Amsafe Airbag Harness

aldoradave · #1 08-07-09, 01:02 AM

I need to replace my seat belts in N84E, a 73 P337, and ordered retractible harnesses from Alpha Aviation in Minnesota. They did not ask the right questions and sent me belts that use a bolt to tie into the floor. My aircraft has pins that cannot be removed under the floor, and use Hooks at the end of the belts for securing on the pins.

I talked to them and got just more confused answers so sent them back and cancelled the order ( thanks AmEx). Now I have to regroup and am wondering about the AirBag harness made by Amsafe. It seems they have a suspender like harness with airbags built in, and a floor mounted sensor to activate them in case of a serious impact. Having been the survivor of a serious car accident with air bag inflation I kinda like the concept.

But then I encountered more ineptitude by one of their "authorized" dealers who seemed to know nothing at all about the application, or if they are approved for a P337. They said they'd call back.

So, does anyone on the forum know about these things and the applicability to a 73 P337?

Thanks in Advance,

Dave Dillehay
N84E

DBrugg · #2 08-07-09, 05:19 PM

I talked to an AmSafe rep at Airventure.
They need to get an STC for a retro fit.
I like the idea and put my name and model (P337) on a list he had going.
Looks like they have most single cessnas listed.
I don't know about the cost but would be interested.
Dan
________
Fucking Tubes

hharney · #3 08-07-09, 07:01 PM

Well just another reason to attend the SOAPA meetings. In Branson this year we had a presentation about the AmSafe inflatable seat belts and they are really amazing. Definitely the way to go in the future. If I remember correctly they did not have the STC for us (as Dan mentioned above) but the list is growing. Get your checkbook ready because the retro is pretty extensive. They talked about a Bonanza retro that was like several thousands of dollars ($5,000?). It's like a week install.

The other option is the BAS restraint system. I just installed them in my restoration project and love em'. Several people here on the board have them and I have not heard anything negative. I had BAS put together new systems for all seats so they would all match the new interior. Price was not that bad but I don't have it with me right now. Call BAS in Oregon and they can quote you.