15 replies to this topic

[Chappb]

You're probably thinking 'not another harness question!' but i've only started this topic because none of the other harness related posts has really covered this problem for me and i've been through 16 pages of google discussion results too!.....Anyway, basically it is about mounting points, but for a 3 point harness. I know 4 point harnesses mount to the 2 rear seat belt anchor points but all want to know is if i can mount the shoulder strap on the 3 point harness to one of these 2 points? I can't find any photos on here with pictures of how anybody has their 3 point harness set up, surely someone must have a 3 point! Thanks in advance, Ben.

[Moggyton]

i do, just mount it to one of the rear seatbelt mounts

Edited by Moggyton, 16 April 2013 - 07:57 PM.

[minispaniard]

I do it too

[GreenMini17]

I have personally used the left hand mount for one shoulder strap (when looking at the rear seat bench) BUT if you read any decent harness manufacturers (Willans, Schroth Racing etc) instructions, you will see that the correct harness mounting point should be no lower than about 45 degrees (i think from memory). The way i described above is way more than that, its about 60-70 degrees and not straight either. This means the harness works to its full potential in an accident. Most race cars will have a 'harness bar' that welds to the c pillars of the roll cage. Saftey devices make a nice clamp on version also. Just a thought before you mount it.

[Chappb]

nice one, thanks for the help guys!

[YIANO]

No ! The angles will be wrong and not safe or central . Read up on seatbelt angles and you'll see. I put 3 point harness in mine and I used a harness bar I bought off Jon betts it brought the harness to the correct safe angle and central to the seat , this is a must !

[Spitz]

I attached mine to the rear parcel shelf, directly behind the seat....on the flat, but with a bracket attaching to the seat back also
This year I plan on doing a bit safer job of it and weld a bar in.
I'd also like to see a picture of a proper harness bar

[maccers]

Hope you are using a fixed back seat as well - anything that hinges forward or is adjustable may break during an impact and leave your trunk/spine to soak up the rest of the shock, which is not too good.

[Dan]

It should be mentioned that the rear parcel shelf is not suitable at all without very substantial reinforcement. I have seen Minis pulled nearly inside out by a crash thanks to a seatbelt mounted there, it is not safe.

[Spitz]

Point taken.....
I think until such time I weld in a proper bar ( still would like to see one ), I will move to the rear lap belt mount point. ( at seat base )
I know not the best either....but better than it's present location.

[Chappb]

Hope you are using a fixed back seat as well - anything that hinges forward or is adjustable may break during an impact and leave your trunk/spine to soak up the rest of the shock, which is not too good.

yes i have fixed back seats. but just out of interest, how do people go on with reclining bucket seats then?

It should be mentioned that the rear parcel shelf is not suitable at all without very substantial reinforcement. I have seen Minis pulled nearly inside out by a crash thanks to a seatbelt mounted there, it is not safe.

totally agree with you dan, whats your thoughts on mounting a 3 point to one of the seatbelt mounts?

[Dan]

The rear shoulder mounting is most horizontal, but disastrously off centre. The lower ones are more central, but possibly a little lower than they should be depending on how far back you have the seat. They are the best option though. The car isn't designed for a harness obviously, without building something specific to mount it too there will always be a compromise.

[Chappb]

The rear shoulder mounting is most horizontal, but disastrously off centre. The lower ones are more central, but possibly a little lower than they should be depending on how far back you have the seat. They are the best option though. The car isn't designed for a harness obviously, without building something specific to mount it too there will always be a compromise.

righty o, cheers.

[Moggyton]

The rear shoulder mounting is most horizontal, but disastrously off centre. The lower ones are more central, but possibly a little lower than they should be depending on how far back you have the seat. They are the best option though. The car isn't designed for a harness obviously, without building something specific to mount it too there will always be a compromise.

But is it legal mounting them to the lower ones?

[Dan]

What do you mean? The harnesses are legal if they are E marked, have push button buckles and are bolted in. There isn't really any law regarding the routing of the straps.