Looking for thoughts and opinions for installing a harness in the Coupe for Autocrossing. I have the SLK/R170 stainless steel roll bar hoops and considering mounting a 4 point harness to it. I'm not certain if I should get the v-type harness (top straps that come together and mount with one hole/bolt on the top), or the standard type that the two top straps are separate and would bolt to each side of the roll bar hoop. Anyone have experience with the v-type? Seems like it might be high and tight on the sides of your neck? This v-type would mean I'd only have to drill one hole on the top instead of one on each side, which I think seems more desirable. Hmmm??

 

I have a 4 point in mine. I have an 04 coupe, and installed the roadster sport hoops and mounted the shoulder harness on each side.

This makes a big difference in that you don't need to use the steering wheel or dead pedal to hold your body in place. You will probably be OK no matter which way you go.

Good luck.

 

I went 5 point, using the front bar for the sub strap. The shoulder straps went to the trunk with a single bolt hidden under the floor mat. the seat straps were to the seat, after I pulled it to tie into the seat frame bolts. Phew heavy seat I ll tell ya. Woody

 

Hey Bob, sorry, I've got nothing to add. I don't know anything about harnesses and since I don't plan on using one I've done no research on them either.

 

Thanks for the replies guys. I hadn't considered that the shoulder straps might be long enough to go to the rear deck. Would be much nicer than drilling into those nice polished bars, and being able to stow the shoulder straps to the rear for daily driving. Thanks for some direction Woody. A little more research needed now for selection.

 

When I do the roll bar install into the roadster and coupe, I was going to look for a place to tie into. I have a six point for the roadster, and looking for a blue 5 point for the coupe now. I didn't go cam lock on the roadster harness, wish I had...I will for the coupe. Better looking setup. After playing hard in the twisties, it is a must have...really don't need it for drag racing...

 

I enjoy the twisties here and autocrossing and this does seem to be a must have. I'm liking the camlock style also Doc. Looking on E-Bay, there are so many to choose from, including many blue ones for you I saw. Any advice from anyone on brand is welcome. Also thinking a 4 point for me might be adequate. I have no experience with harnesses other than wearing during my HP driving school sessions way back when. I gotta go lay down now. Way too much Turkey and fixin's.

 

I was wondering if you figured out where you were going to drill the holes before you installed the bars; or did you drill them later, already installed in the car? (Right Angle drill?) Stainless is pretty tough stuff. Pic's would be very cool if possible.

 

SimpsonSport 5pt Camlock Harness-SafeRacer

I'm really leaning towards this 3" wide Simpson harness here. A bit pricey, but way better quality for sure compared to most of the others I've seen on E-Bay..... It comes in BLUE also Doc.

 

I got the OEM roadster sport hoops, and there is a tab welded onto the bar that is used in the topless version, but is over the rear bulkhead in the coupe.

I also had to get a longer bolt for the door-side seatbelt mount.

Nothing fancy, but really holds you tight and allows you to focus on the autocross course and not holding yourself still with either your hands or your feet.

You can see the camera mount between these hoops -- perfect spot, and very stable. My other carmera mount is in place of the passenger side visor.

Mike

 

Nice work MJ, glad you wre able to find a great use for those OEM bars, I think I can get a set cheap from someone who has 'upgraded' to the polished ones...

 

Yes, nicely done MJ. You put those ears to good use. I'll either be drilling my new polished bars, or going over the sides and down to the rear deck as Woody did with his. Another Winter project.

 

Woody,

Can you provide more detail on how and where specifically you installed the rear straps of the harness in the trunk? I am looking to do the same thing.

Thanks,

Scott