How To Add A Swivel Wheel To A Powerchair Carrier? Ultimate Guide

The best way to install a swivel wheel on a powerchair transport system. This is the procedure. The swivel wheel on a wheelchair will allow the user to turn to the left or right without having to physically shift their body position.

While the procedure of installing this sort of wheel is not too hard, it does involve some time and work. If you want to know how to install a swivel wheel, you should read on.

What is a wheelchair carrier?

Wheelchair carriers are a specialized kind of carrier used to transport wheelchairs and other mobility aids through doorways, onto vehicles, and up and down ramps in public facilities. An crucial piece of equipment for persons who use wheelchairs, a wheelchair carrier enables the user to go places they otherwise couldn’t and makes them feel less confined. If you use a wheelchair, it’s important to find a wheelchair carrier that’s both functional and simple to use.

Those who are physically limited or old often require the use of a wheelchair carrier, sometimes called a wheelchair hitch. Their movement and sense of autonomy are both preserved by the wheelchair carrier. Lightweight and simple to install, it may be affixed to a wide variety of automobiles. A carrier is typically a foldable platform that is attached to a vehicle’s hitch in the back. Trucks and vans, among other vehicles, can use one of several distinct types of hitches. Therefore, there are various factors to think about while selecting a wheelchair carrier.

Steps on Adding a Swivel Wheel To a Powerchair Carrier

To begin installing a swivel wheel on a power wheelchair, you should first remove the existing wheel. Then you can always be sure you’re drilling or screwing into the right areas.

The second step is to take off the caster wheel that was underneath the seat. In order to complete this activity, you may require a screwdriver or a wrench, depending on how it was originally assembled.

The third step is to make pilot holes in the frame of your powerchair carrier and insert the screws. A drill hole should be made near the outer edge of the frame. Depending on the width of your powerchair carrier and the number of swivel wheels you intend to install, you will need to drill a hole on either side.

Put in two screws if you only have one swivel wheel, and put in four if you have three or more.

The fifth step is to flip the frame over and secure each of the newly drilled holes with a screw.

Install your swivel wheel on one end, and then tighten it with an Allen wrench or another tool that fits into the swivel’s hole (Step 6).

Seventh, do the same for the other wheels you installed.

Using a washer and nut as additional security is recommended. The central wheels are being fitted at the same time.

Turn to Step Eight: Reposition the Powerchair Carrier as Desired and Retighten All Screws. If everything went according to plan, there shouldn’t be any shakiness.

Here we are at Step Nine, where you get to test out your new wheelchair powered by your very own homemade frame. Feel free to take it for a spin around the block if you’re interested.

Aluminum Wheelchair Carrier Mounts

Using the included mounting brackets, you may attach a pair of aluminum wheelchair carriers to the bumper of your vehicle.

They’ve been tried and tested with weights as high as 600 pounds, so you know they can handle everything you throw at them. Due to the sturdy construction, wheelchairs of varying sizes can be easily inserted and removed without risk of wear and tear. Attached is a picture that illustrates the point.

All mounting hardware is included in the kit; simply use the pre-drilled holes in your vehicle’s bumper to attach the brackets, then use an Allen key to secure the nuts and caps (L). You’ll need to buy wheels separately, but they’re readily added.

Bumper Mounted Wheelchair Carrier

A motorized wheelchair carrier, also known as a bumper-mounted wheelchair carrier, is affixed to the rear bumper or trunk of a vehicle. It’s compatible with any car, truck, or SUV, but provides the most benefit to those with rear bumper protection. Easy and quick trunk access is provided, as is space for a power wheelchair.

Wheelchair carriers are often constructed from rust-proof metals like aluminum or stainless steel and installed on the vehicle’s bumper.

Mobility Scooter Carrier Installation

If you have the necessary equipment and knowledge, you can mount a mobility scooter carrier on your automobile by yourself. If you don’t know how to install it, you should ask a mechanic or someone who has done it previously. You should provide yourself with the usual assortment of screwdrivers, hammers, pliers, and wrenches, as well as anything else that might prove useful while you’re tinkering around beneath the hood.

Be Careful! A power chair’s weight may exceed that of the vehicle’s bumper mount-point brackets, therefore it’s important to take precautions when attaching the scooter carrier to the vehicle (usually found beneath each front tire). Barrel or stem brackets are the most typical mounting hardware.

If the power chair has two rear wheels, it will require additional hardware to install. If you have any doubts about how to do this process, please contact an auto mechanic for help.

If the power chair has two rear wheels, it will require additional hardware to install. If you have any doubts about how to do this process, please contact an auto mechanic for help.

If the motorized chair has two rear wheels, it will require additional hardware to attach. If you have any worries about how to complete this step, please contact an auto mechanic for advice.

In the event that the power chair has dual rear wheels, supplementary mounting gear will be required. If you are unsure of how to complete this procedure, a technician should be consulted.

The installation of a power chair with dual rear wheels will necessitate the use of supplementary hardware. Please consult a professional vehicle mechanic if you have any questions regarding this procedure.

Then, turn them anticlockwise with an Allen key (L) until they are snug but not too tight. The swivel wheel kit is now securely bolted onto your car or truck bumper and ready for transporting your powerchair! You can also install more than one set of tire carrier mounts to carry more than one powerchair.

Best Wheelchair Carrier (2022): 14 Best Carriers for Portability & Price

HUSKY TOWING 88133 Mobility Wheelchair/Scooter Carrier

Then, screw them in place using an Allen key (L) by turning counterclockwise until they are secure but not tight. Now that you’ve fastened the swivel wheel kit to the bumper of your car or truck, you may transfer your powerchair with ease. More than one powerchair can be transported with the use of additional tire carrier mounts.

The carrier is mounted on the vehicle hitch and has a ramp to help load the wheelchair. This hitch carrier fits a standard 2” hitch receiver and fits all Class III and Class IV trailer hitches. It should be noted that the car speed should be less than 40MPH when using this carrier.

The ramp on the carrier makes it easy to load the wheelchair onto the carrier, which is fixed on the vehicle’s hitch. This hitch carrier is compatible with trailer hitches of Class III and Class IV and has a 2″ hitch receiver. To avoid damage to the carrier, keep your car’s speed under 40 mph while using it.

Locks are internally spring loaded and made of heavy-duty steel.

Size of the carrier is 50-1/4 inches long, 29-1/2 inches wide, and 4 inches high.

The ramp is 47 inches in length and 29.5 inches in width.

Its bed measures 48.75″ x 27.75″, making it ideal for transporting large items (L x W)

42″ x 26-1/2″ Carrier Ramp (L x W)

You can put up to 500 pounds in here before it starts to buckle.

Dimensions:70 inches tall by 35 inches wide by 25 inches deep

Locking straps and snares are included for secure storage.

The safety rail has red alert panels and reflective tape to make sure people don’t get hurt if they fall over at night.

a carrier that can be used in three different ways (closed flat, open L-shape & open flat)

Pros

• Easily assembled, lightweight, and transportable
• Vehicles weighing up to 500 lbs. (around 227 kg.)
• The steel framework is sturdy and will last for a long time.
• Extremely practical and simple to operate.
• Balanced and secure, with steel guardrails

Cons

• Because some attachments can obscure the view of backup cameras and sensors, driving backwards while using such a device can be challenging for certain makes and models of automobiles.
• Installing it requires help.
• You can’t fold this

For whom does this model work best?

When it comes to mobility, the Husky Towing Mobility Wheelchair and Scooter Carrier is ideal for seniors and persons with special needs. Once linked to a hitch, it serves dual purposes as a ramp or carrier, making it a versatile transportation tool.

Prohoists Manual Carrier Loading Ramp for Mobility Scooter and Electric Power Wheelchair

Lifting Equipment (Manual)

Length

28″

Width

46.5″

Height

4″

Weight

75 pounds

Transporting a power wheelchair or mobility scooter is a breeze with the Prohoists Wheelchair Carrier. It works best with automobiles, SUVs, and trucks as long as they are tall enough and have a hitch.

The wheelchair carrier ramp folds away and tilts toward the back of the vehicle when not in use. To prevent the trailer hitch receiver from becoming damaged due to excessive movement, the Anti-Wobble Device joins the two together.

Among its many features are:

Created from premium-grade steel

Capable of supporting up to 500 pounds

A hitch of class III or above is required.

Rubberized hand openings are included.

Pros

• Heavy-duty and well-constructed, the ramp is an asset.
• Compatible with any size and weight of mobility scooter or equipment
• This carrier has a loading ramp that is 5 feet in length, which greatly facilitates loading.
• railings four inches in height
• Its gentle incline makes the ramp ideal for loading mobility aids.
• Loading equipment can be stabilized on the platform’s steel mesh.
• Included reflectors

Cons

• An anti-wobble/anti-tilt device must be used to guarantee a stable setup.

For whom does this model work best?

The Prohoists Wheelchair Carrier is best for most power wheelchairs and mobility scooters. This carrier is ideal for the elderly or those with mobility issues.

Silver Spring Manual Wheelchair Carrier with Tilting Platform

If you need to transport a power wheelchair or mobility scooter, we recommend the Prohoists Wheelchair Carrier. People who are elderly or have mobility issues would benefit most from this carrier.

Length

31″

Width

25.5″

Height

29″

Weight

28 pounds

Using a standard ball mount on the back of a tow vehicle, the Silver Spring Wheelchair Carrier can carry a single manual wheelchair. The loading and unloading platform can be tilted for convenience. The height can be adjusted to suit the user, and the stability arm provides reassurance for those using wheelchairs.

This is a convenient and easy way to haul a wheelchair and save room inside the vehicle. Its sturdy steel structure makes it easier and less painful to transfer a wheelchair into a car.

This is a practical and straightforward way to haul a wheelchair and conserve room inside the vehicle. It’s made of sturdy steel and makes it easier to load a wheelchair into a car or van.

It’s a simple and efficient way to transport a wheelchair without taking up much space in the car. Lifting a wheelchair onto a vehicle is made easier and less painful with this sturdy steel device.

Stands upright when folded for storage

Long-lasting and completely risk-free in every possible way

Pros

• The item is sturdy and well-made.
• Fits the back of any car with minimal effort
• Cantilevering staging
• The stability arm can be adjusted to fit your needs.

Cons

• It could be difficult to set up.
• Not very sturdy reflectors
• The ramp is awkward to lower.

For whom does this model work best?

Those who are unable to do it independently and require assistance carrying their wheelchairs or other mobility devices may find this product very useful. It’s perfect for hauling large objects and making maximum use of available cargo space.

Harmar’s AL003 Tilt-N-Tote

Tilt-N-Tote

Length

33″

Width

22″

Height

8″

Weight

25 pounds

The AL003 Tilt-N-Tote by Harmar is a reliable and hassle-free transport option for manual wheelchairs and other mobility aids. An ingenious tilting joint allows for simple transfer from wheelchair to vehicle.

The wheelchair is held in place by an adjustable hold-down arm, making transfer simple and safe. This product’s convenient folding design makes it easy to transport and store when not in use.

Among its many features are:

Lifting Capacity: 100 lbs (45 kg)

To what extent may it be lifted? One hundred pounds (45 kg)

Allows for easy tailgate and under-vehicle access when folded down.

Disabled-accessible design requires no special adaptations

Converts to a compact size when not in use

Cons

Hard to pull the release knob when the wheelchair is sitting on it.

While a wheelchair is resting on the release knob, it is awkward to reach for it and pull.

For those who have trouble lifting heavy objects, such as wheelchairs or walkers, this ingenious and lightweight wheelchair carrier is the ideal solution.

HAUL-MASTER Capacity Aluminum Mobility Wheelchair And Scooter Carrier

Scooter Transporter with Haul-Master Capacity

Length

47″

Width

27-5/8″

Height

7.5″

Weight

55 pounds

The bed of this extra-wide wheelchair carrier can accommodate a broad variety of mobility aids because to its sturdy aluminum structure. The ramp may be detached and a hitch pin and clip are included. The aluminum body is both lightweight and corrosion-proof.

Among its many features are:

Exterior platform: 50 inches L x 29-1/2 inches W x 9 inches H

Dimensions of the exterior platform are 50 inches in length, 29 and a half inches in width, and 9 inches in height.

Pros

• The aluminum body ensures a minimal weight, allowing for speedy and straightforward installation.
• An easily removable folding ramp with a gentle incline makes loading a breeze.
• There are four places to attach straps or other devices for safe and steady transport.
• In order to be seen at night, reflectors are used.

Cons

• Undercarriage structure is made of steel and finished with a paint
• It may be difficult to maneuver a wheelchair or scooter up the ramp due to the distance between the rungs.

For whom does this model work best?

People with disabilities who seek greater autonomy will find great value in this product. Older people who need help transporting mobility devices would also benefit from this solution.

USSerenaY Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier

Cargo Hitch USS SerenaY

Length

60″

Width

20″

Height

6″

Weight

550 pounds

In addition to freight and camping gear, the USSerena Cargo Carrier can also carry luggage. Lightweight despite its sturdy steel construction, the mesh pattern helps keep costs down.

Heavier items can be safely stored in a camping basket thanks to the inclusion of two sturdy metal poles on either side and a thicker-than-average folding receiving tube. A waterproof carrying case with a 6mm-thick net is included.

Among its many features are:

Up to 550 pounds of weight.

Side rails that are 6 inches in height to prevent small items from rolling off

Has stable steel frame support

Features a sturdy steel frame

Black powder-coated baskets with open platform design increase the durability of the product

Lift-N-Go Power Electric Scooter Carrier

Width

28″

Height

22″

Weight

103 lbs

The Lift-N-Go Electric Scooter Carrier 210 Model is a fully powered carrier and very simple to use! It is suitable for Class II or III hitches and can hold most mobility aids. Use a hitch slide hole that is 2 inches by 2 inches with it.

Pros

• Quickly and easily collapses for storage.
• Two retractable ratchets are included.
• The Lift Can Be Easily Installed.

Cons

• For a supplementary fee, you can have the Swing Away feature.

For whom does this model work best?

For those who have trouble rolling their mobility aids up and down ramps, this solution is ideal. Lifting big machinery is a breeze thanks to this handy device.

SUNCOO Mobility Scooter Foldable Wheelchair Carrier

Scooter Folding Carrier by SUNCOO

Length

48″

Width

28″

Height

42.25″

Weight

61 pounds

The SUNCOO Mobility Scooter Carrier facilitates the loading and transporting of mobility aids such as wheelchairs and scooters. This carrier is versatile, since it may be attached to the roof of a vehicle, truck, SUV, or minivan.

Carrying any power wheelchair or mobility scooter is simple and secure with our scooter wheel carrier. When not in use, it folds up neatly flush against the car and may be secured in 10 different places.

Among its many features are:

A maximum of 400 pounds can be supported.

Pros

• The wheelchair carrier’s sturdy construction from thick steel ensures its dependability and longevity.
• Easy loading is ensured by a 42-inch-long ramp.
• Integrated reflectors for nighttime visibility
• The signature spring-pin grips are very user-friendly.

Cons

• Could rust if not utilized carefully.

For whom does this model work best?

Seniors and anyone with physical limitations who want to maintain their independence while still being able to easily transfer their mobility equipment will find this heavy-duty wheelchair carrier an ideal option.

Goplus Wheelchair Carrier Mobility Scooter Loading Ramp

This is the Goplus Hitch Mount Wheelchair Carrier.

Length

48 3/4″

Width

27 3/4″

Height

42″

Weight

70 pounds

When it comes to loading and transporting mobility scooters and equipment, the Goplus Wheelchair Carrier is an excellent option. All Class III and Class IV trailer hitches, as well as regular 2″ hitch receivers, are compatible with this hitch carrier.

It is equipped with steel safety rails on all four sides to keep wheelchairs in place while in motion. There are an additional seven tie-down holes on the ramp’s side rails. All it takes to secure your belongings is a quick hook into one of these straps.

Among its many features are:

You can put up to 500 pounds on this thing before it starts to buckle.

Pros

• Construction using durable and dependable steel
• Two red, reflective panels serve as alarms.
• Resilient black powder-coat coating
• Easily put together
• Includes a stand to keep it steady.

Cons

• That one model isn’t foldable, but there’s another out there.
• Defeat devices are not included.
• The wheelchair loading ramp has less traction than usual.

For whom does this model work best?

This product is ideal for not only elderly people but also otherwise differently-abled people who need assistance in transporting their heavy mobility equipment.

MaxxHaul 70275 Aluminum Cargo Carrier

This gadget is great for the elderly, but it also helps persons with disabilities who have trouble carrying their mobility aids.

Width

29.75″

Height

8″

Weight

72 pounds

The Maxxtow is an excellent way to carry wheelchairs, scooters, and other equipment. This transporter was specifically designed to safely move surplus cargo.

Each cargo carrier is built to last, with sturdy steel and a powder coat finish that resists rust, as well as aluminum that won’t corrode with time. This product requires minimal effort to put together and utilize.

Among its many features are:

Dimensions (inside): 46.5″ L x 28″ W x 7″ H

Overall, the product has a weight of 72 pounds.

This item has a 500-pound weight limit for safe transport.

Size of the receiver is 2″ x 2″. (Fits Class III & IV receivers)

Pros

• Closer spacing between the steps allows for the rolling of smaller, wheeled equipment.
• The carrier bed is an ample 49″ by 29″, making it suitable for a wide variety of mobility aids.
• Load-securing ties-downs
• To improve road safety, reflectors are used.
• Lightweight extruded aluminum construction

Cons

• Made from extruded aluminum to save weight

ECOTRIC Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carrier

Cargo Transporter, Hitch-Mounted, ECOTRIC

Length

44 3/4″

Width

31 3/4″

Height

6″

Weight

73 lbs

The ECOTRIC Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carrier is made of durable steel and has locks for further security. Black powder coating makes it highly long-lasting. This cargo basket on a hitch can be used as a ramp or a carrier, depending on your needs.

A 3-inch safety rail on the Ecotric High-Mounted Cargo Carrier keeps mobility aids in place and prevents them from shifting. This carrier has a foldable ramp that can be used in one of three configurations (closed flat, open L-shape, and open flat).

Among its many features are:

Inside Bed Measurements (inches): 29-3/4 (wide) x 43-3/4 (length) x 5 (H)

The ramp has the following dimensions: 29-3/4 inches wide by 42-1/2 inches in length (L)

This ramp can support up to 500 pounds of weight.

Pros

• Handle on the ramp for easy folding and unfolding.
• There is a convenient carry handle on the ramp for storage and transport.
• Hitch class III or IV, 2″ receiver hitch
• Extremely solid and reliable.

Cons

• Installation and assembly could be challenging.

For whom does this model work best?

This gadget is great for the elderly, but it also helps persons with disabilities who have trouble carrying their mobility aids.

The TMS® Mobility Scooter Loading Ramp

Accessible through the TMS Mobility Scooter Loading Ramp

Length

48″

Width

29″

Height

6″

Weight

71 lbs

Mobility scooters and other mobility aids can be transported safely and securely with the help of the TMS® Folding Strong Electric Wheelchair Hitch Carrier Mobility Scooter Loading Ramp. All of the tie down holes on the ramp’s sides can be used to hook the straps for a safe and secure lock.

Transporting your wheelchair, scooter, or other comparable item is a breeze with the TMS® Folding Strong Electric Wheelchair Hitch Carrier Mobility Scooter. Ramps are built in and can be folded up, out, or left in one of three settings.

Among its many features are:

Weight Capacity: 400 lbs

The ramp can support up to 400 pounds in weight.

Accepts any class III or IV 2-inch Receiver hitch.

Pros

• Built to last, thanks to its heavy-duty steel design.
• Resilient black powder-coat coating
• Includes Anti-Wobble Technology
• Containing a protective railing that is 3 inches in height

Cons

• The metal mesh flooring may not hold up over time.

For whom does this model work best?

This gadget is great for the elderly, but it also helps persons with disabilities who have trouble carrying their mobility aids.

Best Choice Products Hitch Mount Carrier

To the Best of One’s Ability, Always, Products A Carrier That Can Be Attached To A Hitch

Length

47″

Width

31″

Height

9″

Weight

73 lbs

This wheelchair, scooter, and lawnmower carrier by Best Choice Products can carry all of these and more with ease. The sturdy steel design ensures long-lasting use.

The ramp can be folded into a L shape or laid flat with the help of the convenient handle. A 3-inch safety rail and 11 tie-down points help to keep your belongings secure within the rack.

Among its many features are:

Inside Bed: 43″(L) x 30″(W) x 8″(H)

Dimensions of the bed (inside) are as follows: (L x W x H): 43x 30 x 8 (H)

Bed Dimensions (Inside): 76 cm (L) x 152 cm (W) x 20 cm (8″) (H)

500 pound load limit

Fabricated from steel

Pros

• Easy to use and assemble
• Easy to use and assemble
• Simple in design and assembly.
• Over time, the ramp may have trouble collapsing.
• Maybe not rust-proof
• Perhaps shaky at the hitch

Cons

• On uneven surfaces, it could scrape the ground.

For whom does this model work best?

This cutting-edge and sturdy wheelchair carrier is ideal for the many physically challenged people who require help moving their wheelchairs and other mobility aids from place to place.

FAQs

What are the different types of wheelchair carriers?

Carriers for electric wheelchairs that can be opened with a button or a remote.

An economical option is a hitch-mounted carrier. Typically, a ramp is included to facilitate getting in and out of the wheelchair. If you use a lightweight wheelchair, a hitch-mounted carrier may be a good solution for you.

Attached to the bumper

Carrying a wheelchair by hand.

How much do wheelchair carriers’ cost (price range)?

Wheelchair transporters range in price from $60 to $200. The more options it gives you, the more it will cost.

How to choose the best wheelchair carrier?

Here are some considerations to keep in mind while shopping for a wheelchair carrier:

Allowable Load

You should know how much weight the carrier can handle. If you want to do this, you need to know how much your wheelchair weighs. To be on the safe side, get a carrier with more space than you need right now.

Car Classification

An individual who needs to buy a wheelchair carrier already owns a vehicle. Nonetheless, pick a wheelchair transporter that has all you need. It’s important to be sure it’s going to work with your car. As an additional point, think about the hitch variety.

Transport Potential

In layman’s terms, “haul capacity” refers to the maximum load and travel time of your transport vehicle. Using an inappropriate carrier for an extended period of time might cause harm to your wheelchair and be inconvenient due to the additional weight you’ll have to lift. The question is, “Who wants that?”

Robotic Regulations

The automated controls on a carrier vary depending on the type of transport. You can enjoy your independence and freedom by using the carrier with the help of the automated controls. Learn how much movement and maneuverability you’ll need before settling on a set of controls.

Think about your response time and your ability to coordinate your movements so that you can predict how long it will take you to get into your wheelchair and into your workplace. While it is wise to consider the opinions of those close to you, you should ultimately rely on your own needs and intuition to guide your decision-making.

Conclusion

The right wheelchair carrier can make a world of difference for a person with a physical limitation. They are able to be more mobile because their wheelchair or scooter can be transported effortlessly from place to place.