Shoprider Portable Powerchair User Manual

Introduction

Congratulations on choosing the best. Shoprider portable Powerchairs offer an ultimate combination of style, comfort, and portability. Their compact features support easy transportation for today's active lifestyle, promising many years of mobility and freedom.

This manual contains important information regarding the safe use of your Shoprider Powerchair. Please read it carefully and thoroughly before use, ensuring you understand all instructions.

EMI Warning: Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) from Radio Wave Sources

Powered electric chairs can be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) emitted from sources like radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones. This interference can cause the power chair to release its brakes, move unintentionally, or damage its control system.

Sources of Radiated EMI:

1. Hand-held portable transceivers: With antennas mounted directly on the unit (e.g., citizens band radios, walkie-talkies, security, fire, and police transceivers, cellular telephones). Note: Some cellular telephones transmit signals even when not actively used.
2. Medium-Range mobile transceivers: Used in vehicles like police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and taxis, typically with antennas mounted externally.
3. Long-Range transmitters: Such as commercial broadcast transmitters (radio/TV towers) and amateur radio transmitters.

Other devices like cordless phones, laptop computers, AM/FM radios, TV sets, CD players, cassette players, electric shavers, and hair dryers are generally not likely to cause problems.

Powered Chair Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

EM energy intensity increases with proximity to the transmitting antenna. Hand-held radio sources are of particular concern as they can bring high levels of EM energy very close to the Powerchair's control system, affecting movement and braking.

WARNINGS

To reduce the chance of unintended brake release or movement, which could result in serious injury:

1. Do not operate hand-held transceivers (e.g., CB radios) or turn on personal communication devices (e.g., cellular phones) while the Powerchair is ON.
2. Be aware of nearby transmitters (radio/TV stations) and avoid coming close to them.
3. If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the Powerchair OFF as soon as it is safe.
4. Adding accessories or modifying the Powerchair may increase susceptibility to EMI.

There is no easy way to evaluate the overall immunity of the power chair.

Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to your Powerchair provider and note any nearby EMI sources.

Safety Instructions

Please use your Powerchair to enhance your active lifestyle. With increased mobility, observe these rules for safe operation:

1. Do not drive the Powerchair without reading this manual.
2. Do not exceed the safe climbing maximum angle (Refer to Specifications section for details).
3. Do not use the joystick erratically when going up or down an incline.
4. Do not carry passengers or exceed the maximum weight limit (Refer to Specifications section).
5. Do not turn off the joystick controller by switching the On/Off Button while moving at any speed. This engages electromagnetic brakes immediately and can damage the controller.
6. Do not drive over deep and soft terrain (e.g., soft dirt, loose gravel, deep grass).
7. Do not attempt to mount a curb height above 2 inches (approx. 5 cm).
8. Do not mount or dismount the Powerchair unless the electromagnetic brakes are engaged and the joystick controller is OFF.
9. Do not operate the Powerchair if the unit is in freewheel mode.
10. Do not use on the road, except when crossing between sidewalks.
11. Do not sit on the Powerchair when in a vehicle; transfer to a vehicle seat.
12. Do not exceed any grade over 6 degrees (10%).
13. Always stop fully before changing forward or reverse direction.
14. Always engage a slow speed when going down gradients (move the joystick slowly towards the center position to reduce speed).
15. Always approach and climb over curbs at slow speed.
16. Always approach curbs and gradients at 90 degrees.
17. Always use the safety belt.
18. Always keep feet on the leg rest while driving.
19. Always ensure batteries are fully charged before starting a journey.
20. Always charge the Powerchair in a well-ventilated area to prevent risk.
21. Always check that the drive wheels are engaged; they may have been left in freewheel mode.
22. Always reduce speed when turning sharply.
23. Avoid turning sharply on a slope or gradient.
24. To brake in an emergency, simply release the joystick.
25. Always try to find a "dropped curb" or "curb cutout" whenever possible.
26. Always keep your Powerchair properly maintained.
27. Never try to use your Powerchair beyond its limitations as described in this manual.
28. Always put the seat in the most upright position when driving up an incline.

Important Notes

The Shoprider portable Powerchair is designed to assist individual mobility needs. Usage outside the guidelines in this manual may result in damage to the chair or injury to the user or third party.

Do not lift the wheelchair by the armrests.

First Time Use

Prior to first-time use, charge the batteries fully (refer to Battery Charging Procedures). Charging may take up to 12 hours for Jimmie, Jiffy, and Jiffy11, and up to 3 hours for the Smartie. Complete charging before first use benefits battery efficiency and life.

Feature Guide

The following sections describe the features of the different Shoprider Powerchair models.

Models: SMARTIE (UL8W) & JIMMIE (UL8WPB)

Figure 1 shows the Smartie and Jimmie powerchairs. Key features include:

• (1) Removable Armrests: Adjustable width, height, and angle; flip up for easy sideways transfer.
• (2) Programmable VSI Joystick Controller: With adjustable speed and battery life indicator.
• (3) Charging Port: For connecting the charger.
• (4) Reclining Deluxe Captain Seat: Offers adjustable backrest.
• (5) Adjustable Foot Plate: Length, height, and angle are adjustable.
• (6) Front Castor Assy: 6" flat-free tire.
• (7) Frame Serial Number: A 13-alphanumeric character identifier.
• (8) Rear Drive Wheel: Smartie uses an 8" flat-free tire; Jimmie uses a 9" flat-free tire.
• (9) Anti-tip Wheel: Provides stability.
• (10) Removable Shroud: Allows for easy color style changes.

Models: XTRALITEJIFFY (UL7WR) & XTRALITEJIFFY11 (UL7WR11)

Figure 2 shows the Xtralite Jiffy and Xtralite Jiffy11 powerchairs. Key features include:

• (1) Removable Armrests: Adjustable width, height, and angle; flip up for easy sideways transfer.
• (2) Programmable VSI Joystick Controller: With adjustable speed and battery life indicator.
• (3) Charging Ports: For connecting the charger.
• (4) Reclining Deluxe Leatherette Captain Seat: Offers adjustable backrest.
• (5) Standard Angle Adjustable Foot Plate: Adjustable angle.
• (6) Front Castor Assy: 6" flat-free tire.
• (7) Frame Serial Number: A 13-alphanumeric character identifier.
• (8) Rear Drive Wheel: 8" flat-free tire.
• (9) Anti-tip Wheel: Provides stability.
• (10) Removable Battery Pack: For easy charging.

Getting to Know Your Shoprider Powerchair

The Joystick Controller (VSI)

Figure 3 illustrates the VSI joystick controller. Its components are:

• (1) On-Off Button: Turns the VSI controller on and off. Do not use this button to stop the power chair, except in an emergency.
• (2) Battery Gauge: A 10-segment display showing if the VSI is on and the battery's state of charge. It also indicates faults in the power chair's electrical system.
• (3) Maximum Speed Indicator: A 5-segment display showing the selected maximum speed setting.
• (4) Horn Button: Operates the power chair's horn.
• (5) Speed Decrease Button: Decreases the maximum speed.
• (6) Speed Increase Button: Increases the maximum speed.
• (7) Joystick: Controls the speed and direction. Push in the desired direction; the further you push, the faster the speed. Releasing the joystick automatically engages the brakes and stops the power chair.
• (8) Charging Port: The primary charging port for Smartie and Jimmie. For Jiffy and Jiffy11, this is a secondary port. Use only the qualified Shoprider charger. This port must not be used as a power supply for other devices, as it will void the warranty.

The controller can be fitted for right or left-handed users. Contact your provider for assistance.

Locking/Unlocking the VSI Joystick

LOCK MODE

The VSI controller can be locked to prevent unauthorized use via a sequence of key presses and joystick movements.

To lock the Powerchair controller:

• While the controller is ON, press and hold the On/Off button.
• After 1 second, the controller will beep. Release the On/Off button.
• Push the joystick forward until the controller beeps.
• Push the joystick in reverse until the controller beeps.
• Release the joystick; a long beep indicates the controller is now locked.

To unlock the Powerchair controller:

• Use the On/Off button to switch the controller ON. The maximum speed/profile indicator will flash up and down.
• Push the joystick forward until the controller beeps.
• Push the joystick in reverse until the controller beeps.
• Release the joystick; a long beep indicates the Powerchair is now unlocked.

SLEEP MODE

If the controller is left ON and unused for more than ten minutes, it will automatically enter "sleep mode," indicated by a slow, intermittent flash of the battery indicator lights. Turn the controller OFF and back ON to reset.

Always leave the chair in drive mode. The freewheel option is for manual pushing when needed (e.g., to store or move out of a tight space). Follow the sticker instructions to engage freewheel mode.

The Powerchair will not function with the drive mechanism disengaged (in freewheel). The VSI-50 will display a fault code and beep steadily if turned ON in this mode.

Drive/Freewheel Mechanism

Both left and right sides must be in drive mode for the power chair to operate. Otherwise, the Powerchair will display a fault code (9 lights) and will not operate.

Smartie/Jimmie Drive/Freewheel Mechanism

The drive/freewheel levers are located towards the rear of the Powerchair: one on the top left and one on the bottom right. These levers disengage the drive mechanism, allowing the Powerchair to be pushed in freewheel mode. (Refer to Figure 4A).

Jiffy/Jiffy11 Drive/Freewheel Mechanism

The drive/freewheel levers are located towards the front of the Powerchair, one on each side, at the end of each motor. These levers disengage the drive mechanism, allowing the Powerchair to be pushed in freewheel mode. (Refer to Figure 4).

Figure 4A Description: A close-up view of the rear of a Shoprider Smartie or Jimmie powerchair. A lever labeled "Freewheel Lever" is visible. Arrows indicate the direction for "Drive Powerchair" and "Push Powerchair".

Figure 4 Description: A close-up view of the front of a Shoprider Jiffy or Jiffy11 powerchair. A lever labeled "Freewheel Lever" is visible. Arrows indicate the direction for "Drive Powerchair" and "Push Powerchair".

User Transferring

You can transfer forward, left, or right from the Smartie, Jimmie, Jiffy, and Jiffy11 Powerchairs. The armrests are hinged and can be pulled up and out of the way for sideways transfer. For support during transfers, use only the armrests; do not use the seat back. (Refer to Figure 5).

Figure 5 Description: An image of a powerchair seat with an arrow pointing to the armrest, labeled "1) Pull Up", indicating how to raise the armrest for transfer.

Reclining Seat

The Smartie, Jimmie, Jiffy, and Jiffy11 Powerchairs feature a reclining seat. The reclining seat lever is located on the left side below the armrest. Pull the lever up to adjust the seat back. This feature also allows the seat to be folded. (Refer to Figures 7a and 8a for pictures of folded seats).

Figure 6 Description: An image showing the side of a powerchair seat with red arrows pointing to a lever located below the armrest, indicating the mechanism for reclining the seat.

Disassembling/Transporting the Shoprider Powerchair

Smartie/Jimmie Models

Follow these steps for disassembly:

1. Park the Powerchair on a level surface.
2. Ensure the wheels are locked in drive mode (refer to Figure 4).
3. Fold up the footplate.
4. Unplug the VSI from the rear of the unit.
5. Remove the seat by lifting it upward and off.
6. Depress the release hook lever to separate the front and rear sections.

Figure 7 Description: An exploded view diagram of the Shoprider Smartie/Jimmie powerchair, showing numbered components (1-6) for disassembly. The overall dimensions are indicated by a double-headed arrow labeled '1'.

Figure 7a Description: An image showing the separated rear section of the Shoprider Smartie/Jimmie powerchair, with numbered components (2, 3, 6) visible.

Jiffy/Jiffy11 Models

Follow these steps for disassembly:

1. Park the Powerchair on a level surface.
2. Ensure the wheels are locked in drive mode (refer to Figure 4).
3. Fold up the footplate.
4. Unplug the VSI from the rear of the unit.
5. Remove the battery pack from the rear of the unit by depressing the hook to release the lock.
6. Remove the seat by loosening the tightening knobs and lifting the seat upward and off.

Figure 8 Description: An exploded view diagram of the Shoprider Jiffy/Jiffy11 powerchair, showing numbered components (1-6) for disassembly. The overall dimensions are indicated by a double-headed arrow labeled '1'.

Figure 8a Description: An image showing the separated components of the Shoprider Jiffy/Jiffy11 powerchair: the joystick/seat unit (4, 6), the base unit (2, 3), and the battery pack (5).

Driving Your Shoprider Portable Powerchair

Ramps, Slopes and Cambers

The portable indoor/outdoor Powerchair can negotiate ramps, slopes, and cambers of low to medium gradients. Observe the following points for safe operation:

1. Never attempt to go up or down an incline with a rough, wet, or slippery surface (e.g., loose gravel, tree roots, wet grass, polished floor).
2. Always approach an incline head-on, not at an angle.
3. Always travel at a speed that you are comfortable with and feel in complete control.
4. Avoid sudden or erratic action with the joystick.
5. Always keep the reclining seat in the most upright position when driving up an incline.
6. When riding in a straight line, you may experience "veering to one side" due to the natural camber of the pavement. To correct this, steer slightly against it as you continue to move forward.

Figure 9 Description: A diagram illustrating inclines with angles (0°, 6°, 9°) and corresponding weight capacities in kilograms (kg) and pounds (lbs). It shows a powerchair on a slope, labeled "(Single user)".

Caring for Your Shoprider Powerchair

First Time Use

Prior to first-time use, charge the batteries fully (refer to Battery Charging Procedures). Charging may take up to 12 hours for Jimmie, Jiffy, and Jiffy11, and up to 3 hours for the Smartie. Complete charging before first use benefits battery efficiency and life.

Tires

Since your tires are flat-free, there is no need to worry about tire air pressure.

General Maintenance and Lubrication

• Regular inspection of loose wheel bolts, seat and arm tightening bolts, castor nuts, and other nuts and bolts is recommended.
• Most lubricated components are designed to be maintenance-free and sealed. Lubrication is not required for these components. However, the driving wheel axles and seat post should always have a very light coat of multi-purpose grease. DO NOT USE TOO MUCH GREASE! Drips may stain or damage carpets, furnishings, etc.
• It is recommended that the driving axles and castor assemblies be checked and cleaned occasionally for hair and debris build-up, which can hinder performance.
• Check Jimmie, Jiffy, and Jiffy11 batteries regularly. For extended battery life, it is highly recommended that batteries be fully charged after each use and the battery pack always be turned OFF when not in use. If batteries are weak, severely discharged, or old, problems may occur including charging issues, reduced speed, loss of range, and loss of charge capacity. Contact your provider for battery replacement and proper disposal. Note: Smartie battery technology is virtually maintenance-free and has a significantly longer battery life.

Batteries & Battery Charging

Jimmie/Jiffy/Jiffy11

These Powerchairs operate on two 12-volt/12Ah sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries (AGM or gel-cell type), which are maintenance-free. The SLA batteries are contained within a battery-pack for Jiffy and Jiffy11 models. Battery life can be affected by temperature, terrain, user weight, driving methods, and battery care.

The battery gauge (refer to Figure 3) indicates the remaining charge. Always turn the Jiffy/Jiffy11 battery pack OFF after use to prevent reduced battery life and potential permanent damage voiding the warranty.

Active users should charge batteries after using approximately 30% of capacity. Inactive users (using once a week to every other day) should recharge at 50% discharge. Following these guidelines is highly recommended for extended battery life. Batteries cannot be overcharged.

*Keeping the batteries charged extends the life of the batteries*

*Turn battery pack OFF after use*

SLA batteries should be kept fully charged. Do not leave them discharged if the unit is not being used for an extended period, as this can cause permanent memory loss. Check SLA batteries monthly and keep them charged as needed. Typically, SLA batteries have up to about 400 charging cycles.

Figure 10 Description: A diagram illustrating battery charge levels: Red Bottom (3 Bars, Flashing - Danger, stop and recharge immediately to avoid damage), Amber Middle (4 Bars, 30%-50% discharge, batteries need charging), Green Top (3 Bars, Full battery charge). Includes the warning: NEVER DISCHARGE BATTERIES TO RED BARS OF INDICATOR!

Smartie

The Shoprider Smartie PowerChair uses next-generation Envirofriendly battery technology (SGE - Safe Green Energy), a phosphate-based lithium iron battery that is safe and environmentally friendly. Key features and benefits include:

• Virtually zero maintenance, saving costs and time.
• Lightweight, high performance, and high energy (twice the energy at the same size, three times at the same weight as standard SLA batteries).
• Over 2,000 charging cycles at 80% depth of discharge with excellent deep discharge capability.
• No battery memory effect; no loss of capacity at partial discharge/charge.
• No battery damage on full depth of discharge; full capacity realization without over-sizing. Low capacity loss at higher discharge rates, more usable energy, and no temporary voltage drop. Protects sensitive equipment.
• Sleep mode (low self-discharge) requires no seasonal conditioning for long-term storage. No sudden death syndrome. Linear and predictable battery fade down to 50% of original capacity.
• No explosive hydrogen gassing, no corrosion on terminals, no free electrolyte. No equalization charge needed. Maintains higher voltage/power even at end of charge.
• Environmentally friendly, below EPA toxicity (TCLP), and no recycling needed.

Due to the Smartie's high energy battery, the VSI battery indicator may show a full charge until batteries are close to complete discharge. It is highly recommended that inactive users charge batteries at least twice a week, and active users charge daily. Batteries cannot be overcharged. Charging usually takes no more than one hour for the Smartie.

Battery Charging Procedure

Charging the Shoprider portable Powerchair:

Smartie, Jimmie, Jiffy & Jiffy11

1. Plug the A/C power cord into the wall. Plug the male three-pin charger plug into the female 3-pin receiver on the bottom of the VSI (Refer to Figure 3, #8). Note: The Jiffy & Jiffy11 battery pack must be turned ON to accept charge.

Jiffy & Jiffy11 (Separate Battery Pack Charging)

2. Remove the battery-pack from the unit. Plug the A/C power cord into the wall. The battery-pack has a charger port. Slide the charger port cover to expose the female 3-pin receiver. Plug the male three-pin charger plug into the female 3-pin receiver. The battery-pack does not need to be attached to the Powerchair to charge.

The battery charger's light indicator is as follows:

• Red - Charging
• Green - Charging complete

Depending on battery discharge, charging can take up to 12 hours (Jimmie/Jiffy/Jiffy11 Only). The charger has an electronic switch that terminates charging when batteries are full. Do not remove the charger until the cycle is complete. Unplug the charger from the wall first, then from the Powerchair. Turn the battery pack OFF (Jiffy/Jiffy11 only).

WARNING! Only use the original manufacturer-approved charger! This charger is for indoor use only. Do not expose it to rain or water spray.

Do not leave the charger plugged into the Charging Port if the charger is not charging.

Troubleshooting

The Self-Help Guide (Table 1) assists in locating faults. If a fault persists after checking the table, do not use the Powerchair. Turn off the power and consult your provider immediately.

Table 1: Possible VSI-50 Faults by Battery Gauge Flash Code

Battery/ Charging Troubleshooting (Jimmie, Jiffy & Jiffy11)

If the charger indicator light turns green within minutes of plugging in and does not charge the batteries, they may be over-discharged and require service or replacement. Contact your provider.

If the charger indicator light goes immediately to green when plugged in, the problem is likely a blown fuse or popped circuit breaker. Contact your provider for assistance.

Specifications

Table 2: Powerchair Specifications

As a part of our ongoing product improvement initiative, Shoprider reserves the right to change specifications and design without prior notice. All specifications and dimensions are approximate.

*Includes the anti-tip wheel.

2The actual driving range varies with the factors shown below:

1. The weight of the user
2. Ground surface condition
3. Battery condition
4. Type of charger
5. Ambient temperature
6. Driving style
7. Terrain
8. After battery and mechanical moving parts have broken in
9. *Proceed up any incline with seat in upright position*

Quarterly Inspection

For your safety, quarterly inspection and service by an authorized dealer is strongly recommended. Maintenance records should be kept at all times. The manufacturer/distributor/vendor will be indemnified from any product liability claim if these maintenance/service requirements are not met.

NOTE! Regular (Monthly) inspection is strongly recommended by the manufacturer to ensure ultimate performance of the vehicle.

Service Record:

Date of Purchase: ______ / ______ / ______

Purchaser: _________________________

Model #: _________________________ Serial #: _________________________

Dealer Unit Was Purchased From: ____________________________________________________

Disclaimer

Congratulations on your purchase of the Shoprider portable powerchair.

This Powerchair is not intended for use by individuals with physical limitations that could prevent safe operation. Shoprider disclaims all responsibility for any personal injury or property damage resulting from improper or unsafe use of its products.

Warranty is valid only when genuine Shoprider parts are used. Modifications not approved by Shoprider will invalidate warranties. Standard warranty does not extend to consumable items or parties other than the original user.

The preceding guidance is intended to assist you in the safe operation of this Powerchair. For questions about correct operation, please contact your authorized Shoprider provider.

Contact Information

Shoprider Mobility Products, Inc.

800-743-0772

www.shoprider.com

P/N SMP012006

P/N: 300904-18-A7