THSCC Forums

On our rally Focus we have removed the passenger air bag and will also be removing the driver air bag. The air bag controller has been removed. The stock seat belts have been removed. The seat occupant sensors have been removed. A full safety cage has been installed and we have Racetech seats and six-point harnesses.

The seat belt/air bag light on the dash is lit. It doesn't bother me - I plan to be looking out the windshield most of the time.

Am I going to have trouble getting it past NC inspection? Can anyone recommend an inspection station that will be more understanding of street legal rally cars?

Thanks.

Simon

Focus = OBD II. I would be looking into something to trick the computer into thinking an airbag was there. - AB

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'14 Toyota Sequoia Platinum 4WD
Super Westerfield Bros - '93 Integra - LeChump Du Jour
STX 93 - Scion FR-S

The state inspection does not check the status of airbags. It only tests emissions related items.

If the dash is still out I would suggest removing the lamp anyway.

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George Bright Member # 141
One of the youngest of the old farts.
Yes I voted against you joining the club.

Though you *might* have trouble because it doesn't have the factory belts. I suspect that the letter of the inspection law does not allow fixed harnesses.



Maybe keep the factory belts on hand and stick them in the car when it's inspection time just in case???

Bret.

In class they said to check for seat belts. However there is not a place to fail them on the inspection checklist.

The inspection manual can be found here

http://www.ncdot.org/dmv/vehicle_services/emissioninspection/regulationsmanual/

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George Bright Member # 141
One of the youngest of the old farts.
Yes I voted against you joining the club.

So far i pass inspection 2 times with the racing harness only in the Porsche.

Patrice

Altho our seatbelts are still there, our harnesses are in full view for inspections. The inspectors are usually gearheads and want to talk about racing when they see them. I'd expect 99% would assume harnesses = or better than OEM belts and not know anything about DOT certification anyhow. The only issue might come from your insurance co in the case of injury claims due to an accident.

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SPIN or WIN!
there's no glory for going slow.

Thanks, George. I had already checked that document and there's no reference to seat belts or air bags. I'll try to cover the light and see what happens next month when it goes for inspection.

Thanks for all your replies.

Simon

Simon,

My airbag light has been flashing for the past 2 years and I haven't had any problems getting it inspected. They say something to the effect of "you should really get that fixed you know?" and I just smile and drive off.

Todd

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Todd Breakey
STS 42 - 1992 Sunburst Miata
Dammit!
"You souldn't play leap frog with a porcupine. You might get hurt." - Eliza