Race Seat FIA Clarification

[linc44]

This will probably sound like a dumb question, but I have been offered a really good deal on a Sparco Circuit seat, and the FIA certification sticker says the date of manufacture is March 2007. I know that FIA seat certification expires after 5 years so my question is this:

Do I need a seat brace (like the IO Port brace) on an expired FIA seat?

The rules say that "Fiberglass and other lightweight seats must be framed and mounted at
multiple points. FIA seats do not require additional bracketing beyond their
normal mounting points." It doesn't specify whether this rule applies to currently certified FIA seats or any FIA seat (either current or expired).

I'm just looking to find out if I need to get a seat brace or not before I make a decision on the seat. Thanks all!

-Lincoln

[walterclark]

We don't worry about the date. If you look around the US you will find a number of racing rules that don't. We will have an issue with an FIA seat that shows cracks or other stress damage.

[Mopar 151w2]

Personally, I would back brace any seat used with a cage and harness. Even if the seat is "bulletproof', the back has a lot of leverage against a relatively small pedestal area.

[walterclark]

Modifying an FIA seat invalidates the certification.

[Mopar 151w2]

Walter - You and I are the poster boys for supporting the seatback, because of height and upper body weight. if the seat cannot be attached without modification, it can certainly be supported from the rear.

[walterclark]

You will notice that I didn't write that the back brace is not good, only that modifying an FIA seat creates a problem.

The usual brace installation would involve drilling holes in the seat back.

If it could be done another way that would be advisable.