Modifications
The general steps manufacturers undergo to convert a van differ greatly from one manufacturer to another. Modifications fall into two categories, the first is where the individual in a wheelchair is the driver and the second is where the individual in a wheelchair is a passenger.
Conversions generally involve the following:
- Some portion of the floor is lowered
- Seating is modified to allow wheelchair access and is reconfigurable
- Means of external access added. This is most often a ramp, lift, or turning seat
- Suspension may be stiffened to allow extra weight of power chairs / additional weight from conversion
- Power kneeling system is typically added to reduce the slope of the ramp (side entry conversions)
- Gas tanks and fuel lines may be modified
- Vehicle is certified to meet NHTSA safety requirements
These modifications take several days to complete, but the process of scheduling the conversion and shipping the vehicle to/from the conversion site adds considerable time - up to 6 weeks total.
Passenger conversions involve the following:
- The floor is reinforced
- Seats are added
- Q'Straint (or Wheelchair) tiedowns/securements are installed
- Ramp or hoist installed
- Windows installed
- Van lining (finishing)
Read more about this topic: Wheelchair Accessible Van