BORA Portamate PM-1100 Universal Mobile Base Kit

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the BORA Portamate PM-1100 Universal Mobile Base Kit. This kit is designed to provide mobility to heavy workshop machinery and equipment, allowing for flexible workspace arrangements and efficient storage. This manual provides essential information for the safe assembly, operation, and maintenance of your mobile base. Please read all instructions carefully before use.

Safety Information

• Always ensure the mobile base is on a level, stable surface before moving or operating machinery.
• Do not exceed the maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs (181 kg). Overloading can cause instability and damage.
• Ensure all foot levers are engaged (locked) when the machine is in its stationary position to prevent accidental movement.
• Keep hands and feet clear of moving parts, especially during engagement and disengagement of the foot levers.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during assembly and when moving heavy machinery.
• Inspect the mobile base regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Replace worn or damaged parts immediately.
• Plywood base is not included. Use a sturdy, appropriate thickness of plywood (minimum 3/4 inch recommended) for your machine's footprint.

Package Contents

Verify that all components listed below are present in your package. If any parts are missing or damaged, please contact customer support.

Figure 1: Labeled diagram of BORA Portamate PM-1100 Mobile Base Kit components

• 2 x Left Corner with Bracket
• 2 x Right Corner with Bracket
• 2 x Swiveling 3-inch Caster Wheels
• 4 x Bolt Plates
• 2 x Rubber Feet
• 2 x 3-inch Wheels (fixed)
• 2 x Swivel Plates
• 2 x Foot Levers
• 1 x Hardware Kit (various bolts, nuts, washers)

Note: Plywood for the base is not included and must be supplied by the user.

Setup and Assembly

Assembly of the PM-1100 mobile base is straightforward and requires a custom plywood base to fit your specific machine. Follow these steps for proper installation:

1. Prepare the Plywood Base: Measure the footprint of your machine. Cut a piece of sturdy 3/4-inch plywood to match these dimensions. Ensure the plywood is flat and free of defects.
2. Attach Corner Brackets: Position the four corner brackets (two with fixed wheels, two with foot levers and swivel casters) at the corners of your plywood base. The brackets with foot levers are typically placed at the front or side for easy access.
3. Mark and Drill Holes: Use the pre-drilled holes on the corner brackets as a template to mark the drilling locations on your plywood. Remove the brackets and drill pilot holes through the plywood.
4. Secure Brackets: Re-position the corner brackets and secure them to the plywood using the provided screws from the hardware kit. Ensure all screws are tightened firmly.
5. Install Wheels and Casters: Attach the fixed wheels and swiveling casters to their respective corner brackets using the provided hardware. The foot levers should be attached to the brackets with the swiveling casters.
6. Adjust Rubber Feet: The corner brackets with fixed wheels include adjustable rubber feet. Adjust these feet so that they make firm contact with the floor when the mobile base is in the locked position, providing stability.

Figure 2: Quick assembly of the mobile base onto a plywood platform

Figure 3: All components of the BORA Portamate PM-1100 Mobile Base Kit

Once assembled, carefully place your machine onto the plywood base. Ensure the machine is centered and stable on the base.

Operating Instructions

The BORA Portamate PM-1100 mobile base features foot-operated levers for easy engagement and disengagement of mobility.

• To Engage Mobility (Unlock): Step down firmly on each foot lever. This action will lift the machine slightly, allowing the swiveling casters to make contact with the floor and the fixed wheels to roll freely. Ensure both levers are fully engaged before attempting to move the machine.
• To Move the Machine: With the foot levers engaged, gently push or pull the machine to its desired location. The 3-inch wheels and swiveling casters provide smooth movement.
• To Disengage Mobility (Lock): Once the machine is in its desired position, step on the release mechanism of each foot lever. This will lower the machine, allowing the adjustable rubber feet to rest on the floor and lift the casters, securing the machine in a stationary position. Ensure both levers are fully disengaged and the machine is stable before use.

Figure 4: Close-up view of the foot lever for engaging and disengaging mobility

Figure 5: Demonstrating movement of a machine on the mobile base

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and proper function of your mobile base.

• Cleaning: Keep the wheels and moving parts free from sawdust, debris, and grime. Use a dry cloth or brush for cleaning.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a light lubricant to the swivel mechanisms of the casters and the pivot points of the foot levers to ensure smooth operation.
• Hardware Check: Regularly check all bolts, nuts, and screws for tightness. Re-tighten as necessary to maintain structural integrity.
• Wheel Inspection: Inspect wheels and casters for wear, cracks, or damage. Replace any damaged wheels to ensure safe and smooth movement.
• Plywood Base: Check the plywood base for any signs of warping, cracking, or deterioration. Replace if necessary to maintain stability.

Troubleshooting

• Difficulty Moving Machine:
  • Ensure both foot levers are fully engaged, lifting the machine off its rubber feet.
  • Check for debris obstructing the wheels or casters.
  • Verify that the weight of the machine does not exceed the 400 lb capacity.
• Machine is Unstable when Stationary:
  • Ensure both foot levers are fully disengaged, allowing the rubber feet to firmly contact the floor.
  • Adjust the height of the rubber feet to ensure even contact and stability.
  • Check that all assembly hardware is tight.
• Wheels Not Swiveling Smoothly:
  • Clean any debris from the swivel mechanism.
  • Apply a light lubricant to the swivel bearings.

Specifications

Warranty

The BORA Portamate PM-1100 Universal Mobile Base Kit comes with a one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage resulting from misuse, abuse, unauthorized modifications, or normal wear and tear. For warranty claims or further details, please contact BORA customer support.

Support

For technical assistance, replacement parts, or any questions regarding your BORA Portamate PM-1100 Mobile Base Kit, please visit the official BORA website or contact their customer service department. Please have your model number (PM-1100) and purchase information ready when contacting support.