November 23, 2003

Vanagon seat belts

Today I retrofitted the Vanagon seat belts I picked up at the junk yard. The Vanagon belts are retractable, and thus are a lot nicer than the stock bay window belts.

I took pictures of the project, and have documented the steps here, in case others are looking for ideas for their Bus.

NOTE: This is provided for informational purposes only. Seat belts are an important safety system in your automobile. If you modify this important safety system, you do so at your own risk. Do not hold me responsible in case something goes wrong.

In addition to a set of Vanagon belts and their mounting hardware, you will need:


  • 2 - 7/16-20 x 1 1/2 (fine thread) Grade 8 bolts. Do not use bolts softer than Grade 8.

  • 4 - 7/16-20 nuts.

  • 6 - 7/16 washers.

  • 2 - 1/2 lock washers.

  • 1 - 7/16 fender washer.


Yes, the bolts really are 7/16-20. I was just as surprised as you. Note the stock Bus and Vanagon bolts have a 17mm head, but the bolts you get at the hardware store will have a 5/8 head.

You will find the procedure here.

Posted by thorpej at November 23, 2003 09:32 PM