How to Install a Wheelchair Lift In a Van

Installing a wheelchair lift in a van can make all the difference for someone with mobility issues. Wheelchair lifts allow wheelchair users to access and even drive a van equipped with special features. 

Wheelchair lifts for vans can be mounted inside the van or under it, depending on the practicality and weight limits. Today we will discuss the options when installing a wheelchair lift in a van, and how they work.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Wheelchair Lift In a Van?

The price range to install a wheelchair lift on a van will vary widely depending on the wheelchair lift being installed. For example, some wheelchair lifts are larger, heavier, and more powerful than others. Some wheelchair lifts will utilize existing connections, like those for the rear seat , while others require modification to the van. 

Generally, the cost to install a wheelchair lift in a van can cost as little as $400, to as much as $20,0000. Wheelchair lifts for vans are available in a variety of configurations, depending on the use, the van, and where the wheelchair lift will mount. Simple hydraulic cable versions are useful for lifting both manual and powered wheelchairs into the van, but the rider must exit the chair first.

Some wheelchair lifts for vans allow the wheelchair passenger to enter the van without leaving the chair. These wheelchair lifts are considerably more sophisticated because they allow the wheelchair to be physically connected to the van. Safety features are much more elaborate on these wheelchair lifts, but the experience for the wheelchair passenger is both easier and safer.

Can I Install A Wheelchair Lift On a Van Myself?

Depending on your skill level, you may be able to install a wheelchair lift on a van yourself. Wheelchair lifts for a van generally come in three types, although the technology is constantly improving. Most DIY wheelchair lifts for vans will be designed for either a manual wheelchair, powered wheelchair, or a powered mobility scooter. These designs use a hydraulic cable system to mechanically lift the chair into the van.

Other wheelchair lifts for vans will be more elaborate and include a platform for the wheelchair to ride on. These wheelchair lifts usually include remote controls and any number of safety sensors. Still other wheelchair lifts for vans will include a full conversion designed specifically for wheelchair users. These wheelchair lifts are typically designed for powered wheelchairs and can usually be completely controlled by the passenger in the wheelchair.

Is Installing a Wheelchair Lift On a Van Difficult?

Installing a wheelchair lift on a van can be quite complex, but the complexity will usually depend on the van and the wheelchair lift design. For example, some lifts are accessed from the rear of the van, while others are accessed from the side. If the van is of a service type, meaning the van tends to have few windows, the installation is generally easier.

Wheelchair lifts can be installed on the inside of a van, the outside of a van, or a combination of both. Most do-it-yourselfers can benefit by selecting the wheelchair lift to fit the van, as the installation will probably be easier. Although it is possible to convert most wheelchair lift kits to most vans, it will be easier to select a kit that will require the least modification to the van.

How Do I Install a Wheelchair Lift In a Van?

To decide how to install a wheelchair lift in a van, you’ll need to know the type of wheelchair lift you need. Most wheelchair lifts will fall into one of three categories, which are (1) an inside mount, (2) an undermount, and (3) a hybrid lift. To decide which type you have or need, you will need to know the basics of each design.

Inside Mount Wheelchair Lift

Inside mounted wheelchair lifts are often the most elaborate, as they are designed to offer the most protection for the wheelchair and the rider. These wheelchair lifts usually take up the most space, because they can include a folding platform and mechanical parts that require more space.

Inside mounted wheelchair lifts for vans are typical in a wheelchair van conversion where the most automation is needed for the wheelchair passenger. More sophisticated models allow the wheelchair passenger to drive onto a ramp, lift the chair into the van, and even remotely close the doors.

Inside mounted wheelchair lifts often require additional brackets to support the added weight of the mechanism. However, some space-saving, less elaborate versions are available. If you want to install an inside mounted wheelchair lift yourself, it’s a good idea to ask for the specifications in advance. This way you can ensure your van has the room for any additional support the wheelchair lift may require. These wheelchair lifts are mounted to the frame of the van, so you will want to make sure yours will work before purchasing.

Undermount Wheelchair Lift

Undermount wheelchair lifts for vans are a convenient way to enter and exit the van without requiring much space inside. Undermount wheelchair lifts for vans are often less expensive for the kit than an inside mounted version. However, the modifications required to the underside of the van tend to be more extensive when using an undermount version.

Undermount wheelchair lifts are often bolted to the frame of the van from underneath, so you will want to make sure your van has the appropriate connection points. Never try to modify or alter a wheelchair lift beyond the installation instructions. Wheelchair lifts need strong, secure connections to the van, as they require leverage to lift the wheelchair.

A wheelchair lift improperly mounted could detach while the van is moving, so always perform a maintenance check before using a wheelchair lift. Parking lot accidents and other impacts can loosen the bolts holding the wheelchair lift to the van. Just gently move the wheelchair lift while it is extended and look for any extra movement that might indicate a loose connection.

Depending on the kit and the van, undermount wheelchair lifts for vans often allow for the passenger seats to remain in the van. Many inside mounted wheelchair lifts for vans require at least the rear-most seats to be removed, with some requiring second row seating to be removed as well. Undermount wheelchair lifts greatly reduce the space required, but the folding nature of the wheelchair lift can limit its lifting capacity.

Hybrid Wheelchair Lift

As mentioned earlier, wheelchair lifts for vans are constantly improving. To address the common issue of having to remove the passenger seating to accommodate a wheelchair lift, hybrid versions have emerged. These wheelchair lifts are designed to fit in a more compact area, often allowing at least one row of seating to remain.

Depending on the manufacturer of the lift and the model of the van, many of these hybrid wheelchair lifts can be attached without modification to the van. This is a big plus if you plan to sell the van later because it will allow the van to return to normal use quickly. Plus, you can easily transfer the wheelchair lift system to a different van should the need arise.

How Do I Match a Van to a Wheelchair Lift?

As mentioned previously, it is wise to investigate the available wheelchair lift options, as well as the capabilities of the van before purchasing either. Some vans are compact and may not have the available space for an elaborate wheelchair lift, so you will want to determine which lift you need first. Ideally, you will want to design the wheelchair lift and van around the person disabled to get the most benefit.

Most (if not all) wheelchair lifts will require not only space, but appropriately sized doors as well. Many wheelchair lift users prefer service type vans, commonly used by cleaning services and paint companies. These vans have fewer windows, large doors, and often have additional structural support for towing and tool storage. Some wheelchair lifts require brackets and other structural support, so these vans often have the required space and the additional structural strength needed.

Can I Install a Wheelchair Lift In an SUV?

Some hydraulic cable wheelchair lifts can actually be installed in other vehicles, like SUVs. These are generally simple, light weight bearing wheelchair lifts, but they are convenient for loading the chair into the vehicle. 

If the wheelchair rider only uses the wheelchair occasionally, these lifts take much of the hassle out of loading it. However, these wheelchair lifts do not have the lifting capacity for both the wheelchair and the rider, so the rider must be able to exit the wheelchair.