The Carriage Assembly

The Carriage Assembly (Fig.5) is the main body of the stairlift, that contains the motor and gearbox, the battery pack and the electronic components that control its operation. (Note: The carriage is a heavy component, weighing 35 kg). Attached to the carriage is a folding footrest assembly, featuring 3 spring-loaded ‘safety surfaces’, and a seat-post assembly, to which the seat is attached. Carry the carriage assembly to the top of the staircase.

The first job is to install the ‘up-side’ safety surface to the carriage unit, if not already fitted. It is attached to the front of the chassis. Screw the stand-off screws into the threads on the front edge of each chassis plate, one above and one below each microswitch. Place one spring over each stand-off. Mount the safety surface molding on the stand-offs and secure with the plastic washers and screws. The safety surface molding is mounted with the open edge facing down.

Next, remove the adjustable upper stopping limit ramp molding from the rail (if fitted), by unscrewing the cross-head screw that holds it in position. Place the carriage on the top of the rail (Fig.6).

Carefully slide the carriage onto the top of the rail until it stops. At this point the motor drive pinion (the large metal cog that drives the stairlift) must be accurately located on the gear rack. Ensure that the carriage is ‘square’ to the rail, with the ‘up-side’ raised so that all of the carriage rollers are in line with the rail.

Next step: 'The Seat Assembly'