GE PANDA, Service Manual

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Chapter 5: Repair Procedures
Lower Unit Repairs (Bedded and Freestanding Models)
5-24 Service Manual
5.7.5 Adjusting Bed Height Using Manual Elevating Column (Bedded Model Only)
Units without an electric elevating column (not equipped with foot switches) can be adjusted manually.
• On older units, the adjustment system consists of a pin driven across the width of the column,
seven pairs of setting holes in the inner stationary column, and a gas spring inside the column to
compensate for the weight of the bed and heater while height is being adjusted.
• On newer units, the adjustment system consists of a socket on the column and a separate crank
handle.
Manually adjustable units will be shipped at the lowest bed height setting.
5.7.5.1 Adjusting Bed Height on Units with the Pin
Increasing the bed height is relatively easy, since the spring force pushes the bed up. However, decreasing
bed height will require two people, unless a tool such as a ratchet strap is used to compress the spring and
lower the bed to the desired height.
1. The adjustment pin is held in place by retaining screws (with large diameter flat heads counter bored in
the column) that fit into threaded holes in both ends of the pin. Use a large screwdriver to remove one
of these slot head retaining screws that are located on either side of the warmer, about half way up the
column. It does not matter which side of the column: either retaining screw can be removed. If the unit
is equipped with a suction canister bracket, you may wish to remove it.
2. Using a rubber hammer or mallet and a large screwdriver or punch, drive the pin out from the end with
the retaining screw removed (you may wish to hold the bed down so that it does not jam the
screwdriver as the spring is released).
3. Allow the bed to rise to the desired height. If possible, do not allow the bed to reach its highest point,
where the internal spring is fully extended, since this makes compressing the spring to lower the bed
more difficult.
Note: The best way to compress the spring is to push down on the main bracket casting directly above the
column. However, this spot is not easily accessible. A strong board or piece of wood about a meter
long can be passed under the bed across the top of the casting, then both installers can press down
evenly on both ends of the board, until the column reaches the desired bed height.
4. While one installer holds the bed in position, the other checks the alignment of the holes on one side of
the column, and then drives in the pin. It may be necessary to use a small screwdriver or hex key as a
lever to push up or down on the pin end inside the column to align the pin and the holes on opposite
side.
5. Re-install the retaining screw to secure the pin and lock the bed in place.