FAQ

Are Racetech seats made in China or somewhere else?

Somewhere else! All Racetech seats are proudly manufactured in Wellington, New Zealand using a combination of materials sourced locally and abroad. Our small, dedicated team take immense pride in crafting each seat and we celebrate each championship win like we were driving the car!

What is back-mounting and why is it required on some of your seat models?

We strongly believe back-mounting a seat improves driver safety in an impact and increases the driver ‘feel’ of the vehicle. It is no surprise that this same philosophy is now prevalent in international touring car categories such as V8 Supercars and NASCAR. This video explains the concept further. When the Racetech 119 and 129 series seats are crash-tested by the FIA, they are mounted with both back-mount and floor-mount brackets. It is therefore mandatory that these seats are installed using back-mount brackets to achieve FIA homologation.

What is the difference between the FIA 8855-1999 (old) and FIA 8862-2009 (new) seat standards?

The test method for the new 8862-2009 standard differs significantly from that of the older 8855-1999 standard. The old standard simulates three successive impacts; 20G rearwards, 15G laterally and another 10G rearwards by using a crash test dummy and rapidly decelerating a sled. The new standard is quasi-static, meaning the seat is fixed and the loads are applied by hydraulic rams to the head, shoulder and pelvis areas of the seat simultaneously. There are both lateral and rearwards tests where the seat must withstand; 

• Laterally:  7kN (Head), 11kN (Shoulder) and 14kN (Pelvis)
• Rearward:  7kN (Head), 14kN (Shoulder) and 14kN (Pelvis)

It is difficult to compare the two standards accurately except to say that the newer 8862 standard is much more rigorous and simulates an impact of approximately 70G.

The other point to note is that seats meeting the new FIA standard are required to use stiff, energy-absorbing foam in the head, shoulder and pelvis areas, improving safety for the occupant.

I have an old Racetech seat, can I get it re-homologated?

No, we don’t re-homologate seats.

Can I return a product and receive a refund?

Choose carefully, we will not accept product returns if you change your mind, your circumstances change, or you find an alternative option. If you believe your product is faulty, please contact us. Check our full returns policy here.

What is the recommended cleaning method for Racetech seat upholstery?

Apart from our (discontinued) 9100 Sprintcar seat models, it isn’t recommended that you remove the seat cover for cleaning. The cover is glued down and not designed for removal. With the seat cover still in place, you can use a combination of mild detergent/soap and water to remove dirt and dust. Use water sparingly, as excessive water will soak through the seat fabric into the foam and extend drying time.

I’m finding it difficult to know if your seat will fit in my car. Can you help?

If you have already checked out our dimensions tables, but need more specifics, we can supply CAD models for our 4100, 119 and 129 series seats. Please contact us directly with your request. CAD model requests are strictly considered and you will be required to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). 

Can you help me compare seat models so I can make the right decision?

Check out our Seat Comparison PDF which you can download here. You can also compare the specifications of up to four seat models (or our other products) by clicking the ‘Add to Compare’ button on each product page. 

Can I buy a custom seat?

Yes, we are always keen for a challenging project! Contact us and speak to our sales team to outline your requirements and we can confirm what is and isn’t possible. Custom modifications to the seat upholstery and embroidery are easy and relatively inexpensive. Modifications to the seat shell are more difficult and more expensive. Bear in mind that modifications to the seat shell are likely to void the FIA homologation, if applicable.

In what currency are the prices displayed on your website?

On our NZ site, www.racetech.co.nz, prices are displayed in New Zealand Dollars (NZD) and include GST of 15% except where otherwise specified.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept Credit Cards and bank deposits.

Is the listed seat price for one seat or a pair?

The seat prices listed on our website and in all other media (unless otherwise specified) are always for one seat only.

I love your product, can I become a dealer or distributor?

If you wish to apply as a dealer or distributor for your country, please email Racetech NZ directly here.