Need assist: Odd-ball GM seat belt tool

tom p. · 11-20-06, 06:42

Subject car: 1995 GM H body

Guys, I figure my chances are good that somebody will recognize this application since we have a diverse group of auto enthusiasts here. I need to R/R the entire seatbelt mechanism and didn't make it very far yesterday. GM uses a tool which isn't common. It appears to be a socket of some sort with three pins. Here's a view in the trunk look up at the threaded retainer (underside of package shelf). Has anyone ever seen this?

I've found this, it doesn't look correct as there aren't any TORX style fittings on my fastener: OTC 5901 - Seat Belt Tool GM - SJs Tools

Thanks.

Setec Astronomy · 11-20-06, 07:06

Sorry, those aren't pin holes, they are spot weld marks. That's a threaded insert that's welded in so the fastener can be installed from the other side (of which you are seeing the threaded end of). The Torx-headed fastener will be accessed from the back seat (take the seat/shelf out).

tom p. · 11-20-06, 07:14

Oh, so you're saying I am not looking at the correct end of the fasterner? I didn't get the whole thing apart figuring it was pointless. Will I still need some unique tool? Or will I be able to use a TORX bit?

Thanks.

Danase · 11-20-06, 07:17

Correct. You are looking at the wrong end.

It will probably be a Torx bit. A big one.

Setec Astronomy · 11-20-06, 07:21

It might require a Torx socket, rather than a bit.

Danase · 11-20-06, 07:36

Quote:

Originally Posted by Setec Astronomy

It might require a Torx socket, rather than a bit.

Somehow I missed your post. LMAO Sorry about that man. I didn't mean to come in a repeat what you just said. When I did my belts on a 94 GMC I had to use a Torx socket. You are correct. I also had to use an impact gun because mine where so rusted. But his looks clean.

Setec Astronomy · 11-20-06, 07:48

You didn't repeat anything, I don't think. I had to change a belt in my '76 GM and I think that was the first time I ever saw a Torx that big, although I think it was a socket-head fastener (which requires a bit). Later, they started using the external Torx on things, which requires a socket to remove. Just wanted to make sure the OP is aware that it could be a bit or socket required, although from the link he posted, it looks like it will be a bit.

Danase · 11-20-06, 07:55

Quote:

Originally Posted by Setec Astronomy

You didn't repeat anything, I don't think. I had to change a belt in my '76 GM and I think that was the first time I ever saw a Torx that big, although I think it was a socket-head fastener (which requires a bit). Later, they started using the external Torx on things, which requires a socket to remove. Just wanted to make sure the OP is aware that it could be a bit or socket required, although from the link he posted, it looks like it will be a bit.

Yeah, mine was an internal too. I had to hunt all over for one that big too. I think my local parts store was the only place to carry it and I had to buy a whole set at the time. I am pretty sure I have never used that again either. LOL

Setec Astronomy · 11-20-06, 08:08

Not to take this further off topic, but it was probably 15-20 years ago when I changed that '76 belt, and I was shocked to see the Torx fastener, I didn't realize the car had any. In the early 80's GM had started using them on the headlights and stuff, but I didn't realize they had started using them as early as '76 on things they didn't want people messing with. It's always a pain, because you plan on doing a job or have to fix something (like the rear brakes on my '90 Pontiac), and it's Sunday afternoon and you find you need some special wrench/socket/bit that you can't get.

tom p. · 11-20-06, 08:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by Danase

Correct. You are looking at the wrong end.

OK, got it

I had a very frustrating weekend of car tasks...this was one of them. The only things that went right were the oil changes and a couple of cars getting washed.