Suzaku

iTrader: (3)

Would it be possible to install a Mini tub into my Trans Am, but keep the rear seats + seatbelts by welding the seatbelt bases onto the tub?

I'm not too concerned about the interior, but if anyone has ever tried this, I'd be happy to know how it turned out.

http://www.wolferacecraft.com/detail.aspx?ID=824

y2k_ta

iTrader: (80)

You might want to add a piece of thicker gauge metal that ties into the factory floor for a little more strength (where the seatbelt bracket would be welded back on). I'd be hesitant to allow back seat passengers for fear of the seatbelt mount ripping out of the wheel tub in the event of an accident.

Suzaku

iTrader: (3)

Yeah, I was thinking the same thing, I've been using the BFH + Propane torch method and have mounted 315s, but I want to go bigger, so tubs seem to be the only option now.

I want to keep it a 4 seater, another option is when I build my cage I can add an extra bar across the rear cage arms for a 5 point seat belt for the rear seats, dunno though.

the impaler

I don't see why it wouldn't work, provided you be careful in your welding.
Look at the way the factory reinforces the seatbelt mounting points and duplicate it, you should be fine.

firebirddude98

5 points for the back seat? wtf. noone rides in my backseat, just 1 girl in the pass seat, mainly becauase i am a giant and noone can fit behind my seat lol. arent 5points illegal for street use?

82cetuner

iTrader: (9)

I dont see why you couldnt make another mounting point for the seats.

but how come you had to do the BFH mod and stuff just for 315s, my car runs 315s just fine with no mods whatso ever.

ive herad of 335s being ran on cars on 11 inch rims with no minitubbing also

Suzaku

iTrader: (3)

Had to do the bfh mod for my Z06 wheels, they rubbed every time I took a turn. Regarding the tubbing, I want them to be tucked under the fender, not protruding, I could get 335s to fit with spacers, but then it just looks hideous.

NVUSZ28

iTrader: (5)

No.

And Illegal is a sick bird.

2000badbird

iTrader: (5)

Question why are you guys having interference issues with running a 315 tire offset? I build a z28 for a friend and he used black/polished lip tt2's with 17x11 rear un sure of offset but car wasn't lowered and had stock replacement blistein shocks that were fresh


Are you guys having interference lowering your cars without adjustable phb or phb relocation brackets? Even lowered car tires never hit inner fender just top when suspension bottomed out not in corners tho and no bfh mom necessary

Also if the wheel tubs are correctly installed they shouldnt weaken the structure of the car asolng as reinforcing is involved as most Aftermarket wheel tubs are a thinner steel than the factory wheel tubs

2000badbird

iTrader: (5)

In some states 5 point harnesses maynot be considered legal for street use every states seatbelts laws vary from state to state like ga and Fla are way different so you may wanna find out before committing to such

y2k_ta

iTrader: (80)

Not all fourth-gens need clearancing for larger tires. However, some do. Variances in production. Plus, the overall shape of the tire varies depending on what your set-up is.....drag radials on 15 inch wheels versus low profile tires on 17 inch wheels will be overall different sizes.

Weakening the structure wasn't really the issue. Welding the seatbelt bracket onto the thinner gauge mini tub was the main issue.

Too my knowledge, 5 point harnesses aren't considered legal for street use in any state. That's why I still have a factory seat belt mounted for the driver's seat in my '95 'bird.

MislMan

My .02 on the harness legality. Seat belts or harnesses must approved by US DOT to be considered legal. I have Schroth 4-point harnesses in my '95 TA and they have a label sewn to them indicating US DOT approval. Law enforcement may vary by state and the cops in you area.

One thing to consider, if you use racing style harnesses (3" width, mine are 2" width) and have an accident with injuries, you could be sued for not providing DOT approved passenger restraints. Even if the harnesses have nothing to do with the injuries. Just the way some lawyers and people are.

Of course my rollbar and disconnected air bags probably ruin this as well. Just make an informed choice and play/drive as hard and wise as you can!

Later .... Larry S.