I have a 72 with lap belts, I've done some work to the motor, and there's a definite power increase, so much so that I think I should have some shoulder belts lol. I can see where the shoulder belts would bolt on the top and where the other end would connect to the lap belt. Can anyone recommend a place that sells stock type shoulder belts?
Even if you can get them, those lap/shoulder belt combinations are pretty awful to use and there is no retractor in the shoulder belts. I once converted my similar '75 GT to the newer 77'-78' (I think) belt combination which replace the lap belt floor mounted retractors with a dual set for both lap and shoulder. Much later, while repainting the Ranchero, I had my body man install a set of '72 Cadillac DeVille leather seats with built in lap/shoulder belts - a far better solution.
I kind of like the two belt system just because it's different than a modern car. But I can see how annoying it would be if the shoulder isn't retractable. Did they ever make a retractable shoulder only belt that I could bolt on? I bet those caddy seats look good! I would love to see a picture!
I bought a set from Juliano's for my 71. https://www.julianos.com/Shoulder-Belts-s/2.htm They make a retractable shoulder belt that was a simple install into the existing holes/location on the 71 (no idea why they didn't think f this in the 70s) .
When I had my '74, I put belts from a '75 Elite I parted out, but as with Babe's belts, there wasn't very much slack for the fatso I am. I finally found out Ford gives extenders as part of a lawsuit, so I got one, and now, using it with Babe's belt is much more comfortable.
Darn it, I searched through everyone's suggestions and I still can't find a retractable shoulder ONLY belt that will work with my lap belt. Seatbelt planet sells the two belt system I was originally after but now Clark has me worried about the non-retractableness of the shoulder portion. It's a tough call, I like the idea of having unique seatbelts it's part of the coolness of owning a classic car but not if it's super annoying!
On my 69, it came with the factory lap belt - Shoulder belt system. When I took the car apart the belts were just down right nasty. So when It was time to get to drive her, I just through in a standard retractable Y belt. Worked great. When I got ready to have my original belts redone, I used Python Restorations (http://pythonrestoration.com/ ) They also carry completed sets.
I use stock seat belts.Only connect shoulder belt when road trip to cali to keep from getting pulled over by CHP.When adjusted,its not all that uncomfortable,retractable style would be a upgrade.Look for belts on 72/73 rancheros if you decide on stock seat belts.
There may be a solution: using sedan rear seat belt retractors for the shoulder belts. The only downside is they won't have trim covers.
Those are cheap! As much as I like having the unique two belt system not sure I can pass up a price like that!
My thought was since I drive the car to more than just shows and stuff it made sense to have a modern style shoulder harness system. I get the car up on the interstate and don't want to worry, you know what with all the crappy drivers and all.
That would have to be done by a seat belt company, or, if you can find one locally, an upholsterer. Just provide the female buckle and anchor piece with an approximate belt length.