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Safety messages and other information in this manual are preceded by the words DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION or NOTICE. They are printed in bold face, and are very important. We recommend you take special notice of this information.
Danger indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Warning indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Caution indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE: Notices are messages not related to personal injury. They will provide key information to prevent property damage and to assure procedures are more easily understood or implemented.
The Chariot is a single passenger vehicle involving stand-up operation. This vehicle is designed to be driven on smooth surfaces in and around industrial plants, nurseries, institutions, motels, mobile home parks, and resorts.
This vehicle is not designed to be driven on public highways. It is designed to conform to requirements for Type E vehicles as described in O.S.H.A. Standard Section 1910.178 (Powered Industrial Trucks) and with all applicable portions of the American National Standard for Personnel and Burden Carriers (ANSI B56.8 1993 Part III).
Each vehicle is assigned a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN describes facts and features of the vehicle and contains thirteen (13) digits. The VIN can be found in two locations.
The VIN is recorded on the vehicle nameplate which is located on the left side of the operator's position.
The nameplate also has other important information such as vehicle weights and capacity. Do not exceed this capacity. This rated capacity includes cargo and operator.
The VIN is also stamped on the metal crossbar located under the foot treadle platform.
To ensure prompt service when repairs or adjustments are required, your Columbia Dealer must have the VIN.
CR1A1-0ZG1234 is an example of a current VIN.
13 DIGIT VIN – USED AFTER FEBRUARY 2006
Digit 1 thru 3 = Abbreviation (Model) | CR1 (CR-10 Chariot) |
Digit 4 = Power System | A = Series, Resistor |
Digit 5 = System Voltage | 1 = 12V |
Digit 6 = VIN Spacer | - = normal |
# = Special Product | |
Digit 7= Controller Amperage | 0 = Not Applicable |
Digit 8 = Axle/Brake System | Z = Rear Mechanical |
Digit 9 = Build Year | H = 2009, J = 2010, K = 2011 etc. (Letters I & O not used)* |
Digit 10 Thru 13 – Build Sequence | 1234 |
Passenger Capacity | 1 |
Max. Speed (MPH) | 9 |
Turning – Curb to Curb (in) | 79 |
Turning –Intersecting Aisle (in) | 41 |
Overall Length (in) | 52 |
Overall Width (in) | 29.5 |
Overall Height (in) | 44 |
Wheelbase (in) | 36 |
Load Bed Height (in) | 24 |
Load Bed – LxW (in) | 18x16 |
Tires | 4.80x8, Pneumatic, 6 ply, Load Range C 4.80x8, Foam Filled, 6 ply, Load Range C |
Upon receipt of vehicle, perform a pre-delivery inspection of the vehicle. Also, before using the vehicle, there are checks that must be performed to ensure that it is in safe proper working order.
NOTICE: Vehicle should be inspected immediately after delivery. Use the following guidelines to make sure there are no obvious problems.
Examine the contents of all packages and accessories that may have come in separate packages with this vehicle. Make sure everything listed on the packing slip is there. Items should not be broken or damaged.
Examine any visible wiring for obvious signs of damage. Check that all connections are secure. Check that battery connections are tight and all cells are filled to above plates. Check for damaged or leaking batteries.
Inspect the tires for obvious wear or damage. Check for proper tire inflation. Refer to manufactures recommendation imprinted on tire sidewall. Make sure that all wheel lugs are secure.
Check the body and other parts for obvious damage. Look for body damage, jagged edges etc. that may cause personal injury.
Operate each of the following controls before turning on the power keyswitch.
NOTICE: Each control should operate smoothly and easily without sticking or requiring excessive effort.
Check that the horn sounds and that the key can only be removed when keyswitch is in the "OFF" position.
If vehicle has just been delivered, report any physical damage or missing items to the shipping company and your local Columbia Dealer.
Report any service issue problems to the individual(s) responsible for correction and/or repair or contact your local Columbia Dealer for service.
If any problems are found, Do not operate vehicle until repairs are made. Failure to make necessary repairs could result in fire, severe personal injury, property damage or death. Consult your local Columbia Dealer for professional service.
This section describes the operating controls of the vehicle. Figure 3.3.1 identifies the locations of many of these controls.
Figure 3.3.1 Arrow A
The keyswitch energizes the vehicle. Rotate the key to the right from vertical to turn the vehicle on, return to vertical to turn the vehicle off.
If equipped, the keyswitch can also have a reverse direction. Rotate the key to the left from vertical to move in reverse (REV).
NOTICE: Do not shift from forward to reverse or vice-versa while the vehicle is in motion. Make sure the vehicle is completely stopped before changing direction.
To avoid injury, speed in reverse should always be kept at a minimum.
The keyswitch should be in the vertical OFF position whenever the operator leaves the vehicle. The switch is also designed to secure and disable the vehicle. You can remove the key only when the key switch is in the OFF position.
Figure 3.3.1 Arrow B
The battery state of charge meter is an analog gauge with an indicating needle and a colored background. It is a continuously reading meter. At rest with fully charged batteries the meter should read in the right white region.
When accelerating quickly, the needle will move to the left green region near the very far left red region. This is normal. If the needle continues past the green region into the very far left red region, it indicates that the batteries need recharging as soon as possible to avoid a shut-down of the vehicle.
FIGURE 3.3.1 Arrow C
The horn button is located on the left inside body panel and may be sounded by applying lateral pressure with the operator's left leg.
Figure 3.3.1 Arrow D
The charger receptacle is for battery charging using the supplied AC cord.
Figure 3.3.1 Arrow E
The Low Battery Reset Switch is used if the battery is heavily over discharged. See Section LOW BATTERY RESET SWITCH.
FIGURE 3.3.1 Arrows F
These lights indicate the battery charging status.
Figure 3.3.1 Arrows G & H
Read the warning label and operating instruction information carefully before operating the vehicle.
Do not remove any nameplate, warnings, or instructions affixed to your Columbia Vehicle. Promptly replace any that become damaged or removed. Contact Columbia ParCar for replacements.
The foot treadle platform controls acceleration and braking. By slowly tilting the treadle forward (weight on toes) the accelerator is engaged and vehicle moves forward. By tilting the treadle backward (weight on heels) the brake is applied.
NOTICE: Do not stomp down on the rear of treadle.
The parking brake is spring loaded to set automatically when leaving the vehicle and is automatically Figure 3.3.2 disengaged by tilting the treadle forward.
(NOT SHOWN)
The steering system is designed to operate as a bicycle does. The vehicle will turn to the same direction as the handle bar.
Be sure to have both hands on the handlebars at all times.
Do not turn the vehicle sharply at high speeds.
Before operating the vehicle always inspect the items listed in the following checklist. Should any item malfunction or need adjustment. Do not operate vehicle until the problem has been corrected.
ITEM | PROCEDURE |
Batteries | Fully charged or adequately charged to provide power for duration of operations. |
The AC cord is disconnected from the vehicle. | |
Electrolyte level in each cell covers the top of cell plates. | |
Batteries are secure and free of corrosion. | |
All terminals and connections are tight. | |
Tire Pressure | Inflated to the specifications labeled on the tire sidewall. |
Horn | Press horn button to sound horn. |
Treadle | Operates smoothly |
Labels | All warning and operation labels in place. |
Steering | Responsiveness and the absence of excessive free play. |
Cargo | Secured to the bed platform. |
Load is balanced and not top heavy. | |
Obstacles | Path of intended travel is free for obstructions. |
The type of battery used in a Columbia vehicle has a service requirement which is quite different from that of an automotive battery.
The electric vehicle battery supplies all of the power to drive the vehicle. During operation the power stored in the batteries is expended. While the amperage drain rate can vary greatly depending on the type of service, the duration of use and the number of "starts" and "stops" made during a day, the batteries nevertheless progress through each duty cycle from "fully charged" to an almost depleted state. This type of service is known as "deep cycle" service and electric vehicle batteries are specifically designed to handle this type of service.
Proper performance of your Columbia Vehicle can only be obtained from specified deep cycle, electric vehicle batteries.
PLEASE REVIEW IMPORTANT DANGER STATEMENTS WHEN WORKING AROUND BATTERIES AND CHARGING SYSTEMS!
Always remove key and disconnect batteries before servicing or repairing the vehicle (Section BATTERY DISCONNECT METHODS).
Always wear full-face shield when working on or near batteries.
All batteries used in electric vehicles can explode! Batteries produce explosive hydrogen gas at all times, especially, during charging or discharging. Ventilate area when charging batteries.
Do not attempt to charge a battery if it is frozen, or if the case is bulged excessively. Frozen batteries can explode!
Properly dispose of the battery.
Do not smoke around batteries. Keep sparks and flames away from batteries and the charging area.
When working around or servicing batteries use care to prevent an accidental arc which could cause an explosion.
Use only approved insulated tools, remove jewelry such as rings, watches, chains etc. and place an insulating material (wood, plastic, rubber etc.) over all battery connections.
If any problems are found during scheduled maintenance or inspections, do not operate vehicle until repairs are made.
Failure to make necessary repairs could result in fire, property damage, severe personal injury, or death.
Battery acid is poisonous and can cause severe burns. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, or clothing.
ANTIDOTES
EXTERNAL: Flush with water. Call a physician immediately.
INTERNAL: Drink large quantities of milk or water. Follow with milk of magnesia or vegetable oil. Call a physician immediately
EYES: Flush with water for fifteen minutes. Call physician immediately.
NOTICE: Automotive batteries should never be used for "deep cycle" application, as their useful life will be very short.
Install surge arrestors on incoming AC power lines. Surge arrestors will help protect electrical/electronic components in the charger and vehicle from all but direct or "close proximity" lightning strikes.
Damaged or corroded battery terminals should be replaced or cleaned as necessary. Failure to do so may cause overheating during operation.
Do not attempt to recharge batteries with a charger not designed for your vehicle.
Only trained technicians should service the CR-10 charger. Contact your Columbia Dealer for assistance.
Check the electrolyte level on new batteries before they are put into service, and, at a minimum, once a week thereafter. Water use increases as batteries age.
See Figure 4.2.1. Never allow the electrolyte level (A) to fall below the top of the plates (C). If the plates are exposed, add only enough to cover the plates before charging. After batteries are fully charged, fill cells to just below the bottom of the cell vents (B). Electrolyte level should not touch the bottom of the cell vents.
Do not overfill batteries. Electrolyte expands and can overflow during charging. Water added to replace the spillage dilutes the electrolyte and reduces its specific gravity.
Use only distilled water. Vehicle batteries may use up to 16 quarts of water during their useful life and non-distilled water may contain harmful minerals which will have a cumulative adverse effect on battery performance and life.
Batteries and connections must be clean and dry. See Section BATTERY CLEANING.
Be sure battery hold downs are properly tightened. A loose hold down may allow the battery to become damaged from vibration or jarring. A hold down that is too tight may buckle or crack the battery case.
Weekly inspect battery posts, clamps and cables for breakage, loose connections and corrosion. Replace any that are damaged. Check to see that battery cap vent holes are clear. Plugged vent holes will not permit gas to escape from the cell and could result in battery damage.
Acid-soaked dirt on the battery terminal connections causes current leakage, reduces battery efficiency, and battery life.
Check that all vent caps are tightly in place before washing.
Hose wash battery terminal connections periodically with clean low-pressure water to keep them free of acid spillage, dirt, and other debris. Do not hose wash switches, solenoids and other electrical control devices. Cover as necessary to prevent splashing.
Clean battery terminal connections with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and water solution (5 teaspoons baking soda per quart water) and stiff bristle brush. Rinse with clean water and dry with a clean cloth. Do not allow solution to enter cap vent holes.
NOTICE: Follow local ordinances and codes for proper disposal of battery cleaning waste.
Always schedule enough charging time to allow the batteries to become fully charged. Charging time is affected by age and battery condition, state of discharge, electrolyte temperature, AC line voltage, and other variables. Correct charging methods extend battery life and vehicle range between charges.
New batteries need up to four hours more charging than "mature" batteries. Before the first use, completely charge new batteries. Charging time will vary based on conditions noted above but will probably be 6 to 10 hours.
If vehicle is used only occasionally, a refresher charge should be given prior to using.
Battery efficiency is affected by temperature. If the temperature of the outside air and/or batteries is below 60º F, battery capacity is reduced. Batteries will require more frequent and longer charge periods in early spring, fall and winter.
As batteries age, they finish charge at progressively higher charge rates and tend to use more distilled water. At this point in battery age, charger will automatically begin reducing charge time.
Batteries found defective must be replaced. All batteries in a vehicle should be matched according to age, capacity and brand.
The built-in battery charger is custom made for Columbia vehicle CR-10 Models. Its operation is totally automatic. When connected to a 110 - 120 Volt AC power source, the charger's electronic timer will turn the charger on. It determines and provides the energy necessary to return batteries to a fully charged state, automatically shutting off when the batteries are fully charged. This occurs when each cell reaches approximately 2.5 volts.
Plug 120 volt AC supply cord into charger receptacle on charger panel. After a short time delay of approximately 5 to 6 seconds, a RED light comes on indicating battery charging.
When the solid state circuitry senses that the batteries are fully charged, the RED light turns off and the GREEN light turns on indicating that charging is complete.
The GREEN light will remain on until the AC cord is disconnected. At that point the light will turn off and the charger will reset itself for the next charging cycle.
This is used if the batteries are heavily over discharged. When the AC cord is connected, the RED light will turn on but will shortly turn off. To reactivate the charger, push the reset button for 10 seconds. This will restart the charger. Release the button and the charger will continue to charge.
Symptom | Repair or Replace |
No transformer hum | AC Fuse |
AC Input Cord | |
Loose wires on auto-start control | |
Primary of transformer | |
Auto-start control | |
Transformer hums, but no ammeter deflection | DC fuse |
DC connector shorted or open diode | |
Defective ammeter | |
AC fuse keeps blowing | Shorted AC cord |
Shorted primary of transformer | |
Charger output low or battery not getting charged | Defective capacitor |
Resonant of transformer | |
Open diode | |
Charger not shutting off | Loose wires on auto-start |
Defective auto-start |
It is possible to determine a battery's ability to perform by measuring the specific gravity (sp. gr.) of each cell with a hydrometer. This is the best method to determine a defective battery.
The hydrometer readings indicate two things:
NOTICE: Batteries should be fully charged before performing specific gravity tests to determine battery condition. Hydrometer tests of batteries not fully charged are misleading and inconclusive.
There are different type hydrometers. Carefully read and follow the instructions supplied with your hydrometer.
To prolong battery life, recharge batteries as soon as they become 20% or more discharged (less than 1.238 sp. gr.). Batteries may be recharged if vehicle has been driven 15 minutes or more since the previous charge.
Do not allow batteries to fall below 80% discharge (1.098 sp. gr.). Deep discharging significantly reduces battery life. Opportunity charging during breaks or shift change can be used to extend range but always complete a full charge cycle at least once a day.
If the vehicle is not operated daily the Power keyswitch should be turned off. This will reduce power loss on the batteries.
Batteries in storage may self discharge and should be recharged when the specific gravity falls below 1.238 sp. gr.
NOTICE: Specific gravity readings are at 80°F. Values need adjustment for electrolyte temperature. Reduce.004 for every 10°F below 80°F. Increase by that amount for every 10°F above
PROBLEM | CHECK |
Will not move | Keyswitch on. Keyswitch is in desired direction. Keyswitch for loose wires or faulty switch. |
Batteries for loose terminals, corrosion, electrolyte level or state of charge. | |
Motor for loose wires, open circuits. | |
Runs slow | Batteries for loose terminals, corrosion, electrolyte level or state of charge. |
Brakes dragging | |
Under inflated or flat tires. | |
Wheels for binding, do not spin freely. | |
If these test procedures do not resolve your vehicle problem, contact your Columbia Dealer for service. |
To ensure that the vehicle is kept in a safe and correct operating condition, it must be inspected and maintained on a regular basis. Proper lubrication, electrical control adjustments, safety feature checks, etc. performed at recommended intervals will help prevent damage or failure of the unit while providing optimum performance.
Follow the guidelines below to assure proper maintenance.
The mechanical brakes consist of two rear drum brakes. With no force applied to the treadle, brakes are properly adjusted when the back edge the treadle is approximately even with the top edge of the rear frame crossbar.
To adjust the brakes:
NOTICE: Minimum brake shoe lining thickness is.080 inches.
Wash underside to remove all dirt and debris. Do not direct high pressure water at the speed switch or tops of the batteries.
Wash body and seat with a mild detergent. Do not use abrasives (bodies are painted). Frequent washings with mild soap will preserve the finish of your vehicle. For stubborn and imbedded dirt, a soft bristle brush may be used. Tar, asphalt, creosote and the like should be removed immediately to prevent staining of paint.
NOTICE: Do not use harsh detergents, abrasives or cleaning solvents that contain ammonia, aromatic solvents or alkaline material to clean cab.
Item | Operation | Weekly | Monthly | Semi- Annual |
Tires | Lug nuts tight. | * | ||
Check tire pressure, wear, damage. Dented rims. | * | |||
Electrical | Check electrolyte level. | * | ||
As required, clean battery terminals and wash cases. | * | |||
Check the general condition of the electrical system (connections, frayed/broken cables). | * | |||
Brakes | Adjust. | * | ||
Body and Frame | Inspect for loose hardware (bolts & nuts). | * | ||
Clean body and seats, Wash as needed. | * | |||
Wash engine/motor compartment and undercarriage. | * | |||
Lube | Oil movement points (body hinges, brake mechanisms and linkage, leaf spring bushings etc.). | * |
It is recommended that the following be performed by a trained qualified technician or your Columbia Dealer
Item | Operation | Weekly | Monthly | Quarterly | Semi- Annual | Annual |
Drive | Check treadle adjustment, motor mounting hardware, and drive chain adjustment | * | ||||
Electrical | Test batteries | * | ||||
Inspect motor condition and operation. | * | |||||
Brakes | Inspect brakes – clean, adjust, replace as needed. | * | ||||
Adjust brakes | * | |||||
Control Speed | Lubricate | * | ||||
Check contact bars for wear, spring tension | * | |||||
Lube | Rear wheel bearings, grease or replace | * | ||||
Repack front wheel bearings | * | |||||
Steering | Check front wheel bearing adjustment | * | ||||
Check fork spindle bearing adjustment | * |
Before storage make sure batteries are fully charged and the electrolyte is full in all cells per Section BATTERY INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE. Clean the batteries and connections per Section BATTERY CLEANING.
Recharging will be necessary during storage. Frequency for recharging is as follows:
STORAGE TEMPERATURE | CHARGE AT |
Below 4°C (40°F) | Every 6 months |
4°C - 16°C (40° – 60°F) | Every 2 months |
Above 16°C (60°F) | Once a month |
The specific gravity of the electrolyte should be checked every 6 to 8 weeks using a hydrometer. See Section SPECIFIC GRAVITY TEST.
The batteries should be recharged as necessary to a specific gravity of approximately 1.260 sp. gr. After charging, disconnect the batteries. See Section BATTERY DISCONNECT METHODS.
Batteries in a low state of charge will freeze at higher temperatures than fully charged batteries. Do not attempt to charge a battery that is frozen or if battery case is excessively bulged. Frozen batteries can explode. Properly dispose of the battery.
Table C indicates freezing points of batteries at different specific gravities.
TABLE C | |
SPECIFIC GRAVITY | FREEZE POINT °F/°C |
1.260 | -70/-57 |
1.230 | -39/-38 |
1.200 | -16/-26 |
1.117 | -2/-19 |
1.110 | +17/-8 |
NOTICE: Specific gravity readings are at 80°F. Values need adjustment for electrolyte temperature. Reduce.004 for every 10°F below 80°F. Increase by that amount for every 10°F above
NOTICE: Make sure keyswitch is in the OFF position.
For personal safety, before operating the vehicle, it is the operator's responsibility to read, understand and follow the basic rules of operation and maintenance instructions in this manual. If you are responsible for the use of the vehicle, it is your responsibility to inform the person or persons using the vehicle about the following basic rules of operation for their personal safety.
It is Columbia ParCar Corporation's specific recommendation that the following warnings must be observed at all times. Not all are repeated throughout this manual, but the recommendations included must be observed whenever these subjects (indoor vehicle operation hazards, battery hazards, etc.) are encountered. Section ELECTRIC SYSTEM contains important safety and other system information.
Any modifications or changes to the vehicle that affect the stability, steering or that results in increased speed beyond factory specifications could result in vehicle damage, severe personal injury or death.
Only trained service professionals should repair or service this vehicle. Persons doing even simple repairs or maintenance should have working knowledge and experience in general electrical and mechanical repair.
Follow all procedures exactly and observe all safety messages stated in this manual. Working on vehicles without following proper procedures and using proper equipment may result in vehicle damage or personal injury. See Section OPERATOR SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.
Moving parts hazard! When operating any vehicle in a stationary position, avoid components which could snag clothing or cause sever injury to body parts. A running vehicle must be worked on with the greatest care.
Failure to maintain vehicle properly could result in decreased vehicle performance, reliability or cause severe personal injury.
Always wear safety glasses or approved eye protection while performing vehicle maintenance.
This vehicle is not Federal or State DOT approved and is not equipped to be operated on public roads or highways.
Do not exceed the rated vehicle speed. Exceeding this speed may result in steering difficulty, motor damage, and/or loss of control and injury
When replacement parts are required, use only genuine Columbia Vehicle parts.
No modifications or additions, which affect the mechanical or electrical integrity and the safe operation of the unit, shall be made without the written approval of the manufacturer. If in doubt about any modification, contact your local Columbia Dealer or Columbia ParCar Corp. Customer Service.
Do not overload the vehicle. Never exceed maximum payload as specified on the vehicle nameplate. See Section VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER, Figure 1.3.1.
Your safety and the safety of others depend on your safe operation and maintenance of this vehicle. Prior to operation, you, the operator, must be thoroughly familiar with this and all other sections of this manual.
For personal safety and to maintain stability and control, operate this vehicle under these conditions only. Failure to comply with these warnings may result in bodily injury and property damage.
It is recommended that the operator and owner or renter of this vehicle comply with the OSHA requirements as stated in the Code of Federal Regulations, Section 29, 1910.178, Powered Industrial Truck Training Standard and the ANSI requirements as stated in Personnel and Burden Carriers ANSI B56.8.
As a minimum every operator should, in addition to the above requirements found in the standards noted above:
Every owner or renter of this vehicle must, at a minimum:
Use extreme caution lifting or working on or around lifted vehicle. Vehicle should be on a flat, hard and level surface.
When lifting the vehicle for service, remove key and use a sturdy lifting device such as a hoist or floor jack placed under the Chariot body. Always block wheels to prevent it from rolling. After the body is lifted 4 to 6 inches from the floor, place a suitable device under vehicle frame to support vehicle weight. An example is a 4" x 6" wooden block.
If vehicle is raised while loaded, check that the load is secured before lifting. Failure to do so could cause damage to the vehicle, the load or cause personal injury.
Figure 2.6.1 illustrates the battery configuration. Disconnect both leads before performing any maintenance.
1115 Commercial Avenue
Reedsburg, WI 53959
Phone: (608) 524-8888
Fax: (608) 524-8380
(800) 222-4653
Web: www.parcar.com
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