----- Original Message -----
From: Andy Coxe
Sent: Thursday, March 25, 2004 4:06 AM
Subject: Littlest Viva
I use a Littlest Viva
Wheelchair, Its well beyond warranty and there are
several issues for me to resolve. Local dealers all
say they cannot get parts as they are only available
by dealers.
1.. The on board battery
charger no longer charges. I am now using an
automotive 12 volt charger to charge each battery
individually but I have been reluctant to connect it
to both batteries at the same time as it appears
everything is set up for 24volts.
You will kill
your batteries VERY QUICKLY if you continue to use
an automotive charger of any kind.
You have to use
a real "programmed" logic controlled Gel battery
deep cycle battery charger.
Is there a way to
charge both batteries at once with a 12 volt
charger, it is a good charger that tapers down to a
maintenance level as the charging is complete.
It may be good
for automotive starting batteries but it WILL damage
you Deep Cycle sealed Gel powerchair ones!
When fitted to
your chair the batteries are wired in series. So if
you leave them connected you cannot charge them with
a 12v charger. If you disconnect them from the
chairs wiring, then yes you can charge both together
just by connecting both the pos and neg terminals
with jumper leads.
2.. The "accordion like"
rubber on the controller joystick is torn and needs
replacement. I am confident that I can replace it
If I had the part.
What make is the
control system? I doubt that the rubber part can be
bought separately... More likely the whole control
pod will be the part you have to order.
3.. The front tires are
old and worn smooth, one rep says that this puts
extra load on the motors. Is this so?
Yes, but not
hugely so. The position of the seat and the load on
the casters is more important.
