The R3 does not require you to cut or modify your seat. Supplied is a molded back pad that inserts into the back of the seat. The pad has a center cut-out that the R3 restraint sits back into. Users, like John Force and Troy Caughlin, have chosen the R3 because it is a very comfortable restraint.
I use an aluminum racing seat. Will the use of the R3 require a custom-built seat, and does the seat need to be fitted for it? If a seat is not specially made for the R3, will it be uncomfortable?
The R3 is currently in use by instructors, boat racers, off-road rally racers, late-models, and even desert racers, who all find it very comfortable. We now offer a “Portable Pad” that you can use in the back of the seat. It can be carried from car-to-car and easily positioned on the next seat.
The 80% Rule: SFI has given a break to the manufacturers by allowing the deletion of one frontal impact test when the product scores below 80% of the maximum allowable neck tension value. The maximum allowable neck tension for SFI 38.1 is 4000 N; 3200 is 80%. Therefore, the R3, the HANS, and the Hutchens II have all passed under 3200 N neck tension in a 70G test. As a reference, Dale Earnhardt's crash was estimated at 42G's and 38 mph change in velocity.
The R3 is a great fit for Sprint cars and any kind of dirt racing. The R3 straps to your body and does not rely on the seat belts to control head and neck forces. The new *Sprint* model is specifically designed for a 85 to 90 degree seat back angle.
All of our restraints have complete kits that include helmet attachment hardware and instructions. Or, if you do not want to mount the hardware yourself, we can do it for $35.00.
The R3 comes with a molded Urethane Foam seat insert that has a cutout section that the R3 fits into. It makes the device practically disappear. We have had great feedback on the comfort of the device. As far as the adjustment to the seat, all you need to do is insert the molded foam pad, using Velcro or Gaffers tape.
Installing the helmet anchors does involve drilling holes in the helmet. The Snell Foundation, who certifies the helmets, has stated that: "As long as the drilling is done outside of the test zone, which our mounts are, it does not harm the helmet's certification."
As far as the application in a Legends car, it has been proven to work well in an upright seating position (like a Legends style seat). We have many customers wearing the R3 in Legends Cars.
The R3 and Hybrid comes with the quick releases, standard. This is a $90.00 savings, compared to the competition.
You mention the padding for my seat. As a driving instructor for many organizations, I'm concerned about the comfort of the R3 while I am in other cars. What can you tell me?
One question: Your brochure has a reference to:"..taking advantage of the 80% rule, just like our competitor." What does this mean?
Is the R3 good for Sprint Cars?
Helmet hardware attaching: How is this done? Do I send in my helmet or do it myself?
The backbone piece looks bulky. Is it comfortable?
Does the installation of the D-Ring kit involve drilling holes in the helmet? If so, what does that do to the SNELL Rating?
Please advise the R3 and it's application in a Legends Car.
Are the quick release tethers standard on the R3 and Hybrid, or are they extra (like the HANS)?
Shoestring Racing
Phone: 317-381-9931
"We don't just sell em', we race with em'!
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's Analysis
