Posted on 25/01/2019 15:42
As a dodgy knee is making use of the clutch pedal painful, we're considering changing the method of gear change from manual to automatic. Alternatively, could the clutch pedal be replaced by a hand operated mechanism?
We have an Ian Hartley van conversion, based on a Fiat Ducato 15 JTD LWB 2800cc Reg May 2006.
Has anyone had this done, and how well did it work?
Any advice please
Posted on 26/01/2019 12:02 by KontikiboyI have all sorts of bone and joint problems; had a total knee replacement (TKR) 5 years ago and they want to do the other one but I won’t let them. I have more trouble with the TKR now than before the op. Hip replacements are life changing, but not knees.
I can manage the pain with Naproxen and Voltarol gel. Every time we get cold weather the joints kick off. When I can I head for Spain, we leave in 3 weeks.....
I changed to an auto car 36 years ago and would, or could not, go back. I have a 3 yr old MH with the Fiat auto box. I hear horror stories about these autos, but mine works a treat.
There was another thread on this site a year or so ago about the same subject, and some mechanical expert advised not to go there. Apparently, very complicated and troublesome. Suggest you trade your van in for an auto one.
BillC
Posted on 30/01/2019 11:38
I now tow with a Kia Sorento auto, having said for years that auto's were for sissys, but would not go back now, Sorento knocks spots of my old manual Discovery. As for TKR, have had both of mine replaced, 1 5 years ago and 1 2 years ago, not brilliant but much better than all that pain, have also had both joints of my thumbs done, that too was brilliant, no pain killers sometimes use iboprofen gell. Beware wait for replacements in my area are now approaching 2 years, you could be in a wheelchair before action is taken. Off to Spain 26th March, heat from sun and very dry atmosphere is brill for aching limbs. Off piste now so best close 
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Posted on 29/01/2019 23:43 by EmilysDadI'd never heard of one of these .....(after a look-see on The You Tube 😉 ...) it seems a very complex solution to just buying an automatic 🤔
LGH
Motorhomer