Rear Seat Belts in 57 Belair

[chris]

Hi guys. I am in the process of purchasing a 57 Belair. It has no rear seatbelts installed and lap belts in the front. It is certified for some other modifications, rego"d and WOF'd.

I would like to install belts in the rear and have a few questions.

Am I allowed to install lap belts or must I install lap-shoulder belts.

Also does anyone know if these cars come with factory mountings or anchorage points or will I need to get them installed by an engineer and then go for low volume cert?

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers
Chris

[Todd]

Hi Chris,

As this vehicle was not required to have rear seatbelts to begin with, you may install lap belts. However, keep in mind that if you are to carry children or childseats, having lap and diagonal belts will be a better option.

Any vehicle, even if fitted with factory mounting points, but no belts, that gets belts added to it legally requires LVV Certification.
As far as I'm aware the Tri5 Chevs did not have any rear seatbelt anchorages fitted from factory, however, you can install these yourself if you wish, you just need to follow the requirements of the Seatbelt Anchorages Standard (https://www.lvvta.org.nz/documents/standards/LVVTA_STD_Seatbelts_&%20Seatbelt_Anchorages.pdf).

You will be able to find the appropriate Doubler Plates at most Repco stores or any seatbelt specialist business. These must be high-tensile riveted (not welded) to the vehicle, as to not fall off when the seatbelt bolts are undone.

Hope that helps.

Todd