78-82 seat belts in a 72?
03-21-2016, 09:34 PM
#1
Racer
Thread Starter
78-82 seat belts in a 72?
Can this be done?
Basically what I need to know is:
-does the shoulder retractor mount in the same place? (Top of wheel well)
-is the shoulder retractor roughly the same size to fit inside the plasic cover?
I am installing fiero seats in my 72, and the only way to get them low enough for me to fit in car, is to remove the belt retractor and cover under the seat.
I'd like to retain belt and shoulder straps, so it seems the only way is to use the type that combine them to use one retractor with a buckle that "slides" for adjustment.(most new cars use this set up)
I'm guessing (hoping) somebody has made this mod to replace the dual retractors used on the 72?
Basically what I need to know is:
-does the shoulder retractor mount in the same place? (Top of wheel well)
-is the shoulder retractor roughly the same size to fit inside the plasic cover?
I am installing fiero seats in my 72, and the only way to get them low enough for me to fit in car, is to remove the belt retractor and cover under the seat.
I'd like to retain belt and shoulder straps, so it seems the only way is to use the type that combine them to use one retractor with a buckle that "slides" for adjustment.(most new cars use this set up)
I'm guessing (hoping) somebody has made this mod to replace the dual retractors used on the 72?
03-21-2016, 11:11 PM
#2
Former Vendor
Member Since: Aug 2006
Location: Jeffersonville Indiana 812-288-7103
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St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15
The 1978-1982 Seat belt mounted to the sail panel and was covered by the roof panel molding. This is quite different than the manner in which the earlier cars mounted. Can it be done? Doubtful since the rear roof panel also made part of the rear trim around the bubble style rear window.
Here is a picture of how it mounted.
-Willcox
Here is a picture of how it mounted.
-Willcox
03-21-2016, 11:40 PM
#3
Race Director
There are quality, US made, 3 point, single retractor, replacement belts available for use in 72's. They work just like modern belts, with a retractor mounted in the stock location on the wheel house, and the other end bolted solid to the floor at the rocker. The male portion of the buckle, floats on the belt. I forget what they sell for, but I think it's less than $300 for the set, and they're available in an assortment of colors.
Most of the Corvette vendors sell them. They're made by Seatbelt Solutions, but I don't think they sell direct.
Most of the Corvette vendors sell them. They're made by Seatbelt Solutions, but I don't think they sell direct.
Last edited by gbvette62; 03-21-2016 at 11:40 PM.
03-24-2016, 07:51 AM
#4
Racer
Thread Starter
OK, I ordered some 3 point single retractor belts from seatbelts plus.com. They are made to direct fit into the 72, and also available in a color that appears to be a very close match to the color I am swapping my interior to. Should have them next week.
Turns out the owner of seat belts plus is a corvette enthusiast, and the business was started when he wanted belts for one of his vettes, and couldn't find any.
Turns out the owner of seat belts plus is a corvette enthusiast, and the business was started when he wanted belts for one of his vettes, and couldn't find any.
