Interpretation ID: nht72-4.17

DATE: 02/01/72

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Richard B. Dyson; NHTSA

TO: Borg-Warner Corporation

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT: This is in reply to your request of January 18, 1972, for a letter confirming the written interpretation of Standard 209 concerning automatic locking retractors given to Toyota on November 10, 1971.

We understand from your letter that the "Borg-Warner Maji-Buckle" is identical to the combination buckle and retractor shown us by Toyota. A seat belt with the Maji-Buckle" is, therefore, considered to be equipped with an automatic locking retractor. A retractor is classified according to its operation, not its design, and the "Maji-Buckle" operates in the manner prescribed by Standard 209 for automatic locking retractors.

The comments made to Toyota concerning the test required by S5.3(a)(6) also apply to the "Maji-Buckle."

Please advise us if we can be of further assistance.