Seat belt interchangeability?

[911pcars]

How different, if any, are the mechanicals in DOT-spec 3-pt retracting harnesses over the years? Couldn't find a definitive answer on the internet.

Basically, will the "tongues" and receptacles from different vehicles/models mate correctly, within Porsche or German families (e.g. VW, Audi, BMW, MB, 911, 914, 928, 944, Boxster, Cayman, etc.) and other makes? Any other issues?

Thanks,
Sherwood

[DRACO A5OG]

When I AXed for the first time PCA wanted me to update my belts since they were too old.

The new ones has a bigger hole but outer design was the same. I was worried they would not fit the receptacle but it worked perfectly. No issues at all. I hope this helps???

[grizzfan]

The PO put a complete set from a Honda in mine! No interchanging various components.

Tom

[porterdog]

Depending on how new you go there is one major issue you need to consider. In the late 90's/early 'aughties many manufacturers switched to load-limiting retractors. These devices, designed for use in conjunction with airbags, allow the belt to play out rather than simply locking up hard, with the result being a more gentle 'ride down' into the big cushy airbag.

It's great, until you try and use one without an airbag...

[Tidybuoy]

I put in a set of 964 seats into my '74 911 - the seats are vertically identical. My original seatbelts wound not snap into the recepticals (which are built in to the 964 seats rather than floor mounted on the '74). I then bought a set of 964 seatbelts but the mounting bracket under the rear side panels on the '74 is slightly different - this was not a big deal as the bracket is removable and a 964 style will bolt right up. You could also drill a new stabilizing hole on the bracket but I chose to search eBay and found one pretty quickly.

I'm guessing the 944 recepticals are the same as the 964 since they are also mounted directly to the seat.