1965 Seat Belts

[Roger H.]

I'd like to replace the seat belts in my 1965. The originals are showing their age. Mine did not have the retractors on them, but I see a lot of cars with them. The replacement belts that I've found look like originals with remanufactured buckles. They do have the retractors and they are pricey. Were the retractors an option, or perhaps a running change within the model year? I know I can count on my NCRS friends to keep me informed. Thanks.

[Dave H.]

Re: 1965 Seat Belts

I think running change. Mine is late Dec 64, and no retractors. Owned since 84.

[Roger H.]

Re: 1965 Seat Belts

Thanks, Dave. Mine is a late Jan. '65 car. Number 8438. No evidence of retractors. I find this stuff very interesting.

[Bill M.]

Re: 1965 Seat Belts

Roger reach out to Charlie seatbelt sity he knows all about belts. He has refurbished or cleaned up 5 sets for me. From 64 to 67.

[Roger H.]

Re: 1965 Seat Belts

Thank you, Bill. I'll check that out. I'd like to be able to re-use the original belts if possible.

[Ray K.]

Re: 1965 Seat Belts

According to Barbara Spear's Corvette Seatbelt book (1956 - 1976) . . .

"Retractors were a running production change. Random examples have been reported up to serial #5510, but appear to have become standard beginning with serial #5533 (late December, 1964). The last Vette shipped without retractors appears to be #13898."

This is "more or less" substantiated in the 6th Edition of the 1965 Corvette Technical Information Manual & Judging Guide:
"Early models up to approximately VIN 5,000 may not have had retractors or boots. Beginning with approximately VIN 6,000 retractors on the outboard side began to appear."

My late '65 built coupe (3rd week of July 1965) bright blue seatbelts have the retractors. They were also restored by Charlie . . . .
Ray K (#43777)

[Roger H.]

Re: 1965 Seat Belts

Thank you, Ray. This is great information.