Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair
Model Shown: BLS18FBD-SF
Weight Capacity: 250 LBS
Product Overview
The Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair is a product of quality engineering, manufactured to meet high specifications for dependable service. This manual provides essential information for safe usage and maintenance.
Key Components:
- Hand Grip
- Back Upholstery
- Rear Wheel
- Armrest Pad
- Armrest
- Side Panel
- Seat Upholstery
- Rigging
- Footplate
- Brakes
- Caster Fork
- Caster Front
Safety and Usage Instructions
CAUTION: Stability
Wheelchairs are designed for safety and stability when the center of gravity is maintained during normal activities. Avoid activities that shift your center of gravity or reaching too far out of the chair. When reaching for objects, ensure the front casters are pointing forward to extend the wheelbase for stability.
Ramps
Assess your capabilities before using ramps. Seek guidance from a qualified professional for correct ramp negotiation techniques. Assistance is recommended for inclines greater than 10°. Avoid sudden movements when resuming movement on an incline, as this can cause instability. Do not use wheel locks to slow descent on inclines. Abrupt changes in direction on inclines can lead to instability or tipping.
Wheel Locks
Engage both wheel locks before entering or exiting the chair, leaning forward, or when in an elevator or wheelchair lift. Ensure wheel locks are adjusted to engage at least 1/8" when locked. Proper adjustment involves loosening the nut on the carriage bolt, sliding the lock shoe towards the rear wheel, and then tightening the nut and bolt.
Tires
Solid rubber tires require minimal maintenance and can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Replace if severely worn or cracked.
Front Casters
Periodically check and lubricate front casters. Lubricate by removing the fork and greasing the caster stem bearings. Reassemble by tightening nuts until there is no play, but the wheels roll freely.
Removable Arms
Arms can be removed by depressing the spring button and lifting the arms out of the front and rear sockets.
Swing-Away Foot Rests/Leg Rests
To remove: Release the lock by pushing the front rigging lever, then swing the footrest/leg rest out and sideways. Lift to remove.
Adjusting Footrest/Leg Rest Length
With the user seated, loosen the bolt on the clamp assembly. Raise or lower the footplate to the desired position for maximum thigh support. Ensure the front rigging is not too low, causing discomfort. The footrest should not be lower than 2-1/2" from the ground for clearance.
Adjusting/Elevating Leg Rest
Lift the footplate on the leg rest assembly to the desired position. Release the assembly; it will lock automatically. To lower, push the leg rest lever outward and lower the footplate.
Wheels
Inspect rear wheels monthly for tightness. If a wheel wobbles, release the lock nut and slightly tighten the axle bolt. Test by tilting the chair and spinning the adjusted wheel.
General Care
Wipe chrome parts weekly with a clean, soft cloth. Metal parts can be cleaned with automotive wax. Dry immediately if exposed to moisture. Avoid abrasive cleansers.
Opening the Chair
Tilt the chair to one side and push down on the seat rail until fully opened.
Closing/Folding the Chair
Fold foot plates to a vertical position. Grab the seat with both hands at the front and back edges and lift. Alternatively, tilt the chair to one side and lift the seat rail.
WARNINGS
- Read all instructions before operating.
- This wheelchair is not approved as a seat for use in vehicles. Always transfer users to approved vehicle seats and use safety restraints.
- Do not operate on roadways, streets, or areas with vehicular traffic.
- Do not operate on inclines of 10% or greater without assistance.
- Ensure wheel locks are fully engaged before transferring users in or out of the chair, or when in elevators/lifts.
- Operate on smooth, stable, level surfaces with locks engaged for transfers.
- Do not adjust footrests lower than 2-1/2" from the floor.
- Do not stand on or apply weight to footrests when entering or exiting the chair.
- When reaching or leaning forward, rotate casters forward and engage wheel locks to prevent tipping.
- Do not lean on or apply weight to the top of the wheelchair back.
- Limit reaching to a distance that does not require altering your seating position.
- DO NOT stand on the wheelchair.
- DO NOT use wheel locks to slow descent on inclines.
- Abruptly changing direction on inclines can cause instability or tipping.
3 Year Limited Warranty
Drive brand products are warranted to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for three years from the date of original consumer purchase. This warranty reflects confidence in the product's quality and assurance of dependable service.
Exclusions: This warranty does not cover failures due to owner misuse, negligence, or normal wear and tear. Non-durable components like rubber accessories, casters, and grips, subject to normal wear, require periodic replacement and are not covered.
For questions about your Drive device or warranty, please contact an authorized Drive dealer.