FENTON MOBILITY PRODUCTS, 26 Center Street, Randolph NY 14772 - Shift N Step Operators Manual
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BASIC SYSTEM DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
System Description
The Shift-N-
Step is a dual access entry system which allows a wheelchair lift to be “shifted”
sideways (re-positioned relative to the vehicle door opening) to allow access by either ambulatory or non-
ambulatory passengers through the same door opening. Shifting the lift fully back toward the rear wheels can
provide up to a 30 inch wide walkway to the right side of the lift for ambulatory passengers. Shifting the lift fully
forward toward the front of the vehicle allows a full size (34” Platform) ADA compli
ant, dual parallel arm
commercial quality wheelchair lift to be deployed through the same door opening. This eliminates the need for
two doorways and extensive, expensive vehicle modifications. The Shift-N-Step has been designed as much as
possible to be
a “bolt in” system and, depending on the vehicle, the Shift
-N-Step can be installed with very few
(if any) structural modifications. Other optional components are available that, when combined with the Shift-N-
Step system, provide a complete package for the ultimate in safe, convenient, economical and easy
transportation solutions for ambulatory as well as non-ambulatory passengers. These optional features include
integrated grab bars, bus style steps, automatic door openers and more and, although the Shift-N-Step system
can “stand alone”, it was designed to integrate perfectly with the AbiliTrax flooring and seating systems.
System Operation
The Shift-N-Step consists of two basic components; A stationary mounting base platform that
is attached securely t
o the vehicle structure and a sliding platform “carriage” which is allowed to move “sideways”
(relative to the door opening) within the stationary platform. The Shift-N-Step is designed to be low profile to
minimize height issues while providing a strong and sturdy platform which is FMVSS compliant. All materials,
components and finishes are designed to provide maximum strength, durability, dependability and safety, while
also minimizing maintenance requirements. A standard, dual parallel arm platform wheelchair lift base is attached
to the “carriage” platform. This carriage platform glides on a high strength, low friction rail system. The carriage
platform is also electro-mechanically driven by rack and pinion gearing powered by an electric motor and gear
box.
