Thursday, August 5, 2010

Replace Wheelchair Wheels

There are two kinds of wheels for wheelchairs: pneumatic wheels (filled with air) and air-free wheels. Reasons for changing the wheel can vary from wear and tear on the tire to the need for less maintenance. It is recommended to keep the wheelchair safe by making sure the spokes and axles on the wheels are oiled and intact. Make sure that the chair doesn't wobble, and be sure that nuts and bolts are tightened.








Instructions


1. Find out what is causing the problem before replacing the wheels. If the chair tends to wobble, it doesn't mean that the wheels need to be replaced. The crossbraces may need to be tightened. These are located in the center frame under the seat of the wheelchair.


2. Determine what kind of wheels you have. If the wheel is flat, then you will have pneumatic tires. If they are firm and cannot be punctured, but have a rough ride, then they are air-free.


3. Remove the wheels. Many wheelchairs have a quick-release mechanism to remove the wheels easily. There is a button on the side of the chair that can be pushed to allow the axles to be release for easy removal. Most snap-ons are no bigger than a 26-inch tire. Other wheelchairs have a bolt in the center of the wheel that needs to be turned left until it comes off.


4. Replace the wheels. After purchasing a new wheel or repairing the tire, replace the wheel by snapping it back onto its axle or screwing it back on (see Resources below).

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