Crotch strap for ASW 15?

My current harness is a Schroth equipped for a fifth strap. However, my understanding is that they supply only manufacturers now, not re-sellers. Will the tab on other belts fit a Schroth buckle? I barely fit into my cockpit lengthwise. I completely remove the adjustable seatback so my head won't hit the canopy. This results in a slightly more reclined (and very comfortable)seating position making it easier for the lap belt to ride up. The ASW 15's cockpit doesn't have anything that forces you to bend your knees or stop you from "submarining" in the event of a sudden stop. I'm concerned about being legal but more concerned with being safe I've read more than one account (like the one above) where pilots credit the fifth strap with saving their lives or preventing serious injury.

Mike

mdfaddenatgmaildotcom

I just went on the FAA registry site, and it looks like all or at
least most of the ASW-15 in the US are type certificated:

http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinqu...W15&PageNo =1

If yours is among those, you should probably consult first with an A&P
or IA. If they are comfortable signing it off as a minor modification,
you're good to go. If not, they will probably be able to advise you
what hoops to jump through.

Thanks, Bob K.

On Tuesday, March 5, 2013 2:24:09 PM UTC-5, wrote:
I completely remove the adjustable seatback so my head won't hit the canopy. This results in a slightly more reclined (and very comfortable)seating position making it easier for the lap belt to ride up. The ASW 15's cockpit doesn't have anything that forces you to bend your knees or stop you from "submarining" in the event of a sudden stop.

Does your POH allow you to remove the seatback and thereby create a submarining possibility? This also shifts the CG aft.

Some POH allow the removal of the seatback to accommodate a large pilot, so you might be technically okay.

My solution to the 'riding up' problem would be to position the lapbelt below my beer belly where it would be held firmly in place. (just kidding)

Have you considered a six-point? No modification was necessary for my -20, and it'll make peeing easier.

Jim

On Tuesday, March 5, 2013 6:51:58 PM UTC-5, J. Murray wrote:
Have you considered a six-point? No modification was necessary for my -20, and it'll make peeing easier.



Jim

I posted a bunch of stuff on this topic a few years back, as have others. Search for "Crotch Strap" and "6 Point Harness" within rec.aviation.soaring.

P3

One choice is Allen Silver's retrofit Crotch (Anti-Submarining) straps
------ $30.00. It is mentioned on this site. http://silverparachutes.com/acrobelt/.
As I remember it, it is unside down Y shaped, ties into the existing
lap belt bolts, and then into the center seatbelt release. Give Allen
a call to see if it will work on your ship - great guy.

On Wednesday, March 6, 2013 11:28:43 PM UTC-5, JohnDeRosa wrote:
One choice is Allen Silver's retrofit Crotch (Anti-Submarining) straps

------ $30.00. It is mentioned on this site. http://silverparachutes.com/acrobelt/.


Oops, John... that should be $350.

- John B