Ladder

[jjtwister]

Hi:

I just received my 2011 E-250 CargoVan. Now the work/fun begins.

I intend to have a Thule Cargo carrier on the roof as well as a kayak (it is not a PH roof)
so I will need a ladder mounted on the passenger side rear quater panel to access it. I have been looking at Aluminess, a lot of you guys have their products. Their ladder is about $412. C.R Laurence has one for $80. That's a big difference and I am thinking the Laurence one must be a cheapie/flimsy one at that price. Can anyone on the forum give me info on which way to go keeping in mind I wantr to do this ones and do it right.

Thanks,

jjtwister

[witoke]

The welded stainless steel ones that go on the back door are plenty sturdy and can be had for around $100. Not the rear quarter panel but you can buy a lot of gas for $300 and you'll have a narrower van to boot...

[Ford_6L_E350]

I have a Surco door ladder on my van, and it is quite sturdy.

http://www.surcoinc.com/V-VL_SSVL.html

They are available from many sources online.

Mike

[carringb]

I had a rear doo ladder previously. It held up fine, but it was often blocked in with cargo on the rear hitch carrier. Also, for loading boat, the rear ladder was awkward. The side ladder is much better for boat loading. I'm glad I upgraded to the Aluminess, and eventually I will probably add another on the passenger side as well.

[Ford_6L_E350]

carringb,

At least on your van you don't have to worry about the side ladder sticking out further than anything else and getting caught on something as you pass.

Mike

[dig255]

the side view mirror sticks out further than the ladder

[witoke]

Originally Posted by dig255

the side view mirror sticks out further than the ladder

Yeah, but you can fold the side mirror back...