3rd seatbelt, Usable? Safe? Options

[914helo]

I have 2 small kids and was wondering if anybody has installed a 3rd seat belt. I have a cushion over the center armrest and my 6 year old (who doesn't need a car seat) fits on it. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/idea.gif) Being able to pick up both my kids if needed is another reason to drive the car as much as I can.

[kerensky]

You need to remember that when the 914 was designed, seat belts were still optional equipment on American cars. My parents bought my 914 in 1973, and I still remember riding on the center seat all the way from Oklahoma City to Dallas. Only restraint I had was my Mom's arm across my chest every time Dad moved for the brake pedal! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

And yeah, certainly not recommended for adults. Or children. Or wombats.

Now if you absolutely, positively *had* to do this for short trips, here's how I would approach it. I haven't looked at the seat belt mounts in my 'teener since, well, ever, but I imagine they're much like the ones in my wife's '72 super beetle 'vert or my waterpumper VWs - a tapped boss in the body with a bolt and the removable mount. You should be able to find suitable belts to add a third lap belt with little trouble. Try looking in 80's/90's vintage VWs in junkyards. I'd remove the center 'seat' and tray. Then find a car seat big enough for your youngest to belt into and strap it down.

I'd bet you'll have a hard time finding a seat that'll be big enough for your child yet not make you extremely uncomfortable, but you never know until you try. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)