rentman

Does anyone out there have a 68 with the original lap and shoulder belts? I'm trying to find the correct style buckles. From what I've read they were used on many other GM cars from 68-72. Could someone post a picture of the buckles and also how the shoulder harness mounts in the back? Also, does the lap belt have a retractor? Any help would really be appreciated.

Smokehouse69

I don't have any pictures of 68 belts, but I can answer a few of your questions.
I don't think the lap belt didn't have retractors, if they were anything like the 69 belts. 69 belts had a retainer clip at the bottom front of the seats, 68's might have the same setup (but I could definately be wrong, so many things about 68's were one year only.)
One thing I do know is that the shoulder belts were attached to the inside of the wheel well tubs. If you remove the carpet you can see a gray plastic screwed in plug, with a very flat head, screwed into the mounting hole. It is hard to see, there might be a small stud directly in front of the plug.
If you want the real scoop on these belts, check over in the Correct Restoration Forum, http://forums.corvetteforum.com/zeroforum?id=77

rentman

Thanks for the response. I've actually got 69 seat belts in my car now. They have black buckles. I think the 68 buckles are stainless. I'll try the other forum.

Larry B.

early 69 had plastic release buttons . Later 69's had square stainless releases.

paintdaddy

call snakeoyl ,they restore seatbelts.If youve never heard of them do a search on the net. :seeya

63Banshee

I'll see what I can do for you later today.

Chuck Gongloff

68 seat belts were completely different from 69's. Different buckles, etc. There was even a different center console with pockets to hold the female ends of the belts. Make sure you know what you're buying IF originality is of concern. Chuck

Chuck Gongloff

Forgot :) The buckles are brushed SS with a center button with GM Mark of Excellence logo. They're Hamill Model RCF 65's. Chuck

rentman

I talked to Ssnake-Oyl this week and they told me that the stainless buckles used in 68's were also used in other GM cars. I was just hoping someone could confirm that before I sent them off to have the webbing replaced. The belts I bought were out of a 70 Olds and the buckles and chrome look new. They are stainless with the GM logo as you described. I'm pretty sure the retractors are different though. Anyway, thanks for the input.

Chuck Gongloff

Turn the buckle over and tell us what's embossed/stamped on the under-side. Chuck

rentman

Chuck, I bought the seatbelts last weekend on e-bay but haven't received them yet. It should be any day. BTW your 69 is super sharp. My 68 was originally a 400hp car, but the original block, intake and carbs were gone when I bought it. When I get the belts, I'll give you the info on the back.