Readers, let's have some light discussion on something which came up on FB a while ago. This concerns the introduction of the Twin Lok, Twin Loc, or Twin Lock (all variations can be found) seat belts. Most will say this occurred with the introduction of the Clubman range, but it so happens that the initial drawing for this system (part of which is shown below) is specfied for first use on YDO4, YDO5 and YDO6 (that is, Morris Mini Minor, Morris Mini 1100 (K) and Morris Cooper S) and the date of the drawing is 17/3/1970 - well before the introduction of the Clubman range in the middle of 1971. So, has anyone seen these seat belts in a very late "round nose" Mini (Peter would be turning in his grave at the phrase) ?

Tony, what actually constitutes the Twin Lock (et al) seat belt?

_________________
Cheers Dave.

This is the system where the two front latches are a box like structure rigidly mounted to the floor centre tunnel so that one only needs one hand (supposedly) to fit your belt rather than mess around with floppy buckles. The press buttons go into a recessed rectangular hole to guard against accidental release. it would seem that the system was drawn up for the earlier cars but (unless someone shows otherwise from observation or produce an accessory brochure) did not make it to the showroom until Clubman release which is the first time I can find mention of it as available to the public.

I asked because the early 72 Clubman I have here came with 2 somewhat flexible buckles fitted. However, in a box of spares was the box style latches which would have been original. The front passenger belt buckle did not fit the latch though. It probably fitted the box style had I bothered to check. The driver side of the box was broken.

_________________
Cheers Dave.