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1968 convertible, shoulder, harness from rear seat, wanted to buy

Started by 1968GT500CS, August 09, 2025, 01:34:30 PM

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1968GT500CS

Hello, anyone have a pair of rear retractors for ROLLBAR over the shoulder harness for 1968 convertible thanks in advance for assistance.

JWH

I've always wondered if these are standard retractors like Ford would use on lap belts? Or if these were specifically designed and built for the Shelby converts? Good luck in your search.

Bob Gaines

Quote from: JWH on August 09, 2025, 03:00:10 PMI've always wondered if these are standard retractors like Ford would use on lap belts? Or if these were specifically designed and built for the Shelby converts? Good luck in your search.
No standard retractor from another application that I am aware for the Shelby convert over the years after keeping dialed into the Ford parts network.
Bob Gaines,Shelby Enthusiast, Shelby Collector , Shelby Concours judge SAAC,MCA,Mid America Shelby

Bob Gaines

Quote from: 1968GT500CS on August 09, 2025, 01:34:30 PMHello, anyone have a pair of rear retractors for ROLLBAR over the shoulder harness for 1968 convertible thanks in advance for assistance.
I believe Stuart at Python restoration has come up with a alternative that he has made up using various parts . as rare as they are do not miss a opportunity to acquire any because you may not get another chance. That even goes for a good repro like Stuart makes because you don't know how much longer he may make them . In fact you best check because I don't know if he still does. Tell him I said hi. https://pythonrestoration.com/
Bob Gaines,Shelby Enthusiast, Shelby Collector , Shelby Concours judge SAAC,MCA,Mid America Shelby

Bill Collins

#4
Just to be clear, your post reads "rear retractors for ROLLBAR". the convertible retractors do not mount onto the rollbar like the fastback. See factory assembly drawings attached.

The convertible shoulder harness retractors attach to the inner quarter panel aft of the window regulator - drawing C12. The belt extends through a slot at the front of the rear seat side trim panel - drawing C13. A wire loop mounted just inside the trim panel slot prevents the buckle from receding entirely inside the panel - item 4 in drawing C14.

The originals have retractor springs mounted onto both sides of the reel. The current reproductions typically use modern mechanisms that have a retractor spring on only one side. But being as they are hidden behind the trim panel, this is not an appearance issue.

I have one original. I think they are interchangeable side to side. If you cannot locate a pair and someone else has a single, I could help you out.
Enthusiast since 1965, SAAC charter member since 1975 and Regional Rep since 1985, GT350 Owner since 1971, 289 Cobra owner 1979-2016, Ford GT owner 2006 - 2017

Bob Gaines

Bob Gaines,Shelby Enthusiast, Shelby Collector , Shelby Concours judge SAAC,MCA,Mid America Shelby