Keep Your Freedom Rolling: The Essential User Maintenance Guide for Your FourX

As a FourX owner, you know that your wheelchair isn't just a mobility device—it's your ticket to independence, handling city streets, muddy paths, and snowy trails with equal ease. To keep your FourX performing at its peak, a little regular love and care go a long way.

I’ve compiled this guide based on the manufacturer's recommendations to help you handle the daily and weekly upkeep of your machine.

1. The Golden Rule: Keep it Dry and Clean

Your FourX is built tough, but moisture and dirt are the enemies of electronics.

• Cleaning Technique: Clean the wheelchair with a moist, soft fabric and diluted cleaning fluid.

• Protect the Electronics: Never use a pressure washer or a running shower to clean the chair. The high pressure can force water into the electronics and cause severe damage.

• After the Rain: If you’ve been driving in wet weather, dry the wheelchair immediately by storing it in a warm place. Do not leave it outside or in cold, damp spaces.

• Disinfection: You can spray disinfectant on the chair, but ensure the battery box remains closed to protect the electronics.

2. Daily Rituals: A 30-Second Check

Before you set off for the day, do a quick visual sweep. This ensures you catch small issues before they become big problems.

• Joystick Check: With the controller switched off, ensure the joystick is not bent or damaged and that it returns to the center immediately when released.

• Rubber Gaiter: Inspect the thin rubber boot around the joystick base. If it is torn, moisture can get into the controller, so handle it with care.

• Cables: Check that all connectors are secure and that cables are not frayed or damaged.

3. Weekly Inspections: Safety First

Set aside a few minutes once a week for a deeper check.

• The Brake Test:

  1. Find a flat, level surface with at least one meter of clear space around you.

  2. Switch on the controller.

  3. Push the joystick forward slowly until you hear the parking brakes click open.

  4. Release the joystick immediately. You should hear the brakes click shut within a few seconds.

  5. Repeat this test moving backward, left, and right.

     

     Check tire pressures

• Tire Pressure: Correct pressure is vital for grip and battery efficiency. The suitable range is 1.5 bar to 3.0 bar. Driving with pressure under 1.2 bar increases wear and reduces driving distance.

• Lights and Balance: Toggle your lights and indicators to ensure they are working. Also, test the balance adjustment function to ensure the seat moves smoothly.

  
  

4. Battery Care

• Charge Often: Always check the battery level before driving and recharge whenever possible.

• Storage: If you store the wheelchair for a long period, disconnect the batteries and store them fully charged in a dry, cool place. Remember to recharge them at least once every six months.

• Warning: Never use open flames or tools near the battery terminals when the cover is open, as this causes a risk of short circuits or explosion.

  
  

When to Call the Pros

While you can handle cleaning and basic checks, some things are best left to certified technicians to maintain your warranty and safety.

Contact your authorized service provider if:

• You encounter electrical malfunctions or error codes.

• You notice unusual noise from the motors.

• The chair requires programming changes.

• It is time for the annual maintenance (required once a year).

  
  

Remember: A well-serviced wheelchair is a safe and long-lasting companion.