Topic: Seat Belt Attaching Hardware '65-'66

[Skyway65]

I've been doing some research on the front seat belt attaching hardware for '65-'66 models. I noticed that the coupes/fastbacks use an extra washer that the convertibles, apparently, don't use.  Can anyone think of a reason why they would be different?  Also, any photos of original cars showing the difference--comments?

[CharlesTurner]

Where are you seeing a difference?  Is this the thick washer you're referring to?  I've seen these used on convertibles also.  The only difference I have observed for convertibles is the long sheath on the outside belts.

[Skyway65]

Charles-- In the Osborn manual I have (page 45-Body Assembly) it shows what appears to be two washers on the hard top and fastback version while the convertible shows only one washer.  Further, the repro kits that are available reflect this difference too, 8 pieces are in the convertible kit while 12 pieces are in the hardtop/fastback kit.  Just trying to get this detail correct...

[CharlesTurner]

Which washers, the black plastic or thick metal ones?  I don't have an assy manual handy.  I'm guessing that this would apply to the outer belt on a convertible.

[jwc66k]

I assume the difference in installation is because of the extra sheet metal on a convertible. The steel washer goes at the end of the bolt on the shoulder for all, the rubber washers act as spacers and noise reduction on Hardtops and Fastbacks. What is strange is the 65 requirements for Hardtops and Fastbacks show only one rubber washer between the belt strap mounting plate and the steel washer and the callouts reflect this. The 66 installation shows a rubber washer on both sides of the belt strap mounting plate. But there are documentation questions for the 66. The retractor detail shows no rubber washers but uses the same bolt and steel washer and the same general callout. Are the rubber washers used there?
My conclusion for 65, one rubber washer per belt on my Fastback.
My conclusion for 66, two rubber washers per belt including retractors on my Fastback (my Hardtop has three point belts).
Jim

[Skyway65]

I assume the difference in installation is because of the extra sheet metal on a convertible. The steel washer goes at the end of the bolt on the shoulder for all, the rubber washers act as spacers and noise reduction on Hardtops and Fastbacks. 
Jim

Charles & Jim--That's one of the items that I needed to clarify: is the single washer on a '65 convertible the rubber or metal one, and, why does the requirement change between body styles? 

It seems that I need a single metal washer for each mounting point--with chrome finish?  Thanks guys--

[CharlesTurner]

I'm guessing it's the metal one, which is usually zinc plated or phosphate, not chrome.  It goes on behind the carpet and keeps the seat belt bolt from bottoming out.  There is usually one black plastic washer that goes on the bolt first, then the seat belt anchor, then through the carpet and thick washer.  Convertibles probably weren't supposed to get them due to inner rocker panel clearance.  It's a really tight fit for seat belts on a convertible.

[jwc66k]

The washer is called out as phosphate (356420-S2) for 66 (and 67) and clear zinc (356420-S8) for 65. Dimensions and description are: 7/16 flat washer, 0.453ID, 1.000OD, 0.188T. AMK does not sell them (maybe in a kit).
Jim

[Skyway65]

Thanks for the clarification Charles and Jim--problem solved.