Interpretation ID: nht73-5.49

DATE: 04/02/73

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Robert L. Carter; NHTSA

TO: Mr. Ralph L. Finley

COPYEE: WYSZPOLSKI

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT: Thank you for your letter of March 8, 1973, in which you request information regarding safety standards or restrictions pertaining to rumble seat installation. The installation you have made and contemplate merchandising falls into the aftermarket category.

Aftermarket seat assemblies installed in vehicles, after the sale of such vehicles is consummated, are not required to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 207, Seating Systems. However, it is reasonable to expect that those who manufacture, sell, and install aftermarket seats will make them at least as strong as required by the standard, and will install seat belt systems to help prevent ejection and other injuries.

I am enclosing a copy of our Summary Description of Standards and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 207 for your information and retention. I appreciate your interest in motor vehicle safety.

2 ENCLS.

March 8, 1973

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Attention: Motor Vehicle Programs

Gentlemen:

I have a 1957 Thunderbird with a rumble seat in it. I am thinking of reproducing this rumble seat and merchandising it to T-Bird members in the United States. I have enclosed a picture for your review.

Are there any safety standards or vehicle restrictions that I would have to comply with? Please let me know.

Sincerely,

Ralph L. Finley 12476 Dover Court Saratoga, California 95070

enc:

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