Wheel Chair Access

757Dave · 02-17-2015, 06:57 PM

We are trying to figure out a way to get a family member into the Sunseeker 3170 while in a wheel chair. We have looked at different ramps online, but they all seem to be too wide for the doorway. Asking this to see if someone may have already solved this issue.

Mojojojo · 02-17-2015, 07:26 PM

Do you know for sure the chair will fit in the door? I have seen one person use a dog ramp for a kids chair. You may have to have one custom built.

757Dave · 02-17-2015, 07:41 PM

Thanks for your response. Yeah, we measured the door and it is wide enough. This is for an adult. I'm concerned that a pet ramp will not be sturdy enough. Thanks for the suggestion, though.

Mojojojo · 02-17-2015, 07:50 PM

We had a dog ramp for a 180 lb rottwieler I believe it was rated at like 200 lbs if I remember right ,one can also modify it with 1 inch square tube steel for added weight. Measure the wheel width ad 1 inch, weigh the chair and occupant I'm sure something is out there. Or have one custom built but it might get spendy.

caper · 02-17-2015, 07:55 PM

I made a set from 2x8 and attached 1x4 along outside edge. I used the metal end you use to make ramp to load items into back of truck. No problem getting the chair up or down. The plus side is you can make the ramp as long as you want to make a low slope.
This is a low cost and easy way to make ramps. Plus when the ramp is no longer needed you can cut the board to use under the jack of trailer.

757Dave · 02-17-2015, 09:09 PM

Mojojojo and Casper, thanks for the suggestions. I will check these out.

scoto · 02-18-2015, 09:36 PM

I believe a company builds an electric lift for wheelchairs specifically for motorhomes. Suggest google search.

757Dave · 02-19-2015, 12:41 PM

Thanks. We are checking into that. I was asking here to see if anyone had any experience with any particular method of getting access to their MH with someone in a wheel chair and the pluses and minuses of their experience. Everyone has been very helpful and we have been amazed at the people who attempt to lend a hand. The term "Good Samaritan" come to mind. Thanks again to everyone.

caper · 02-19-2015, 01:54 PM

If the wheel chair is for occasional use I would not spend the $$$$ for a lift.
Another option is as in picture. Cost for hardware in Canada is $99 plus cost of 3/4 ply wood. Weight capacity is 800lbs. It can be made to any width by 8ft. long. It folds in 1/2 for easy storage.

757Dave · 02-19-2015, 02:54 PM

Thanks Caper. This looks like something we could use. Could you tell me what those parts are called? I printed the picture to take to the hardware store. Thanks again.

caper · 02-19-2015, 03:41 PM

At Princess Auto (Canadian company) similar to Harbor Freight is is called 600lb 8 ft Foldable Utility Steel Ramp hardware. Check out western steel and tube web site they have sites in the US that sell the same product.

757Dave · 02-19-2015, 04:28 PM

Thanks again. I think I have located them at a local Northern Tool store. Will take a look at them this weekend.

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