johnsopa

Since I'm taking my new SRF to the track this week, I dusted off my old HANS device that I used around 2000-2003 when I raced SRF.

IIRC this was one of the very early all carbon fiber HANS devices. I assume it's fine to run it since it was never damaged. I'll have to check on that...

Below are some pics. I don't remember what my setup was on my old helmet. I feel like I'm missing some parts.

Can I just buy a set of clips and the helmet mounts?

obsessedone

Simpson has recertification program https://simpsonraceproducts.com/sfi-recertifications.

Info at linked page gives idea of requirements and costs. You ship the unit to them. If inspection OK, they determine what requires updating for re-certification and call you to confirm details and price. In my experience turnaround is pretty quick - about 1 week. Recertification is valid for another 5 years. You can discuss helmet attachment options/hardware with them.

You mention event this weekend, call them you may be able to arrange expedited turnaround.

CharleyH

CharleyH

bella1

As suggested from the PCA Minimum Standards for DE you might consider:

When using a head and neck restraint device, it must meet the standards of either SFI 38.1 or FIA 8858. It is recommended that one follow the SFI Recertification process for the head and neck restraint device. The instructions for this can be found on the device. Additionally, it is recommended that the straps be replaced every five years.

https://www.pca.org/driver-education-minimum-standards

johnsopa

Looks like they made a bunch of minor changes since my v1 HANS. I went ahead and bought the new Gen3 non-pro HANS (about $475) with the sliding tethers. I'll use the new one while I send in the old one for recert/retrofit.

Thanks all for your help and advice.

Dr911

Recertification is probably the best way to go. With an updated helmet you have updated anchors.
If you send it back the manufacturer will inspect it, and replace your tethers/clips.
Your device shows fixed tethers, and the clips are no longer usable on recent model helmet HANS anchors.
This photo of a more recent HANS shows 1. sliding tethers and 2. update on helmet clips.

jakermc

Do FIA Hans devises expire? I remember hearing SFI ratings must be re-certified but FIA is good for life. No idea if this is really true. I have an ancient, original carbon model with new sliding tether, but the original FIA sticker, while dated, is still present. I am racing in Europe next month and must meet FIA standards, will this pass?

obsessedone

SFI normally 2 years, FIA 5 years for items like harnesses and window nets. Both have stickers indicating either date of manufacture or date of expiration depending when made - newer item stickers have date of expiration. HANS certification is 5 year, should be dated sticker on any recent models.

jakermc

I am aware of the harness, seat, window net, etc expiration dates but I have yet to see anything concrete with regards to expiration on an FIA Hans device. In fact I looked at my Hans last night and the FIA sticker does not even have a date on it, just a serial number. There would be no way to determine if it expired unless you had a mast list of serial numbers, not something a steward could do at a race. I checked the FIA documents and could not find a reference to an expiration date. This leads me to believe that the FIA rating does not expire on a Hans.

Does anyone have concrete information about this?

CharleyH

obsessedone

HANS re-certification info is on this page https://simpsonraceproducts.com/sfi-recertifications. There is a contact number at the bottom of the page that you can call to speak directly to Simpson/HANS representatives to get the answers directly from the authority.
My recollection is the earliest HANS devices did not show the date of manufacture or expiration. I also believe they will no longer re-certify some of the oldest devices. But call them directly at 1-800-654-7223 to get the actual facts.

jakermc

All of this applies to SFI certifications ONLY. FIA is a completely different sanctioning body with completely different rules. In the US, they usually accept both ways to certify. In Europe,only FIA rules apply. I am unaware of anyone in the US that performs FIA certifications.

I think I may need to make direct contact with the FIA to get a definitive answer.

obsessedone

Simpson HANS manufactures the devices and presumably should be able to answer your questions. Contacting FIA is certainly another approach. The FIA HANS Guide (attached) does not indicate an expiration date, but also does not indicate the device is "good forever". On p13 it indicates, "5. Life of HANS® Always follow the instructions of the manufacturer for the maintenance of the HANS®.", which would seem to suggest Simpson HANS would be a good source for the best answer to your question.

You may find that technically FIA does not currently have an expiration date for HANS certification, but I believe you will find the manufacturer, Simpson HANS, recommends tethers be replaced and the device inspected every 5 years. I recently had my SFI/FIA certified device recertified. It is an important safety device. If SFI thinks window nets are only good for 2 years and FIA thinks polyester window nets are only good for 5 years, I am willing to spend a few dollars to replace the HANS tethers and have it recertified every 5 years. The HANS tether is nowhere near as robust as my window and right side nets, and at an intuitive level I am much more concerned about the condition of my HANS than my nets. My out of date nets still felt strong enough to stop a truck let alone keep my hand and arm in the car. You may reach a different conclusion. It is "your neck", literally.

jakermc

Agreed, and I replaced my tethers less than a year ago. It's the carbon fiber structure that is in question and whether or not the scruts in Italy will allow a device with proper FIA sticker (but no date on it) but an old, expired SFI sticker on the device. (Tethers do have current dating).