Copyright: 2007
Enygma Enterprises, LLC
Enygma Enterprises, LLC
For the past 20+ years, I have been driving E-150 Ford Vans. The only differences between them were the year and color. Most people have a choice of thousands of makes and models while I have had virtually no choice.
Why have I had only this one choice? Fresh out of High School and with orders for Marine Corps boot camp (I volunteered), I broke my neck in a diving accident. It is the same old story - teenagers think they are immortal. I have spent the last 35 years as a quadriplegic, enjoying life from a motorized wheelchair. Since I drive from my wheelchair, I need plenty of specialized equipment and modifications. The Ford E-150 is the best vehicle to use as a base for all these modifications. They have been great rigs but I am very tired of the same old thing.
I have decided to build that once-in-a-lifetime vehicle. I have always loved old fat-fendered Fords. So, I am in the processs of converting a 1953 Ford panel to a very cool, very functional daily driver with all the modifications and equipment I need.
The most challenging issues are:
Headroom and visibility - I am 5'0" tall sitting in my wheelchair so getting the floor low enough is a necessity. I need to be able to see out the windshield and side windows and not have my head constantly hitting the ceiling.
Entering and exiting - With each my E-150s, I used a wheelchair lift in the side doors to get inside. For the panel, I will be entering through the rear doors. Since this will all be fabricated, there are many issues - ramp vs lift, door openers, etc.
Necessary switches/controls - Being a quad, I have no grip or manual dexterity, so all controls must meet my functional ability. I need very elaborate hand controls for the gas and brake and I must be able to operate all the controls and switches that operate the vehicle, such as turn signals, lights, wipers, HVAC, etc. While driving, one hand will be on the hand controls and the other will be on the wheel. So, I will not be able to just reach over a flip a switch or turn a knob.
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Copyright: 2007
Enygma Enterprises, LLC |