The internal wheelchair winch is an aid which helps you push a wheelchair user into the wheelchair accessible vehicle. This is for those who may not have the strength required or just need the assistance.
The wheelchair winch is designed as an aid in conjunction with someone pushing the wheelchair in. It is also important to keep the belt taught and untwisted during operation to prevent it getting stuck in the mechanism.
1. Straighten and position
Often, the winch is located under the rear row of seats. You can find it here and pull out the winch bar. Please ensure the belt of the winch is not twisted as this can cause it to get stuck.
2. Pull out whilst holding button
You will need to pull out the winch all the way out the vehicle and attach it to the wheelchair user’s wheelchair frame. As you are pulling out the winch, you will have to press the ‘extend’ button on the remote. This will unspool and extend the winch slowly as you pull it out.
Do not leave the winch on the floor and press the extension button as the belt will become too loose. You will need to pull and keep it taught as it is extending out.
3. Attach firmly to wheelchair frame & walk in
Once the winch has been extended out to the wheelchair, attach the two hooks onto the frame or the chair securely.
Now you will need to press the retract button on the remote which will pull the winch back in. You will still need to push the wheelchair as this is happening as the winch is only to help and assist.
4. Detach & tuck away if needed
Once the wheelchair is in the vehicle you can secure it in (read our guide here: https://specialistvehiclerental.co.uk/how-to-use-the-wheelchair-restraints-in-your-wheelchair-accessible-vehicle/)
Once secure, you can remove the winch from the wheelchair and tuck it under the rear seats so it is out of the way.
The electric winch is not fitted in every wheelchair accessible vehicle we provide. Before making your booking, you can request a vehicle which has one. If you have any further questions or issues, do not hesitate to contact our expert team.
Email: bookings@specialistvehiclerental.co.uk
Phone: 01922 624 967
