Converting Your Minivan for Wheelchair Accessibility
Learn more about converting a minivan to be handicap-accessible with a wheelchair ramp.
Modifying a minivan to a wheelchair-accessible van is a popular option for those whose personal minivans are eligible for the AMS Vans conversion. Discover more about converting your own minivan into a new conversion van or pre-owned converted minivan for wheelchair- or scooter-accessibility.
We are able to convert several van models from a variety of manufacturers — including the ever-popular Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan.
How-to Make a Van Handicap Accessible
he make, model, year, and mileage of your vehicle will be the determining factors in deciding whether or not the vehicle is fit to be converted into a handicap accessible vehicle. Many unmodified minivans are perfect candidates for conversion of this sort.
Should I Convert My Minivan for Handicap Accessibility?
Mobility is a concern for those who require use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other handicap accessibility device. If you already own a minivan, your vehicle may be a prime candidate for wheelchair access modification.
How Do I Know Who to Trust for the Conversion Process?
While the process of transforming your standard minivan into a functional, durable wheelchair-accessible vehicle is not as complex as it may seem, the experience and expertise of the technicians — as well as the reputation of the company behind the conversion — make all the difference in the world with respect to safety and quality.
Is My Vehicle a Candidate for Wheelchair Accessible Conversion?
If you're currently driving an unmodified minivan, chances are that it can be converted into versatile wheelchair-accessible transportation. Factors that determine your van's conversion eligibility include (1) the make and model; (2) the manufacture year; and, (3) the total mileage of the vehicle.
Should I Consider a Side-Entry Wheelchair Van Conversion?
More used accessible vans for sale on the market feature side-entry style ramp deployment than rear ramp deployment for several good reasons — most notably, the ability of the wheelchair-user to ride in the front passenger seat; or, even to drive the vehicle personally.
Other benefits unique to the side-entry conversion include:
Seating options and configurations similar to standard vehicles — such as the inclusion of the standard rear bench
Vehicle access remains as natural as standard vans — specifically entering and exiting the van from the side of accessible parking spaces
Greater flexibility with respect to floor plan configurations — including your choice of more wheelchairs or more able-bodied passengers
Simple, straightforward operation of the wheelchair ramp — with the option of a kneeling system to lower the ramp angle in powered models
Should I Consider a Rear-Entry Wheelchair Van Conversion?
Besides the obvious difference between rear- and side-entry wheelchair vans, a couple of other notable distinctions set apart the two conversion styles and might influence your final choice — such as the rear-entry's exceptional affordability and simpler transformation process.
Other benefits unique to the rear-entry conversion include:
A typically more affordable conversion installation process — the rear bench is removed and replaced with the ramp mechanism
The option to use regular parking spaces — rear-entry access means never having to wait for disabled-accessible parking
Wheelchair users are commonly situated in the center of the vehicle — the position determined to be the safest in the event of a collision
Greater ground clearance to handle uneven roadways — including speed bumps; car wash and parking lot entrances; snow piles; etc.
The knowledgeable, compassionate mobility specialists at AMS Vans are standing by to listen to your needs, answer your questions and offer you objective guidance in helping you to choose the best ramp van conversion style that fits your unique lifestyle.