Hello all, I just purchased a 1953 XK 120 and am picking her up next week. One thing I noticed was the absence of seat belts.

I searched the forum and could not find anything. So asking if anyone had any recommendations before I made a mistake.

It is a fixed head coupe.

TX John in northern VA

 

It is doubtful that they were ever fitted in a '53, even in competition.

However, you might consider competition seatbelts in a vintage style as being suitable.

You will need to consider the availability and location of mounting points before purchase.

 

I would not drive any XK without at least 4 point competition seatbelts securely anchored almost to SCCA specs (which you can obtain). I have Simpson for both driver and pass, lap and shoulder (but not the submarine..crotch belt). Extra layers of sheet metal were added above and below for anchor points. There is just not much crash protection in these cars..have you looked how close to the non-breakaway steering wheel and column you will be? downside in a roadster, DHC is if you roll..Do NOT roll. XKs Unlimited is one possible source. Take the time and care to properly locate the anchors and re-inforce..the belt is only as good as the anchor. BTW I was hit head on..both cars at 35 MPH..while driving an XK...WITH competition belts..I hopped out..one small cut on chin from steering wheel. The other driver was lifted out and hospitalized in serious condition..at first responders did not know where the other driver was..they were crumpled under the dash and steering wheel. UGh
Nick

 

I got lap belts from a scrapyard for mine, out of a newer jaguar sedan. I mounted the inners to the transmission tunnel opposite sides so that they crossed, and the outers to the front of the battery shelf. caused a lot of rubbing when flipping down the seats but I was taught never to drive without seatbelts. I couldn't think at the time how to mount any shoulder belts as my shoulders stuck out above the top of the seat. BTW I think I remember having put in a plate of aluminum on the back side of the battery box to strengthen that mount.