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CAUTION
Freewheel operation is only intended for short-term use in SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES, NOT as a regular or
permanent mode of Powerchair movement. In freewheel mode the Powerchair is NOT secured by the
electromagnetic brakes, as both brake systems are out of action during this time. Before you attempt to drive the
Powerchair again, ensure that both drive couplings are fully engaged.
Driving Practice
Release the manual brake. With the joystick you now control movement and direction of the Powerchair.
To reverse, pull the joystick backward. By moving the joystick left or right (while the Powerchair is moving
forward or backward) you steer the Powerchair. Push the joystick full left or right, and the Powerchair will
turn around within its smallest turning circle. To slow down, guide the joystick towards its centre (neutral)
position. If you have to stop in an emergency, simply release the joystick. It will automatically snap back to
neutral and the Powerchair will come to a smooth halt. As a last resort ONLY press the On/Off switch
which will serve as an emergency off switch. Once at a standstill, the Powerchair is instantly locked by the
electromagnetic parking brakes, so that it is perfectly safe while it is stationary, even on an incline.
Transferring to and from your Powerchair
Circumstances and individual needs will vary from person to person, we advise you consult your Therapeutic
Adviser who will help to advise and develop your skills for the appropriate transfer methods to suit your
individual requirements. DO NOT attempt transferring unaided until you are confident and proficient in the
skills to do so, remember always during transfer make sure the brakes are in the locked position and the
Powerchair is manouvered as close as possible to the transfer seat and switched off.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE AND GENERAL CARE
Your Powerchair is perhaps the one piece of equipment which gives you freedom and mobility, therefore
it is important to look after it. Your Powerchair comprises of sophisticated electronic control systems
and electrically operated parts, which should be checked and adjusted at regular intervals. Some of these
checks you can, and should, carry out yourself, such as effective functioning of parking brake, tyres etc.
There are procedures which demand more expertise, we therefore strongly advise you to have your
Powerchair inspected and serviced by your local INVACARE supplier/dealer at least once a year. It will
save you money in the long term, because certain minor irregularities or faults that are detected at an
early stage before they develop into some major and more costly repairs.
Tyres
Check the tyres for excessive wear and possible damage (cracks, etc.). Check that solid tyres are firmly
seated on the wheel rim (not loose) and free of damage. Excessively worn or damaged tyres should be
replaced without delay.
Control Box and Power Module
Control Box and Power Module are in a splashproof enclosure, they should not be subjected to direct
spillage of liquids (tipped over glasses, etc.). If spillage does occur, switch off power and dry the affected
surfaces with an absorbent cloth. Do not expose the joystick box or the power module to excessive heat
at close range (electric fire, hot air blower, etc.). To clean the joystick box and power module wipe the
surfaces with a lint free cloth dampened with warm water or alcohol. DO NOT USE SOLVENTS.
NOTE
The indicator light in the ON/OFF switch may also begin to flash in certain other situations, because it also
functions as a fault indicator in the event of any failure in the electric and/or electronic system of the Powerchair.
For details, refer to the TROUBLESHOOTING in the joystick Operation Manual supplied with your Joystick.
Check the joystick rubber gaiter and keypad are in good condition and show no signs of cracks, pin holes, etc.
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