Whaler:
Thanks for the input.
I also am at that point; and I read every post; and they were very interesting and though provoking. Many by very experienced and knowledgable engineers and NHRA people.
So the argument about 4 in low, to 4 in high etc; and the strong opinions and experiences made me think about it and pour a double.
Once the techies look at the car type, seat type/inclinataion, roll cage configuation; they arrive at "their Optimum solution" However, that is not universal. For instance a fuel dragster has a roll cage that surrounds the head and helmet, the driver is sitting on minimal padding and he's strapped in tighter that Dollie P. bra.
His best angles, impact body reaction is very different from a street Cobra; in addition the impact scenerio is vastly different(glancing rail impact-followed by a car break up and roll over.)
So the optimum dragster hearness angles(NHRA) may not be best suited for a Cobra.
Thinking more; what is the most likely impact; lost of control and side impact; belts are limited there. Head on with brakes locked; a likely scenerio. Thinking that one through and the observation that one is raised out of the seat typically upon impact. Street belts are not normally tightened beyond the comfort level. I recently heard of both occupants being ejected form a Cobra. It would seem that one should optimize the belt angles to keep one down and in. That would lead me toward a slightly higher lap belt angle and shoulder harnesses being 1 or 2 inches lower that the shoulders. I recognise that that will increase spine compression; but it will also reduce being lifted 6 to 12 inches out of the car during a roll over and receiving no benefit from the roll bar.
A disclaimer; these are my present thoughts; I would appreciate more technical and non-emotional discussion this very important subject. Unfortunately there is not a univeral solution because every impact probably has 4 or 5 variables that are collision unique. One trives for the solution that tips the odds toward you more often than not.
Still athinken!
gn
