okay guys here it is. for the past month or so ive used the search function and read almost every single thread about installing harnesses (4, 5, 6 pt), the proper install of a harness bar (and all the flaming that goes with it), and the need for a roll cage to protect the drivers from a collapsing roof in the event of a rollover.

ive also read the sparco, takata, and schroth websites about how they should be installed. this thread is not about the advantages of a roll bar over a harness bar, or why a harness bar should never be used, or a roll bar should never be used on the street. it is also not about the favorite brand of harnesses. The only reason I am stating all of this is bc in every forum it seems that everyone has such strong opinions on safety (and they should) that it usually turns into one big argument.

my question is simply this: which method of install is safer. Is it better to install the harnesses directly into the back seat (bc it seems that that angle is within the guidelines) or is it safer to install the harnesses onto something like a harness bar or a roll bar. Again, i am not talking about the bar or roll cages being safer, i am just wondering if bc it is strapped at a straight angle (on the bar) vs a downward angle (into the back seat), that it would be safer.

i didnt know if one angle did in fact prove safer for the driver for things like submarining or if either was equally as safe. if youve read all of this i appreciate it and thanks in advance for any and all help.

 

I heard as long as you're not going at a 45 degree angle you would be fine. I remember reading an article regarding Sparco and they debated this and showed where the proper mounting spots were for safety. A lot of people are going directly in their back seats. Hope this helps

 

thedream: yea i heard that too. i just wasnt sure if either way was "more" safe. it would seem like attatching them to a bar would be better than the back seat bc of the less extreme angle, but if they are equally fine then why waste money on a harness bar at all? thanks for the help and the quick response i appreciate it

 

bump for any more advice??

 

I prefer to mount them to a harness bar. THat how I have them mounted and they seem far more sturdy than when I had them mounted to the back seats in my celica. I would go the route of a Sparco Harness bar myself.

 

I have read on the manual that comes with the Takata harness that is is safe to mount on rear seat belt mount. I am just using mine in autocross so I should be ok.