Anybody know when a harness is required for a convertible? Is it mandatory when you have a roll bar? I was going to go for a few quick passes but wasn't sure if I need one with the bar.

 

I would recommend calling your local track. I wouldn't imagine a 5-point being necessary simply because of the bar requirement at regular street car ET's. I understand the concept of the bar, but I wager as long as you have decent seatbelts you will pass tech. I have seen plenty of fellows running at the track with a basic bar and regular belts with no problem. Just call the track first to make sure.

 

A discussion with your local track would be an excellent idea. Tracks adhering to NHRA rules should be requiring a roll bar in all convertibles that run between 11.00 and 13.49 (2005 NHRA Rulebook, page 25). Driver restraint systems meeting SFI Spec 16.1, including a crotch strap (five-point) are also required on all convertibles running faster than 13.49. Further, that five-point system is subject to the requirement that it be replaced every two years (2005 NHRA Rulebook, page 27). As a simplification of the combined requirement, assume that all cars requiring a roll bar or cage also require a harness.

Some tracks may be more liberal but if they're insured through their NHRA sanction they should be following these rules. I believe that this is the first year that hardtops running between 11.99 and 11.50 are exempted from the roll bar requirement.

 

Thanks for the idea guys, I'll probably give 'em a call and find out.