Kneeling systems lower an adapted van to decrease the incline of a wheelchair ramp or allow the vehicle to line up with the curb. They are installed on accessible vehicles by many conversion manufacturers by default. At AMS Vans, however, we use a different approach to handicap van conversions. Most people that buy a new or used handicap van do not need a kneeling system, and often this piece of equipment is expensive, unreliable, and costly to repair. By eliminating the kneeling system, our design reduces vehicle adaptations by thousands of dollars. And our design offers another important way to save money. Kneeling systems become increasingly unreliable as they age. They require special parts for repairs, as well as specially certified mechanics who may not be easy to find for Connecticut wheelchair vans.

The function of a kneeling system is simply to decrease the incline of a wheelchair ramp, making it possible for powerchairs, mobility scooters, power wheelchairs, and others to easily roll into a handicap van. AMS has perfected a design that achieves similar results without a kneeling system. Our handicap van conversions feature wheelchair ramps that extend an additional 4 inches beyond standard lengths. These added inches decrease the incline of the wheelchair ramp to the point that almost any electric wheelchair, scooter, or powerchair can easily and smoothly wheel into the adapted vehicle. Manual wheelchair users can use an AMS handicap van with the aid of a family member or caretaker. Independent wheelchair users can also benefit from an AMS handicap van conversion that utilize “magic wheels” (wheels designed specifically to handle inclines with greater stability than standard wheelchair wheels) or a power pull system (a crank and wire system that pulls the wheelchair user up into the van). Our mobility consultants will be happy to discuss your individual wheelchair van requirements to determine if an AMS handicap van conversion is the right fit for you.