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.

Unbalanced Engin... Unbalanced Engineering View Member Profile	Oct 7 2004, 10:52 PM Post #2
Sponsor Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,438 Joined: 24-January 04 From: SoCal Member No.: 152	I'm not sure I'd use a race seat on the street and certainly not on a road course without a rollbar. The reason for me is not even related to seat belts as you could easily use a 5 point on the street. My reason for not using one without a cage is for roll over. During a roll over the stock seats are designed to break and lay flat. A race seat would hold you upright and drive your head into the ground. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) Jason S.