FAQ - Wheelchair Maintenance
A wheelchair should provide easy transportation, comfortable seating and as much functional independence for the user as possible.
Operating Instructions:
Armrests: Most chairs offer six-inch arm pads called desk-length arms. However, some have longer ones called full-length arms. Full-length arms are at least 10” long.
Brakes: There are two types of brakes. Those that pull and those that push to lock. Do not attempt to sit or get up without engaging the brakes.
Cleaning: We do not recommend cleaning the frame with a water hose. Instead, use a general-purpose spray and a clean cloth. Should the chair become wet from rain, etc., dry it as soon as possible. This approach will reduce the likelihood of rust. You can also polish the frame with an auto wax.
Folding and unfolding: Lift up under the front center of the seat upholstery. To unfold, tilt the chair slightly to one side to raise the wheels o the opposite side off the floor. Then press down on one or both seat rails.
Footplates: The footplates can be folded up into the vertical position by lifting up on the inside edges of the footplates.
Front riggings: Most of chairs in park have swing away front riggings. They can be adjusted. However, we recommend leaving at least a two-inch buffer between the bottom of the footplate and the sidewalk.
Lubrication & Maintenance:
Brakes…The wheel locks will wear down. However, the locks are designed to permit adjustment as the wear occurs. Excessive wear on the brakes is dangerous.
Casters…Remove front wheels and sparingly lubricate the bearings with white lithium grease or some other non-spray lubricant. Grease typically works better than sprays.
Rear wheels…Inspect the rear wheels regularly. Over time, rear wheels can develop too much play.
Upholstery…Clean the upholstery with a mild soap solution, rinse and wipe dry. Worn or torn upholstery should be replaced promptly as it may not support your body weight.
Tires: Inspect tires for excessive wear and tear or dry rot. If it looks unsafe, replace the tires.
Transferring: Casters should be in the forward position before transferring. Stepping on the footplates could cause tipping. Consequently, the best approach is to release both footrests and swing them away or completely remove them from the chair.
Weight capacity…the standard weight capacity of most chrome chairs is 250 lbs. However, oversized chairs can hold up to 1,000 lbs. The weight capacity is the single most important feature of any chair.
Troubleshooting Guide:
Arm pads torn…replace
Brake tip dry rotted or cracked…replace
Brake moves forward so it doesn’t touch the rear wheel any longer…adjust brake toward the rear of chair
Caster ball bearings come apart…replace
Foot plate won’t stay in a vertical position…tighten bolts/screws
Foot plate/rest broken…replace component or entire foot rest
Handrim looses screws or is warped…replace screws/bolts. Warping, gouging, or pitting may necessitate replacing handrim.
Rear axle bolt broken or rear ball bearings come apart…replace
Seat rail guide is missing or is broken…replace
Seat and back upholstery tearing away from the seat rail guide…replace
We would be glad to answer any questions about the operation or maintenance of your wheelchair. Contact The Medical Warehouse & Service Center at 336-803-2516. We are here to help you!