On Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:40:07 -0500, with neither quill nor qualm,
"croq" quickly quoth:


"Leo Lichtman" wrote in message
...

"croq" wrote: (clip) I can imagine a
little lean but nothing unsafe for a full size GMC Savannah or Ford E350.
(clip)
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I wasn't thinking of safety. I was thinking of a way to make the
construction lighter. But, you also need to consider that whatever lean
there is will make your extended track slope. You will have to plan on
that when you are moving your sister in her wheelchair into and out of the
van. (Not being critical--trying to be helpful.)


Thanks Leo,

I appreciate the help! I have to admit I knew I would have to watch where
I parked because of the tilt on the beam but it did not occur to me her
weight could cause the same problem. Tis why I like this group, all the
holes in an idea are soon found. As Larry had pointed out a damper would be
necessary, I thought a power extend/retract feature would be a great option.

Yes, power movement is a great idea. It would overcome any tilt
problem, allowing you to pick her up from any angle.

Have you figured out a 4-point people-harness for her? You could set
it open in her wheelchair and drop her on it, then use it to lift her
into and out of the vehicle as needed. One other potential problem is
between a homemade medical lift and your insurance company.


After caring for her for 35 years I'm getting a little old and slow to keep
throwing my body between her and whatever harm is waiting to surprise us.
I need to start doing that work smarter verses harder idea I keep reading
about.

Definitely. It could save you an injury which would prevent you from
being able to care for her, too. You sound like much too good a
sibling to want that.

Which automotive seat will you be using?


BTW, please keep us informed. This is an interesting thread!

--
Pain makes man think. Thought makes man wise. Wisdom makes life endurable.
-- John Patrick