Invacare Tracer IV User manual

Brand: Invacare

Model: Tracer IV

Type: User manual

Owner’s Operator and Maintenance Manual

DEALER: This manual MUST be given to

the user of the product.

USER:

BEFORE using this product, read this

manual and save for future reference.

For more information regarding

Invacare products, parts, and services,

please visit www.invacare.com

Tracer

Heavy Duty/Extra Wide

Tracer

IV 2 Part No. 1110558

 WARNING

A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST PERFORM THE INITIAL SET UP

OF THIS WHEELCHAIR. ALSO, A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST

PERFORM ALL PROCEDURES SPECIFICALLY INDICATED IN THE

MANUAL.

DO NOT USE THIS PRODUCT OR ANY AVAILABLE OPTIONAL

EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST COMPLETELY READING AND

UNDERSTANDING THESE INSTRUCTIONS AND ANY

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL SUCH AS OWNER’S

MANUALS, SERVICE MANUALS OR INSTRUCTION SHEETS

SUPPLIED WITH THIS PRODUCT OR OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT. IF

YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE WARNINGS,

CAUTIONS OR INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT A HEALTHCARE

PROFESSIONAL, DEALER OR TECHNICAL PERSONNEL BEFORE

ATTEMPTING TO USE THIS EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE, INJURY

OR DAMAGE MAY OCCUR.

 ACCESSORIES WARNING

INVACARE PRODUCTS ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED AND

MANUFACTURED FOR USE IN CONJUNCTION WITH INVACARE

ACCESSORIES. ACCESSORIES DESIGNED BY OTHER

MANUFACTURERS HAVE NOT BEEN TESTED BY INVACARE AND

ARE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR USE WITH INVACARE

PRODUCTS.

NOTE:Updatedversionsofthismanualareavailableonwww.invacare.com.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part No. 1110558 3 Tracer

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SPECIAL NOTES ................................................................................ 6

LABEL LOCATION ............................................................................ 7

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS .................................................... 8

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES ................................................... 9

Stability - All Models ..................................................................................................................................9

Weight Training ..........................................................................................................................................9

Weight Limitation.......................................................................................................................................9

Anti-Tippers...............................................................................................................................................10

Operating Information.............................................................................................................................10

SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS ......................... 12

Safety/Handling of Wheelchairs.............................................................................................................12

Stability and Balance.................................................................................................................................12

Coping With Everyday Obstacles.........................................................................................................13

A Note to Wheelchair Assistants ........................................................................................................13

Reaching, Leaning and Bending Forward.............................................................................................14

Reaching and Leaning Backwards..........................................................................................................14

Tipping.........................................................................................................................................................15

Method 1 - Wheelchair With Step Tubes......................................................................................15

Method 2 - Wheelchair Without Step Tubes ...............................................................................15

Stairways.....................................................................................................................................................16

Escalators....................................................................................................................................................17

Transferring To and From Other Seats ..............................................................................................18

Unfolding and Folding Wheelchair .......................................................................................................18

Unfolding................................................................................................................................................19

Folding Wheelchair..............................................................................................................................19

SECTION 3—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING .................... 21

Safety Inspection Checklist.....................................................................................................................21

Inspect/Adjust Initially.....................................................................................................................21

Inspect/Adjust Weekly ...................................................................................................................22

Inspect/Adjust Monthly ..................................................................................................................22

Inspect/Adjust Periodically ............................................................................................................23

Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................23

Maintenance...............................................................................................................................................24

Maintenance Safety Precautions .......................................................................................................24

Suggested Maintenance Procedures ................................................................................................24

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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IV 4 Part No. 1110558

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 4—FRONT RIGGINGS ........................................................ 26

Installing/Removing Front Riggings .......................................................................................................26

Installing..................................................................................................................................................26

Removing ...............................................................................................................................................26

Adjusting Footplate Height.....................................................................................................................27

Spring Button Height...........................................................................................................................27

Bolt-In-Place Height.............................................................................................................................27

Raising/Lowering Elevating Legrest Assembly....................................................................................28

Installing H-Strap/Calf Strap ...................................................................................................................29

Replacing Heel Loop................................................................................................................................30

SECTION 5—ARMS ......................................................................... 32

Adjusting Armrest Height.......................................................................................................................32

Removing/Installing Armrests ................................................................................................................32

Removing Armrest...............................................................................................................................33

Installing Armrest.................................................................................................................................33

SECTION 6—SEAT AND BACK ......................................................... 34

Replacing Back Upholstery.....................................................................................................................34

Replacing Seat Upholstery......................................................................................................................34

Adjusting the Seat Width........................................................................................................................35

SECTION 7—REAR WHEELS ............................................................. 37

Removing/Installing Rear Wheels .........................................................................................................37

Replacing Rear Wheel Handrim............................................................................................................38

Replacing/Repairing Rear Wheel Tire..................................................................................................38

SECTION 8—FRONT CASTERS ......................................................... 39

Installing/Replacing Front Casters and Forks .....................................................................................39

Adjusting Forks .........................................................................................................................................40

Replacing Front Casters..........................................................................................................................40

Replacing/Repairing Front Caster Tire/Tube .....................................................................................41

SECTION 9—ANTI-TIPPERS/WHEEL LOCKS ....................................... 42

Installing/Adjusting Anti-tippers ............................................................................................................42

Installing Anti-Tippers .........................................................................................................................42

Adjusting the Anti-Tippers.................................................................................................................43

Using/Adjusting Patient Operated Wheel Locks...............................................................................44

Using Patient Operated Wheel Locks ............................................................................................44

Adjusting Patient Operated Wheel Locks .....................................................................................45

Installing Wheel Lock Shoe Extensions...............................................................................................46

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part No. 1110558 5 Tracer

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 10—SEAT TO FLOOR HEIGHT ............................................ 47

Changing Seat-to-Floor Height..............................................................................................................47

SECTION 11—OPTIONS ................................................................... 49

Installing Carrying Pocket.......................................................................................................................49

Installing Crutch and Cane Carrier ......................................................................................................50

Installing the Seat Positioning Strap......................................................................................................51

LIMITED WARRANTY ..................................................................... 52

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Please have your model number and purchase date available to complete your registration.

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SPECIAL NOTES

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IV 6 Part No. 1110558

SPECIAL NOTES

Signalwordsareusedinthismanualandapplytohazardsorunsafepracticeswhich

couldresultinpersonalinjuryorpropertydamage.Refertothefollowingtablefor

definitionsofthesignalwords.

NOTICE

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO

CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

WHEELCHAIR USER

As a manufacturer of wheelchairs, Invacare endeavors to supply a wide variety of

wheelchairs to meet many needs of the end user. However, final selection of the

type of wheelchair to be used by an individual rests solely with the user and his/her

healthcare professional capable of making such a selection.

WHEELCHAIR TIE-DOWN RESTRAINTS AND SEAT RESTRAINTS

Wheelchair users should NOT be transported in vehicles of any kind while in

wheelchairs. As of this date, the Department of Transportation has not approved

any tie-down systems for transportation of a user while in a wheelchair, in a moving

vehicle of any type.

It is Invacare’s position that users of wheelchairs should be transferred into

appropriate seating in vehicles for transportation and use be made of the restraints

made available by the auto industry. Invacare cannot and does not recommend any

wheelchair transportation systems.

SEAT POSITIONING STRAP

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

additional safeguard for the wheelchair user. The seat positioning strap is a

positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high

stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, belt MUST

be replaced IMMEDIATELY.

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

user. Serious injury can occur in the event of a fall from a wheelchair.

SIGNAL WORD MEANING

DANGER Danger indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in

death or serious injury.

WARNING Warning indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in

death or serious injury.

CAUTION Caution indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in

property damage.

LABEL LOCATION

Part No. 1110558 7 Tracer

LABEL LOCATION

IMPORTANT NOTICE

The wheel locks on this wheelchair have been

pre-set at the factory to comply with the

Veterans Administration functional Standard

8320.01 of the Federal Register, paragraph

3.2.4.5.3. If these wheel locks do not meet

your needs, follow instructions below.

CAUTION

Any wheel lock adjustments should embed

wheel lock shoe at least 1/8" into tire when

locked (3/16" on pneumatic tires).

INSTRUCTIONS FOR WHEEL

LOCK ADJUSTMENTS

1. Loosen wheel lock mounting fastener,

which runs through mounting bracket and

frame.

2. Slide clamp toward rear wheel until wheel

lock shoe is embedded into tire material at

least 1/8" when handle is engaged to the

lock position (3/16" for pneumatic tires).

3. Tighten mounting fastener to secure

mounting bracket in desired location and

recheck lock shoe embedding.

4. Inspect for correct locking action BEFORE

actual use.

00078X021-0394

Refer to Owner's Manual

for proper anti-tipper

setting.

1085379

WARNING

DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT

THE ANTI-TIP TUBES

INSTALLED.

REV. 5/98

P/N 60106X144

Crossmember

Lower Frame

Tube

NOTE:Onalladjustable

anti‐tippers

Wheelchairs with Standard

Wheel Package

Wheelchairs with Heavy

Duty Wheel Package

Serial Number Label

is located on the

cross brace on the

left side of the chair

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

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IV 8 Part No. 1110558

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

*NOTE:Heightscanvary¼inchduetowheeloptions,tirewear,andmanufacturingtolerances.

**NOTE:Theseoptionsarestandardforthismodel.

***NOTE:Weightsbasedon22‐inchwidewheelchairwithoutfrontriggings.Allweightsare

approximateandwillvarydependingonhowthewheelchairisequipped.

TRACER IV

OVERALL WIDTH 26¼ to 32¼ inches

OVERALL DEPTH (WITHOUT RIGGINGS) 33½ inches

SEAT WIDTH 18, 20, 22 or 24 inches

SEAT DEPTH 18 and 20 inches

SEAT-TO-FLOOR** 19½ inches (Adult), 17½ inches (Hemi)

BACK STYLE Fixed

BACK HEIGHT 16 inches

ARM STYLES Fixed or Adjustable Height; Desk or Full Length;

Removable

FRONT RIGGINGS Swingaway Removable Footrests, Elevating Legrests,

and Articulating Elevating Legrests

REAR AXLE Permanent

REAR WHEELS 24*-inch Composite Corded Urethane

24-inch Pneumatic-Flat Free Insert (Heavy Duty

Wheel Option)

HANDRIMS Chrome Plated Steel, Black Painted Steel

WHEEL LOCKS Push to Lock (Adult), Pull to Lock (Hemi)

CASTER SIZE 8x1¼ inch Urethane

8x1¾ inch Semi Pneumatic

UPHOLSTERY Vinyl: Midnight Blue, Dove Grey, Ruby, Black, Camel

Nylon: Black

WEIGHT*** (APPROX.) 42 pounds

SHIPPING WEIGHT*** (APPROX.) 52 pounds

WEIGHT LIMIT 250 lbs (114 kg)

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

Part No. 1110558 9 Tracer

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

 WARNING

SECTION 1 - GENERAL GUIDELINES contains important information for the safe

operation and use of this product.

Stability - All Models

Theseatdepth,size/positionofthefrontcasters,size/positionoftherearwheels,

anti‐tippermodel,aswellastheuserconditiondirectlyrelatetothestabilityofthe

wheelchair.Anychangetooneoranycombinationofthesevenmaycausethewheelchair

todecreaseinstability.TheseadjustmentsMUSTbeperformedbyaqualifiedtechnician.

Thevariousseat‐to‐floorheightsrequirespecificsettingsdependingonrearwheelsize,

rearwheelposition,frontcastersize/positionanddesiredseat‐to‐floorangle.These

adjustmentsMUSTbeperformedbyaqualifiedtechnician.

Weight Training

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,Invacareshall

notbeliableforbodilyinjuryordamagetothewheelchairandthewarrantyisvoid.

Weight Limitation

TheTracerIVwheelchairwithstandardwheelpackagehasaweightlimitationof350lbs

(159kg).TheTracerIVwheelchairwiththeheavydutywheelpackagehasaweight

limitationof450lbs(205kg.).

NOTE:Whenchangesto

thelefthandcolumnoccur,

followacrossthechartand

refertotheprocedure thatis

checked(

)tomaintainthe

properstability , safetyand

handlingofthewheelchair.

CASTER SIZE

CASTER POSITION

WHEEL SIZE

WHEEL POSITION

ANTI-TIPPERS

USER CONDITION

CASTER SIZE

•XXXXX

CASTER POSITION

X•XXXX

WHEEL SIZE

XX • XXX

ANTI-TIPPERS

XXX • XX

USER CONDITION

XXXXX •

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

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IV 10 Part No. 1110558

Anti-Tippers

Anti‐tippersarespecifictothedifferentseat‐to‐flooranglesand/orseat‐to‐floorheights.

RefertothechartsinInstalling/AdjustingAnti‐tippersonpage 42forcorrectusageand

adjustment.Iftheserequirementscannotbeachieved,DONOTusethewheelchair.

Contactaqualifiedtechnician.Ifchangingtheseat‐to‐floorheightwithorwithouta

changetoseat‐to‐floorangle,thecorrectanti‐tippersMUSTbeusedtomaintaina1½

to

2‐inchgroundclearance.

Anti‐tippersMUSTbefullyengagedandreleasebuttonsfullyprotrudingoutof

adjustmentholes.

Anti‐tippersMUSTbeattachedatalltimes.Inasmuchastheanti‐tippersareanoptionon

thiswheelchair(youmayorderwithorwithouttheanti‐tippers),Invacarestrongly

recommendsordering

theanti‐tippersasanadditionalsafeguardforthewheelchairuser.

ALWAYSuseanti‐tippers.Whenoutdoorsonwet,softgroundorongravelsurfaces,anti

tippersmaynotprovidethesamelevelofprotectionagainsttipover.ExtracautionMUST

beobservedwhentraversingsuchsurfaces.

Operating Information

AfterANYadjustments,repairorserviceandbeforeuse,makesureallattaching

hardwareistightenedsecurely‐otherwiseinjuryordamagemayresult.

Unlessotherwisenoted,allserviceandadjustmentshouldbeperformedwhilethe

wheelchairisunoccupied.

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.

Whencleaningrearcaneorhandgripareasuseonlyacleantowellightlydampenedwith

coolwater .Verifythatgripsaredrypriortouse.Useofsoaporammoniabasedcleaning



solutionswillresultinthehandgripsslidingoffthecaneassembly.Failuretoobservethis

warningmayresultininjurytotheuserorbystanders.

Ifthewheelchairisexposedtoextremetemperature(above100°Forbelow32°F),high

humidityand/orbecomeswet,priortouse,ensurethatthehandgripsDONOTtwiston

thehandle.Otherwise,damageorinjurymayoccur.

Avoidstoringorusingthewheelchairnearopenflameorcombustibleproducts.Serious

injuryordamagetopropertymayresult.

ALWAYSkeephandsandfingersclearofmovingpartstoavoidinjury.

DONOTtraverse,climborgodownramps

orslopesgreaterthan9°.

DONOTattempttomoveupordownaninclinewithawater,iceoroilfilm.

NEVERleaveanunoccupiedwheelchaironanincline.

DONOToperateonroads,streetsorhighways.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

Part No. 1110558 11 Tracer

DONOTattempttorideov ercurbsorobstacles.Doingsomaycauseyourwheelchairto

tipoverandcausebodilyharmtoyouordamagetothewheelchair.

DONOTattempttoreachobjectsifyouhavetomoveforwardintheseat.

DONOTattempttoreachobjectsifyouhavetopickthemupfromthefloorbyreaching

downbetweenyourknees.

DONOTleanoverthetopofthebackupholsterytoreachobjectsbehindyou,asthismay

causethewheelchairtotipover.

DONOTshiftyourweightorsittingpositiontowarddirectionyouarereachingasthe

wheelchairmaytipover.

DONOTattempttostopamovingwheelchairwithwheellocks.Wheellocksarenot

brakes.

DONOTtiltthewheelchairwithoutassistance.

DONOTuseanescalatortomoveawheelchairbetweenfloors.Seriousbodilyinjurymay

occur.

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.Whentransferringtoandfromthewheelchair,ALWAYSengageboth

wheellocks.

DONOTattempttoliftthewheelchairbyanyremovable(detachable)parts.Liftingby

meansofanyremovable(detachable)partsofthewheelchairmayresultininjurytothe

userordamagetothewheelchair.

DONOTstandontheframeofthewheelchair.

DONOTstandonthefootplates.Whengettinginoroutofthewheelchair,makesurethat 

thefootplatesareintheupwardpositionorswingthefootreststowardstheoutsideofthe

wheelchair.

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additional

safeguard

forthewheelchairuser.Theseatpositioningstrapisapositioningbeltonly.It

isnotdesignedforuseasasafetydevicewithstandinghighstressloadssuchasautoor

aircraftsafetybelts.Ifsignsofwearappear,beltMUSTbereplacedIMMEDIATELY.

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.

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SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF

WHEELCHAIRS

Safety/Handling of Wheelchairs

Safetyandhandlingofthewheelchairrequire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wheelchair.Itis

importanttopracticeandmasterthesesafetechniquesuntilyouarecomfortablein

maneuveringaroundthefrequentlyencounteredarchitecturalbarriers.

Usethisinformationonlyasabasicguide.Thetechniquesthatarediscussedonthe

followingpageshavebeenusedsuccessfullybymany.

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architecturalobstaclesthat

theymayencounter.However,allwarningsandcautionsgiveninthismanualMUSTbe

heeded.Techniquesinthismanualareastartingpointforthenewwheelchairuserand

assistantwithsafetyasthemostimportantconsiderationforall.

Stability and Balance

 WARNING

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

additional safeguard for the wheelchair user. The seat positioning strap is a

positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high

stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, belt MUST

be replaced IMMEDIATELY.

 WARNING

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.

 WARNING

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

to the wheelchair and surrounding property.

SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Part No. 1110558 13 Tracer

Toassurestabilityandproperoperationofyourwheelchair,youMUSTmaintainproper

balanceatalltimes.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gravity.

Virtuallyallactivitieswhichinvolvemovementinthewheelchairhaveaneffectonthe

centerofgravity.Invacarerecommendsusingseat/chestpositioningstrapsforadditional

safetywhileinvolvedinactivitiesthatshiftyourweight.

DONOTleanforwardoutofthewheelchairanyfurtherthanthelengthofthearmrests.

Makesurethe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.

Coping With Everyday Obstacles

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.

A Note to Wheelchair Assistants

Whenassistancetothewheelchairuserisrequired,remembertousegoodbody

mechanics.Keepyourbackstraightandbendyourkneeswhenevertippingthe

wheelchairortraversingcurbs,orotherimpediments.

DONOTattempttoliftthewheelchairbyanyremovable(detachable)parts.Liftingby

meansofanyremovable(detachable)partsofthewheelchairmayresultininjurytothe

userordamagetothewheelchair.

Ifthewheelchairisexposedtoextremetemperature(above100°Forbelow32°F),high

humidityand/orbecomeswet,priortouse,ensurehandgripsDONOTtwistonthe

wheelchair’shandle‐otherwisedamageorinjurymayoccur.

Whenlearninganewassistancetechnique,haveanexperiencedassistanthelpyoubefore

attemptingitalone.

 WARNING

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.

The seat depth, back height/angle, seat angle, size/position of the front casters,

size/position of the rear wheels, anti-tipper model, as well as the user condition

directly relate to the stability of the wheelchair. Any change to one or any combina-

tion of the ten may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. These adjustments

MUST be performed by a qualified technician.

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IV 14 Part No. 1110558

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.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.

Properpositioningisessentialforyoursafety.Whenreaching,leaning,orbending

forward,itisimportanttousethefrontcastersasatooltomaintainstabilityandbalance.

Reaching, Leaning and Bending Forward

 WARNING

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.

NOTE:Forthisprocedure,referto

FIGURE 2.1.

Positionthefrontcasterssothattheyare

extendedasfarforwardaspossible and

engagewheellocks.

FIGURE 2.1 Reaching, Leaning and Bending

Forward

Reaching and Leaning Backwards

 WARNING

DO NOT lean over the top of the back

upholstery to reach objects behind you,

as this may cause the wheelchair to tip

over.

NOTE:Forthisprocedure,referto

FIGURE 2.2.

Positionwheelchairascloseaspossibleto

thedesiredobject.Pointfrontcasters

forwardtocreatethelongestpossible

wheelbase.Reachbackonlyasfarasyour

armwillextendwithoutchangingyour

sittingposition.

FIGURE 2.2 Reaching and Leaning

Backwards

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Part No. 1110558 15 Tracer

Tipping

 WARNING

DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.

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tippingthe

wheelchairandremindhim/hertoleanback.Besuretheoccupant’sfeetandhandsare

clearofallwheelsand/orpinchpoints.

Aftermasteringthetechniquesoftippingthewheelchair,useoneofthefollowing

methodstotacklecurbs,shortstairs,etc.

DONOTallowtheusertoleavethewheelchairwhiletheseatistilted.ALWAYSreturn

theseattouprightpositionwhentransferringtheuserinoroutofthewheelchair.

Method 1 - Wheelchair With Step Tubes

NOTE:Forthisprocedure,refertoFIGURE 2.3.

Placefootonthesteptubeandbegintotiltthewheelchairtowardyou.Applya

continuousdownwardmotionuntilthebalancepointisachievedandthefrontcasters

clearthecurb.Atthispoint,theassistantwillfeeladifferenceintheweightdistribution.

 WARNING

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 occu-

pant and/or damage to the wheelchair.

Rollthewheelchairforwardandslowly

lowerthefrontofthewheelchairinone

continuousmovementontothesidewalk.

Pushthewheelchairforwarduntiltherear

wheelsrollupandoverthecurb.

FIGURE 2.3 Method 1 - Wheelchair With

Step Tubes

Method 2 - Wheelchair Without Step Tubes

 WARNING

ALWAYS check hand grips for looseness before using the wheelchair. If loose

and/or worn, replace IMMEDIATELY.

Step Tube

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IV 16 Part No. 1110558

NOTE:Forthisprocedure,refertoFIGURE 2.4.

Thismethodrequirestwoassistants.Thesecondassistantshouldbepositionedatthe

frontofthewheelchairliftingupwardonanon‐removable(non‐detachable)partofthe

wheelchairframewhenliftingthewheelchairandstabilizingthewheelchairwhenthe

wheelchairisbeingloweredtotheground.

Thefirstassistantshouldstandonthe

sidewalkandturnthewheelchairsothat

therearwheelsareagainstthecurb.Turn

theanti‐tipperssotheanti‐tipwheelsare

pointingup.Thewheelchairshouldbe

tiltedbacktothebalancepointand,inone

continuousupwardmovement,therear

wheelsshouldbepulledupandoverthe

curb.DONOTreturnthefrontcastersto

thegrounduntilthewheelchairhasbeen

pulledbackwardfarenoughforthefront

casterstocleartheedgeofthecurb.

FIGURE 2.4 Method 2 - Wheelchair

Without Step Tubes

 WARNING

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.

Rollthewheelchairbackwardandslowlylowerthewheelchairinonecontinuous

movement.Turntheanti‐tipperssotheanti‐tipwheelsarefacingdown.

Stairways

 WARNING

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

additional safeguard for the wheelchair user. The seat positioning strap is a

positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high

stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, belt MUST

be replaced IMMEDIATELY.

DO NOT attempt to lift a wheelchair by lifting on any removable (detachable)

parts. Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of the wheelchair may

result in injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.

ALWAYS check hand grips for looseness before using the wheelchair. If loose

and/or worn, replace IMMEDIATELY.

SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Part No. 1110558 17 Tracer

 WARNING

Extreme caution is advised when it is necessary to move an occupied wheelchair up

or down the stairs. Invacare recommends that, if possible, the user be removed

from the wheelchair prior to moving. Invacare recommends using two assistants

and making thorough preparations. Make sure to use only secure, non-detachable

parts for hand-held supports.

NOTE:Forthisprocedure,refertoFIGURE2.5.

Followthisprocedureformovingthewheelchairbetweenfloorswhenanelevatorisnot

available:

1. Ifnecessary,rotatetheanti‐tippersso

thewheelsarefacingup.

2. Afterthewheelchairhasbeentilted

backtothebalancepoint,oneassistant

(intherear)backsthewheelchairup

againstthefirststep,whilesecurely

graspinganon‐removable

(non‐detachable)partofthewheelchair

forleverage.

3. Thesecondassistant,withafirmhold

onanon‐detachablepartofthe

framework,liftsthewheelchairupand

overthestairandsteadiesthe

wheelchairasthefirstassistantplaces

onefootonthenextstairandrepeats

STEP1.

FIGURE 2.5 Stairways

4. Thewheelchairshouldnotbelowereduntilthelaststairhasbeennegotiatedandthe

wheelchairhasbeenrolledawayfromthestairway.

5. Ifnecessary,rotatetheanti‐tipperssothewheelsarefacingdown.

Escalators

 WARNING

DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily

injury may occur.

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IV 18 Part No. 1110558

Transferring To and From Other Seats

 WARNING

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 the

wheels from moving.

Wheelchairs with adjustable height armrests only: Adjust armrests to lowest posi-

tion prior to transferring into or out of wheelchair - otherwise injury or damage

may occur.

CAUTION

When transferring, position yourself as far back as possible in the seat. This will help

prevent damaged upholstery and the possibility of the wheelchair tipping forward.

NOTE:Forthisprocedure,refertoFIGURE 2.6.

NOTE:Thisactivitymaybeperformedindependentlyprovidedyouhaveadequatemobilityand

upperbodystrength.

Positionthewheelchairascloseaspossible

alongsidetheseattowhichyouare

transferring,withthefrontcasters

pointingparalleltoit.Removeorflipup

thearmrest.Engagewheellocks.Swing

awayorremovefrontrigging.Shiftbody

weightintoseatwithtransfer.

Duringindependenttransfer,littleorno

seatplatformwillbebeneathyou.Usea

transferboardifatallpossible.

FIGURE 2.6 Transferring To and From

Other Seats

Unfolding and Folding Wheelchair

 WARNING

ALWAYS keep hands and fingers clear of moving parts to avoid injury.

DO NOT place hand or fingers on the underside of the seat frame rail when opening

or closing the wheelchair.

DO NOT sit or transfer into the wheelchair unless it is fully open and the seat frame

rails are fully seated into the side frame H-blocks.

Invacare recommends that a non-folding device be installed to keep the wheelchair

from being folded when left unoccupied in a public place.

SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Part No. 1110558 19 Tracer

Unfolding

NOTE:Forthisprocedure,refertoFIGURE 2.7.

1. Tiltthewheelchairtowardyou(raisingtheoppositewheelandcasteroffthe

ground/floor).

2. Placeyourhandonthetopoftheseatrailclosesttoyouwheretheseatupholsteryis

attached.

3. Pointyourfingersandthumbtotheinsideofthewheelchair.

4. Pressdownwardonthetopoftheseatrailuntilthewheelchairisfullyopenandthe

seatrailsarefullyseatedintheH‐blocks.

5. Engagebothwheellocks,openthefootrest/legrestforclearanceandtransferintothe

wheelchair.RefertoTransferringToandFromOtherSeatsonpage 18.

FIGURE 2.7 Unfolding

Folding Wheelchair

NOTE:Forthisprocedure,refertoFIGURE 2.8onpage20.

1. Swingfootrest/legrestinlockedpositiontothefrontofthewheelchair.

2. Pivotfootplatesupward toverticalposition.

3. Withbothhands,graspthemiddleoftheseatupholsteryatthefrontandbackedge

andliftup.

Seat Rail

NOTE:DONOTwrapthumborfingers

undertheseatrail.Pointfingersandthumbto

theinsideofthewheelchair.

NOTE:Pressdownontheseatrailandthe

seatupholsterywiththeentirehand.DO

NOTplaceanypartofthehandunderthe

seatrail.

H-Blocks

SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Tracer

IV 20 Part No. 1110558

CAUTION

DO NOT allow upholstery to hang

between the cross braces.

4. Continuetoclosethewheelchairby

graspingthebackcanefurthestfrom

youandpullingthearmresttoward

you.

FIGURE 2.8 Folding Wheelchair

NOTE:Ifthewheelchairisequippedwithcarrystraps,thewheelchair maybeclosedbypullingup

onthestraps.

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Invacare Tracer IV User manual

Invacare Tracer IV User manual

Invacare Tracer IV User manual

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