Maintaining your manual wheelchair can be easy if you have some information on keeping your wheelchair in top shape.
This article includes pointers on maintaining your wheelchair when you receive it, maintaining it daily, a weekly checklist and monthly list, and a list of things to keep in mind every year regarding your manual wheelchair.
When You Receive Your Wheelchair You Should…
Store your owner’s manual in a safe place for future reference.
Use car wax on the chair frame to make future cleaning easier.
Store tools in a pouch, bag or container on your chair for use in a maintenance emergency.
Purchase a tube of “touch-up” paint to cover scratches and chipped paint.
Learn how to change your tires.
Purchase a tire “patch” kit and carry it with you.
Purchase a hand pump to inflate tires and carry them with you.
Learn how to change your tires.
On A Daily Basis You Should…
Wipe the chair down with a clean damp rag.
Lift the footplates before getting in or out of the chair.
Keep loose objects or lap cover away from the wheel spokes.
It’s a good practice to always lock the brakes before getting in and out of the wheelchairs.
Every Week You Should…
Inspect wheels to ensure spokes from the axle to the rim are intact and that rims are not bent.
Inspect front casters for wobbling, excessive play and alignment.
Clean axle housings of any debris.
Check tire pressure.
Check that wheel locks/brakes are secured tightly to the frame and are easily activated.
On A Monthly Basis You Should…
After a thorough cleaning, use car wax on the frame to make the next cleaning easier.
Check for loose nuts and bolts.
Check your wheel alignment.
Check for easy release and replacement of removable leg rests, footrests, armrests and backrests.
Inspect chair frame for cracks.
Check those quick-release axles remove quickly.
Every Year You Should…
Check that folding chairs open and fold easily.
Lubricate folding mechanism.
Lubricate all pivot points.
Lubricate ball bearings.
