3 point belt systems

[Sieg]

Resurrection.......

I've decided to install 3 point retractable belts up front vs harnesses until a roll bar is installed. I'm leaning towards this simple design from Seatbelt Planet:



https://www.seatbeltplanet.com/seatb...cts/25/view/57

Morris Classic Concept is the other consideration but I don't like the retractor position that leaves two belt straps and the retractor in the small opening behind the seat which I tend to use frequently. Also the visible shoulder mount extension in the quarter window isn't as cleanest a visually.

I'm speculating where to mount the retractor unit. I'd like it inconspicuous but do not want to compromise mount strength and function. Here's what I thinking:



The retractor hides in the corner and allows plenty hip clearance when I'm sitting in the rear seat, though the rear seat seldom gets use in this car.

I believe I could use a strap similar to the photo below to mount the retractor to the floor/rocker area, reinforcing the mounting point if necessary.



I'd appreciate your advice, concerns, and suggestions. :thumbsup

[intocarss]

Why Not Something Like This

[parsonsj]

Originally Posted by intocarss

Why Not Something Like This... followed by two images of death traps masquerading as belt systems

Sorry to be so harsh, but those two images of belt "systems" will get someone badly hurt or worse. If you haven't already, read this:

http://www.schrothracing.com/sdocs/2...structions.pdf

[RussMurco]

Originally Posted by Sieg

Is going with the non-retracting style a mistake? My thought was I could snug them up when desired and reaching inward or to the glove box should still be an option.

Regarding submarining, the Schroth ASM system made sense though I have no first hand experience or desire to test.

I'm sorry for missing this reply so long ago. I used the Schroth retracting harness just for ease of use and the ability to lock it in place when on a race course. It was in my 1989 Camaro and to reach most anything is a stretch in 3rd Gen cars so being able to reach forward and have the belt slack and retract was a definite plus. For the shoulder mounts I had a bar made that mimicked the roof line with plates welded on the ends that anchored to the OEM retractor mounts (at the top, forward edge of the b-pillars) with the bolts for the harness about 8" inboard from the mounts. They were comfortable enough to use in daily driving and a pretty slick set-up that didn't interfere with seat reclining or repositioning for different drivers. I have a photo somewhere, I'll see if I can dig it up...

[intocarss]

Originally Posted by parsonsj

Sorry to be so harsh, but those two images of belt "systems" will get someone badly hurt or worse. If you haven't already, read this:

http://www.schrothracing.com/sdocs/2...structions.pdf

No worries, I just did a search for "5 point harnesses w/o a cage" then copied and pasted the pics... I've always run 5 point harnesses that are bolted to a rollcage and use a real racing seat

If I were Seig I'd do the same

[Sieg]

Originally Posted by intocarss

If I were Sieg I'd do the same

I just need a securely mounted shoulder belt system as I've been gambling since the crush adapter in the steering wheel mount was removed.

[MX145]

Originally Posted by Sieg

I just need a securely mounted shoulder belt system as I've been gambling since the crush adapter in the steering wheel mount was removed.

Sieg, I'm curious what you decide on. I'm looking at 3 points as well and thought the same thing about Morris. I like your design for the rear mount retractor but wonder how to secure it where it won't have a chance to tear out. If I remember correctly both factory lap belt nuts are on plates on the opposite side of the metal in the rocker and tunnel. I wonder if welding a plate with a nut on the backside to the rocker similar to how roll bars are installed would be sufficient.

[Sieg]

Originally Posted by MX145

Sieg, I'm curious what you decide on. I'm looking at 3 points as well and thought the same thing about Morris. I like your design for the rear mount retractor but wonder how to secure it where it won't have a chance to tear out. If I remember correctly both factory lap belt nuts are on plates on the opposite side of the metal in the rocker and tunnel. I wonder if welding a plate with a nut on the backside to the rocker similar to how roll bars are installed would be sufficient.

I just ordered the Seatbelt Planet 3 point retractable belts pictured above. Tonight I've been assessing reinforcing the interior quarter panel at approx. 5 & 7 o'clock from the window crank with 14g .078" plates which is the same thickness material they spec on their backing plates. I'm thinking TIG welding a grade 8 7/16-20 nut to a templated plate then plug welding it to the backside of the panel may work considering how the belt would parallel load the plate.



That mounting position puts the retractor directly below the shoulder loop pivot, adequate clearance for the window crank, and still allows the rear seats to be removed without removing the retractor.

After researching the factory rear shoulder mount locations in the package tray and inspecting them for strength I feel this location is definitely stronger than the package tray mount area.

[CarlC]

The retractor mechanism mount will need to be plenty sturdy. For the rear seat retracts a separate reinforcement plate was added on mine to tie in multiple panels.

With the belt coming up from the retract and going forward to the seat, the effective load on the sail panel goes up.

[intocarss]

Originally Posted by Sieg

I just need a securely mounted shoulder belt system as I've been gambling since the crush adapter in the steering wheel mount was removed.

If you're going to track your car, I'd like you to be as safe as possible!! ie.. roll cage or roll bar, 5 point harnesses, fire system, racing seat etc etc etc