Mobile Lifestyle Advisor for December

A. According to Virginia DMV, it is mandatory to have the proper endorsements for any driving equipment the driver is using. The code signification has changed over the years (from letters to numbers) but the requirement has not. If someone has been driving with adaptive equipment and does not have endorsements on their permit then they are required to submit a medical report for the DMV to review. If that is approved they will then need to pass a road test.  A driving evaluation is not necessary for these drivers. Great question and for you readers that have concerns about drivers license endorsements let me refer you to Jacquelin.branche@virginia.gov. She is our “go to” person for DMV questions. Keep in mind as your driving needs change and more adaptive equipment is added to your vehicle, you will need the proper endorsement for each piece of equipment.

A. Yes, you can access the proper applications for this type of loan through the internet at www.newwellfund.com. They will be glad to help you with any type of loan relating to assistive technology ( home modifications, scooters, wheelchairs, lift chairs, stair lifts and vehicle modifications are considered assistive technology). As a vet don’t forget the Granting Freedom Program.  This funding source is available to veterans who need home modifications recommended by a VA Physician, PT or hospitalization officer. There is a maximum of $4000.00 available per dwelling. For more info on this new program for veterans see page 22 of this magazine or go to www.vhda.com for the proper forms.

A. Roger, this type of situation occurs on lowered floor minivans for a lot of different reasons. If you are looking to remedy this situation yourself, I would suggest these steps. First, yes make sure the wheels are rolling easily along the top and bottom track. A light coat of grease will help. Then I would run a load test on your battery and use a hydrometer on each of the cells. Replace the battery if either or both test proves necessary. Technicians from all of the major conversion companies tell me that many of the door problems result from low battery power. Weak batteries show up frequently when the weather turns cold. More power is required to start a cold engine and people tend to drive handicapped vans less during bad weather. Frequent starting of the van and short trips draw more out of the battery than the alternator can replace. I suggest that if neither of the battery tests shows a replacement is necessary, take the van for a weekly 15-20 mile run so the alternator can fully charge up the battery. If the problem goes away then you know what to do. If not then it may be time to visit your local mobility dealer for a complete system check to look for other problems.

A. Courtney read my reply from the previous question to get some insight on cold weather battery operation. In your situation, lifts do present other challenges. Some lifts work slow and draw a lot of current during use. Years ago dual batteries we suggested as a way of having enough power to run the lift and not run down the starter battery. Now with the newer lifts and smaller electronic components dual batteries are rarely installed. As I mentioned, check your current battery first.  If that proves ok then I would suggest calling your local mobility dealer and have you lift checked for proper fluid level, type of fluid, leaks and proper grounding. It is uncommon to have to run the van to use the lift.