Head Restraint 36 sq. in. X 1"?

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jesfromric
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Current Racecar: '97 Mazda Miata extensive modifications.

Head Restraint 36 sq. in. X 1"?

Post by jesfromric »

Window nets - check
Center net - check
5 point harness - check

Head restraint on tech. form?
Head Restraint 36 sq. in. X 1"?

What is that?

Thanks
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Dave Cutchins
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Re: Head Restraint 36 sq. in. X 1"?

Post by Dave Cutchins »

It refers to the minimum surface area and thickness of the restraint (re: padding) behind your helmeted head (not to be confused with a head and neck restraint).
Dave Cutchins
FB #94
jesfromric
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Joined: Mon Oct 13, 2014 3:25 pm
Current Racecar: '97 Mazda Miata extensive modifications.

Re: Head Restraint 36 sq. in. X 1"?

Post by jesfromric »

And if your head/helmet will never come anywhere near the roll cage in a roll-over - accident situation?

I had my cage installed so I have a "broomstick" plus 2".

And if your roll cage is a custom design that has some complex curves and gussets in that general area?

Thanks
Greghagan
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Re: Head Restraint 36 sq. in. X 1"?

Post by Greghagan »

On pages 105-106 of the 2014 GCR in section 9.3.41. SEATS, is the information you're looking for.

Cheers,

Greg
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Dave Cutchins
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Joined: Thu Sep 07, 2006 5:26 pm
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Current Racecar: Formula B (F-1000)
Location: Virginia Beach, VA

Re: Head Restraint 36 sq. in. X 1"?

Post by Dave Cutchins »

You are required to have a head rest to prevent whiplash.

See page 106 of the GCR 9.3.4.1

A system of head rest to prevent whiplash and rebound, and also to prevent the driver’s head from striking the underside of the main hoop shall
be installed on all vehicles. Racing seats with integral headrests satisfy
this requirement.
The head rest on non-integral seats shall have a minimum area of 36
square inches and be padded with a minimum of one inch thick padding. It
is strongly recommended that padding meet SFI spec 45.2 or FIA Sports
Car Head Rest Material. The head rest shall be capable of withstanding
a force of two-hundred (200) lbs. in a rearward direction. The head rest
support shall be such that it continues rearward or upward from the top
edge in a way that the driver’s helmet can not hook over the pad.
Dave Cutchins
FB #94
jesfromric
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Posts: 31
Joined: Mon Oct 13, 2014 3:25 pm
Current Racecar: '97 Mazda Miata extensive modifications.

Re: Head Restraint 36 sq. in. X 1"?

Post by jesfromric »

Gotcha -

Sounds like that is all taken care of with a real, properly fitting, racing seat (Sparco Sprint V) and a well designed roll cage.

I forget that folks run antiques and other unique vehicles that might pose some problems in that area.

Thanks
John
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