SFI 45.3 padding question

[Frank06]

Hi All:

I wasn't sure where to post this but am interested in learning about flat padding for driver protection.  Most organizations seem to call for SFI 45.2 but I also find reference to 45.3 (going back a few years).  Does anyone know what the difference is?  SFI doesn't list 45.3 any more.  What about vehicles built using 45.3?  Is there some way to tell which spec this padding conforms to?  Any insight or general information would be appreciated.

Many thanks,
Frank

[Stainless1]

Frank, the best way to tell what you have and if it is acceptable to the organization is check/look for an imprint of the spec on the foam.  Both probably seem too hard to be called padding.... they are energy absorbers.
Where are you planning to put it?

[Frank06]

I'm building a small roadster and have a few spots that will benefit from flat padding.  The primary one is the flat side bars that ensure a helmet can't fit outside the roll cage structure.  But I also noticed old posts (~2012) talking about 45.3 for these types of applications.  From an inspection standpoint it got me wondering what the difference was.  I'm also going to drag race this car so I'm also looking at NHRA/IHRA requirements (they pretty much mirror LSR requirements, thankfully).   

[Stainless1]

We use SFI padding on the headrest and the plating we have on the roll cage.  Couldn't tell you if it is 45.2 or 45.3.... I just order it and ensure it is SFI padding.  The same goes for roll cage bar covers... SFI marked is good... Store brand without SFI rating bad
 

[jacksoni]

And though the rule book for head rest padding (3.C) just says "padding" the interpretation is that it must be SFI spec stuff. In contrast to the roll bar padding (3.B.2) which specifies SFI rated stuff.

[Frank06]

I was going to use the 45.2 stuff for the headrest as well.  Thanks for reminding me.  I'm not quite at the stage where I need to order anything but it's getting there. 

[kiwi belly tank]

Allow enough room for it in the fab process plus some clearance to your brain bucket.
  Sid.