I am planning to customize my 1950 Chevrolet Panel truck so I can fully operate it from my wheelchair. The conversion will involve extensive work, but when finished it will be a mild street rod that I will use for daily transportation. The truck will use all new or rebuilt parts, making it both safe and reliable.


Body
The exterior of the body will remain basically stock, having only the common modifications made to street rods. All of the trim, door handles and badging will be removed for a smoother look. The front bumper will be smoothed and a roll pan bumper installed in the rear for a cleaner look. We will also be converting the hood and fenders to a forward opening design to allow easier access to the engine and front-wheel drive system. The hood and fender design of my truck will allow for this forward opening design, without cutting the fenders or altering the stock appearance. We will incorporate air, hydraulic, electric, or a combination of these devices to operate this front-end system so I can open it myself. The running boards will be removed and replaced with side-pipes since the lowered floor will interfere with a standard exhaust system. A V-butt windshield will be installed, eliminating the metal strip, and tinted glass will replace the side and rear windows.

More extensive body modification will be made in the interior. We will lower the entire floor 4" to allow increased head clearance, and build a 20" x 40" x 8" deep area of floor on the driver’s side, that will lower to allow me to see safely out the windows. This area will consist of a steel plate that will lower using actuators after I have pulled on top of it.


Engine and transmission
In order to allow the lowered floor area, I decided to incorporate a front wheel drive system. I am using a 1980 Buick Riviera with a Oldsmobile 350 engine and TH325 transmission as my donor vehicle. This engine will provide adequate power for the truck, and the front wheel drive system is sufficiently strong for the engine and weight of the truck. I plan to have the engine built up slightly, but want to keep it economical on low octane fuel. The transmission will be rebuilt, and all of the running gear replaced.

9/02 I have decided to use the Northstar powertrain from a Caddilac instead of the Riviera system. With 300 hp stock, the Northstar will povide plently of power while still remaining reliable and fuel efficient. I plan to strip the Caddy for as many parts as possible, including the front and rear suspension with automatic leveling system, electric windows, steering column, guages, and the climate control with onboard diagnostics.


Wheelchair lift
I have decided to use a Braun Under Vehicle Lift to get into the truck. This lift is designed to fit under the side of a van or pick-up truck, however, I will be mounting it between the frame rails in the rear of my truck. The lift will come straight out the back of the truck, and lift me to the rear doors. When not in use, the lift will be concealed behind the roll pan bumper that will be controlled by actuators. The lift, roll pan bumper and rear doors will all be remote operated.


Interior
The interior will not be extravagant, just comfortable and functional. It will consist of a late model car seat on the passenger’s side, tilt steering column, new wood rear floor, upholstered walls and ceiling, and complete stereo system. I will also be installing after market gauges, power windows, power locks, and air conditioning. My hand controls for throttle and brake will mount to the side of the steering column, and a three-post spinner knob, similar to a “suicide knob,” will mount on the steering wheel. The foot pedals will be completely eliminated, since I have no need for them. This will provide an even more custom look.

9/02 I have decided to use a metal floor instead of the wood. This will give me almost 1 inch more head clearance, and should show less wear and tear from my wheelchair tires. Also, as noted above, I will be getting several interior items from my Caddilac donor car.