![]() |
Register or Log In To remove these advertisements. |
|
|
![]() |
|
Thread Tools | Display Modes |
![]() |
#1 |
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Weatherford, Tx
Posts: 142
|
Making a 67-72 more safe.
Hey guys,
I ran across this crash test of a 59 bel air. After seeing how catastrophic a crash can be in an older vehicle, I've decided to post this thread to bring together ideas and builds to make our trucks more safe. My entire family and all of my friends know me by my 68'. When they think of me, they think of me and my truck, I live for it. To imagine the horendous impact that would overwhelm my family and friends, after dying in an accident, is quite frightening. The mental image of a newspaper article with a picture of my mangled truck, and the funeral service information, is quite fearful as well. My dad is in the Army, and has seen many deployments, and experienced many difficulties. He once quoted, "Think of the worst casinario, and how to survive it." Here's some of the things I've been thinking about: -Steering column with an airbag, and other dash airbags -roll bar that's in the cab, behind the seat, that wraps discretly around the rear glass -seat/seat belt upgrades -frame supports/ (kind of wild and out there but, crumple zones?!) If you have any ideas or builds, let's hear it Thanks for reading, as always, you guys rock. Posted via Mobile Device
__________________
-Bruton 1968 GMC long bed 5.7/700R4 --I'd rather push a Chevy, than drive a Ford.-- |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#2 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Cali Central Coast
Posts: 5,191
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Interesting project. If you have the wherewithal to do all that stuff, I say go for it. I guess I should worry about the safety factor of our trucks, but I don't. You can never be guaranteed that you will survive an accident, regardless of the vehicle; of course, in a modern one with safety features, you are better off. About a month ago I was going north on 101 north of Santa Barbara and a lady pitch-pulled (hobie cat term- end over end, corner to corner) a newer Ford 500 going 65 mph in the south bound lane, and richocheted off a new Tundra in front of me. When it stopped rolling I fully thought she was dead; she crawled out the window and wandered over to the other vehicle. I think she was a crack head because she was super skinny, but not a scratch on her. No one in either vehicle appeared hurt. New cars are designed very well, and it would be an interesting challenge to re-engineer an older vehicle, but sometimes its just easier to buy something thats already been designed with safety in mind.
__________________
'67 SWB Fleetside ZZ4/350/Tremec 5-speed/4link/Scott's IFS - and fun as heck! SOLD ![]() Click here to support the board Philippians 4: 6-7 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#3 |
Carpe manana
![]() ![]() Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Eau Claire, WI
Posts: 12,382
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Hey I have a brother next door in Azle, Tx. My 0.02 cents: if you want a safer ride buy something else for a daily driver. That said, I have shoulder belts in mine. That's an easy do and I suspect it's no fun breaking your teeth or sternum on the steering wheel. As for the in-cab gas tank I don't expect that's much of a problem in a collision unless the truck rolls, I survive, and gas is pouring all over me. As you have a 68, maybe an upgrade to disc brakes would help a bit? Take care! Pete
__________________
1972 K5 CST Highlander Blazer: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=708547 1972 K20 Cheyenne Super: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=528308 ![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#4 |
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: San Jose, California
Posts: 784
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
By placing your beer between your legs instead of holding on to it, you can keep both hands on the wheel at all times.
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#5 |
Account Suspended
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Posts: 3,331
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Keep in mind, you're not driving a '59 Bel air. You're driving a truck that sits higher, and is heavier. I'm sure it would fair better.
This piece of crap likely has the latest in safety features, but I'd sure rather be me in my truck, then her in her sardine can if we were to collide ![]() One small thing you could do, is replace your front windshield with a modern one that has an interior plastic coat to help keep objects from piercing the glass from the outside, and has a better chance of hopefully keeping an occupant in. Also, tinting the rest of your windows can help with flying glass. Be a defensive driver, and keep away from idiots as much as possible Posted via Mobile Device |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#6 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Mission Viejo, CA
Posts: 1,856
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
dude look up the safety specs on that thing. its pretty unreal. its like an egg. They actually have a commercial with a full size blazer sitting on top of it.
and also small cars are awesome. I'd own one but I'm 6'2" and my wife wont let me becasue I'd look ridiculous getting out of it. She said she'd buy me clown shoes. but on topic. Get the gas tank out of the cab. this guy put stability control in his mustang... http://www.hotrod.com/techarticles/h...s/viewall.html I heard bosch has an aftermarket ABS system but its 5figures type stuff. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#7 |
Special Order
![]() ![]() Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Mt Airy, MD
Posts: 85,859
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
No offense,but people worry too much. All the changes in the world and you can still die in an accident in any vehicle. Keeping that in mind while driving is the best safety device ever
__________________
"BUILDING A BETTER WAY TO SERVE THE USA"......67/72......"The New Breed" GMC '67 C1500 Wideside Super Custom SWB: 327/M22/3.42 posi.........."The '67" (project) GMC '72 K2500 Wideside Sierra Custom Camper: 350/TH350/4.10 Power-Lok..."The '72" (rolling) Tim "Don't call me a redneck. I'm a rough cut country gentleman" R.I.P. ~ East Side Low Life ~ El Jay ~ 72BLUZ ~ Fasteddie69 ~ Ron586 ~ 67ChevyRedneck ~ Grumpy Old Man ~ |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#8 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: daytonabeach
Posts: 22,956
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
learing how to drive safe is the best way to stay safe
__________________
71c-10 350/2004r/4:11 lowered3/4 longbed/dead by hurricane MEANING OF DEATH::::: SOMEBODY ELSE GETS YOUR STUFF DONT BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU THINK TAKE MY ADVISE;I DON'T USE IT ANYWAY |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#9 |
1969 Custom 30 wrecker
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Pottsville, Pa
Posts: 2,611
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
I think that 59 Chevy test was rigged but I won't go into that.
Now, imagine your sitting at a stop light behind another vehicle in that small POS above and a truck (or anything) rear ends you at a good speed. Guess what, your a sandwich! There's no place for it to "crumple" except the space your in! Say goodbye to your legs at the very least. I'd prefer some metal between me and the other cars. And if I had to drive anything they make today, I'd rather just walk. ![]()
__________________
Bob 63 Impala 283/PG/3.36 (under restoration) 66 Impala 327/PG/3.36 66 Chevelle SS 409/M22/3.55 69 Chevelle 307/PG/3.08 (future restoration) 69 C10 short stepside 454/TH350/3.73 69 Custom 30 tow truck 350/4 spd/4.10 (resto done, CRUISIN TIME!) 71 Cheyenne 20 fleetside 350/4 spd/4.10 71 Chevelle 6/PG/3.08 72 Chevelle 454/M21/4.10 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#10 |
Registered User
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Grand Island, Ne.
Posts: 1,110
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
![]() Im sorry newer doesnt make it safer. If I can lay on the ground next to the car and my feet and head pass both bumpers I wont get in it. Smart car my Arz. Dumb car. Im with Mister-B Id rather be in my Tank than a peice of plastic with air bags.
__________________
J. Vess, 6'6", Gearhead, Welder, Fabricator, Nutcase 1955 Chevy Stepside "Dudley" My daily http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=760288 1972 Chevy C10, Project "Chevro~Layed out" Nether Storm Build Thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...23#post6007523 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#11 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Ruskin Florida
Posts: 4,560
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
I wrecked my lifted 72 blazer. Some guy drove a Dodge Magnum across all three lanes directly vertical to my lane. It was like hitting a parked car at 55mph. I could pick front-back-or middle but we were going to collide. Bent the frame and every bolt holding it on the frame. Still ran and drove it on the flatbed truck. My injuries included a chipped tooth and a scratch on my left elbow. Lap belt only. And I will never again just leave a spare tire laying in the back as it tore up my passenger seat. Totaled by the ins company. Magnum was DESTROYED! Darn Dodges! So I thinks we are pretty safe in these things.
__________________
70 swb 4x4 406sbc 700r4 203/205 d60/14blt locker yadda yadda http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...88#post6935688 Yeller 72 Blazer 2wd conversion project "No Daggum Money" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=550804 LS1-T56 3.73 LSD super budget build Blanco-2014 Sierra SWB https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=810350 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#12 |
Boosted Member
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Mackinaw, IL
Posts: 2,200
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
This is probably your best bet.
![]() I don't think that retrofitting air bags is very viable. There is a LOT of calculations that go into designing the steering column and dash structure to support not only the deployment, but also the energy absorption of YOU in an impact. Many times the dash and windshield work in concert to correctly deploy and place the air bag....not to mention the nightmare of developing and calibrating the accelerometers that trigger the bag. Seats and seatbelts? Yep, easy win. Rollbar in the cab? As long as it's properly designed, sure, why not. Or....you could just live your life and enjoy it.
__________________
1972 2wd K/5 Blazer Turbocharged 370 LSx - 941 rwhp / 1093 rwtq 1969 Chevy K-10 L33 5.3 / 4L80E / NP241 / 4" lift 1964 Buick Skylark Twin TURBO 383 LS pro-touring project 2014 VW Passat TDI - Daily Driver Turbo diesel 2015 Sierra Denali HD Duramax Turbo diesel 2016 Ford Explorer Sport - Twin Turbskis 2017 Polaris RZR Turbo 2014 Nor-Tech Center Console - Twin Supercharged Outboards TURBO ALL THE THINGS!! |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#13 |
Registered User
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Grand Island, Ne.
Posts: 1,110
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
so you couldnt dodge the Dodge?....
![]()
__________________
J. Vess, 6'6", Gearhead, Welder, Fabricator, Nutcase 1955 Chevy Stepside "Dudley" My daily http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=760288 1972 Chevy C10, Project "Chevro~Layed out" Nether Storm Build Thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...23#post6007523 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#14 |
Registered User
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: strausstown pa
Posts: 3,394
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
ya wanna make it more safe.
add your 3 point belts. put seats in with head rests(prevent reverse head butting the rear window that hurts) good tires good brakes fresh suspention wear items fresh steering componets good lights and drive carefully only you can prevent you from having a accident otherwise you cant control what other drivers are gonna do oh and that video like bob said its probaly staged too make the new car look better.you cant believe everything you see on the interweb
__________________
81 camaro 355 4/spd 342 posi my first love ![]() 67 swb step 454/4spd ott 373 posi 4/7 drop. 2000 s10 zr2 little blue truck that never gets stuck. '74 heald super bronc vt8. tecumseh powered moon rover. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#15 | |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: DALLAS,TX
Posts: 21,970
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Quote:
Debris in the bed of a truck can become lethal in an accident. 3pt belts properly anchored. Defensive driving. Disc brakes & a properly adjusted brake system. Quality tires vs. the cheapest available or excessively worn. Steering columns can be shortened slightly if there are concerns there. Blazer tank (or similar type) between the rails or in the bed (properly anchored ![]()
__________________
67SWB-B.B.RetroRod 64SWB-Recycle 89CCDually-Driver/Tow Truck 99CCSWB Driver All Fleetsides @rattlecankustoms in IG Building a small, high rpm engine with the perfect bore, stroke and rod ratio is very impressive. It's like a highly skilled Morrocan sword fighter with a Damascus Steel Scimitar..... Cubic inches is like Indiana Jones with a cheap pistol. |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#16 |
Registered User
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Grand Island, Ne.
Posts: 1,110
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
How do you shorten your steer shaft? is there cutting involved?
__________________
J. Vess, 6'6", Gearhead, Welder, Fabricator, Nutcase 1955 Chevy Stepside "Dudley" My daily http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=760288 1972 Chevy C10, Project "Chevro~Layed out" Nether Storm Build Thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...23#post6007523 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#17 |
2WD Jimmy
![]() Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: Davis County, Utah
Posts: 2,564
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
These trucks are way safer than you might imagine. I hit a telephone pole head on as a youngster in a 69 GMC. Broke that pole in 3 pieces and brought down all the lines. Totaled the truck, but me and my passenger were fine.
Make sure you have good new belts and you will be good to go. Posted via Mobile Device |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#18 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Klein Texas
Posts: 3,852
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
You cannot compare the ladder style frame of your truck to the X member frame in that '59 Chevrolet.
Like others have said, wear you safety belts (shoulder belts would help) and you'll be fine.
__________________
My Classics: '72 K20 Suburban + '65 Dodge Town Wagon '72 Corvette Roadster +'67 Corvette Roadster '73 Z-28 Camaro '63 Ford SWB Uni Pickup '50 Ford Coupe |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#19 | |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Orem, Utah
Posts: 7,911
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Quote:
Windshields are made of laminated glass, two layers of glass with a plastic layer between. The plastic keeps the glass together in the event of breakage. Most other glass in the car is tempered glass, which is tougher to break and will shatter into many small pieces if broken so no large, dangerous shards are formed. I say most because some manufacturers occasionally use laminated glass in other pieces - the rear quarters on mid-80s Suburbans that had privacy tint are an example. Manufacturers experimented in the early 90s with layer of plastic on the interior face of windshields on some high-dollar cars (Town Car comes to mind), with the thought that the plastic would prevent cuts in case of an accident. It was pretty impressive; I ran my hand over one after it had been hit by a hammer 5 or 6 times, and it was bumpy but there were no cutting surfaces. The manufacturers ultimately gave up the experiment because the plastic scratched too easily (owners didn't follow the cleaning instructions) and there wasn't sufficient evidence of benefit for the insurance companies to pay for replacements. The bottom line is this: Unless your windshield is broken, the only safety advantage to replacing your windshield would be having new, clean glass to look through. As others have said, make sure the safety equipment you have is up to par, and maybe upgrade brakes and seat belts. And watch for anvils falling from the sky. |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#20 |
Looks good at 20-ft .....
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Mtn Home, AR
Posts: 707
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Doesn't have to be debris.....
I knew a contractor-friend & his wife who were both killed by his across-the-bed toolbox. Head-on hit in his pickup by a drunk driver. Survivable injuries to their legs, etc, but the heavily-loaded toolbox that he had screwed to the top of the bed rails with short hardware store low quality sheet metal screws tore loose & killed them both when it came thru the back of the cab. I re-mounted mine, reinforced with a piece of strap steel below the bed rail on each side & hardened bolts. Ten $$$ fix that would have saved their lives. Think about safely re-mounting your toolbox now ......... |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#21 |
Looks good at 20-ft .....
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Mtn Home, AR
Posts: 707
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Yikes.
Post 666. Had to do another. Be safe, drive smart. Drive sober. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#22 | |
Account Suspended
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Posts: 3,331
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Quote:
Posted via Mobile Device |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#23 | |
Account Suspended
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Posts: 3,331
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Quote:
Posted via Mobile Device |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#24 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Podunk, Texas
Posts: 748
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
That's the tack I'm taking in my recently acquired '67 GMC. I've driven cars with airbags, anti-lock disc brakes, and tight handling characteristics for the last 20 years and have consequently developed driving habits regarding speed, lane changing, following distance, stopping distance, and general distractions that will get me killed in the GMC unless I modify those habits, which I'm working on.
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#25 | |
Registered User
![]() Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Marshfield, MO
Posts: 355
|
Re: Making a 67-72 more safe.
Quote:
|
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
Bookmarks |
|
|