Headrest vs Head Restraint

["Graydon D. Stuckey" <graydon@apollo.gmi.edu>]

On Thu, 25 Apr 1996, McIntyre, Richard wrote:

> Ok, head "restraints".   I read (but can't recall where) that the A6 head
> restraints were rated among the worst in an analysis by some organization
> or other.  I agree with this - the restraints are too far away from the head
> (height is not the problem) to offer protection in the event of a crash.  I know
> my old 4000CSQ did not have this problem.  A6 owners:  ever notice how
> far back you have to lean your head before it touches the restraint?
Guys,

	There is an FMVSS requirement regarding the distance from the head 
restraint to the back of the head with a standard SAE mannequin.  
Automakers MUST comply with this requirement.  Further, the distance is 
very important for rebound accelerations on a frontal collision, and 
therefore has a significant effect on crash performance.  As we all know, 
the Audis are all excellent when it comes to crashworthiness, so I would 
not worry about the head restraints from a safety standpoint.  Now, 
comfort - that is a different matter.  I don't mind the restraints on my 
5KCSTQ, but my wife hates them!  I never touch the thing - it's a 
restraint, not a rest.

HTSSLOTS  (Hope That Sheds Some Light On The Situation)  :-)

Later,								
Graydon D. Stuckey								
graydon@apollo.gmi.edu								
Flint, Michigan   USA
'86 Audi 5000 CS Turbo Quattro, GDS Racing Stage II