Does anybody know how to fix a Sabre Minivator model 1000 stair lift? It keeps bleeping both at the top of the stairs and the bottom. I have replaced the battery, cleaned the contacts top and bottom both with emery paper and with electrical spray. The contacts definitely are working, and the bleeping subsides for a time, then starts again within a few hours. The bleeping indicates it is not charging the battery, there is a green light that flashes on and off, then either goes out totally or sometimes is a solid green light. I have checked the electrical output with a voltage meter and it is intermittent. The stair lift is in permanent use by two 84 year olds (my in-laws) and was installed brand new in Nov 2005. Does anybody know of any other possible causes of this fault? Also does anybody know if I remove the chair from the runner to investigate other electrical contacts (which are not easy to access with the chair in-situ) how easy is it to fit back onto the cogs? Does it require a special tool? I have a good knowledge of moving parts, electrics etc. as I am an engineer by trade, but do not want to attempt to repair a piece of equipment that is so valuable to two vulnerable people in case it is not straight forward. Does anybody know if there is a website where I can access drawings of the complete workings of this model? I would appreciate any tips whatsoever. Many thanks in anticipation of a reply.

Brian, April 2009

Hi,

The first thing to check would be the two copper strips at the top and bottom of the stairs. Move the machine either to the top or the bottom. When it starts to beep, check the voltage between the 2 brass contacts. You should have 33V DC. If you don't, then your power supply is faulty. You should have a small green LED on your charger. If you do, check for output voltage. You said it beeps and then be quiet for a while. Out of experience, it sounds like your power supply. Start there, if you can't get it going, let me know!

Minivator Tech, July 2009