by Tim Comeau on Wed Apr 30, 2008 7:39 pm
Glenn,
Yes, they expire.
In NASA, you can race a seat for 5 years. After that, the seat is supposed to be reinspected and if approved, can be used for another 2 years.
The newer seats are not supposed to have a seat back brace used. They are designed to flex. FIA International Sporting Code: 8855-1999.
Some racing seats are not allowed. The ones with a steel tube frame and cloth covering, for example.
It's best to see the rule set for each sanctioning body you'll be racing with.
Good luck.