Dear Tom and Ray:

My granddaughter enjoys driving my 1989 Chevy Celebrity, but is rather short in stature. So even with the seat pulled up and a cushion behind her back, she can only control the accelerator with the tip of her toes. This not only makes it very difficult for her to control the car's speed, but it is uncomfortable for her as well, causing cramps in her thigh. Is there some sort of accelerator extender available that would solve this potentially dangerous situation? -- Barbara

Tom: It does sound dangerous, Barbara. And there are several types of pedal extenders on the market. There are "blocks" with non-skid surfaces that get attached to the existing pedals. There are also "extension pedals" that actually replace the pedals you have now. There may be other technologies as well.

Ray: In extreme cases, you could even consider installing "hand controls." Those are hand-operated accelerator and brake levers used for people with disabilities that affect their legs or feet.

Tom: Or, in my mother's case, for someone who always wanted the feel of riding a motorcycle, without experiencing the nasty effect the helmet has on her hairdo.

Ray: Seriously, good for you for wanting to help your granddaughter, Barbara. To find someone in your area who sells pedal extenders and hand controls, you can call the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association at 800-833-0427. That's a trade organization that will happy to refer you to local dealer.

What's the best way to warm up your engine in the morning? Find out by ordering Tom and Ray's pamphlet "Ten Ways You May Be Ruining Your Car Without Even Knowing It!" To order, send (check or money order) to Ruin, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. You can also order online.

© 1997 by Tom and Ray Magliozzi and Doug Berman Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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