Power wheelchairs are almost similar to cars in that they require regular maintenance and repairing. At time a wheelchair user will postpone maintenance or repairs because they might have a busy schedule. Unfortunately doing so only makes matters worse.
In this article we will cover the necessary steps to take to fix a broken power wheelchair, which will help you bring your chair back to its original state.
Table of Contents
Step 1
First check the backrest. Footrest and leg rest, to assure that they are properly secured and are functioning right.
Step 2
Then you want to locate every bolt and nut on your wheelchair, and make sure they are tight. Replace bolts that are stripped or damaged. Go through the wheelchair owner’s manual as it will provide you with the necessary details on bolt types and bolt sizes as well as the right lubricant to use for your specific model.
Step 3
Ball bearings and pivot points have to constantly be lubricated properly, especially at points where the front casters turn.
Step 4
Although power wheelchairs are powerfully built and durable, they can also show signs of wear in the form of cracks in the cross brace.
If there is a crack in the frame, it is a sign of damage and does pose a threat to your safety. Consult with a professional immediately to get those cracks repaired.
Step 5
The wheel alignment on the wheelchair is also important, as it can create a lot of wear and tear on the wheelchair if it is not taken care of immediately.
Check the axle. There should not be dirt and grime on it and it should also not be damaged. If you notice any sign of damage on the axle or on any other part that would interfere with the alignment, it needs to be looked at immediately by a professional.
Weekly Maintenance
Once you have completed steps 1 to 5 you have to stay on track with this wheelchair maintenance. Inspect the following weekly:
- the frame
- the casters
- the alignment
- the axle
- the brakes
- the wheel locks
- the tire pressure
Monthly Maintenance
Check the following on a monthly basis:
- the nuts
- the bolts
- the frame
- the armrests
- the backrests
- the legrests
- the quick-release axles
Yearly Maintenance
- Check the following on a yearly basis:
- the pivot points
- the ball bearings
- the motor
Summary
Sometimes the fix that you have to apply to your power wheelchair will not be simple such as just replacing the battery or changing the tire.
These machines are complicated and have to be attended to by professional repair technicians. With regular maintenance issues that can be prevented or be easily fixed can be identified.
Sometimes you might be able to identify the problem on the device since you have become familiar with it over the years. If the problem is as easy as replacing the battery or tire, you can easily do so by following the instructions in the owner’s manual.