C1 seat belt floor anchor configuration

[Norm W.]

While I have read through mny of the postings about refurbishing C1 seat belts, I am unable to locate a description (written or graphic) on how the belt material connects through the ham bone and cinch plate, including proper length of the belt material extending onto the seat (assuming the coupled male/female buckle should reside in the middle of your lap). When I took possession of my '61 in 2000, the belts were missing. But I recently had a heavily-used set refurbished (Charlie Santorrelli) and am preparing to install them. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Richard M.]

Re: C1 seat belt floor anchor configuration

Norm,

Here's a diagram from John Hinckley, and a photo I had on file from somewhere that should help. Also look in your AIM in Section A Sheet 3.00 for orientation of the ham bone brackets to the floor brackets and View C for details. View C also shows how the webbing is routed but it's a bit confusing as it's not detailed enough.

Rich

[Frank D.]

Re: C1 seat belt floor anchor configuration

That's exactly correct - takes a bit of study. And, no, once secured with the secret knot they will not slip...
I would be remiss not to add that you really need to check the underbody anchors - they were RUSTED out on my '61....
Nice repro anchors are available...

[Dan D.]

Re: C1 seat belt floor anchor configuration

Yes, my 57 was badly rusted too. In fact ,1 was missing, the other one the stud was missing. Keep in mind they are secured with a handful of small rivets into the fiberglass. So in case of an impact ( heaven forbid), they are not likely to hold much. Would never pass today's standards, so for maximum safety, buy new ones and use new rivets. I'll second Franks opinion, in that the repros are good.

-Dan-

[Norm W.]

Re: C1 seat belt floor anchor configuration

Thanks to the three of you for the advice and graphics! I will now complete the installation that has long been absent...

[Norm W.]

Re: C1 seat belt floor anchor configuration

On a similar topic, I'd like to thank Charlie Santorelli (of Stingray/Seatbelt Sity fame) for an outstanding refurbishment job on a set of very used seatbelts for my '61. He walked me through many options before I decided what I wanted to do and the set came back very close to perfect. Those of you who have used his services in the past know what I'm talking about and I would highly recommend him for those of you considering restoring your seatbelts.