Spec E30 Seat questions

#1

What are the rules on the seats? I’ve read the rules for the most part but didn’t see anything specifically outlying the seat details. Full containment required, etc… Also what would you recommend? I won’t be racing spec E30 for approx 2 years but would like to go ahead and get this out of the way since everything else minus the cage is done. For now just HPDE and Autox. Thanks in advance!

#2

You will need to read the NASA CCR, since that is where the safety equipment rules are defined.

#3

johnnyar wrote:

[quote]Also what would you recommend?

…since everything else minus the cage is done. For now just HPDE and Autox. [/quote]

Like Sean said, the CCRs will be the best source of info because the options are numerous.

I would caution you against putting a race shell in a car without a cage, though. The belts need to run from your shoulders to their attachment point in a nearly horizontal line(and for as short a distance as possible). That is tough to do without at least a half cage.

Also, the cage/seat/belt combination is really designed as a system to be used together.

That being said, I have a Sparco Circuit Pro seat that has the “halo” side head restraint built in. Great seat, plenty of room to mount it on sliders in the E30. The halo relieves the requirement for a right side net. Some would argue it is still a benefit, but I’m not convinced.

I have well-positioned convex mirrors that allow me to see cars alongside and behind me without moving my head. But if this is a street car for you, the halo seat would be a real pain in the arse for lane changes, parking, etc.

Good luck and welcome aboard.

Steve D.

#4

Here are two nearly new Momo’s in Charleston for $350.00

http://charleston.craigslist.org/pts/869822686.html

John

#5

You definately want head restraints (aka halos). They are much safer, dont hurt visability, and you dont have to mess with those nets.

#6

allenr wrote:

Get into a car with a halo before you buy. They are not for everyone.

#7

Thanks for all the suggestions. The car currently has some cheapo race seats with 5 point that are bolted to the body at the rear seat. Myself and a buddy really liked the seat that GRM is using in their Spec E30. I believe it’s a Cobra? Can’t remember. More than likely I’ll just run what’s in there for now until I get a little closer to actually racing (unless someone has that same seat for dirt cheap, LOL). The only complaint I had regarding the Cobra was the seat was too low but I’m assuming they are adjustable via the side brackets. Standing a staggering 5’6" I need some lift to see over the darn dash! My current crappy seats are perfect in that department.

#8

If you’re 5’6" tall, a Sparco Seat with Head Restraint would suit you fine e.g. Circuit Pro, or Pro 200 ADV.

Tall people like me (6’2") fit better in Cobras, they have more height between base and harness holes. Though you may like to try a Cobra Sebring S, they have decent Head Restraint ‘ears’ and in the non-GT (i.e. small) size they suit a wide range of drivers, just not the fat/tall ones.