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The Beachbum (PVC/Cedar 2"x2"s)
It's Time for Hitting the Beach
No matter what you wheelchair you use, self-propelling on a sandy beach requires a high degree of muscular propulsion capacity. The Beachbum uses DIY FAT tires for rear wheels which makes helps with traction and to not sinking into the sand (as far). The frame is made of both PVC boards and Cedar wood. The PVC will not rot and the Cedar is treat with polyurethane for weather proofing. If part of the frame is becomes damaged due to water, you can remove and replace the piece.
The Beachbum uses the WC-Xframe design with a 6.5"x2" ($22 on Amazon) trike wheel. I find this wheel to be sufficient for sand because minimal weight is carried on the front wheel. The rear wheels are setup to carry most of the weight for maximum self-propulsion. The two small rear casters are used for ease of moving the frame when the rear wheels are not attached.
Rectangular Camber Tube
I am using a square camber tube made from 4"x1" PVC and 1.5"and punched Zinc square tubing. The larger size punch square tube holds the axle better than a 1" or 1.25". Therefore, I will NOT add a manufactured axle receiver to the camber tube. In addition, rear axles tend to rust and get stuck in manufactured axle receivers when exposed to water due to the tight fit. Conversely, the rear axles are unlikely to get stuck in the Zinc axle hole due to corrosion given the relatively small area of mutual contact.
Why Make a Beach Wheelchair?
It is possible to add a trike wheel and FAT tires to your wheelchair and create a similar setup. A major disadvantage to this approach is the potential damage that the sand and salt water will do to your wheelchair. Personally, I avoid putting my primary wheelchair on the beach if at all possible. I find that having a dedicated beach/off-road wheelchair solves this problem.
Relaxation Mode
Being able to relax is a large part of the beach experience. The Beachbum's backrest panel can be pulled out and placed at an angle to allow for reclining. The padded panel can be put back in place to enable maximum mobility. In addition, a beach chair umbrella can be attached to the backrest support as shown in the photo. The umbrella can be stored and transported under the seat alongside the Lower Chassis support (along with other items).
Beachbum Wheelchair Specifications
Main Frame made from 2"x4"x8' Cedar board
(2) Backrest Support - 2"x2"x22"
(2) Upper Chassis - 2"x2"x22.5" with 1/4" taper on end
(2) Lower Chassis -2"x2"x36" with parallel 1/4" tapers on both ends
(1) Rear Seat Cross Brace - 2"x2"x11"
(1) 1st Front Caster Wheel Support - 2"x2"x14"
(1) 2nd Front Caster Wheel Support - 2"x2"x11"
(1) Calf Cross Brace - 2"x2"x11"
Panels made from 1/4"x2'x4' PVC Board
(2) Seat Pan - 1/4"x14"x16"
1) Backrest Panel - 14"x14"
Made from 3/4"x4.5"x 8' PVC Board
Leg frame
(2) Leg Support - 3/4"x4.5"x16"
(1) Footplate - 3/4"x4.5"x15.5"
(1) Rear Casters Cross Brace - 3/4"x4.5"x15"
Rectangular Camber Tube
(2) Camber Tube Support 3/4"x4.5"x16"
(2) Camber Tube Axle Bracket - punched Zinc sq tube - 1.5"x1.5"x3" with middle two holes enlarged to 1/2" diameter to match quick release axle.
(4) 5/16 x 4" hex head bolt & Nylock nut
(4) 5/16x5" hex head bolt & Nylock nut
(16) washers
Front Pneumatic Caster 6.5" x 2"
Wood Screws
(15) Long wood screws 3"
(30) Short wood screws 3/4"
(15) Medium wood screws 1.5"
Notes
These are the measurements that fit me. I am 5' 8" and 140 lbs.
My rear axle position is 4.5" from the front of the Backrest Support.
I am a T(4-5) paraplegic, but I like a relatively low backrest.
The backrest and seat cushion are made from a cut up exercise mat and cloth covers.
Substitute as needed.