Drive Medical Scout Scooter Owner's Handbook

QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE

"Caution: Federal Law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a practitioner licenced by the law of the State in which he/she practices" (USA Only)

CONTENTS

• 1. PREFACE
• 2. SAFETY NOTICE
  • 2.1 Before Driving
  • 2.2 Whilst Driving
  • 2.3 Labelling
  • 2.4 Electromagnetic Interference
• 3. PARTS INTRODUCTION
• 4. OPERATION
  • 4.1 Control Panel
  • 4.2 How to Operate Your Scooter
• 5. DRIVING ON THE ROAD
• 6. BATTERY CHARGING AND CARE
• 7. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
  • 7.1 Daily Checking
  • 7.2 Service Record
  • 7.3 Battery Pack and Tyres
  • 7.4 Cleaning
  • 7.5 Storage
  • 7.6 Moving About
  • 7.7 Disassembling the Scooter for Transportation
  • 7.8 Assembling the Scooter
• 8. TROUBLESHOOTING
• 9. SPECIFICATION
• 10. WARRANTY
• 11. APPENDIX: SERVICE RECORD

1. PREFACE AND INTRODUCTION

Please carefully read this owner's handbook before using the scooter to ensure that you operate the scooter safely. Improper use of the scooter could result in damage, injury or traffic accidents.

This handbook also advises how to get most out of your scooter by giving comprehensive operating, assembly and maintenance instructions for the scooter.

A repair and maintenance record chart and warranty information is included with this handbook. Please keep it in a safe place or with the scooter.

If someone else uses the scooter make sure that you provide him or her with this handbook for their consideration.

As designs change some of the illustrations and pictures in the manual may not correspond to the scooters that you purchased. Drive Medical reserves the right to make design modifications.

The Scout range of scooters have been designed and manufactured to provide a comfortable and secure yet affordable solution for some mobility requirements. They are manoeuvrable and are suitable for indoor and some outdoor application where the terrain is forgiving (for example smooth paths, shopping centres, etc). They are class 2 scooters as defined by the Road Traffic Act 1988. They feature a rotating seat and can be easily folded and disassembled.

There are two models available:

• 3-wheel model for compact environments
• 4-wheel model for greater stability

2. SAFETY

2.1 Before Driving

• The user needs to be familiar with the use and operation of this scooter before driving.
• Ride on the pavement and pedestrian areas only. Never ride on motorways or dual carriageways. Only use roads to cross to other side of the pavement.
• Be aware of traffic when crossing or using roads.
• Use extreme caution when driving your scooter in busy areas such as shopping malls.
• Do not drive the scooter under the influence of drink or drugs, or when you are tired.
• Be careful when using the scooter in low light. It has not been designed for use at night.
• Before using the scooter in busy or hazardous environments, familiarise yourself with the operation of the scooter. Practice in an open and safe area which is free from hazards and other people. Turn the speed dial down for your initial practice.

2.2 Whilst Driving

• Do not use your scooter on surfaces that are muddy, gravelly, bumpy, narrow, snowed over, icy; or on towpaths near to canals which are not guarded.
• Do not use your scooter outside when it is raining, snowing, misty or windy.
• Do not make erratic turnings on your scooter.
• Bear in mind driving motions such as accelerating, stopping, turning, reversing, and the effect of gradients.

Slow down when driving on gradients. Always lean forward when climbing a steep gradient. Do not travel on gradients exceeding those stated on the diagram below:

Diagram Description: A diagram shows a scooter on a gradient with text indicating maximum gradient limits based on user weight. For a user mass of 130kg, the max gradient is 5°. For 90kg, it's 7°. For 70kg, it's 8°.

• Do not drive on roads with large drops or potholes.
• The scooter is not suitable for carrying passengers.
• Do not use the scooter to carry heavy goods.
• Do not use a mobile phone or other wireless communication devices whilst driving. Always stop somewhere suitable and switch off the scooter before using the phone.
• Do not set in freewheel mode when driving, especially on a gradient. Ensure that the scooter's automatic brake is applied before use.
• Do not exceed the weight limit of the scooter.

2.3 Labelling

Please carefully read all labels applied to the scooter before driving. For future reference, do not remove them from the scooter. The labels are also shown below:

• NEVER LIFT SCOOTER UP BY THE REAR OR FRONT OF SHROUD
  (Label located on rear shroud)

• ⚠️ WARNING

  Never operate the freewheel lever while seated on the scooter or on an incline!

  OPERATION OF THE FREEWHEEL LEVER

  Always pull UP FIRMLY for freewheel mode

  Always push DOWN FIRMLY for drive mode

  (Label located by freewheel lever on rear)

• WARNING: EMI

  REFER TO OPERATORS MANUAL FOR INFORMATION

  (Label located on rear)

• WARNING:

  Please hold the tiller before loosening the tiller adjustment knob.

  Before lifting or driving the scooter, make certain the tiller adjustment knob is fully tightened.

  Never attempt to adjust the tiller whilst the scooter is in motion

  (Label located on tiller)

Additional labels include manufacturer details (Drive Medical Ltd, Drive Medical GmbH), maximum user mass (130kg), EMI testing information (THIS UNIT HAS ACHIEVED 20 V/m EMI TESTING), CE mark, and country of origin (MADE IN VIETNAM).

2.4 Electromagnetic Interference

Scooters may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as mobile phones, walkie-talkies, TV and radio broadcast stations and amateur radio sets. In some cases, there is a risk this interference may cause involuntary movement of the scooter. The scooter has been tested and passed to withstand interference to a level of 20V per metre.

Be aware that the above sources may cause involuntary movement due to EMI. Exercise caution whilst using the aforementioned devices and avoid close proximity to TV and Radio broadcast stations.

The addition of components or accessories may affect the EMI susceptibility of the scooter. Do not fit accessories other than Drive Medical authorised accessories.

3. PARTS INTRODUCTION

Diagram Description: An illustration of the Scout 4-wheel scooter identifies key parts: CONTROL PANEL, SEAT, SEAT POST, TILLER LOCK, CHARGER SOCKET, BATTERY PACK, TILLER ADJ. KNOB, FREE-WHEEL LEVER, ANTI TIP WHEEL. A separate view shows the rear section of the scooter. The Control Panel is also shown separately, highlighting the SPEED DIAL, WIGWAG PADDLE, BATTERY GAUGE, and HORN BUTTON.

4. OPERATION

4.1 Control Panel

The Control Panel features the following controls: SPEED DIAL, WIGWAG PADDLE, BATTERY GAUGE, and HORN BUTTON.

4.2 How to Operate Your Scooter

• Key Ignition: Acts as the power switch. Turn clockwise to switch on (battery gauge should illuminate). Turn anticlockwise to switch off (battery gauge should switch off, key can be removed). ⚠️ Do not turn the ignition off whilst driving as this will lead to an emergency stop and possible risk of damage or injury.
• Speed Dial: Determines the maximum speed. Turn clockwise to increase speed, anticlockwise to decrease. ⚠️ Do not adjust the speed dial whilst driving as this could result in loss of control. Do not set the highest speed whilst driving indoors.
• Tiller Lock: When the tiller is centered, pull the tiller lock down to secure for transportation. Push up to release. ⚠️ Always ensure the tiller lock is disengaged when driving the scooter. Always check the tiller moves freely before driving.
• Moving and Braking: To move forward, pull the right side of the wigwag paddle towards you. To move backward, pull the left side towards you (an audible reversing alarm will sound). To brake, release the wigwag paddle completely. The electromagnetic brake will activate automatically, bringing the scooter to a prompt stop. The wigwag paddle controls speed up to the Speed Dial setting; further deflection results in higher speed (up to 4mph). ⚠️ Do not push both left and right hand sides of the wigwag simultaneously. You will not be able to control the scooter.
• Horn Button: Press the yellow button on the control panel to sound the horn. Release to stop.
• Braking - Electromagnetic Brake: Release the wigwag paddle completely for automatic braking. ⚠️ When on a gradient, never set the vehicle to freewheel mode. The brakes will not be applied.
• Seat: Can be rotated and locked at 45° intervals. Push the seat lever forward, swivel the seat, release the lever to lock. ❗ Attention: Return the seat to the forward position before driving.
• Adjusting the Seat Height: Remove the seat, remove the locking pin. Move the chrome seat post to the desired height. Align a predrilled hole to reinsert the locking pin and lock.
• Battery Gauge: The gauge on the tiller console uses LEDs to show remaining power:
  • Green (3 or 4 LEDs lit): 40% - 100% capacity
  • Yellow (2 LEDs lit): Draining charge (10% - 30%)
  • Red (1 LED lit): Immediate recharge is necessary.
  The indicated power may vary with driving time and style. Repeated starting, stopping, and climbing consume power faster.
• Error Indicator: If the leftmost LED is flashing, the scooter has encountered a problem. Count the number of flashes (pause between flashes) to determine the problem. If an error occurs, restart the scooter with the wigwag paddle released. If the problem persists, recharge the batteries. If still unresolved, contact your Drive Medical Dealer.
• ❗ Attention: You should recharge the batteries after each use to ensure maximum range. Read the Battery Charging section in the handbook before use.
• Circuit Breaker: May trip under excessive load or steep inclines, especially when the battery is low. Normal protrusion: 2mm – 3mm. Tripped: 7mm. Push the button in to reset.

Freewheel Lever

Engaged (Drive) Mode: Push the lever down completely and the scooter can be driven by the motor.

Freewheel Mode: Pull the lever up and switch the scooter off. The scooter can now be pushed / moved manually.

⚠️ Warning: The lever should only be set to FREEWHEEL when on flat ground and unoccupied by the user. Otherwise, there is a risk of damage or injury.

Tiller Adjustment

The tiller can be adjusted to many different positions to suit each user. To adjust follow the steps below:

1. Loosen the knob (as shown in the photo) so the tiller can move.
2. Using the other hand, reposition the tiller as required then retighten the knob to secure.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows the tiller of the scooter, with an arrow indicating the adjustment process.

5. DRIVING ON THE ROAD

Starting and Driving

1. Make sure the seat is installed properly.
2. Make sure the tiller has been secured properly and the tiller lock is disengaged.
3. Fold down the armrests so you can rest your arms on them.
4. Switch the key ignition on.
5. Check the battery gauge to see whether there is enough power for your journey. If you have any doubt about the remaining power, recharge the battery pack before use.
6. Set the speed dial to a position you feel safe and comfortable with.
7. Check the wigwag paddle and automatic brake work correctly.
8. Before driving, check the environment around you is safe for you to drive.

⚠️ Warning: Be careful whilst driving in heavy traffic or crowded areas. Whilst reversing the vehicle, be aware of people or objects behind you.

Stopping

1. Release the wigwag paddle completely. The vehicle will automatically brake and stop.
2. Switch the scooter off at the key ignition and pull out the key.

Note: Stopping distance will vary with speed so begin braking as early as possible. Always park on flat ground, switch off and remove the key before dismounting.

6. BATTERY CHARGING AND CARE

The battery pack can be charged either when it is installed or removed from the scooter.

To Charge

1. Switch the key ignition off.
2. Plug the charger's power cord in to the mains.
3. If required, remove the battery pack (see next section for details).
4. Open the charging socket cap on the battery pack. Then connect the charger's round plug in to the charging socket.
5. Switch on the plug socket at the mains.

To Remove the Battery Pack

1. Switch the key ignition off.
2. Lift out of the scooter using the handle on the battery pack.

Diagram Description: An image shows the battery pack being lifted out of the scooter.

To Install The Battery Pack

Lower the battery pack in to the scooter. Use the locking lever to secure the battery pack.

Charger Light

• The charger light will illuminate orange to indicate the batteries are charging. The charging duration is about 8 hours; however, a 12-hour charge is recommended for optimum performance. The orange light will turn green when charging is complete.
• ❗ Ensure that the charger is removed from the mains and the scooter or battery pack after charging. Failure to do this may flatten the battery.
• ❗ Do not remove the battery pack whilst the scooter is switched on.

Suggestions

1. Do not disconnect the charger cord until charging is completed and the light is lit Green.
2. When fully charged, the battery charger will still trickle charge the battery for optimum range.
3. Even when not in use, the scooter should be charged at least every week to ensure battery longevity.
4. Ambient temperature will affect charging time. Charging time will be longer in cold environments.
5. The batteries carry a 1-year warranty which covers manufacturing defects only. It does not cover battery faults as a result of not following the guidelines herein.

⚠️ Warning:

1. Only use the charger supplied with the scooter. Using the wrong type of charger may cause damage. Never disassemble or modify the scooter.
2. Always charge the scooter in a well-ventilated space. Avoid direct sunlight or contact with water and moisture.
3. Do not charge or operate the scooter in temperatures below -10°C or above 50°C. Do not expose the battery pack to these temperatures.

About the Battery Pack

• The battery pack contains two 12V 12Ah batteries.
• The batteries are sealed lead-acid type, maintenance-free, and non-spillable. They are fitted with spade terminals.
• The batteries require charging every week to ensure battery longevity.
• The batteries supplied as standard with the battery pack are classified as safe for air transport under IATA special provision A67.
• ⚠️ Warning: If battery pack loses contact with the scooter during operation, switch the key ignition off, re-insert the battery pack, and switch the ignition back on.

Battery Care

1. You should recharge the batteries after each time the scooter is used to ensure maximum battery range. The batteries should be charged at least once a week even if the scooter is not used.
2. After charging or replacing a new battery, drive the scooter for a short period to ensure battery capacity is sufficient.
3. In cold environments, the battery may respond more slowly and range will be reduced.
4. When driving on a gradient, the battery gauge will fluctuate. This is a normal occurrence.
5. Battery range is reduced when driving up gradients or on rough terrain, as the scooter uses more power.
6. The batteries should not be charged for more than 24 hours.

Battery Replacement

It is natural for the battery capacity to reduce with time, even if the battery is charged as directed above. When the battery range is about half of its peak performance, it is recommended that the batteries are changed. Continuing to use an old battery will result in a rapid reduction in the range of the scooter and can cause excessive wear and tear on other parts of the scooter.

7. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

7.1 Weekly Checking

Check the following items weekly or before driving. If you find anything abnormal, contact your Drive Medical Dealer for further inspection or advice.

• Tiller: Ensure it is not loose and can turn smoothly.
• Speed control dial: Ensure it adjusts freely.
• Wigwag paddle: Ensure scooter moves when lever is pressed, and stops when lever released.
• Motor: Check for any abnormal noise and electromagnetic brakes work correctly.
• Freewheel Lever: Ensure it works correctly.
• Seat: Ensure it swivels and locks easily.
• Tyres: Check tyre tread depth and for any signs of damage such as cracking.

7.2 Service Record

To ensure your scooter is correctly serviced, take it to your Drive Medical dealer for regular servicing. Drive Medical recommends that scooters are serviced at least annually, and your dealer may charge a fee for this. A copy of the service record is at the back of this handbook.

❗ Even if the scooter has not been used, it should still be serviced annually.

7.3 Battery Pack and Tyres

• For information on the battery pack, please read section 6 on Battery Charging and Care.
• Tyre condition will be affected by how you drive the scooter and what terrain it is driven on.
• The Scout comes with solid tyres which are puncture proof, so there is no need to check tyre pressure.

7.4 Cleaning

The scooter should be cleaned periodically, especially if you tend to drive on sand, gravel or in other adverse environments.

• Use a soft, wrung dry cloth to keep your scooter clean and dust free. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to clean the scooter.
• ⚠️ Warning:
  • Do not use a hose pipe or splash water directly on to the scooter.
  • Do not use petrol, solvents or vaporising solutions as these may damage body panels. Do not use wax.
  • Ensure the charger is unplugged and the scooter switched off before cleaning the scooter.

7.5 Storage

• Ensure the scooter is stored with the seat set in the forward position, the scooter switched off, with the battery pack removed and charger disconnected.
• ❗ Store the scooter in environments which are free from direct sunlight and water or moisture.

7.6 Moving About

1. Switch off the scooter using the ignition key and dismount from the scooter.
2. Lift the scooter by the chassis only.
3. For your safety, ask for help if required. You will need two or more people when moving or lifting the scooter as a whole.

⚠️ Never lift the scooter by the bumpers or body panels, as this can cause injury or damage.

7.7 Disassembling the Scooter

Both models of scooter can be disassembled into four pieces without tools: seat, front section, rear section, and battery pack. The procedure for disassembly is the same for both scooters. Please perform the following steps:

1. Seat: Push the Seat Rotate Lever whilst pulling up on the seat to remove.
2. Battery Pack: Turn the handle to release the battery pack, then lift out the battery pack from the main body of the scooter.
3. Tiller: Turn the tiller anticlockwise to loosen tiller. Lower the tiller and then turn the tiller knob clockwise to secure.
4. Front Tiller Lock: Lock front tiller by pulling the locking knob out and turning 90°.
5. Base: Pull up on the Connecting Handle to split the two halves of the base.

7.8 Assembling the Scooter

1. Base: Line up the two sections of base. Lift up the handle and use the handle to slowly lower the two parts so they lock together.
2. Tiller Unlock: Unlock front tiller by pulling the locking knob out and turning 90°.
3. Tiller Adjustment: Loosen the tiller adjustment knob and pull up the tiller to the required height. Retighten the knob to secure.
4. Battery Pack: Lower battery pack into the compartment in the scooter and then turn the handle to secure the pack in place.
5. Seat: Replace the seat and rotate it until it locks in to its correct position.

❗ After assembling the Scout, make sure the tiller adjustment knob is fully tightened.

The weights of the major component parts for the 4-wheel Scout are below:

• Seat – 7.2kg (15.9lb)
• Front Section – 15.8kg (34.7lb)
• Rear Section – 10.7kg (23.5lb)
• Battery Pack – 9.2kg (20.2lb)

8. TROUBLESHOOTING

The troubleshooting guide is also featured on page 1 of the Owner's Handbook. The following table summarizes common issues:

9. SPECIFICATION

Remark: The manufacturer reserves the right to modify the specification if necessary. The final specification is subject to the individual scooter you purchase from your dealer.

Note: Maximum driving distance is based on an ambient temperature of 20 °C, a 75kg driver and a brand new fully charged battery by a constant driving speed at 6 km/h with 70% battery power discharged.

The scooter is classed as a type A vehicle as defined by EN 12184.

Weights of Component Parts

The weights of the major component parts for the Scout are below:

• Seat – 7.2kg (15.9lb)
• Front Section (4-wheel) – 15.8kg (34.7lb)
• Rear Section – 10.7kg (23.5lb)
• Battery Pack – 9.2kg (20.2lb)

10. VIN NUMBER

To ensure the correct after-sales service and warranty service support, please write down the scooter serial number. The serial number is located on the back right-hand side of the frame.

Also, note your Drive Medical dealer below:

11. WARRANTY

There is a comprehensive one-year warranty from the date on which your new scooter is delivered. The warranty covers the scooter for repairs or replacement during this period. For more detail, please see the Warranty Conditions below.

Warranty Conditions:

1. Any work or replacement part installation must be carried out by an authorized Drive Medical dealer / service agent.
2. To apply the warranty, should your scooter require attention, please contact the designated service agent listed above.
3. Should any part of the scooter require repair or full or part replacement, as a result of a manufacturing or material defect within twelve months of receiving the scooter, replacement parts will be supplied free of charge. Note: This guarantee is not transferable.
4. Any repaired or replaced parts will be covered by this warranty for the balance of the warranty period on the scooter.
5. Consumable items supplied will not generally be covered during the normal warranty period unless such items require repair or replacement clearly as a direct result of a manufacturing or material defect. Such items include (among others): upholstery, tyres, and batteries.
6. The above warranty conditions apply to brand new scooters purchased at the full retail price. If you are unsure whether your scooter is covered, check with the service agent.
7. Under normal circumstances, no responsibility will be accepted where the scooter has failed as a direct result of:
   • a) The scooter or part not having been maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
   • b) Failure to use the manufacturer's specified parts.
   • c) The scooter or part having been damaged due to neglect, accident, or improper use.
   • d) The scooter or part having been altered from the manufacturer's specifications or repairs having been attempted before the service agent is notified.

Please note your local service agent's contact details in the previous box. In the event of your scooter requiring attention, contact them and give all relevant details so they can act quickly.

The manufacturer reserves the right to alter without notice any weights, measurements or other technical data shown in this manual. All figures, measurements and capacities shown in this manual are approximate and do not constitute specifications.

Appendix A: Service Record

This section provides a table for recording service dates and checks.

Notes:

This section is for user notes.