1998
Ford "Introducing: the most
versatile wheelchair van ever"
89,000 Miles
Current Price: $15,900
INCLUDES WARRANTY
Entirely unprecedented
in the world of
wheelchair
vans...because, due to
considerate design and
creatively incorporated features it
has at least three very
different modes of use
and capability:
(1)
weekend camper
with custom
accommodation for the
person in a wheelchair
and one or more members
of their family |
A picture is worth 1000 words I hope these photos will help you to imagine what it would be like to be able to not only have the level of mobility which a common wheelchair van provides, but so much more. It was fun creating these photos and I hope they will inspire and excite you to many wonderful, fun possibilities for the life of you and your family and friends.
|
Options and Equipment THE VAN: this began as a 1/2 ton with 4.6 liter V8 and auto with overdrive. It is an XLT with full power and convenience features of windows, locks, tilt, cruise, etc. And includes alloys, chrome bumpers, etc. THE GOODIES: There is so much to describe and explain about the amazing level of capability, features and versatility of this special van. It has two major packages of features: (1) The first extensive package was installed when it was new, which was intended for a certain type and level of simple weekend camping. This includes such items as: very tall and squared roof with sliding windows and screens; quality, high volume, quiet RV type ceiling van; generous storage in each end of the roof area; dedicated RV battery under the rear floor; large picture windows with quality cloth shades; additional RV style lighting; swivel front seats; rear 1/4 panel area storage; and more. (2) The other group of features are the unique elements which I have had designed, engineered and performed by professionals. Rather than attempting to describe all of those items and the specific intention for each of them in this small space, lets try the following...in the spirit of the old adage "a picture is worth a thousand words" I have deliberately taken more photos than is customary in order to help you see and understand what this van can do and be utilized for. If you look closely and employ your imagination, I believe you will realize how truly unique and wonderful this van is, and most importantly...I hope you will realize how much function, utility and fun this van could bring to the life of your family and friends. MOBILITY: A local mobility professional added the Ricon wheelchair lift with very desirable automatic Bi-Fold platform, which is accessed via the side door. It is operated by either the corded control unit, or by the lockable switches on the rear 1/4 panel. The automatically folding platform allows for easy entry and exit of passengers when the lift is stowed/closed. It also has swivel seats in both front positions, which create the potential for transfer from a wheelchair to either front seat. Dimensions, capacity and specifications: Please feel free to email or call me with any such questions. I will gladly assist with anything you wish to know. I have discovered that due to the unique way each person evaluates, measures and expresses their needs, I can be most helpful regarding this subject if we communicate directly. History of Ownership Has had only two owners, both in the greater Portland area. History of Care This van drives and performs extremely well, very fantastic. Before I began my conversion process, I made a notable investment into the mechanical condition and quality of this van. It has had extensive care, including a partially rebuilt transmission which now shifts like a dream, and the motor has had extensive tune-up work, major gaskets replaced, various fluids replaced, etc. Although I don't have a written record of its past history of care, it is clear and obvious now (supported by the extensive final inspection by my mechanic) that this van has had light previous use and has now been raised to a superb level of overall condition. Each of my vans receives a detailed (about 75 items) inspection by the general mechanic shop which I consider to be the finest in my area. Then, after discussing their report, I have them do what is needed to repair, replace or service items on the vehicle in order to reach my high standard of overall mechanical condition. This is a major and very valuable element of my "Rick's rejuvenated" process. As part of my 'Rick's rejuvenated'' process, each mobility/adaptive component is inspected, serviced, adjusted and repaired (if needed) by the premium company in this area which exclusively cares for wheelchair vans.
Carfax Report
Summary Nothing negative or derogatory on the report You Might Like To Know... *To my knowledge, based on my daily awareness of the wheelchair van world, no company has ever offered, built or sold a versatile, flexible-use wheelchair van such as this one. This is the first of what I anticipate will be many more which I will create and offer. * This van has never towed anything, no hard work, has never had a hitch. * The first year of this style of Ford was 1992 and they had only minimal style changes until the mid-2000's. * Each of my vans has a superb paint sealant as the final step of the extreme detail. If you were to have a professional apply a treatment the cost would be several hundred dollars. Summary of this Gem No other wheelchair van available (new or used) even comes close to being able to do for you what this van is capable of. And this van has original custom components in superb condition and many brand new elements too...so it looks, feels and seems like a very modern van. And finally, did I mention: in addition to its super versatile capability and exceptional overall condition...it looks really sharp too ! :)
|
Imagine the
fun you can have
with a versatile
wheelchair van (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Play by day.
Camp by night. (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
One of the
great pleasures
in life...family
time together in
beautiful places (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
This
versatile van is
capable of
carrying your
gear and family
and creates a
comfortable
place to sleep
for person in
chair and at
least one other (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Unique,
versatile design
provides two
distinct areas
for a variety of
activities (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Created with
the intention of
providing the
opportunity for
the person in
wheelchair to
enjoy time with
friends and
family (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Comes with
high quality
(Aero-Bed)
inflatable full
size bed which
provides
comfortable
sleeping for
two. *Includes power inverter for inflation of bed as well as other items you may have which require 110 volt power (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Can you
imagine or
remember time
around the
campfire with
family and
friends, sharing
music, food,
games or
whatever you
love? (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
A van like
this gets you
there and
provides a place
to stay,
allowing for
campfire nights
and campfire
mornings (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Driver Side
Full View (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Driver Side
Rear View (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Passenger
Side Rear View (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Passenger
Side Front View (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Passenger
Side Interior
seat swivels (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Driver Side
Interior
seat swivels (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Odometer (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
CD/Stereo (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
storage
compartment (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Storage, and
notice
adjustable light
above |
|
Even with
the lift
intrusion and
extra seating
for two, there
is is a
very large
cavern (with
high ceiling)
for when you
want to carry a
big load or for
lots of
flexible-use
space when
camping |
|
A closer
view of the
front area,
notice the large
storage area
above the front
seats (and one
in rear
also) (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
Generous storage
in rear area of
roof (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
High quality
RV fan, called a
"Fantastic Fan".
Has ability to blow in or out and has a thermostat to go on and off automatically. This fan is capable of moving the interior volume of air in or out in a couple of minutes
|
Roof windows
have screens and
sliding vents (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Ricon lift
with automatic
Bi-Fold platform
allows easy access
for folks who
are not in a
chair to
go in and
out. (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Very nice
pleated cloth
shades (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
This photo
indicates the
windshield and
front
doors
covered with
snap-on privacy
curtains (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Plenty of room
to load and
unload the
wheelchair when
extra seat is
stowed (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Notice the
large opening
for folks to
pass in
and out. (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
This lock
and switches
operates the
lift, as well as
a controller
which is on a
cord attached to
the lift. (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Another good
view of large,
versatile
interior
space (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
There is apx.
3 1/2 feet of
clear width at
narrowest point
(between lift
and folding
seat) (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
This
is a close-up of
the very special
floor coating.
It is a material
called
"Spantex" which
is designed to
withstand harsh
outside
environments
such as decks
and patios, but
has lots of
traction due to
the fact that
lots of rubber
is embedded in
the product (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Fold down
seat with two
seat belts is
there when you
need it, but
folded neatly
out of the way
when you don't (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
There is
generous leg
room in front of
rear folding seat (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
There is
space remaining
between end of
seat and lift in
order to walk to
the rear of van
if desired
(note: it may appear to you that the seat does not seem level, but the seat becomes level with the floor when you sit in it) (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Swivel seats
are awesome...
as they
significantly
increase the
function and
versatility of
this van (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
How about a
coffee break, or
shall we play a
game.. (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
This seating
area will be
very handy (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Easy to go
in and out, a
very helpful
feature when
carrying several
people, or even
for one person
helping the
person who's in
the chair (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
A level,
smooth, easy
transition area (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Wide and
long platform
will accommodate
all but the
largest
wheelchairs. (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
A great view
of the seating
area, suitable
for 4 people to
sit and chat
with a table, or
remove the table
for even more
leg comfort (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
The person in
the chair can
drive up to the
table and
seating area
when fold up
seat is stowed (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Rear table
location is
designed with
super
versatility in
mind. it
is positioned
toward the side,
in order
to allow
plenty of area
for the person
in a chair
to approach
it and move
around it. Note:
the
van includes
a large
table-top and a
small one, with
multiple
leg-lengths.
Depending on
your needs,
choose the table
size and leg
length which
suite you best. (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
This table
top is of
generous size.
It is easily
large enough for
two people to
eat a meal at,
or for a board
game... or
serious game of
cards ! :) (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Notice there
is lots of space
between the
table top and
opposite wall,
allowing
comfortable
movement of
wheechair (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Folding
chairs of your
choosing will be
handy and
efficient to use
(this chair for
photo purposes
only) (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
An example
of a wheelchair with
a table (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
A very
comfortable
opportunity for
the person in
chair and two
others to
comfortably sit
and chat...even
in the pouring
rain, dark of
night (just turn
on a light) or
when the
mosquitoes
outside wont
leave you
alone... (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
This full
size inflatable
bed with
pedestal for raised
height is of
highest quality
(Aerobed
brand) and will
comfortably
accommodate two
average adults.
You can choose
which end you want
head and feet.
Custom bedding
is
included (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Open up the
doors and let
the sounds,
scents and
sights of a
nearby ocean,
lake or river
join you... (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Even with
wheelchair
inside and lift
stowed,
there is
some room to
move about and
to sit in the
front passenger
seat. (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
Much effort
and time was
invested in
designing,
pondering and
choosing the
right elements
and where to
position them in
order to reach
our goal.
Creating a
standard length
van with the
level of
versatility and
ability to
accommodate a
long list of
needs as this
van does was a
big challenge.
In the end, As
far as the
sleeping mode
goes...we were
pleasantly
surprised to
discover that it
is possible to
park a chair and
have the
full-size bed in
ready-to-sleep
mode and still
have some room
to move about. (Click on Picture to Enlarge) |
|
* I apologize for any unclear photos. At times, the conditions make a clear photo impossible. |
|
If you would
like more
information or
to see and drive
this vehicle,
|