Invacare® Pronto™ M41 Series
5.4 Field Load Test
Old batteries loose their ability to store and release power due to increased internal resistance. In this procedure, batteries
are tested under load using a digital voltmeter to check battery charge level at the charger connector. The charger connector
is located on the remote. When voltage at the output drops 1.0 volts under load (2.0 volts for a pair), replace the batteries.
Read these instructions carefully and the manufacturer’s instructions on the digital voltmeter before proceeding.
•
Voltmeter
WARNING!
– When performing the following steps, ensure your feet are clear from casters and wall, otherwise injury
may result.
1.
Switch electronics OFF on remote.
2.
Make sure battery is fully charged. An extremely
discharged battery will exhibit the same symptoms as a
bad battery.
3.
Remove footboard/legrests from mobility device.
4.
Connect voltmeter leads to charger connector
A
on
mobility device. Most digital voltmeters
B
are not
affected by polarity. However, analog meters (meters
with swinging needles) can be and should be used
carefully.
A good meter reading should be 25.5 VDC to
26.0 VDC with the chair in neutral.
5.
Switch electronics ON on remote.
6.
Ensue that your feet are clear from casters and wall.
7.
Run mobility device in neutral for at least 2 minutes.
8.
Sit in mobility device and place your feet against a door
jam, workbench or other stationary object.
9.
Carefully give forward command, trying to drive the
mobility device through the stationary object. The load
should draw between 30 amps to 40 amps from the
batteries for 0.3 seconds.
Performing this step puts a heavy load on
the batteries as they try to push through the
stationary object. If the wheels spin, have two
individuals (one on each arm) apply as much
downward pressure as possible on the arms of
the mobility device.
10. Read meter while motors are straining to determine
voltage under load.
If the voltage drops more than 2.0 volts from
a pair of fully charged batteries during the 0.3
seconds, they should be replaced regardless of
the unloaded voltages.
Fig. 5-3
5.5 Checking Battery Charge Level
The following “Dos” and “Don’ts” are provided for your convenience and safety.
DON’T
DO
Don’t perform any installation or maintenance without first
reading this manual.
Read and understand this manual and any service
information that accompanies a battery and charger before
operating the personal transporter.
Don’t perform installation or maintenance of batteries in
an area that could be damaged by battery spills.
Move the personal transporter to a work area before
cleaning terminals, or opening battery box.
Don’t make it a habit to discharge batteries to the lowest
level.
Recharge as frequently as possible to maintain a high
charge level and extend battery life.
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