nemours and Company.	2
Schwalbe is a registered trademark of Ralf Bohle Gmbh & Co. KG Corporation, Germany.	2
1 General 7	3
Symbols 7	3
Limited Warranty 8	3
2 Safety 9	3
General Guidelines 9	3
3 Overview 15	3
Label Locations 15	3
Component Identification 16	3
Typical Product Parameters 17	3
4 Safety/Handling of the Wheelchair 20	3
Safety/Handling of the Wheelchair 20	3
Stability and Balance 20	3
Coping with Everyday Obstacles 23	3
A Note to Wheelchair Assistants 23	3
Tipping 24	3
Tipping - Curbs 24	3
Stairways 25	3
Escalators 27	3
Transferring To and From Other Seats 27	3
5 Safety Inspection 28	3
Safety Inspection Checklist 28	3
Troubleshooting 31	3
Maintenance 31	3
6 Upholstery 34	4
Removing/Installing Standard Back Upholstery 34	4
Adjustable Tension Back Upholstery 35	4
Removing/Installing Adjustable Tension Back Upholstery 36	4
Seat Upholstery Replacement 37	4
Unfolding/Folding the Back 38	4
7 Frame 40	4
Back Angle Adjustment 40	4
Back Height Adjustment 42	4
Rear Seat-to-Floor Height Adjustment 43	4
Replacing Seat Frame 44	4
Opening/Closing Camber Clamps 46	4
Determining Toe In/Toe Out. 47	4
Adjusting Toe In/Toe Out 48	4
Axle Tube Positioning For 0°/3°, 0°/6°, 3°/6° or 9°/12° Camber Inserts 49	4
Axle Tube Positioning for 0°/9°, 0°/12°, 3°/9°, 6°/9°, 3°/12° or 6°/12° Camber Inserts 49	4
Adjusting The Axle Tube. 52	4
Repositioning Camber Inserts (Adjusting Rear Wheel Camber). 54	4
Adjusting Wheelbase Length (Adjusting Center Of Gravity). 56	4
Adjusting Wheelbase Width 59	4
Replacing Axle Tube 60	4
8 Wheels 63	4
Removing/Installing Rear Wheels 63	4
Adjusting Quick- Release Axle 64	4
Installing Quad-release Axle 64	4
Adjusting The Quad-release Handle 65	5
Removing The Play From The Rear Wheels 66	5
Handrim Replacement 67	5
Wheel Lock Adjustment/Replacement 68	5
Replacing/Adjusting Casters 69	5
Replacing Forks 71	5
Adjusting Caster Height 72	5
Adjusting Front Seat-To-Floor Height 73	5
Determining Frame Size 73	5
Front Seat-to-floor Height Adjustment 74	5
9 Footrest 85	5
Replacing the Footrest 85	5
Footplate Angle Adjustment 85	5
Footplate Depth Adjustment 85	5
10 Anti-Tipper 87	5
Anti-tipper Adjustment/Replacement 87	5
Anti-tipper Adjustment 87	5
Anti-tipper Replacement 88	5
11 Arms 90	5
Installing The T-arm Sockets 90	5
Installing/Removing T-arms 91	5
Adjusting The T- Arms 92	5
Adjusting T-Arm Sockets 94	5
Adjusting T-arm Transfer Assists and/or Side Guards 96	5
Replacing T-arm Locking Lever 96	5
Installing The Half Arm Socket 98	6
Adjusting Half Arm Height 100	6
12 Suspension 101	6
Elastomers And Suspension 101	6
Replacing Rear Elastomers 101	6
Replacing Front Elastomers 102	6
1 General	7
1.1 Symbols	7
Warnings	7
Signal words are used in this manual and apply to hazards or unsafe practices which could result in personal injury or property damage. See the information below for definitions of the signal words.	7
m	7
danger	7
Danger indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.	7
m	7
Warning	7
Warning indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.	7
m	7
caution	7
Caution indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage or minor injury or both.	7
!	7
important	7
Indicates a hazardous situation that could result in damage to property if it is not avoided.	7
i	7
Gives useful tips, recommendations and information for efficient, trouble-free use.	7
1.2 Limited Warranty	8
PLEASE NOTE: THE WARRANTY BELOW HAS BEEN DRAFTED TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL LAW APPLICABLE TO PRODUCTS MANUFACTURED AFTER JULY 4, 1975.	8
This warranty is extended only to the original purchaser/user of our products.	8
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other legal rights which vary from state to state.	8
Invacare warrants the frame to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a lifetime from date of purchase; all remaining components for one (1) year from date of purchase except upholstered materials, padded materials and tires/wheels. If...	8
For warranty service, please contact the dealer from whom you purchased your Invacare product. In the event you do not receive satisfactory warranty service, please write directly to Invacare at the address below, provide dealer’s name, address, an...	8
Limitations and Exclusions: The foregoing warranty shall not apply to serial numbered products if the serial number has been removed or defaced, products subjected to negligence, accident, improper operation, maintenance or storage, products modified...	8
THE FOREGOING EXPRESS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES WHATSOEVER, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND THE SOLE REMEDY FOR VIOLATIONS OF AN...	8
THIS WARRANTY SHALL BE EXTENDED TO COMPLY WITH STATE/PROVINCIAL LAWS AND REQUIREMENTS.	8
i	11
When changes to the left hand column occur, follow across the chart and refer to the 3 procedure to maintain the proper stability, safety and handling of the wheelchair.	11
Footrest Position	11
seat angle	11
back angle	11
seating system	11
caster size	11
caster position	11
rear wheel size	11
rear wheel position	11
anti-tippers	11
user condition	11
Footrest Position	11
l	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
Seat angle	11
3	11
l	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
back angle	11
N/A	11
3	11
l	11
3	11
3	11
seating system/upholstery	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
l	11
3	11
caster size	11
l	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
caster position	11
l	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
N/A	11
rear wheel size	11
3	11
3	11
l	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
N/A	11
rear wheel position	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
l	11
3	11
3	11
N/A	11
anti-tippers	11
N/A	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
l	11
3	11
user condition	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
3	11
NOTE: Additional adjustments may be needed according to the wheelchair type. Refer to the wheelchair owner’s manual for these procedures.	12
m	12
Warning	12
Repair and Service Information	12
Unless otherwise noted, all service and adjustments should be performed while the wheelchair is unoccupied.	12
Operating Information	12
To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence of a qualified healthcare professional before attempting active use of the wheelchair.	12
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat.	12
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to pick them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees.	12
DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery to reach objects from behind as this may cause the wheelchair to tip over.	12
DO NOT shift your weight or sitting position toward the direction you are reaching as the wheelchair may tip over.	12
DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.	12
DO NOT attempt to stop a moving wheelchair with wheel locks. Wheel locks are not brakes.	12
Never leave an unoccupied wheelchair on an incline.	12
DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily injury may occur.	12
DO NOT operate on roads, streets or highways.	12
DO NOT climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 9°.	12
DO NOT attempt to move up or down an incline with a water, ice or oil film.	12
DO NOT attempt to ride over curbs or obstacles. Doing so may cause your wheelchair to turn over and cause bodily harm or damage to the wheelchair.	12
DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.	12
DO NOT stand on the frame of the wheelchair.	12
ALWAYS keep hands and fingers clear of moving parts to avoid injury.	12
m	13
Warning	13
Check all Allen screws that secure the footrest/raised footrest system to the wheelchair frame before using the wheelchair, especially if engaging in any contact sport.	13
Anti-tippers MUST be used at all times. When outdoors on wet, soft ground or on gravel surfaces, anti-tippers may not provide the same level of protection against tip over. Extra caution MUST be observed when traversing such surfaces. Inasmuch as the...	13
Engaging the wheel locks may not prevent the wheelchair from moving on all floor surfaces including those that may be wet or slick. ALWAYS exercise caution when transferring into or out of the wheelchair.	13
Always use the handrims for self-propulsion. Inasmuch as the handrims are an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the handrims), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the handrims as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.	13
DO NOT use the footplate as a platform when getting in or out of the wheelchair.	13
Seat Positioning Straps	13
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch as the seat positioning strap is an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the seat positioning strap), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the seat positioning strap as an additio...	13
With regards to seat/chest positioning straps - it is the obligation of the DME dealer, therapists and other healthcare professionals to determine if a seat/chest positioning strap is required to ensure the safe operation of this equipment by the use...	13
Tire Pressure and Information	13
DO NOT use your wheelchair unless it has the proper tire pressure (p.s.i.). DO NOT overinflate the tires. Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tire to explode and cause bodily harm. The recommended tire pressure is on the sidewall of the...	13
Replacement of the tire or tube MUST be performed by a qualified technician.	13
m	14
Warning	14
Weight Training	14
Invacare DOES NOT recommend the use of its wheelchairs as a weight training apparatus. Invacare wheelchairs have not been designed or tested as a seat for any kind of weight training. If occupant uses said wheelchair as a weight training apparatus, I...	14
Weight Limitation	14
The Invacare A-4 wheelchair has a weight limitation of 300 lbs. (136 kg).	14
3 Overview	16
Seat Upholstery	16
3.3 Typical Product Parameters	17
A-4	17
FRAME TYPE	17
Seat width	17
Camber width	17
(add the inches listed in the chart to the wheelchair width to obtain the overall width of the wheelchair at the widest point)	17
Seat depth	17
seat-to-floor (approx)	17
front	17
rear	17
Back style	17
Back Height	17
footrest	17
side wheel clearance	18
rear axle	18
Rear wheel camber	18
single	18
dual	18
rear wheels	18
Handrims	18
Wheel locks	18
Caster size	18
seat cushion	18
back upholstery	18
arms (optional)	18
weight**	18
shipping weight** (approx)	18
i	19
*The seat-to-floor heights are based on pneumatic tires and pneumatic tires with flat-free inserts. If the wheelchair is equipped with urethane tires, subtract 1/4” from the measurements listed above. All heights are measured with properly inflated...	19
**Subtract one (1) pound for Titanium models. Subtract one-half (1/2) pound for single camber inserts. Add one (1) pound for wheelchairs with the suspension option.	19
4 Safety/Handling of the Wheelchair	20
4.1 Safety/Handling of the Wheelchair	20
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the close attention of the wheelchair user as well as the assistant. This manual points out the most common procedures and techniques involved in the safe operation and maintenance of the wheelchai...	20
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The techniques that are discussed on the following pages have been used successfully by many.	20
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that may differ from those described in this manual. Invacare recognizes and encourages each individual to try what works best for him/her in overcoming architectur...	20
4.2 Stability and Balance	20
m	20
warning	20
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch as the seat positioning strap is an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the seat positioning strap), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the seat positioning strap as an additio...	20
ALWAYS check hand grips for looseness before using the wheelchair. If loose and/or worn, replace IMMEDIATELY.	20
Be aware that carrying heavy objects on your lap while occupying the wheelchair may adversely affect the stability of the wheelchair, resulting in serious bodily injury to the user, damage to the wheelchair and surrounding property.	20
This wheelchair has been designed to accommodate one individual. If more than one individual occupies the wheelchair this may adversely affect the stability of the wheelchair, resulting in serious bodily injury to the user and passenger and damage th...	20
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you MUST at all times maintain proper balance. Your wheelchair has been designed to remain upright and stable during normal daily activities as long as you DO NOT move beyond the center of ...	20
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the center of gravity. Invacare recommends using seat positioning straps for additional safety while involved in activities that shift your weight.	21
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than stability will allow. Make sure casters are pointing in the forward position whenever you lean forward. This can be achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.	21
m	21
Warning	21
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees.	21
The position of the footrest, camber tube, back angle, the tautness of the back upholstery as well as the user's condition are directly related to the wheelchair's stability. Any change to one or any combination of the five may cause the wheelchair t...	21
Many activities require the wheelchair owner to reach, bend and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to the normal balance, the center of gravity, and the weight distribution of the wheelchair.	21
To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence of a qualified health-care professional before attempting active use of wheelchair.	21
Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, bending forward, it is important to use the front casters as a tool to maintain stability and balance.	21
• Lengthening the wheelbase will increase the stability and maintain standard maneuverability of wheelchair.	21
• Shortening the wheelbase will decrease the stability, increase the maneuverability and distribute additional weight onto the rear wheels.	21
Lengthening the Wheelbase	22
Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward	22
m	22
WARNING	22
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees.	22
Position the front casters so that they are extended as far forward as possible and engage wheel locks.	22
Reaching, Leaning - Backwards	23
m	23
WARNING	23
DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery. This will change your center of gravity and may cause you to tip over.	23
Position the wheelchair as close as possible to the desired object. Position the casters so that they are extended away from the drive wheels to create the longest possible wheelbase. Reach back only as far as your arm will extend without changing yo...	23
4.3 Coping with Everyday Obstacles	23
Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles can be alleviated somewhat by learning how to manage your wheelchair. Keep in mind your center of gravity to maintain stability and balance.	23
4.4 A Note to Wheelchair Assistants	23
When assistance to the wheelchair user is required, remember to use good body mechanics. Keep your back straight and bend your knees whenever tilting the wheelchair or traversing curbs, or other impediments.	23
m	23
WARNING	23
Do not attempt to lift a wheelchair by lifting on any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.	23
Also, be aware of any removable (detachable) parts. These MUST NEVER be used to move the wheelchair or as lifting supports, as they may be inadvertently released, resulting in possible injury to the user and/or assistant(s).	24
When learning a new assistance technique, have an experienced assistant help you before attempting it alone.	24
4.5 Tipping	24
m	24
WARNING	24
DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.	24
Do not let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant.	24
When tipping the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a non-removable (non-detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant before tilting the wheelchair and remind him/her to lean back. Be sure the occupant’s feet an...	24
4.6 Tipping - Curbs	24
m	24
WARNING	24
Invacare does not recommend that sport wheelchairs be used where traversing curbs present an obstacle. Possible injury to occupant and/or assistant(s) can occur. Transfer to an everyday use wheelchair is recommended if any such obstacles may be encou...	24
After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair, use the following method to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.	24
Turn the anti-tippers, if equipped, so the wheels are facing up. Unless the first assistant has exceptional upper body strength, it is recommended that two assistants perform this operation. The second assistant should be positioned at the front of t...	24
The first assistant should stand on the sidewalk and turn the wheelchair so that the rear wheels are against the curb. The wheelchair should be tilted back to the balance point and, in one continuous upward movement, the rear wheels should be pulled ...	25
m	25
WARNING	25
When lowering the front casters of the wheelchair, Do not let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant and/or damage to the wheelchair.	25
FIGURE 3 Tipping - Curbs	25
4.7 Stairways	25
m	25
WARNING	25
Extreme caution is advised when it is necessary to move an occupied wheelchair up or down a stairway. Invacare recommends that, if possible, the user be removed from the wheelchair prior to moving. Invacare recommends using two assistants and making ...	25
Follow this procedure for moving the wheelchair between floors when an elevator is NOT available:	25
Moving Up Stairs	25
1. If necessary, rotate the anti-tippers so the wheels are facing up.	25
2. One assistant (positioned behind the wheelchair), securely grasps a non-removable (non-detachable) part of the wheelchair for leverage and tilts the wheelchair back to the balance point.	26
3. After the wheelchair has been tilted back to the balance point, the assistant behind the wheelchair backs the wheelchair up against the first step.	26
4. The second assistant (positioned in the front of the wheelchair), with a firm hold on a non-detachable part of the framework, lifts the wheelchair up and on to the next stair above and steadies the wheelchair as the assistant behind the wheelchair...	26
5. The wheelchair should not be lowered until the last stair has been negotiated and the wheelchair has been rolled away from the stairway.	26
6. If necessary, rotate the anti-tippers so the wheels are facing down.	26
Moving Down Stairs	26
1. If necessary, rotate the anti-tippers so the wheels are facing up.	26
2. One assistant (positioned behind the wheelchair), securely grasps a non-removable (non-detachable) part of the wheelchair for leverage and tilts the wheelchair back to the balance point.	26
3. After the wheelchair has been tilted back to the balance point, the assistant behind the wheelchair rolls the wheelchair up to the edge of the first step.	26
4. The second assistant (positioned in the front of the wheelchair), with a firm hold on a non-detachable part of the framework, lowers the wheelchair down and on to the next stair below and steadies the wheelchair as the assistant in the rear places...	26
5. The wheelchair should not be lowered until the last stair has been negotiated and the wheelchair has been rolled away from the stairway.	26
6. If necessary, rotate the anti-tippers so the wheels are facing down.	26
FIGURE 4 Stairways	26
4.8 Escalators	27
m	27
WARNING	27
DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily injury may occur.	27
4.9 Transferring To and From Other Seats	27
m	27
WARNING	27
BEFORE attempting to transfer in or out of the wheelchair, every precaution should be taken to reduce the gap distance. Turn both casters parallel to the object you are transferring onto. Also be certain the wheel locks are engaged to help prevent th...	27
When transferring, position yourself as far back as possible in the seat. This will prevent damaged upholstery and the possibility of the wheelchair tipping forward.	27
i	27
This activity may be performed independently provided you have adequate mobility and upper body strength.	27
FIGURE 5 Transferring To and From Other Seats	27
5 Safety Inspection	28
i	28
Every six months, take your wheelchair to a qualified technician for a thorough inspection and servicing. Regular cleaning will reveal loose or worn parts and enhance the smooth operation of your wheelchair. To operate properly and safely, your wheel...	28
5.1 Safety Inspection Checklist	28
m	28
CAUTION	28
As with any vehicle, the wheels and tires should be checked periodically for cracks and wear, and should be replaced if damaged.	28
Initial adjustments should be made to suit your personal body structure and preference. Thereafter follow these maintenance procedures:	28
Inspect Initially	28
Ensure wheelchair rolls straight (no excessive drag/pull to one side).	28
Ensure wheel locks Do not interfere with tires when rolling.	28
Ensure pivot points are free of wear and looseness.	28
Ensure wheel locks are easy to engage and prevent the wheels from moving.	28
Ensure that the casters are free of debris.	28
Inspect seat and back upholstery for rips or sagging.	28
Inspect upholstery fastening flaps to ensure they securely latch.	28
Inspect seat positioning strap for any signs of wear. Ensure buckle latches. Verify hardware that attaches strap to frame is secure and undamaged. Replace if necessary.	28
Ensure hand grips (if equipped) are not loose.	28
Ensure quick release axles and camber inserts are clean.	29
Ensure camber bar mounting clamps are securely tightened.	29
Ensure quick/quad release axles lock properly.	29
Ensure no excessive side movement or binding when lifted and spun.	29
Inspect handrims for signs of rough edges or peeling.	29
Inspect spokes for bent or broken spokes.	29
Ensure all spokes are uniformly tight.	29
Clean upholstery and armrests.	29
Inspect wheel/fork assembly for proper tension by spinning caster; caster should come to a gradual stop.	29
Loosen/tighten locknut if wheel wobbles noticeably or binds to a stop.	29
Ensure wheel bearings are clean and free of moisture.	29
Inspect tires for flat spots and wear.	29
If pneumatic tires check for proper inflation.	29
Check that all labels are present and legible. Replace if necessary.	29
Inspect/Adjust Weekly	29
Ensure wheel locks are easy to engage and prevent the wheels from moving.	29
Ensure that the casters are free of debris.	29
Ensure hand grips (if equipped) are not loose.	29
Ensure quick release axles and camber inserts are clean.	29
Ensure quick/quad release axles lock properly.	29
Inspect handrims for signs of rough edges or peeling.	29
Inspect spokes for bent or broken spokes.	29
Ensure All spokes uniformly tight.	29
Inspect wheel/fork assembly for proper tension by spinning caster; caster should come to a gradual stop.	29
Inspect tires for flat spots and wear.	30
If pneumatic tires check for proper inflation.	30
Inspect/Adjust Monthly	30
Ensure wheel locks Do not interfere with tires when rolling.	30
Ensure that the casters are free of debris.	30
Ensure pivot points are free of wear and looseness.	30
Inspect upholstery fastening flaps to ensure they securely latch.	30
Inspect seat positioning strap for any signs of wear. Ensure buckle latches. Verify hardware that attaches strap to frame is secure and undamaged. Replace if necessary.	30
Ensure camber bar mounting clamps are securely tightened.	30
Loosen/tighten locknut if wheel wobbles noticeably or binds to a stop.	30
Ensure wheel bearings are clean and free of moisture.	30
Inspect/Adjust Periodically	30
Ensure wheelchair rolls straight (no excessive drag/pull to one side).	30
Ensure wheel locks are easy to engage.	30
Ensure that the casters are free of debris.	30
Inspect seat and back upholstery for rips or sagging.	30
Ensure camber bar mounting clamps are securely tightened.	30
Ensure no excessive side movement or binding when lifted and spun.	30
Inspect handrims for signs of rough edges or peeling.	30
Clean upholstery and armrests.	30
Ensure wheel bearings are clean and free of moisture.	30
Check that all labels are present and legible. Replace if necessary.	30
5.2 Troubleshooting	31
5.3 Maintenance	31
Maintenance Safety Precautions	31
m	31
Warning	31
After any adjustments, repair or service and before use, make sure all attaching hardware is tightened securely - otherwise injury or damage may occur.	31
Replace any labels that are missing, worn, or torn. Refer to Label Locations on page 12 for a listing of the labels and their locations	31
caution	31
DO NOT overtighten hardware attaching to the frame. This could cause damage to the frame tubing.	31
Suggested Maintenance Procedures	32
1. Before using your wheelchair, make sure all nuts and bolts are tight.	32
2. Check all parts for damage or wear and replace.	32
3. Check all parts for proper adjustment.	32
4. Keep quick/quad-release axles free of dirt and lint to ensure positive locking and proper operation. Refer to Adjusting Quick- Release Axle on page 64 or Adjusting The Quad-release Handle on page 65.	32
m	32
Warning	32
Do Not use WD-40®, 3-in-1 oil®, or other penetrating lubricants on quick-release axles or camber inserts. Otherwise, binding and/or damage to the wheelchair may occur.	32
5. Clean quick-release axles and camber inserts once a week with a Teflon® lubricant.	32
m	32
Warning	32
DO NOT use your wheelchair unless it has the proper tire pressure (p.s.i.).	32
DO NOT overinflate the tires. Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tire to explode and cause bodily harm. The recommended tire pressure is on the sidewall of the tire.	32
CAUTION	32
As with any vehicle, the wheels and tires should be checked periodically for cracks and wear, and should be replaced if damaged.	32
6. Periodically adjust wheel locks in correlation to tire wear. Refer to Replacing/Adjusting the Wheel Locks on page 59.	33
i	33
Tire wear is excessive if:	33
• Pneumatic Tires - there is missing tread or the tires are bald.	33
• Urethane Tires - there are cuts, surface defects or the tires are loose on the rims.	33
• Rubber Tires - 30% or more of the tire has worn away.	33
Invacare recommends that rear wheel tire/tube and caster tire/tube be replaced every five years.	33
7. Regularly check for loose spokes in the rear wheels. If loose, have them adjusted. Contact a qualified technician or Invacare customer support at the telephone numbers on the back of this manual.	33
8. Periodically check handrims to ensure they are secured to the rear wheels. Refer to Handrim Replacement on page 67.	33
9. Periodically check caster wheel bearings to make sure they are clean and free from moisture. Use a Teflon® lubricant if necessary.	33
10. Check upholstery for sagging, rips or tears.	33
11. Clean upholstery with mild soap and water.	33
Replacing/Repairing Rear Wheel Tire/Tube	33
m	33
Warning	33
Replacement of solid urethane tires is not recommended. If the solid urethane tire needs repaired, Invacare recommends replacing the complete wheel assembly.	33
Replacement of rear wheel tube must be performed by a qualified technician.	33
Replacing/Repairing Caster Tire/Tube	33
m	33
warning	33
Replacement of solid urethane or semi-pneumatic tires is not recommended. If the solid urethane or semi-pneumatic tires need replaced, Invacare recommends replacing complete caster assembly.	33
For pneumatic tires, replacement of the tube must be performed by a qualified technician.	33
6 Upholstery	34
m	34
Warning	34
After any adjustments, repair or service and before use, make sure all attaching hardware is tightened securely - otherwise injury or damage may occur.	34
6.1 Removing/Installing Standard Back Upholstery	34
m	34
Warning	34
The position of the footrest, seat angle, back angle, seating system/upholstery, caster size and position, rear wheel size and position, use of anti-tippers, as well as the user condition directly relate to the stability of the wheelchair. Any change...	34
Removing Standard Back Upholstery	34
1. Unfasten the two fastening flaps that secure the bottom of the existing back upholstery to the back canes.	34
2. Unfold the top of the back upholstery.	34
3. Lift up on the existing back upholstery and remove from the wheelchair.	34
Installing Standard Back Upholstery	34
1. Install the new back upholstery onto the back canes.	34
2. Wrap the end of a fastening flap around the back cane.	34
3. Insert the end of the fastening flap through the loop.	34
4. Wrap the fastening flap around the back cane again and press firmly to secure.	34
5. Fold the top of the back upholstery down over the back canes towards the front of the wheelchair.	34
6. Press firmly to secure the fastening strips.	34
Fastening Strips	36
The adjustable tension straps can be adjusted at various levels of tension to accommodate individual end-users. The bottom two straps can be adjusted tightly to support and/or assist the extensor muscles.	36
The back upholstery cover is designed for three reasons:	36
• The first is as a modesty cover.	36
• The second is to keep the cushion from sliding out of the back of the wheelchair.	36
• The third is a sacral support depending upon how far or tight the seat portion of the back upholstery cover is pulled under the seat cushion.	36
6.3 Removing/Installing Adjustable Tension Back Upholstery	36

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CONTENTS

Part No 1110545

Invacare® A-4® Wheelchair

GENERAL

Symbols

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Limited Warranty

SAFETY

General Guidelines

OVERVIEW

Label Locations

Component Identification

Typical Product Parameters

SAFETY/HANDLING OF THE WHEELCHAIR

Safety/Handling of the Wheelchair

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Stability and Balance

Coping with Everyday Obstacles

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A Note to Wheelchair Assistants

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Tipping

Tipping - Curbs

Stairways

Escalators

Transferring To and From Other Seats

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SAFETY INSPECTION

Safety Inspection Checklist

Troubleshooting

Maintenance