Restraint latch devices

[DKL]

Which one do you prefer?
Lever or cam type latch and why

APBA recommends lever type but is the cam latches legal?


DKL

[jphii1]

I've got latch and like them. Easier.

[Howie Nichols]

Lever style are easier and safer. The cam latches can tend to bind up and can have difficulty releasing when in a boat setting. Also rust can get into the mechanism causing havoc.

[Steveracer]

If you are going to go with the cam type, be careful. Some need 55lbs of pressure to turn the cam. When the rescue crew is under water trying to apply that kind of pressure against a life jacket, it can be difficult. Plus, most drivers I know use the latch so it may confuse the rescue crew if they need to do something diffrent on you instead of everyone else.

[Erick]

I prefer the lever type. But I have had problems with the cheaper ones (crow, rjs, and another), the lap, shoulder and crotch belt get stuck. I have not had any problems with Simpson.

one of the biggest pros for the camlock system is that you can release the belts easily with either hand.

[DKL]

Thanks Guys,
That is what I was looking for,I have lever type now but was thinking cam style would be easier to secure and release,but I have never had any experience with the cam style myself.

Doug

[chill]

Dont go with the cam, or the cheap latching ones. Spend the extra $40 and go with the Simpson. The cheaper ones tend to stick under preasure.

[rossdbos]

Per the APBA rule book, restraint belts need to be replaced each year. If you show up to a race with worn out, tattered belts expect to sit on the beach! It's only your life we're talking about!
Thanks,
Ross Wallach, SCSC/RPM RACING ENT.

[Joe J]

Ross:

They do need to be replaced, but it is every three years, not every year. I know because I read through the rule book after reading your post, as it had me worried.

Joe

Per the APBA rule book, restraint belts need to be replaced each year. If you show up to a race with worn out, tattered belts expect to sit on the beach! It's only your life we're talking about!
Thanks,
Ross Wallach, SCSC/RPM RACING ENT.

[DKL]

Yes,every three years for OPC ,my belts are not out of date,, the latch and adjusters are corroded and rusted from being wet and will not release and adjust smoothly ,,they came with the boat that way,I will change them to Simpson Latch style ,they are being ordered now. Jeg's has good prices for them.

Doug

[Erick]

I am glad this topic has come up. There are many different types and styles of belts. Like chill said spend the extra $40. We have had a lot of success with simpson belts where other brands, Didn't work Very good. There is no need to try and save a few bucks on the parts that could possibly keep you underwater.:eek:

[DKL]

I took your advice Chill and Eric, Simpson it will be!!!

[Jakob77]

When you order belts, make sure you get pull up belts. The first time I replaced my belts, I didn't know there was a difference and I bought a set of Simpsons that had a pull-down style lap belt. The lap belt was nearly impossible to tighten correctly. I eventually got to buy another set of belts to correct the problem.

Mark

[DKL]

Thanks for all of your replies,I took your advice. New Simpson pull up belts on the way.

Doug

[Rob D]

Impact will take any brand of belts as "trade in". Only cost me $65 for a new set of 3" pull up style belts.

Rob

[sst45jefff]

how about a link or web address for impact.

[one eight-w]

www.impactraceproducts.com/tab.wws?id=restraint_systems

[sst45jefff]

Thanks, for the link.

[OPC33]

I would not ever consider again cam latch as when I wrecked the diver could not get one leg restraint to release from the main latch mechanism ,we had this happen our first race with latch type but though is was an isolated incident,wow could have been a real bad deal ,glad I am here to share:eek: