To tow or not as a wheelchair first timer

[kcslaw]

I just joined yesterday as I am thinking hard about becoming an RV'er. I do not drive because of my disability, but my wife and I found a used accessible RV with a wheelchair lift,took a test drive, and we think that we'd enjoy it but as it will not tow my wheelchair van, we wonder if we would end up being isolated in an RV parks with no ability to explore the area. We read about Baja and Alaska caravans and those sound like a lot of fun. We have only seen about 10 of our nations lower 48 states and really want to 'discover' America. So my questions boil down to these:

1. Is anyone out there happy RV ing w/o a toad?
2. Are there many parks out there with access to bike paths, on a bus route, or w/i walking distances of towns so that we wouldn't get stranded too much?
3. Is a 36ft RV too big to bring into town on occasion or is it too big a hassle to hook and unhook?

Thank you

[JRNOLL]

I can't help you on your questions, but I'm sure that someone can.

[Gary RVRoamer]

I know we wouldn't be happy without a toad, but we generally avoid urban areas anyway. Theer are probably someparks near transportation and maybe a few within walking distance of things (I can think of a couple), so if you restricted yourself to accessible places you might be ok. But it will restrict you quite a bit n your travels.
A 36 footer does not park well except in large malls, Walmarts, etc. Even then it can be a hassle at times.

[BZam]

Many better parks in bigger cities have paved sites and road ways and accessible clubhouse areas. But they are the exception once you leave the metro areas.

Also, now bigger cities have cabs you can call which accommodate a scooter or motorized wheelchair.

Parks that are near city bus lines are few. Cities also have handicapped transport small buses but the problem you have to be preregistered and certified because of liability issues. My wife has to recertified as needing use every couple of years.

My wife has a scooter and we have traveled for over 20 years and she has used it in many places. Even nice trails in Yosemite and river trail in Zion. And not to forget Las Vegas and other casinos.

My advice is to tow and have your van modified for towing and enjoy.

Quote:

Originally Posted by kcslaw 1. Is anyone out there happy RV ing w/o a toad? 2. Are there many parks out there with access to bike paths, on a bus route, or w/i walking distances of towns so that we wouldn't get stranded too much? 3. Is a 36ft RV too big to bring into town on occasion or is it too big a hassle to hook and unhook? Thank you

[Gary RVRoamer]

Modifying your van for towing is by far the best solution, though not the cheapest. Either a transmission lube pump or a drive shaft disconnect will solve the towing problem (depends on what make & model of van you have).

[Wayne M]

To see if your van is capable of being modified, visit the REMCO Products web site.