JPS

Hello! I hope I’ve posted this in the correct thread and if I haven’t, then I apologize.

I was curious if anyone here had any experience with hand controls on a 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass? I’ve unfortunately lost the ability to use my legs and was wondering if anyone here can point in me in the right direction as to what controls would work for my specific make and model.

Any insight would be appreciated. Thank you!

Bushman455

yes you can get universal hand controls for most cars. check .quicstick.com, they are easier to use than you would think. I use them on my car, If you have any questions let me know

oddball

The only thing I've ever seen was an episode of Fantom Works a while back where they made a .... GTO, maybe? accessible for a client. They talked about modern conversions and tools, which don't work very well for classic cars.

There was a setup made back in the 60s/70s that they used - found an old stock item somewhere. There's a bar that bolts perpendicular to the steering column. It has a motorcycle-style throttle on it - twist to open the throttle - and has a bar going down to the brake pedal - push forward to apply brake. So one hand on that contraption, other hand on the steering wheel. Functional, but would be a challenge to operate and definitely requires a lot of upper body strength.

Very sorry to hear about your legs.

JPS

Okay, thank you for the reply. I’ll be sure to check that website out. Much appreciated! Have a nice day!

JPS

Hmmm, I’ll have to check that out. Regardless, that GTO conversion project sounds pretty interesting.

Yeah, that contraption you described sounds pretty intricate and I can imagine it might take some finesse to work it correctly. That seems to be the norm when it comes to older cars having hand controls—from what I’ve seen at at least.

Thank you for the reply!

Also, regarding my legs, it sucks, but what can you do, you know?

Thank you again and I hope you have a nice day.

Bushman455

I know what you mean, I've been in a wheelchair for 3 years it sucks. The hand controls are easier to learn to use than you think (on automatics of course) haha