Changing the Seat Belts

Tony Sims wrote:

On this and other E9 related forums, the subject of seat belts has been batted around a bit recently. My car came with the non-retractor Klippan spaghetti specials that have the shoulder belt that runs from the back seat, originating behind the rear armrests. I've tolerated them for almost a year now, doing what most people I know do -- leaving the shoulder strap extended long enough to use the belts like a lap belt, with an extra loop to rope and dally the occasional back seat passenger or hang out of the closed door and flap in the breeze.

Today I installed my new locking retractable lap belts, sourced from Andover Restraints http://www.andoauto.com/seat_belts.htm. For $82.00 including insured shipping, I received 2 locking retracting belts, 2 buckle ends with plastic sleeves (holds the buckle up by the seat), and a full complement of mounting hardware. They installed in a little under 20 minutes, using the original coupe mounting bolts, washers, etc. A pure bolt-in with no problems on my 1970 2800 CS. The retractor is small enough that the seats will move to the full rear position, the only thing I would wish for is that the buckle end could be a little longer than 12 inches.

Andover only offers 12" and 18" versions -- 14" would have been perfect (of course if my legs were longer, it would be a moot point). The belts look right at home, I'm sure most people will think they're original.

3 point belts would be a great thing, but it would require me to fabricate a mount for the shoulder strap. Andover does have hardware that would make it relatively easy. I'd *just* need to have bolt anchors welded to the rear side panel and the roof -- or install a roll bar. . . Maybe someday. For now, I feel about 100% safer, and the convenience factor is significant -- the 10 friggin' feet of webbing is gone, my wife will no longer grit her teeth in frustration trying to untangle the twisted mess, no more tripping passengers, no more having to help otherwise capable adults get their seat belt fastened.

I may use the old rear mount point to attach a buckle end so I can use the "buckle in" mount system for 4-point belts for track days. I doubt that will get me in any sanctioned event, but it'll pass muster with my buddies at the Alfa Romeo Owners of Oregon.

Woo Hoo!
Tony