LS-FT1 Freedom Trax All Terrain Powered Wheelchair Track System Instruction Manual

LS-FT1 Freedom Trax All Terrain Powered Wheelchair Track System

INTRODUCTION

FREEDOM TRAX™ is a motorized track device designed as an attachment for manual wheelchairs. When attached, Freedom Trax allows a manual wheelchair to traverse sand, snow, gravel and mud. Freedom Trax adjusts in many different ways accommodating most wheelchairs on the market. If your wheelchair does not fit properly to the device, please contact us immediately and we will accommodate you the best we can. If you have our FT 2 model it will include a removable travel chair. You will transfer in to the FT2 model.
NOTICE: The information contained in this document is subject to change at any time without notice.

SAFETY INFORMATION

DO NOT OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND UNDERSTANDING THIS MANUAL. IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL, CONTACT A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO USE THIS EQUIPMENT. FAILURE TO SET UP EQUIPMENT PROPERLY MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT.

DANGER: Always ensure the wheelchair is mounted securely and safely to the device. Failure to do so can result in injury or damage to you and the device. If your wheelchair does not fit properly to the device or you have questions, please contact us immediately and we will try to accommodate you.
DANGER: While this device has front and rear anti-tip wheels, shifting your weight during operation or attempting to navigate over rocky or uneven terrain may result in tipping over.
DANGER: Do not attempt to move up or down stairs in the device. This device is not a stair climbing device and could result in serious injury.

WARNINGS:

• Do not attempt to drive through water, over curbs, obstacles, or terrain steeper than 10 degrees.
• Do not leave device in rain/snow storm of any kind.
• Do not use the device in the shower or leave it in a humid bathroom while taking a shower.
• When moving the device without a user, use caution and proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.
• Always turn the device off and unplug battery connection when not in use or when mounting or dismounting device.
• Never attempt to lean or reach when attached to the device.
• Care should be taken when using oxygen in close proximity to device.
• Never attempt to adjust the device while a wheelchair is mounted.

BATTERIES:

• The batteries in this device are lithium ion and should only be serviced by a qualified technician.
• The batteries should only be charged with the supplied charger.
• NEVER attempt to recharge the batteries by attaching cables directly to the battery terminals.
• DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries and operate the wheelchair at the same time.
• DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries when the wheelchair has been exposed to any type of moisture.
• DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries when the wheelchair is outside.
• DO NOT sit in the wheelchair while recharging the batteries.
• DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries using both the on-board battery charger and an independent battery charger (plugged into the joystick charger port) at the same time.
• Store Freedom Trax between 40-70 degrees Fahrenheit

FRONT HOLD DOWN INSTALLATION

The front lockdown (Figure 1) requires installation before first use. Slide the hold down into the T-Slot rail as shown in Figure 2 below. When installed correctly, the locking cam loop will be oriented towards the back of the unit.

Once installed, use provided Philips head screw and screwdriver to secure the hold down in the T-Slot rail. (as shown below)

ATTACHING YOUR CHAIR TO FREEDOM TRAX

Make sure the hold down is in the widest position possible outside of the T-channel so it does not interfere with your wheel when you roll backwards on to Freedom Trax. Mount Freedom Trax by backing on to the front ramps and position your push wheels into the side cradles. Position each side cradle backstop directly behind your push wheels. Once you are on Freedom Trax and your casters are aimed backwards, slide the hold down towards your caster. The hold down lanyard rope (Figure 3) is designed to thread between the front caster wheel and wheel fork above the caster axle (Figure 4). Once this is complete, thread the lanyard through the locking cam loop (Figure 4) and up through the hole located at the top of the hold down. (Figure 5). Once through, pull up tight to remove any slack and secure the lanyard with the locking cam (Figure 6). Once secure, the hold down should be as flush as possible to the front caster fork and result in little to no movement of the front caster.

After the hold down is securely fastened to the wheelchair, pull the blue and/or black elastic cord (Figure 7) towards the wheel hand rim or any other convenient secure location on the wheelchair. This will lift the front ramp and kickstand off the ground and ensure they do not interfere with obstacles during use. The hook at the end of the cord is adjustable and should be tight enough to keep the front ramp and kickstand elevated during use. (Figure 8 )

Video tutorial found at this link
https://youtu.be/5ahv8ah10kc

To dismount, unhook blue or black elastic cord and put aside. Push the lanyard forward out of the cam lock and reverse the above instructions.

When mounting or dismounting Freedom Trax keep the hold downs pulled out of the T slot.

FITTING FREEDOM TRAX TO YOUR MANUAL WHEELCHAIR
Please note that you should never attempt to adjust the device while a wheelchair is mounted. If Freedom Trax is not properly aligned, dismount the wheelchair and adjust while it is not attached to a wheelchair.
Freedom Trax adjusts in the middle by loosening (2) 5/16” bolts with a ¼” allen wrench located on framing cross members. The thumb screws on the back motor support must also be loosened to allow the device to adjust.
To narrow or widen the device, pull or push the front and rear of the frame back and forth until the rear wheel cradle aligns with the measurement of the wheelchair. Depending on the model of wheelchair, narrowing the rear wheel cradles by ¼” from the wheelchair allows for easier mounting. For a proper fit, ensure that the rear wheel cradles are parallel or an equal distance apart from the front to the rear of the cradles. Make sure that both front and rear frames are adjusted to the same width measurement. The Left and Right need to be parallel to each other.
After adjustment, ensure that the front and rear cross brace lock mechanisms are tightened back by hand.
The front caster cradle is not adjustable. It is designed to accommodate a range of front caster orientations. If the wheelchair caster cannot fit within the parameters of the device, contact us immediately and we can determine if modification is necessary to properly fit the wheelchair. To maintain the front ramp/mounting assembly in proper working order, always make sure no debris is left in the front caster cradle after use.
The front safety strap is essential to prevent the front mounting ramp from lowering during operation. The front strap is adjustable in length and can be secured to any convenient location on the wheelchair.
The back wheel stop must be adjusted and tightened prior to operation. The back stop should be set to allow the wheels to rest against the backstop when the front caster is securely fastened in the front caster cradle.

CLUTCH
Freedom Trax is designed with clutches that disengage and engage both tracks independently from the motor system. To disengage and engage the motors, use the socket and push or pull the socket away from the motor. You can use your hands or tools for leverage. Some rotation of the track may need to occur before the clutch slides freely back and forth (see picture below).

Motor Clutch Engaged
Motor Clutch Disengaged

MOUNTING/DISMOUNTING DEVICE

• The device is designed to be mounted from the front by a manual wheelchair rolling backwards onto the device. Practice will be required to easily mount the device. Always ensure the controller connector is disconnected prior to mounting and dismounting. Failure to do so could move the device unintentionally resulting in serious injury. Always have a spotter until you are comfortable mounting and dismounting alone.
• Always mount and dismount the device on SOLID LEVEL ground. Failure to mount or dismount the device on solid level ground may damage the device and possibly cause injury.
• Always ensure the front casters are pivoted out towards the front of the wheelchair. The front casters should enter the front caster ramp always pivoted out or the device will not attach properly to the wheelchair. If the front casters have any problems ascending the front caster ramp, exit the device and try again.
• Adjustment of the device width and front caster ramp assembly is crucial for easy mounting. If Freedom Trax does not fit your wheelchair, please contact us immediately and we will accommodate the best we can.
• DO NOT attempt to back off the device. While the device does have a backstop at the back wheelchair wheel cradle, a large amount of force could propel the wheelchair backwards off the device.
• Freedom Trax has a limited amount of adjustment. Do not attempt to modify Freedom Trax anyway in order for your wheelchair to mount. Please contact us immediately and we will accommodate the best we can.
• When mounting or dismounting, always ensure the lock down mechanism is out of the way of the wheelchair and in the unlocked position allowing the front cradle mechanism to rotate freely.
• When mounted, and hold down rod is tightened through spoke of your caster, attach safety straps to a convenient location on your wheelchair to ensure the front ramps do not fall down during operation. Failure to do so can result in the ramps folding under the unit when moving forward.

MOUNTING

STEP 1 – Reverse onto Freedom Trax ensuring the wheelchair wheels are aligned to the rear wheel cradle. Always reverse straight back and never at an angle. Always have a spotter until the user can confidently mount Freedom Trax.
STEP 2 – Once the front casters are on the front ramp, reverse straight back until the front casters fall into the front caster cradle and the wheel is stopped by the backstop. Always ensure the front casters are pivoted away from the user.
STEP 3 – Once the front casters are in the front caster cradle and the wheelchair wheel is against the backstop, lean forward slightly to put pressure on the front casters. This will allow the front ramp to pop up and set the front caster in the front caster cradle. If the ramps do not pop up, dismount the device and ensure no debris is in the front caster cradle or the front caster is resting on another component besides the front caster cradle.
STEP 4 – Secure the caster to Freedom Trax using the installed hold down system. Once attached, secure the hook to a solid part of the wheelchair frame or front caster. Do not secure the hooks anywhere higher than 6 inches from the bottom of the wheelchair. Failure to secure the wheelchair properly can cause serious injury or death.

DISMOUNTING

STEP 1 – Place the controller in a convenient location and UNHOOK THE CONNECTOR. Failure to do so may cause unintentional operation and result in injury. Unfasten the safety strap and the hooks from the wheelchair. Move the hook and the safety strap to not interfere when dismounting Freedom Trax. Undo the front hold down mechanism. While slightly leaning back, move the wheelchair forward slowly. This will release pressure from the front casters and lower the front ramp.
STEP 2 – Move the wheelchair straight forward very slowly. Always have a spotter until the user can confidently dismount Freedom Trax. Depending on the configuration of the wheelchair, the front casters may spin 180 degrees as you dismount Freedom Trax. Take great caution to learn the shift in angle as this happens. Always ensure you are dismounting Freedom Trax on hard, smooth level ground.
STEP 3 – Continue to roll straight forward and off the device. When the wheelchair wheel enters the front ramp, the wheelchair will naturally roll off due to the angle of the front ramp. Slowly proceed down the front ramp.
STEP 4 – Continue to roll straight forward until the wheelchair is away from the device.

MOUNT/DISMOUNT BACK ANGLE Remember: When attached to Freedom Trax, your front casters should be aimed backwards.

CONTROLLER

Included is a joystick controller with speed control and a battery level indicator. The controller comes with a small adjustable clamp to mount in a convenient location. Always ensure the controller cable is free and clear of the tracks when in operation. Failure to keep the cable clear can damage the controller cable. If the Freedom Trax controller stops working suddenly during use it may need to be reset. Remove the square battery cover and disconnect the battery connector and reconnect. Replace cover. See second picture below.

The joystick is connected to Freedom Trax with a flat four pin connnector (shown in first picture). This connector can be unplugged when mounting and dismounting Freedom Trax. See attached controller guide.

CHARGING

Freedom Trax can be charged in a standard wall outlet. Charge your Freedom Trax for at least 5 hours before first use. Plug in all connectors show in pictures below. Make sure they are tightly connected.

OPERATION

Freedom Trax™ is a motorized track device designed as an attachment for manual wheelchairs. When attached, Freedom Trax™ allows a manual wheelchair to traverse sand, snow, gravel and mud. Freedom Trax™ adjusts in many different ways accommodating most wheelchairs on the market.
Please use extreme caution while ascending and descending any level of grade. Take the time to learn and practice. Practice in a safe area until you feel comfortable with the handling of the device. Exceeding the weight limits or carrying an unbalanced load can seriously affect the handling, braking and stability.
Before each ride, check that all the cleats are free from cracks, deformation or foreign objects. Inspect the ladder hold down strap and ensure that no cracks or breakage has occurred to the strap.

STABILITY AND BALANCE
This device is the first of its kind and offers a unique method for traversing terrain. While this device is designed to be rugged and traverse outdoor terrain, use extreme caution while traversing over obstacles and other conditions found in the outdoor environment.

GENERAL OPERATION
Although side covers are included with the device, a potential does exist for rocks or debris to get lodged inside the track. If this occurs, slowly reverse the device and dismount the unit. Inspect what material is causing the disruption and remove debris. Always ensure the device is OFF and the controller is removed from the unit before attempting to remove debris from the track. Debris embedded in the track can cause the track to skip off the sprockets. Take caution near and around small gravel to not make zero radius turns.
Freedom Trax™ is designed to operate in a multitude of conditions and environments. Riding at excessive speed increases the chance of an accident. In choosing a proper speed, you need to consider the terrain, visibility and other operating conditions, plus your own skills and experience.
Tracked devices operate differently than wheeled devices and should be driven cautiously until the user has a full understanding of the center of gravity and weight transfer when traversing through uneven grade.
Freedom Trax™ is designed to be washed with a hose. Do not submerge the unit to clean it under any circumstances. All bearings are sealed and no additional oiling is necessary.

MAINTENANCE

Normally, the only maintenance needed is to keep the keep the Freedom Trax clean. As required wash the outside off with a hose. Remove L shaped track covers to inspect and clean tracks. Do not remove battery cover when washing. Do not spray water directly on to battery or motors. Rinse Freedom Trax with fresh water after any saltwater exposure.

Periodically inspect the track for rocks or debris that might get lodged inside the track. . Also inspect the track for any cracks or chips. If a track becomes broken, contact the manufacturer immediately.

After several years, the battery will start to lose capacity. This is affected by charging method
(see “BATTERIES” above) as well as time. When the battery is no longer able to supply the capacity needed, replace it with an identical battery. These can be ordered through the manufacturer as listed above.

STORAGE AND TRANSPORT

The controller can be disconnected and packed if desired. If the controller remains with the Freedom Trax, it must be firmly fixed to the unit so that it does not move, and the battery cable detached.
If Freedom Trax™ will not be used for an extended period of time, disconnect the battery. Store in a location that is protected from the weather.

If traveling by plane, secure the wheels of the wheelchair to the rear wheel cradle with a strapping device (cam strap or equivalent). Failure to do so adds complication when moving Freedom Trax without a user and can possibly damage Freedom Trax or the wheelchair.

WARRANTY

Freedom Trax™ is warranted for 1 year. Warranty is void if the device has been subject to abuse. Contact the manufacturer to claim the warranty. The battery warranty will be void if inspection of the battery shows improper charging or shorting. Warranty claims may be subject to shipping fees.

SPECIFICATIONS

| FT1
---|---
Wheelchair Rear Wheel Width (inside to inside)| 18″-21″
Weight Capacity (not including wheelchair)| 250lbs
Overall Length| 40″
Overall Height| 9″
Maximum Speed| 2.7 MPH
Operating Range| 5 miles standard
8 miles PRO
Anti Tip Wheels (front and back)| 5″ Front 6″
Back
Batteries| LI 24V 20 AH
Controller| Joystick
Unit Weight| 74 lbs

FREEDOM TRAX
Waiver of Liability Release, Express Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement

This unit has been customized to fit my requirements. I understand and acknowledge that there are risks
of personal injury, death and property damage while participating in rough terrain mobility vehicle
(“Freedom Trax”) and (“wireless joystick controller”) activities of which I am presently unaware. My purchase is voluntary and based on my independent assessment of the risks. Tour Engineering, LLC. and
its affiliates will not be held responsible for possible damage to the attaching wheelchair.

I understand that certain minimum skills, capabilities, physical and mental health, and fitness are
required in order to use rough terrain mobility products, such as the Freedom Trax; I warrant that I possess these. I understand and agree that, should emergency rescue evacuation become necessary, the
expenses are my sole responsibility and not those of Tour Engineering, LLC. or any other public or
private entity.

In consideration of the use of Freedom Trax equipment and wireless joystick device,

I HEREBY RELEASE, WAIVE, AND RELINQUISH ALL CLAIMS AND LEGAL ACTIONS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, WRONGFUL DEATH, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE AGAINST TOUR ENGINEERING, LLC., ARISING AS A RESULT OF MY USE OF THE FREEDOM TRAX PRODUCTS; I ALSO AGREE TO PROTECT, HOLD HARMLESS, DEFEND AND INDEMNIFY TOUR ENGINEERING, LLC. FROM ALL CLAIMS AND LEGAL ACTIONS FOR PERSON INJURY, DEATH OR PROPERTY DAMAGE ARISING FROM MY CONDUCT; THESE INDEMNITIES APPLY EVEN IF TOUR ENGINEERING, LLC. IS NEGLIGENT OR OTHERWISE AT FAULT.

I warrant that I am executing this agreement voluntarily and that Tour Engineering, LLC. has not made any representations to induce or coerce me to sign this document. I agree that the terms of this document bind me, my heirs, assigns, executors, and administrators, and expressly and specifically protect Tour Engineering, LLC. including, as applicable, their agents, employees, officers, directors, and shareholders.

I UNDERSTAND THE EFFECT OF MY SIGNING THIS DOCUMENT AND THAT I AM FORFEITING IMPORTANT LEGAL RIGHTS AND INCURRING IMPORTANT LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES.
Address:

Name of user: ____

Phone: _____ Cell phone:

E-mail: ____
Signature: Date:

Signature of parent or guardian for participant under age of 18:

Name of parent or guardian (if applicable):

Liability Disclaimer
This product will not be submerged in water or be subjected to greater than 4” tall curbs. Traversed rough terrain shall not be attempted at greater than 10° slope angle. Assistant attendant shall be accompanying the Freedom Trax product until the user has demonstrated skill level of operation to not exceed the above named limitations. The user is solely responsible for safe use of the Freedom Trax product. Injury resulting from rough terrain use with the Freedom Trax product is the sole responsibility of the user and the user waives all rights of legal recourse restitution or compensation for use of this product.

Signature: _____ Date:

Please email, mail or fax us Signature sheet before using Freedom Trax.
Email: info@freedomtrax.com
Tour Engineering, LLC
Mailing Address: 4323 Kilmer Street
Golden, Colorado 80403
By using Freedom Trax, you agree to the above terms and conditions. If you do not agree please call us to return your unused Freedom Trax for a restocking fee.

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)  >>

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>