Race seat without roll bar - F-Body Road Racing and Autocross Forums

Looking for opinions....

We can all probably agree that harnesses are a no-no without a roll bar or roll cage. However, I haven't heard much talk about the use of a race seat without a roll bar or cage. It might not seem like there would be a problem, but I have the same concerns that I would with a harness and no roll protection.

If the car were to roll over and collapse the roof, there are a couple things working against you. With the tighter fitting seat and more lateral support, it is harder for your body to 'lean' towards the center of the car than it is with a stock seat. Also, stock seats are hinged, and as a result have at least a possibility of folding back by breaking the release mechanism if the roof pushes you into the seat. So, the only way left is to move in a least a generally forward direction, which probably isn't going to help you much, depending on how things actually happen.

I plan to put a roll bar in, just haven't done it yet. And I have these nice new seats sitting here, thanks to Sam and his latest special on seats. On top of that, I have a track day coming up Monday, so I'm tempted to put these in. Even with the seatbelts rather than a harness, they'll help, but I'm not sure it's a safe way to go especially on the track.

GaryK View Member Profile	Oct 7 2004, 01:30 AM Post #1
Advanced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 289 Joined: 30-December 03 From: Verona, VA Member No.: 71	Looking for opinions.... We can all probably agree that harnesses are a no-no without a roll bar or roll cage. However, I haven't heard much talk about the use of a race seat without a roll bar or cage. It might not seem like there would be a problem, but I have the same concerns that I would with a harness and no roll protection. If the car were to roll over and collapse the roof, there are a couple things working against you. With the tighter fitting seat and more lateral support, it is harder for your body to 'lean' towards the center of the car than it is with a stock seat. Also, stock seats are hinged, and as a result have at least a possibility of folding back by breaking the release mechanism if the roof pushes you into the seat. So, the only way left is to move in a least a generally forward direction, which probably isn't going to help you much, depending on how things actually happen. I plan to put a roll bar in, just haven't done it yet. And I have these nice new seats sitting here, thanks to Sam and his latest special on seats. On top of that, I have a track day coming up Monday, so I'm tempted to put these in. Even with the seatbelts rather than a harness, they'll help, but I'm not sure it's a safe way to go especially on the track.

trackbird View Member Profile	Oct 7 2004, 01:57 AM Post #2
FRRAX Owner/Admin Group: Admin Posts: 15,432 Joined: 13-February 04 From: Ohio Member No.: 196	Gary, For autocross, I'd say "sure". For a road course, I'm not sure that I'd be comfortable with that myself. It is up to you and your judgement (after seeing them in the car and finding if the stock seat belts will work properly). I don't think I'd do it, but that's me.