Wheelchair Parts - Simple Do-It-Yourself Wheelchair Repair

A wheelchair that works well is important to the lifestyle, mobility, and safety of the person who uses it. Doing regular maintenance, making as-needed adjustments, and doing occasional repairs help the wheelchair to function at it's best. Knowing each of the wheelchair parts and understanding how they work is also important. In this article, we will discuss a few simple wheelchair repairs that you can make yourself, as well as some tips for how to do them.

First, it is important to be familiar with the wheelchair, whether manual or power, and to know about all aspects of the chair. Become familiar with each of the wheelchair parts, and learn what they do. In this way, you will know when something is not working correctly.

Always have a wheelchair repair kit available, whether at home or away. As the Boy Scouts would say, "be prepared." This simple kit can be made with items like a screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, pliers, and a tire-changing kit. In this way, whether you have wheel problems, need to tighten a bolt or screw, or possibly change a tire, you will have the tools that you need.

Let's take a look at some easy wheelchair repairs that can be done yourself.

* Are there adjustable straps on the back of the wheelchair? They may have become loose, and will need to be adjusted.

* The seat upholstery also often causes problems, as it can sag over time, affecting your posture. This can be easily fixed on some wheelchairs by removing one side from the frame, pulling the material tight, and replacing the seat once again.

* It is not unusual for there to be problems involving the caster axles. Things like hair and thread often get caught, which interfere with the regular movement of the wheelchair. Repair this easily by removing the caster using two wrenches. One is used to hold the axle bolt in place and the other to unscrew the nut. (Do not lose the 2 small spacers located on either side of the wheel.) At this point, it is fairly simple to use a damp cloth or paper towel to clean the caster, and then replace it again.

* It probably goes without saying, but: Be sure to clean your chair on a regular basis, using a microfiber cloth to clean away dust and dirt particles.

* Lastly, while many repairs are simple and straightforward, do not attempt to replace an electric wheelchair part on your own.

Keeping a wheelchair performing at it's best can be achieved by doing regular maintenance. Doing simple adjustments on your own can also reduce the need for costly repairs. If you don't feel comfortable doing preventative maintenance or replacing wheelchair parts yourself, enlist the help of a family member, friend, or neighbor.

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