DISABLED HAND CONTROLS

[Dennis Nicholas]

I have had right leg amputation but though 80 still want to drive my Nippy special. I am researching the possibility of being able to continue driving a manual car.  I  know there is a push/pull brake/accelerator hand rod system and companies that fit it BUT I keep getting told by the various telephone answering ladies of various orthopaedic organisations and mobility companies that the system can only be fitted to AUTOMATIC vehicles and that I would not be able to drive such a manual vehicle because at some time it would involve both hands being off the wheel.  I know of a manual Citroen Berlingo wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) that used to have the rod conversion, belonging to a NHS affiliated training centre but which had controls removed because there was little demand for it for training so it was not cost effective to keep it (No wonder no demand if all amputees were told only for automatics!!).,
Does anyone know of anybody with right leg amputation out there driving a manual car with the rod system? Any make as I also have a modern and a manual Reliant Scimitar.
I will soon be swapping my modern for a WAV (at my own expense) so need to know the REAL possibilities.  If it is really not possible to drive a manual, but I don't believe it, I am considering converting the Nippy to automatic as it already has a BMC A+ 1275 engine with 1000cc flywheel, just totally rebuilt but awaiting breaking in by the builders and me obtaining a much shortened prop-shaft to fit behind the current Toyota T50 gearbox. It also has a Mini MK1 pedal box and hydraulic brakes and clutch.  I am sure there is an autobox for an A+ engine (Ital, Allegro...etc). but yet to look into that.
So if anyone knows of a right leg aputee out there driving a manual of nany make please let me know.  I am in the Torridge area of Devon not far from Holsworthy.
PS sorry if I upset any purists by having the A+ engine etc but there was a very good reason for the Nippy becoming such a special.      and I have had a lifetime driving proper A7s.

Dennis

[Robert Leigh]

I suggest that you contact David Bonnett Associates  https://www.davidbonnett.co.uk/
Dave used to drive an RTC Austin Seven Special, attending the Beaulieu Rally with it many times. It was equipped with hand controls because of his handicap. His practice specialises in advising people mostly about access needs, but he is a friendly chap and well informed. I think Dave Williams was involved in converting his car, and possibly others.
Good luck.

[GK5268]

It has been done before, if you could find the original article the images of the conversion would be easier to view, good luck with your conversion.

[stuartu]

Perhaps the patents referred to can be found, if so there should be some useful detail.

Good luck with this project, Dennis.

Best wishes,

Stuart