Hauling or not hauling?

Posted by michael keller On 2009/9/25 16:11:13

I have two problems with my '56 Executive Hardtop (or better: with myself) that probably didn't occur here before:

At first, I have to find a safe way to enter my car (on passenger's side only) as I have a body handicap since birth and use a wheel chair. Earlier, I made the transfer by standing up from the wheel chair, turning then backward to the car's bench, and vice verso. Getting out was easier, as I used driver's side and held my by the bench seat back and the steering wheel.

After an accident at home that doesn't work anymore as I am unable now to stand on my feet...

Second problem is the wheel chair. I have to take it with me as I am too heavy for a light manual chair that just could be thrown in the trunk.

It is an Invacare Storm3 that is close to this new model 3G Arrow:http://www.invacare.com/cgi-bin/imhqprd/inv_catalog/prod_cat_detail.jsp?s=0&prodID=3GAR-CG&catOID=-536887472

With all those electric motors, it weights about 300 lbs. There is no disassembling beside of a removable seat back. Even then, it is too high for the trunk of the car (and too heavy to get it in without a crane).

We will try to solve the first problem with a lifter. For the second, we have not yet an idea other than:

-taking the chair within our daily driver, a (European) Ford Transit Van with a hydraulic ramp.

-hauling the wheel chair within a carrier.

In case of the ladder: Is it wise to retro-fit the car with a hauling device? Did Packard mention that in their information material and if so, are there data about maximum hauling weight?

As I am a newbee in hauling matters, your advice is much appreciated - and, no, selling the Packard is not an acceptable solution...