Any wheelchair equipped van owners out there ?

[RedVise]

We are looking at purchasing a used wheel chair accessible van to transport our son.
Never needed one until now, any tips on what to look for ?
Any financing issues ?  We are in Florida so they are are not uncommon and shouldn't surprise my credit union.

We are looking at a 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan  with 37k milage on it.

Any and all help appreciated, Thanks!

Brian

[Nolatoolguy]

I know my friends family bought a used toyota just a couple years old. They had to replace the rear suspension once still under warranty and the second time it wouldn't be under warranty. they switched to a larger full size chevy express conversion from Braun. They are very well pleased with the Braun van they own.

[RedVise]

Thank You

[Nolatoolguy]

They probably won't know specifically about the dodge vans. However if you let me know any general questions I can ask them, and report back.

[john k]

I've worked on a few of the conversion mini vans, remade for chair access.   They cut so much apart underneath it is scary.   Some were done just fine.   Others, they neglected to seal the raw welds, and things were a mess at 5 years old.   Have someone check it out underneath before buying.   The fuel and brake lines were rerouted, and rusty.   The exhaust is re-routed, plus the entire floor was fabricated and lowered 7-8 inches.   Some also have a system to pull the suspension down on the ramp side, this all needs a careful look-over.   I would be more comfortable with a full size van with a wheel chair lift in the side.  Just my 2 cents.

[RedVise]

Thanks John. We are looking at a mini van and will stay with known conversion brands.  And will have it checked out!

Brian