1) Are the aftermarket/NHTSA "switches" really switches, i.e. do they allow you to turn the air bag on and off whenever you want?

Yes, they are switches that are "keyed" so the airbags can not be casually turn on or off.

1a) Presumably these solutions don't activate the SRS light, correct?

They are supposed to provide the proper electrical feedback to the car's SRS diagnostics so that it will not know that the airbag is either engaged or disengaged. However, recently my SRS light has come on twice and this requires the dealer to reset it (defective switch?).

2) Assuming you don't care about the SRS light and the few extra minutes each time, couldn't you accomplish the same thing (turning it on/off at will) by plugging/unplugging it?

It is possible to disconnect the fuse or cut a wire, but there is no certainty there isn't a backup system or that you won't cause other problems (see http://www.airbagonoff.com/new_page_22.htm).

3) What's this about "locking" the seat belt? They use pressure-sensitive pretensioners, right? Is there a way to lock them and unlock them for the duration of a trip?

Actually the pretensioners are safety devices that only "fire" during an accident to take up any slack in the belt at the moment of impact. However when we talk about "locking" the belt (especially with kids), we are referring to using the built-in retractor locking mechanism in most modern belt systems. To do this in most cars, including the S2000, simply pull the seat belt out all the way. As you slowly retract the belt, you should hear the "click-click-click" of the retractor mechanism. If you pull on the belt now, it will NOT extend as it does during normal seat belt use. My BMW and Honda both have these retractor mechanisms, but my 2 yr old Chrysler T&C still does not (damn American cars...).

Hope this helps!

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by jcavalie
[B]

Update on the process, for those following along:
Previously, steps 1 and 2 had been completed.

 

thanks!

 

Very cool, J. So, that actually doesn't sound like one of the switches I've read about. Perhaps Honda does have its own switch. It certainly sounds better integrated than the aftermarket ones.

 

AHMC called today and my dealer is ready to order the part. I need to call Tuesday and pre-pay for the part and two-hours labor, and then we should be good to schedule an appointment!

 

good deal!

 

Sounds great! Looking forward to your comments and maybe some pictures of the final install.

 

Thanks for everyone following along on this saga. When all done, I will write it all in one post and add the picts!

Jim

 

My local Honda dealership finally called me. They have taken my credit card info and ordered the part from AHMC. Once they receive it, they will call to schedule the installation. Should be 1-3 more weeks and this will be a wrap!

 

Did'ja' notice, J, that they didn't put a kill switch into the '04?

I really can't wait to see this install, J... I have no idea where AHM is getting the part for this.

Best o' luck.