"Equal type restraints'

[larrybard]

"Riesentoter requires that the driver and instructor have equal type restraints."  Am I correct that in assuming that the driver might have a 6 point harness and the instructor/passenger a 5 point harness (or vice versa)?  Even if that would be okay with RTR, does anyone know of any other clubs which would not permit such a combination?

Larry

[Wally]

The rule from PCA requires "equal" not "same" equipment.

[larrybard]

Thanks.  Any reason to prefer one over the other (i.e., 5 pt. vs. 6 pt.), if they're otherwise of equal quality?  It doesn't seem likely that the additional strap on a 6 pt. would make it materially stronger (no pun intended).

[Wally]

Personal choice, comfort, mounting locations etc., etc., etc.

[JoeP]

Two words, Larry:  "Nut lash."  Buy the six pont.

[larrybard]

I assume then that there are very few drivers -- at least male drivers -- who have 5 point harnesses.

[Brian Minkin]

There are some premium 5 point belts such as Teamtech that have a large pad at the top of the sub strap that address the potential of "Nut lash". 

[larrybard]

Thanks, Brian. That's encouraging, since it was a TeamTech 5 point harness that I was in fact considering purchasing.

[Brian Minkin]

Teamtech does make some basic harnesses.  Their RAM Pack model is the one that includes the pelvic and sturnum pads.  It comes in either 5 or 6 point. You can also get it with shoulder belts designed for the hans device. 

[Darren]

JoeP wrote:

Two words, Larry: "Nut lash." Buy the six pont.

Proper installation is key (I defer to Paul however in these matters)

It's difficult to properly install a 6-point as most seats are engineered for 5-points. In some cases it's more appropriate to install the sub-belts to the lap belt mounting points and sit on them in the seat. You can verify this through the manufacturers installations manuals, e.g. Schroth. Manufacturers instructions and a compentant installation shop are necessary here.

In an improper setup I'd rather 1 strap hit my nuts than 2 (at least they can escape!!!). In a proper setup, neither 5-point or 6-point should hit your nuts.