How tall is a Ford Transit wheelchair van?
Exterior height for a Ford Transit wheelchair van depends mainly on the roof configuration and the mobility conversion used. In general, low-roof models sit around the 83-inch mark, while high-roof versions reach about 110 inches. The lowered floor required for wheelchair access changes interior space but does not dramatically alter exterior height. For precise figures, check the exact year, roof option, wheelbase, and the specific mobility conversion installed.
Roof height and exterior dimensions
Ford Transit vans are offered in multiple roof heights, and the exterior height scales with the chosen roof option. Mobility conversions generally preserve the base exterior footprint, focusing on interior space to accommodate a wheelchair while maintaining overall height within the same family of dimensions.
Typical exterior heights by roof option
Here are the commonly observed exterior heights for Ford Transit vans, by roof height. Exact numbers can vary by year, trim, wheel size, and conversion details.
- Low roof: approximately 83.6 inches (about 2.13 meters)
- Medium/Standard roof: approximately 95 inches (about 2.41 meters)
- High roof: approximately 110 inches (about 2.79 meters)
These figures are approximate and intended for quick reference. Always consult the official spec sheet for your exact model year and configuration.
Does a mobility conversion change exterior height?
Most wheelchair-accessible conversions are designed to preserve the vehicle’s exterior profile, so they do not substantially change height. The key impact is inside: the floor is lowered or a ramp is added to enable wheelchair access. In rare cases, certain roof-mounted equipment or aftermarket modifications can add a small amount of height, but the core exterior height is determined by the roof height rather than the conversion itself.
Practical considerations for height
When planning garages, drive-throughs, or parking spaces, use the height figures above as a baseline and verify clearance for your specific van. If you frequently encounter low-clearance doors or parking structures, measure your van with any installed mobility equipment deployed to understand the actual clearance you’ll need.
How to measure your van’s height
If you need an exact measurement for a particular van and conversion, follow these steps to measure accurately:
- Park on level ground with the vehicle off and the roof clear of loose items.
- Use a steps ladder or a sturdy measuring stick to measure from the ground at the center of the van (directly under the tallest point) to the highest point atop the roof.
- Record the measurement in inches (and convert to centimeters if needed).
- Repeat the measurement on another day to confirm consistency, especially if you have racks, antennas, or other roof-mounted accessories.
With an exact measurement in hand, you can compare against garage doors, carports, and other overhead clearances to ensure safe passage.
Summary
The Ford Transit wheelchair van’s height is primarily driven by its roof height, with low-roof models around 83 inches tall, mid/standard roofs around the mid-90s, and high-roof versions near 110 inches. Mobility conversions affect interior space more than exterior height, though rare aftermarket modifications can add minor height. For anyone buying or using a Transit wheelchair van, check the specific year, roof type, and conversion documentation to confirm exact clearance, and measure your vehicle if you need precise data for garages or parking structures.
How tall are wheelchair vans?
How tall is a handicap van? While every van is different, wheelchair accessible vehicles should have an interior height of at least 56 inches and a floor-to-ceiling height of at least 61 inches.
Is the Ford Transit 350 high roof wheelchair accessible?
The Ford Transit XLT 350 offers your choice of medium or high roof design for expanded headspace that taller wheelchair users will appreciate. Power Lift. Power Lift meets ADA and FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard) guidelines for strength and stability, with convenient door access for able-bodied passengers.
How high is a Ford Transit van in feet?
The exterior height of a Ford Transit van varies by roof height, ranging from approximately 6.85 feet for a low roof to 9.2 feet for a high roof. Other common heights include the medium roof, which is around 8.5 feet.
- Low Roof: Approximately 6.856.856.85 feet (82.282.282.2 inches)
- Medium Roof: Approximately 8.58.58.5 feet (101.3101.3101.3 inches)
- High Roof: Approximately 9.29.29.2 feet (110.4110.4110.4 inches)
What is the clearance height of a Ford Transit?
The exterior height clearance for a Ford Transit van varies significantly based on the roof height, with high-roof models being around 9′2"9 prime 2 "9′2" and mid-roof models approximately 8′5"8 prime 5 "8′5". The overall height is also affected by the wheelbase and specific configuration, but the roof height is the primary factor determining clearance. It is important to check the specific dimensions of the model, as options like roof racks will increase the clearance height.
Exterior clearance by roof height
- High Roof: Approximately 9′2"9 prime 2 "9′2" (about 110 inches).
- Mid Roof: Approximately 8′5"8 prime 5 "8′5" (about 101 inches).
- Low Roof: Around 82.282.282.2 inches.
Important considerations
- Roof racks: The measurements above are for the standard van. A roof rack will increase the total height, so always check the clearance carefully if you have one.
- Wheelbase: The wheelbase can affect the overall height, so be sure to check your specific vehicle's specifications, especially if you have the 148-inch extended wheelbase, which is only offered with a high roof.
- Ground clearance: Ground clearance, which is the distance from the ground to the lowest part of the vehicle, is different from the exterior height. A standard Transit has a low ground clearance, which can be beneficial for loading and unloading but may require care on uneven surfaces.
