Fixing Deluxe GM seatbelts?

Andy · #1 05-17-2010, 11:13 PM

I have a set of OER reproduction seat belts in my 67 Camaro that are only a few years old. The drivers side belt will not stay fastened. When the seat belt end is inserted into the buckle, there is a positive engagement and it will stay latched until force is put on it to pull it apart. Is there a method to disassemble the buckle to repair it?

Andy · #2 05-18-2010, 01:17 AM

I figured out how to get it apart. The problem was with the thin piece of steel with the gm logo on it. It was pushing down on the release mechanism in the belt when no pressure was applied to it causing the belt to open easily. I bent this piece of steel enough so that it wasn't pushing on the release mechanism until the button was depressed and it solved the problem.

**Bill Pritchard** · #3 05-18-2010, 02:00 AM

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Andy</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> When the seat belt end is inserted into the buckle, there is a positive engagement and it will stay latched until force is put on it to pull it apart. </div></div>

Ha...that pretty well defeats the purpose of the seat belt, doesn't it! Glad to hear you got it fixed.

**Charley Lillard** · #4 05-18-2010, 03:27 AM

I would say OER has a big liability issue with the belts if that is happening to others.

Andy · #5 05-18-2010, 05:07 AM

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Charley Lillard</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I would say OER has a big liability issue with the belts if that is happening to others. </div></div>

Before I fixed it, I took it to the vendor I bought it from and they said the belt only had a one year warranty. Since mine were approximately 7-8 years old, they couldn't do anything about it. I'm thinking about upgrading to a set of aftermarket lap belts in the near future.

Has anyone tried these belts? http://www.morrisclassicconcepts.com...ge%20Three.htm

**SuperNovaSS** · #6 05-18-2010, 05:14 AM

I was thinking the same thing Charley. The manufacturer probably sends the belts with a note that says, "Not safe for highway use, restoration only" or some bull like that.

Andy, try to find some nice originals. Most say they get worn out but I have lifted engines, etc with some very old belts with no problem. I know the force in a major accident is more that the weight of a BBC but I think they would be better than these aftermarket units that have faulty latches.

jason