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 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.

Helmet hardware attaching: how is this done? Do I send in my helmet or do it myself?

All of our restraints have complete kits that include helmet attachment hardware and instructions. If you have questions about your specific helmet, call us at 1-800-949-5712. We also offer Bell helmets that are pre-drilled for your restraint. Or, if you do not want to mount the hardware yourself, we can do it for $35.00, or free when purchasing the helmet and restraint at the same time.

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?

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 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.

Is the R3 good for Sprint Cars?

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 “Sprint” model is specifically designed for a 80 to 90 degree seat back angle. We have a number of sprint car drivers, desert racers, rally cars and boat racers using the R3. All have similar issues with rough track conditions.

I currently use a D-cell with the cables kit on the helmet. Does the R3 require D-rings or can it be connected to the existing cables?

The R3 would require the use of D-rings mounted per the included instructions. The D-cell and the Hutchens both use the shoulder of the occupant as the pivot point for the helmet tether. The R3 uses a higher helmet tether mount, which requires a more rearward mount on the helmet.

Are there plans to do a unit that can be used in a semi-reclined (30 degrees), such as Sports Racers & Formula cars?

The Formula Model is for reclined seats. It was designed for the Hybrid III test dummy in an IRL car. We currently have 3 different models: Layback for a 30-degree seat; Contoured for a 10-30 degree seat back; and Straight for an upright seating position. We can tell you what model you will need according to the style seat you have

The backbone piece looks bulky. Is it comfortable?

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 the supplied Velcro.

Does the installation of the D-ring kit involve drilling holes in the helmet? What does that do to the SNELL Rating?

Many helmets now come with pre-drilled holes. If yours does not, then 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."

Please advise the R3 and its application in a Legends Car.

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.

Are the quick release tethers standard on the R3?

The R3 comes with the quick releases, standard.

Is the R3 available with Sliding Tethers?

Yes, this is an option.

Can you use the R3 with a 3-point harness?

Yes, the R3 is the only SFI 38.1 rated device that does not require racing harnesses. This makes the R3 ideal for instructors and students that want the extra protection, but do not have a race car.