Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Invacare Essential SX3 Manual Wheelchair. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the wheelchair to ensure proper operation and to prevent injury.
Product Overview
The Invacare Essential SX3 Manual Wheelchair is designed for adults requiring mobility assistance. It features a lightweight, foldable frame, comfortable padded armrests, and adjustable footrests for enhanced user experience.
Figure 1: Invacare Essential SX3 Manual Wheelchair, front-side view.
Key Features:
- Flip-Back Desk Length Armrests: Padded armrests designed for easy access to desks and tables, and for simplified transfers.
- Lightweight and Foldable Design: Weighs approximately 38 lbs and folds to 12.3 inches wide for transport and storage.
- Adjustable Seat Depth: Standard 16-inch depth, extendable by 2 inches with an included kit.
- Durable Vinyl Upholstery: Easy to clean and resistant to wear.
- Swing-Away and Adjustable Footrests: Removable and height-adjustable for user comfort and easier transfers.
- Smooth-Rolling Wheels: 8-inch PVC front wheels and 24-inch rear mag PU tires with built-in wheel locks.
Components
Familiarize yourself with the main components of your wheelchair:
- Frame: Powder-coated steel frame.
- Seat and Backrest: Vinyl upholstery.
- Armrests: Padded, flip-back, desk-length.
- Footrests/Legrests: Swing-away, height-adjustable.
- Front Casters: 8-inch PVC wheels.
- Rear Wheels: 24-inch mag PU tires with push-rims.
- Wheel Locks: For securing the wheelchair.
- Push Handles: For attendant propulsion.
Figure 2: Front view of the wheelchair, showing footrests and front casters.
Setup and Assembly
The Invacare Essential SX3 Wheelchair arrives fully assembled. Follow these steps for initial preparation:
- Unfolding the Wheelchair:
- Place the folded wheelchair on a flat, stable surface.
- Grasp the push handles and gently pull them apart until the wheelchair frame begins to open.
- Push down firmly on both sides of the seat rails until the seat is fully flat and locked into position. Ensure there is an audible click.
- Attaching/Adjusting Footrests:
- Align the footrest hangers with the receiver brackets on the front of the wheelchair frame.
- Swing the footrests inward until they lock into place.
- To adjust the height, press the release button on the legrest tube and slide the footplate up or down to the desired position. Release the button to lock.
- To remove, swing the footrests outward and lift them off the receiver brackets.
- Adjusting Seat Depth (Optional):
- The wheelchair includes a kit to extend the seat depth by 2 inches. Refer to the separate instructions provided with the extension kit for detailed installation.
- Inspecting Wheelchair: Before first use, ensure all components are securely attached, wheels roll freely, and wheel locks engage properly.
Figure 3: Flip-back armrests allow seamless access to desks and tables.
Operating Instructions
Self-Propulsion:
- Grasp the push-rims on the rear wheels.
- Push forward on the rims to move forward, and pull back to slow down or reverse.
- To turn, apply more force to one push-rim than the other.
Attendant Propulsion:
- An attendant can push the wheelchair using the ergonomic non-slip hand grips on the back of the chair.
- Use the integrated steel step tube to assist in lifting the front casters over small obstacles like curbs or bumps.
Figure 4: Attendant pushing the wheelchair, demonstrating the use of the integrated step tube.
Engaging Wheel Locks:
- Always engage both wheel locks when transferring in or out of the wheelchair, or when stationary.
- Push the lever on each wheel lock forward until it clicks into place, securing the rear wheels.
- To disengage, pull the lever back.
Figure 5: Close-up of the secure locking wheel mechanism.
Folding the Wheelchair:
- Ensure footrests are swung away or removed.
- Grasp the center of the seat upholstery and lift upwards. The frame will begin to collapse inward.
- Continue lifting until the wheelchair is fully folded.
Figure 6: The wheelchair folds compactly for storage and transport.
Maintenance
Cleaning:
- Wipe down the vinyl upholstery and frame with a damp cloth and mild soap.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish.
- Dry thoroughly after cleaning.
Inspection:
- Regularly check all nuts, bolts, and fasteners for tightness.
- Inspect tires for wear and proper inflation (if applicable for rear tires).
- Ensure wheel locks engage and disengage smoothly and securely.
- Check armrests and footrests for secure attachment and proper function.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchair does not roll smoothly. | Loose axle, debris in wheels, worn tires. | Check axle tightness, clean wheels, inspect and replace worn tires. |
| Wheel locks do not engage. | Misaligned brake pads, loose mechanism. | Adjust brake pads or tighten mechanism. Consult a qualified technician if unable to resolve. |
| Footrests are loose or difficult to attach. | Bent hanger, debris in receiver. | Inspect for damage, clean receiver brackets. |
Specifications
- Model Number: ISX366DASA
- Product Dimensions (Open): 31.88 x 24.25 x 34 inches
- Weight: 38 Pounds
- Seat Width: 16 inches
- Seat Depth: 16 inches (extendable to 18 inches)
- Front Wheels: 8-inch PVC
- Rear Wheels: 24-inch Mag PU tires
- Manufacturer: Invacare
Figure 7: Key dimensions and maximum weight capacity of the wheelchair.
Safety Information
- Always engage wheel locks before transferring in or out of the wheelchair.
- Do not attempt to operate the wheelchair on steep inclines or declines without assistance.
- Ensure all parts are securely fastened before each use.
- Do not exceed the maximum weight capacity of 265 lbs.
- Avoid sudden movements or changes in direction that could cause instability.
- Regularly inspect the wheelchair for any signs of wear or damage. Do not use if damaged.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please contact Invacare directly. Refer to the product packaging or the official Invacare website for specific warranty terms and contact details.
Manufacturer: Invacare
Return Policy: 30-day return policy (as per Amazon listing at time of purchase).
