Hi Neil , fairly common problem in wheelchair services. The old P&G units used to have a Steel shaft of about 6 mm diam , so it was easy to use a grub screw or similar. Later  units have a plastic outer core which makes this approach difficult.The Dynamic controls use a smaller diameter shaft , with the knob being a interference fit . Our Repair service often glue them on to the shaft with the standard knob , but I wouldn t want to try this on some of the longer styles of joy stick as it might end up damaging the joy stick unit or the casing. At least if you use the PG VR2 you can replace the joystick unit quite easily , so it will not be quite so expensive if it does get damaged . The short answer is yes , we do have issues with joy sticks coming off  , you are not alone. Kind Regards Tony Lewis. SRE .tel no 01305 261210.

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From: A discussion list for Assistive Technology professionals. [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Gregory, Neil
Sent: 29 March 2010 13:21
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Powerchair Joystick Knobs

Hi,

A wee (small) bit of a straw poll. I wondered if people have any problems with standard joystick knobs on powered wheelchairs coming off too easily. We have had quite a number and have been assured by the manufacturer (namely Dynamics/Invacare in this instance) that it isn’t a problem. Although we can come up with some solutions using metalwork and grub screws (etc) this is a not a good fix, costly, time consuming and not standard parts.

I’m interested to hear your thoughts…

Neil Gregory
Senior Bio-Engineer
WeSTMARC - West of Scotland Mobility and Rehabilitation Centre
Southern General Hospital, Glasgow
Email: [log in to unmask]

Web: www.nhsggc.org.uk/westmarc

Tel - 0844 8113001 (Lo-Call)

Fax - 0141-201 2649

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