Van Modifications for People with Disabilities

Do you know what all is involved when it comes to van modifications for people with disabilities?

This may sound like a stressful ordeal at first—but it doesn't have to be. Finding the right people with the right expertise is really the most important part.

Read on to learn the overall process of a van modification from start to finish.

Van Modifications: Overview

The process of vehicle modifications for people with disabilities can be fairly complex. But when you look at the process as a series of steps, it's straightforward. Below, we've listed the major steps from beginning to end.

You can also answer a brief quiz to get you started and determine the best modification for you.

Step One: Preparation

During the initial stage, we'll prepare the van for conversion. That includes:

• Removing the default seating
• Removing internal paneling
• Covering exposed surfaces for protection

After this initial preparation is complete, we're ready to begin customization with Step Two.

Step Two: Custom Fitting

This stage consists of custom-fitting the van for full conversion. Specific elements of this process include:

• Lowering the floor
• Installing custom-fit interior panels
• Ensuring a seamless framework for full conversion

After these steps are completed, we proceed to ramp installation.

Step Three: Installing Your Ramp

During this step, the ramp is installed. Some specific considerations include:

• Infloor versus foldout ramp
• Side-entry versus rear-entry ramp

Most of the major work is done at this point. The next steps can include reinstallation of the original seating and custom molding to bring it all together.

Step Four: Seating Adjustments

The details of Step Four will depend on your ramp configuration. In the case of a side-entry ramp, the front seats (passenger and driver) are mounted on raised platforms and the rear bench seat is reinstalled. With a rear-entry ramp, the front seats (passenger and driver) remain in their original position.

After the seating adjustments are completed, the rest of the process consists primarily of polishing and inspections.

Step Five: Final Design Touch-ups

In Step Five, custom external molding is installed, creating a seamless aesthetic. Special consideration is often given to paint color and carpeting/rubber flooring. Step Five concludes the bulk of the conversion process, with final inspections and testing as the final stage.

Step Six: Inspection

This stage represents the finalization of the conversion process. We pay special attention to the new functionality, quality control, and overall integration of the major components of the system.

With this step done, your van is officially converted and ready for duty.

Van Modifications: That's a Wrap

Now you know the basics of van modifications. It may sound like a daunting task at first, but it's manageable with the right information. 

Take a look at our article library for more informative articles. Or get in touch to learn more about your options.