Does installing the D-rings involve drilling holes in the helmet? If so, what does that do to the SNELL Rating?
Installing the helmet anchors does involve drilling holes in the helmet. The Snell Foundation has stated that so long as the drilling is done outside of the test zone, it does not affect the helmet's certification. The anchors used for the R3 are not in the test zone. In fact, many Snell-approved helmets are now supplied already drilled from the factory. Each kit includes the helmet hardware and installation instructions for easy do-it-yourself installation.
My helmet has HANS anchors installed. Can I use the same helmet attachment points?
If the previous hardware installation was done accurately, the R3 can use the same holes. We recommend that you check the hole location per the R3 installation instructions to make sure they are correctly located. We have seen some helmets with improperly located attachment points. If that is the case with your helmet, you may have to drill two new holes. Helmet manufacturers generally don't recommend leaving the old, unused attachment hardware in place. If you need to cover any old, unused holes in your helmet, a couple of strategically placed decals may be your best solution (or you could call them small, custom ventilation holes). Note: While it is technically feasible to use the R3 with HANS quick release fasteners, the manufacturers of the R3 do not recommend this. If you decide to use the HANS quick release fasteners with the R3, you must make sure to adjust the helmet attachment straps to the correct length.
I currently use a D-cell with the cables kit on the helmet. Does the R3 require D-rings or can it be connected to the existing cables?
The R3 would require the use of D-rings accurately mounted per the included instructions. The D-cell and the Hutchens Device both use the shoulder of the occupant as the pivot point for the helmet tether. The R3 uses a higher helmet tether mount, which requires a more rearward mount on the helmet. If you need to cover any old, unused holes in your helmet, a couple of strategically placed decals may be your best solution (or you could call them small, custom ventilation holes).
How do I determine whether to use the Formula version or the Sedan version for my sports racer?
You should measure the seat back angle just below where the shoulder harness passes through the seat back (the angle is measured from horizontal). If the angle is less than 65 degrees, use the Formula Car version. If the angle is between 65 and 80 degrees, use the Sedan version. If your seat back is VERY vertical (between 85 and 90 degrees), you may need the Sprint Car version (we have never stocked the Sprint Car version).
Are quick release tethers standard on the R3 or are they extra?
The R3 comes with the quick releases as a standard accessory at no extra charge.