Britax DECATHLON User Manual

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Decathlon

User Guide

Table of Contents

Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

WARNINGS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Important Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Rear View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Vehicle Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Vehicle Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Vehicle Buckle Position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Vehicle Seating Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Installation: Rear Facing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

LATCH Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Lap-Shoulder Belt Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Lap Belt Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Installation: Forward Facing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

LATCH Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Lap-Shoulder Belt Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Lap Belt Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Installation: Versa-Tether® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Using the Versa-Tether . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Using the Rear Facing Tether Connector Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Installation: Aircraft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Restraint Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Switching the LATCH Harness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Storing the LATCH Harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Recline Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Infant Positioning System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Toddler Pillow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Chest Clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

HUGS™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Harness Buckle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Harness Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Securing Your Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

This product and its components are subject to change without notice.

P250000 R1:11/04

•

Use only in a rear-facing position when using restraint with an infant weighing less than 20 pounds (9 kg). The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends rear facing until at least 1 year of age and 20 pounds.

•

Use only with children who weigh between 5 and 65 pounds (2.3 and 29 kg) and whose height is 49 inches (124 cm) or less. Rear facing 5–33 pounds (2.3–15 kg) and forward facing maximum 65 pounds (29 kg).

•

Snugly adjust the belts provided with this child restraint around your child. A snug strap should not allow any slack. It lies in a relatively straight line without sagging. It does not press on the child’s flesh or push the child’s body into an unnatural position.

•

Secure the top anchorage strap provided with this child restraint. Secure this child restraint with the vehicle’s child restraint

• anchorage system if available or with a vehicle belt.

Follow all instructions on this child restraint and in the written

• instructions.

•

• children weighing more than 48 pounds (21 kg). Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer for the maximum weight rating for their LATCH anchors. Unless specified otherwise by the vehicle manufacturer, assume a 48pound child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit.

• This child restraint must not be used in the home, in boats, or other non-certified applications.

•

Based on crash statistics, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that parents select the back seat as the safest location for a properly installed child restraint. Please study the section on Vehicle Safety Belts in this booklet to ensure the child’s safety. If in doubt about installing the child restraint, consult the vehicle owner’s manual.

•

Secure this child restraint even when it is not occupied. In a crash, an unsecured child restraint may injure vehicle occupants.

•

When using in vehicle with air bags, refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for child restraint installation instructions and precautions.

Restraint must be in the full upright position when installed in

• forward facing mode with children over 33 pounds (15 kg).

Never use the adjuster strap to lift or carry this child restraint. Doing

• so could cause damage to the harness adjuster and webbing. Always carry this child restraint by the shell or tether straps.

•

The primary protection for occupants of a vehicle in a collision is the body of the vehicle itself; a child restraint will not protect a child when the vehicle is seriously impacted. However, correctly installed, a child restraint will substantially improve the chances for survival in most crashes. Make sure that all users fully understand the correct ways to use this child restraint in a vehicle.

Safety Information

IMPORTANT:

•

Verify that the child restraint is secure and that the harness is properly adjusted around the child each time the child restraint is used.

•

Adjust the harness to fit the clothes the child is wearing. The fit for a child in winter clothes will differ from a child in summer clothes.

•

Cover the restraint when the vehicle is parked in direct sunlight. Parts of the child restraint could become hot enough to burn the child.

•

Store the child restraint in a safe place when it is not being used. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of it.

•

Discontinue use of a child restraint that is older than six years or has been in a severe crash to prevent injury due to deterioration or hidden damage. See date of manufacture, located on restraint.

Do not leave children alone in a vehicle, even for a short time.

•

Do not, except as described in this booklet, attempt to disassemble any part of the child restraint or change the way its harness or the vehicle restraint belts are used.

•

Do not leave loose objects, e.g. books, bags, etc., in the back of a vehicle. In the event of a sudden stop, loose objects will keep moving, potentially causing serious injuries.

•

Do not leave folding vehicle seats unlatched. In the event of a sudden stop, a loose seat back could prevent the child restraint from protecting the child as well as it should.

•

Do not allow children to play with the child restraint.

•

Do not use anything to raise the restraint off the vehicle seat, except as described in these instructions. In a crash, it could slide and may not protect the child as well as it should.

This child restraint system conforms to all applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards. This restraint is certified for use in motor

vehicles and aircraft.

Child restraints could be recalled for safety reasons. You must register this restraint to be reached in a recall. Send your name, address, and the restraint's model number and manufacturing date to Britax Child Safety, Inc. 13501 South Ridge Drive Charlotte, NC 28273 or call 1-888-4BRITAX. For recall information, call the U.S. Government's Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

Visit BritaxUSA.com to register your restraint online!

WARNING! DO NOT place a child

restraint in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger air bag unless the air bag is turned off. DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur. The back seat is the safest place for children under 12.

Features

1 Cover 2 Shell 3 Forward Facing Lock-off 4 Rear Facing Belt Slot 5 Rear Facing Lock-off 6 Forward Facing Belt Slot 7 Toddler Pillow Attachment Strap

8 Versa-Tether® 9 Versa-Tether Pouch 10 Harness Straps 11 Harness Yoke 12 Belt Guard 13 Base

LATCH

Lower Anchors and

Tethers for CHildren

14 LATCH Adjuster 15 LATCH Connector Release Button 16 LATCH Connector 17 Toddler Pillow 18 Infant Positioning System: Infant Pillow 19 Infant Positioning System: Body Pillow 20 Comfort Pads

22 23

21 Chest Clip 22 HUGS™Shoulder Pads 23 Harness Buckle 24 Harness Adjuster Release Button 25 Harness Adjuster Strap 26 Recline Handle

Vehicle Compatibility

Vehicle Compatiblity

Vehicle Safety Belts

IMPORTANT:

•

The information in this section only applies to installation with vehicle safety belts.

•

Some vehicles do not have seating positions which are compatible with this child restraint. If in doubt, contact the vehicle manufacturer.

The following types of vehicle belts are not compatible with this child restraint:

Front vehicle belts with top or bottom anchorage points in the door.

Motor driven automatic vehicle belts. Three-point belts that have separate

retractors for the shoulder section and the lap section.

Non-locking (ELR) two-point vehicle belts.

The owner's manual for your vehicle will have information on the types of vehicle belts in your vehicle. If your belt type is listed above, select another seating position or use LATCH connectors.

This child restraint can fit securely in most vehicles using the existing vehicle belts. However, some types of vehicle designs prevent a secure fit of the child restraint due to the position of the vehicle belt lower anchorage points.

Vehicle Buckle Position

WARNING: The position of the vehicle belt

buckle can affect the stability of the child restraint. In an accident, an improperly positioned buckle could become loose and the child would be unprotected.

If the buckle lies near the position marked as wrong ( ) when the vehicle belt is tightened, try fitting the child restraint in another seating position in the vehicle.

If it is not possible to achieve the correct position ( ) for the buckle, then another seating position MUST be used.

Vehicle Seating Positions

WARNING: Forward facing vehicle seats MUST be

used with this child restraint. Side Facing or rear facing seats CANNOT be used (see diagram below).

Installation: Rear Facing

LATCH Installation

• Figure A illustrates a typical rear facing

LATCH installation.

• Verify that your vehicle is equipped

with LATCH anchors. If LATCH anchors are not available, you must use vehicle belt installation methods.

1 If stored, remove LATCH connectors

from storage slots under cover (pg. 25).

2 Press each LATCH adjuster release

button, then pull LATCH harness to full length.

3 Thread each LATCH connector through

adjacent rear facing belt slot (fig. B).

4 Fully recline the restraint then place it

sideways on the vehicle seat, with the front facing toward you.

5 Attach the farthest LATCH connector

to the farthest LATCH anchor (fig. C).

•

A positive click confirms attachment.

•

If LATCH connectors will not attach with a positive click, it may be necessary to switch the LATCH connectors as shown on page 25.

6 Rotate seat into rear facing position. 7 Verify that the LATCH harness is not

twisted, then attach the closest LATCH connector to the closest LATCH anchor (fig. D).

8 Push the child restraint firmly into the

vehicle seat while pulling each LATCH harness tight (fig. E).

9 Verify that all connections are secure

and the restraint is stable.

• The restraint is tight when it cannot be

moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the belt path.

• The back angle of the child restraint

should not exceed 45º when properly installed rear facing.

• If there is a problem stabilizing the

restraint or achieving necessary angle, place a tightly rolled towel in the crease of the vehicle seat to help level the restraint.

•

Installation can be improved by the use of the

Versa-Tether® (pgs. 21–23).The recline angle can be adjusted by tightening the tether as described on page 22, using anchor point 3.

WARNING: Do not raise the restraint off of the front edge of the vehicle seat;

doing so will reduce the protection for your child.

Removal

1 While pushing the restraint firmly into the vehicle seat, press the

red release button on the LATCH connector to release.

2 If connected, disconnect the Versa-Tether from the tether anchor. 3

When not in use, always store the LATCH connectors in

storage slots (pg. 25)

Installation: Rear Facing

Lap-Shoulder Belt Installation

• Figure A illustrates a typical rear facing

lap-shoulder belt installation.

•

When not in use, always store the LATCH connectors in storage slots.

1 Fully recline the restraint then place it

rear facing on the vehicle seat.

2 Open rear facing lock-off farthest from

where the vehicle belt will be buckled.

Pull the vehicle belt out then pass it through the first rear facing belt slot (fig. B)

•

The vehicle belt can be routed over or under the cover.

Route vehicle belt across the seat then through the second rear facing belt slot.

Verify that the vehicle belt is not

fig. C)

twisted, then buckle (

6 Push the restraint firmly into the seat

while removing slack from the lap portion of the vehicle belt, then the shoulder portion (fig. D).

Installation: Rear Facing

Position both sections of vehicle belt through the rear facing lock-off farthest from vehicle buckle, then

(

fig. E)

close lock-off arm

•

Lock-off is properly closed when a click is heard.

•

To prevent breakage, never bend the lock-off arm up or down.

8 Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and

the child restraint is stable.

• The restraint is tight when it cannot be

moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the belt path.

• The back angle of the child restraint

should not exceed 45º when properly installed rear facing.

• If there is a problem stabilizing the

restraint or achieving necessary angle, place a tightly rolled towel in the crease

of the vehicle seat to help level the restraint.

•

Installation can be improved by the use of the 21–23).The recline angle can be adjusted by tightening the tether as described on page 22, using anchor point 3.

WARNING: Do not raise the restraint off of the front edge of the vehicle seat;

doing so will reduce the protection for your child.

Removal

Release the Versa-Tether, if used, then reverse the above directions.

Versa-Tether® (pgs.

Installation: Rear Facing

Lap Belt Installation

• Figure A illustrates a typical rear facing

lap belt installation.

•

When not in use, always store the LATCH connectors in storage slots.

1 Fully recline the restraint then place it

rear facing on the vehicle seat.

2 Open rear facing lock-off farthest from

where the vehicle belt will be buckled.

3 Pull the vehicle belt out, then pass it

through the closest rear facing belt slot (fig. B).

•

The vehicle belt can be routed over or under the restraint cover.

Route vehicle belt across the seat then through the second rear facing belt slot.

Verify that the vehicle belt is not

fig. C)

twisted, then buckle (

6 Push the child restraint firmly into the

vehicle seat while removing slack from the vehicle belt (fig. D).

Installation: Rear Facing

Position the vehicle belt through the rear facing lock-off farthest from the vehicle buckle, then close lock-off arm (

fig. E)

•

Lock-off is properly closed when a click is heard.

•

To prevent breakage, never bend the lock-off arm up or down.

8 Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and

the child restraint is stable.

• The restraint is tight when it cannot be

moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the belt path.

• The back angle of the child restraint

should not exceed 45º when properly installed rear facing.

• If there is a problem stabilizing the

restraint or achieving necessary angle, place a tightly rolled towel in the crease of the vehicle seat to help level the restraint.

•

Installation can be improved by the use of the 21–23).The recline angle can be adjusted by tightening the tether as described on page 22, using anchor point 3.

WARNING: Do not raise the restraint off of the front edge of the vehicle seat;

doing so will reduce the protection for your child.

Versa-Tether® (pgs.

Removal

Release the Versa-Tether, if used, then reverse the above directions.

1514

Installation: Forward Facing

LATCH Installation

• Figure A illustrates a typical forward

facing LATCH installation.

• Verify that your vehicle is equipped

with LATCH anchors. If LATCH anchors are not available, you must use vehicle belt installation methods.

1 If stored, remove LATCH connectors

from storage slots under cover (pg. 25), then pull completely through right-side rear facing belt slot.

2 Press each LATCH adjuster release button,

then pull LATCH harness to full length.

3 Thread each LATCH harness through

forward facing belt path (fig. B).

4 Place restraint sideways on the vehicle

seat, with the back facing toward you.

•

Restraint must be in the full upright position when installed in forward facing mode with children over 33 pounds (15kg).

•

If using pouch and loosely attach to an approved tether anchorage point. (pg. 25).

5 Attach the farthest LATCH connector

to the farthest LATCH anchor (fig. C).

•

A positive click confirms attachment.

•

If LATCH connectors will not attach with a positive click, it may be necessary to switch the LATCH connectors as shown on page 25.

Versa-Tether®, remove from

6 Rotate seat into forward facing position. 7 Verify that the LATCH harness is not

twisted, then attach the closest LATCH connector to the closest LATCH anchor (fig. D).

•

A positive click confirms attachment.

8 Kneel on the child restraint to force it

into the vehicle seat while pulling each

LATCH harness tight (fig. E).

9 Verify that all connections are secure

and the restraint is stable.

• The restraint is tight when it cannot be

moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the belt path.

•

Installation can be improved by the use of the

Versa-Tether

(pgs. 21–22)

Removal

vehicle seat, press the red release button on the LATCH connector to release.

2 If connected, disconnect the Versa-Tether from the tether anchor. 3

When not in use, always store the LATCH connectors in

1 While pushing the restraint firmly into the

storage slots (pg. 25)

WARNING: Use vehicle belt (not LATCH connectors) for installations with

children weighing more than 48 pounds (21 kg). Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer for the maximum weight rating for their LATCH anchors. Unless specified otherwise by the vehicle

manufacturer, assume a 48-pound child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit.

Installation: Forward Facing

Lap-Shoulder Belt Installation

• Figure A illustrates a typical forward

facing lap-shoulder belt installation.

•

When not in use, always store the LATCH connectors in storage slots.

1 Place the child restraint forward facing

on the vehicle seat.

•

Restraint must be in the full upright position when installed in forward facing mode with children over 33 pounds (15kg).

•

If using pouch and loosely attach to an approved tether anchorage point (pg. 22).

Pull the vehicle belt out then thread it

Versa-Tether

through the forward facing belt path. (fig. B)

Verify that the vehicle belt is not twisted, then buckle (

, remove from

fig. C)

4 Rotate lever downward to open

forward facing lock-off farthest from where the vehicle belt will be buckled.

5 Remove slack from the lap portion of

the vehicle belt.

Kneel on the child restraint to force it into the vehicle seat while pulling the shoulder portion of the vehicle belt

tightly through the lock-off (fig. D).

Hold the shoulder belt tight, then rotate the lock-off upward until secured(fig. E)

8 Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and

the child restraint is secure.

• The restraint is tight when it cannot be

moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the belt path.

•

Installation can be improved by the use of the

Versa-Tether® (pgs. 21–22)

Removal

Release the Versa-Tether, if used, then reverse the above directions.

Installation: Forward Facing

Installation: Versa-Tether

Lap Belt Installation

• Figure A illustrates a typical forward

facing lap belt installation.

•

When not in use, always store the LATCH connectors in storage slots.

Place the child restraint forward facing on the vehicle seat.

•

Restraint must be in the full upright position when installed in forward facing mode with children over 33 pounds (15kg).

•

If using pouch and loosely attach to an approved tether anchorage point (pg. 22).

Pull the vehicle belt out then thread it through the forward facing belt path. (fig. A)

Verify that the vehicle belt is not twisted, then buckle (fig. B)

4 Kneel on the child restraint to force it

into the vehicle seat slack from the vehicle belt (fig. C).

Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and the child restraint is secure.

• The restraint is tight when it cannot be

moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the belt path.

•

Installation can be improved by the use of the

Versa-Tether®, remove from

while removing

Versa-Tether® (pgs. 21–22)

WARNING:

•

WHEN USING THE RESTRAINT IN FORWARD FACING MODE, ATTACH THE VERSA-TETHER ONLY TO TETHER ANCHORS IDENTIFIED BY THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER AS TETHER ANCHORAGE POINTS. USE OF OTHER LOCATIONS IS NOT APPROVED OR PERMITTED.

•

If a tether anchorage is not available, DO NOT modify the vehicle without advice from the vehicle manufacturer.

•

DO NOT hook the Versa-Tether to the bottom of a vehicle seat adjuster!

IMPORTANT:

•

Britax®recommends that the tether be used at all times. Using the tether will improve the stability of the child restraint and reduce the risk of injury.

If the vehicle does not currently have a tether anchor

•

attachment, refer to the vehicle owner’s manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer for assistance.

•

The back angle of the child restraint should be 45º–45º from vertical when properly installed in the rear facing position.

NOTE:

The rear facing recline angle can be adjusted by tightening the

•

tether as described on page 24, using anchor point 3.

•

It may be necessary to loosen the tether and vehicle seat belt before adjusting the recline position.

Installation: Versa-Tether

Using the Versa-Tether Forward Facing

1 Remove tether from pouch. 2 Press and hold the tether adjuster release button, then pull to fully

extend tether strap into a V-shape.

3 Locate the hook on the tether strap. 4

Loosely attach the tether to an approved tether anchor point for the desired restraint installation position (fig. A).

5 Secure the child restraint in the vehicle. 6

Pull the tether adjuster strap to remove all slack.

Verify that there is tension in the tether strap and that child restraint is properly secured.

Forward Facing Locations

Rear Facing Location (Swedish)

Using the Versa-Tether Rear Facing

1 Secure the child restraint in the vehicle. 2 Remove tether from pouch. 3 Press and hold the tether adjuster

release button, then pull to fully extend tether strap into a V-shape.

4 Locate the hook on the tether strap. 5

Loosely attach the tether to an

approved tether anchor point for the desired restraint installation position (fig. B or C).

Pull the tether adjuster strap to remove all slack.

Verify that there is tension in the tether strap and that child restraint is properly secured.

Using the Rear Facing Tether Connector Strap

If you cannot find a suitable location to anchor the tether, use the tether connector strap to create an anchor point.

WARNING: Only use the tether connector strap (fig. D) for rear facing tether

Rear Facing Locations (Australian)

installation.

1 Find a fixed vehicle seat belt anchor or vehicle seat leg, that is

bolted to the floor, that the strap can be wrapped around.

2 Loop the strap around the metal anchor (fig. D). 3 Take the metal D-ring and thread it through the webbing loop on

the other end of the strap.

4 Pull the metal D-ring all the way through until the strap is tight

around the metal anchor.

5 Use the D-ring as an attachment point for the hook on the tether

strap.

22 23

Installation: Aircraft

Restraint Functions

This child restraint is certified for aircraft use. Most airlines in the U.S. and Canada will allow the use of a child restraint if it is labeled as an approved child restraint for airline use and fits properly on the plane. Contact the airline about their policy prior to traveling.

•

The FAA recommends that a child weighing up to 40 pounds use a certified, harnessed child restraint while travelling on aircraft.

•

Install your child restraint in a window seat to avoid blocking the aisle.

•

If the aircraft lap belt is too short, ask the flight attendant for a Belt Extender.

Rear Facing Installation

For rear facing aircraft installation (

fig. A), follow Rear Facing Lap Belt

Installation instructions on pages 14–15.

Forward Facing Installation

For forward facing aircraft installation (

fig. B), follow Forward Facing Lap Belt

Installation instructions on page 20.

Certified for

Aircraft Travel

Switching the LATCH Harness

The LATCH harness may need to be switched for proper alignment in rear facing (fig. C) or forward facing (fig. D) installations. If a proper connection cannot be achieved, complete the following procedure to switch the connectors.

1 Pull the LATCH harness and connectors

from the current location.

2 Rotate the harness so that the LATCH

connectors are on opposite sides.

3 Thread the LATCH harness through the

appropriate belt path.

•

Refer to figure C for rear facing installation OR figure D for forward facing installation.

•

Verify that the harness is not twisted.

4 Follow instructions for installation with

LATCH.

Storing the LATCH Harness

When the LATCH Harness is not in use, lift the cover to access LATCH storage slots (fig. E). Fold the LATCH adjuster and connector, then slide each set into the adjacent slot.

NOTE: Restraints are shipped from Britax with

LATCH connectors in the Storage Slots.

Restraint Functions

Recline Adjustment

Pull the recline handle, then slide the restraint shell into the desired position. Release the recline handle, then verify that the child restraint has locked into position.

IMPORTANT: Restraint must be in the full

upright position when installed in forward facing mode with children over 33 pounds (15 kg).

Infant Positioning System

The Infant Positioning System is designed to provide better fit and comfort for infants using this restraint. The system consists of a body pillow and infant pillow, connected to the harness.

For additional side support, fold side flaps, as shown in figure B.

NOTE: Remove after child can sit

comfortably in restraint without additional support (see pg. 34).

Toddler Pillow

The toddler pillow provides extra head support and comfort for taller children.

NOTE: Although the toddler pillow can remain installed through the life

of the restraint, instructions for removal are located on page 34.

Fastening the Chest Clip

Fasten the chest clip by pushing the two halves together until a positive click is heard (fig. C).

Releasing the Chest Clip

1 Squeeze the middle tabs together. 2 Pull the two pieces apart (fig. D).

Adjusting the Chest Clip

Slide chest clip up or down (fig. E) on harness so it is positioned at the middle of the child's chest, level with the child's armpit.

Slide the HUGS™ pads and comfort pads to a location that is comfortable for the child.

HUGS™ and Comfort Pads

IMPORTANT: HUGS™ (Harness Ultra Guard

System) pads must be installed for forward facing use. Removal of HUGS is optional for rear facing use.

26 27

Restraint Functions

Fastening the Harness Buckle

1 Hold the harness buckle with one

hand.

2 Use the other hand to insert one buckle

tongue at a time into the harness buckle (fig A).

• Proper connection is confirmed with a

positive click, after inserting the second buckle tongue.

Buckle

Unbuckle

Releasing the Harness Buckle

1 Brace the rear of the harness buckle

with hand.

2 Use thumb to press release button until tongues are ejected from

harness buckle (fig A).

IMPORTANT: Periodically clean the harness buckle to ensure safe

operation (see pg. 35).

Adjusting Harness Buckle Position

This restraint allows the buckle to be adjusted to one of three positions (fig. B), based on the size of the child. Adjusting the buckle properly increases comfort and safety.

Fully recline the child restraint.

Locate the metal buckle strap retainer on bottom of the restraint.

Pull retainer away from child restraint to loosen.

Turn the retainer so that the short side will go through the slot in the restraint shell

Push the retainer through slots in the shell and cover, to the top of the restraint.

Locate slot in cover and shell for desired harness buckle location.

• Harness buckle should be located in the slot that is as snug as

possible, yet still comfortable.

Turn the buckle retainer so that the short side will go through the slot in the cover and restraint shell.

Pull harness buckle away from restraint until tight, then verify that the strap is not twisted and the release button is facing outward.

(fig. C)

1 2 3

28 29

Restraint Functions

Harness Height

1 Place child in restraint, then secure

harness (see pgs.

2 Observe where the shoulder harness

is positioned on the child.

•

Rear Facing Strap Height: Harness straps should be located in the nearest slot at or below the child’s shoulder.

•

Forward Facing Strap Height:

Harness straps should be located in the nearest slot at or above the child’s shoulder.

3 If harness height is okay, continue

using child restraint without adjustment. If harness height requires adjustment, refer to page 31.

Maximum Child Size

Once the top slots become necessary, the child may continue to use the restraint until the top of the ears become level with the top of the restraint shell OR child’s weight exceeds 65 pounds (29 kg) OR height exceeds 49 inches (124 cm) OR top slots are below the child’s shoulders.

28–29

Rear Facing

Strap Height

Forward Facing

Strap Height

Harness Height Adjustment

1 Loosen the harness by pressing the

harness adjuster button while pulling the shoulder straps forward as far as possible (fig. A).

2 From the rear of the child restraint,

unhook the shoulder harness from the yoke (fig. B).

3 Pull straps through the shell and cover,

to the front of the restraint.

• It is not necessary to pull the straps

through the infant pillow.

Thread the harness straps through the appropriate harness height slots (fig. C).

Reattach harness straps to the yoke (fig. B).

6 Pull harness adjuster strap to tighten

the harness.

7 Verify that all straps are threaded at the

same height and are not twisted.

Securing Your Child

Once the child restraint has been installed in the vehicle and adjustments have been made, follow these instructions to secure the child.

1 Loosen the harness by pressing the

adjuster button located in front of the restraint, then pull the shoulder straps forward (fig. A).

2 Release the chest clip by

tabs

and sliding pieces apart (fig. B).

squeezing the

3 Unfasten the harness buckle by

pressing the release button and sliding the tongues out.

4 Move the harness straps to the side of

the restraint.

•

Use the harness holder located on the straps and side of the cover to aid in holding the straps.

5 Place child in the restraint. 6 Position the harness straps around the

child and fasten the harness buckle (fig C) and chest clip (fig. D).

•

Proper connection of the harness buckle is confirmed with a positive click after inserting the second buckle tongue.

7 Gently pull up on the harness straps to

tighten the lap section of the harness, which should fit low on the child's body.

8 Slowly pull the adjuster strap to tighten

the harness around the child (fig. E).

Position the chest clip at the middle of the child's chest, level with the child's

(fig. F)

armpit

Verify that harness is not twisted and

child is properly secured.

IMPORTANT:

•

Always pull on the harness after securing the child to make sure the buckle tongues are secure in the harness buckle. If not, the harness buckle or adjuster area may be clogged with food, drink, or other objects that need to be removed. See pages 33 and

35 for cleaning instructions.

•

Care and Maintenance

Cover Removal

1 Remove Toddler Pillow by unhooking each attachment clip. 2 Remove Body Pillow. 3 Loosen the harness by pressing the harness adjuster button while

pulling the shoulder straps forward as far as possible.

4 Unhook the shoulder straps from the yoke on the rear of child

restraint.

5 Pull upper harness straps through the shell, cover, and infant pillow

to the front of the restraint.

6 Remove infant pillow from harness straps. 7 Remove the belly pad from the harness buckle. 8 Gently remove the upper portion of the cover. Be careful not to

damage the energy absorbing foam.

9 Pull the lower harness straps, buckle tongues, chest clip, and

harness buckle through the slots in the cover.

WARNING:

•

Do not take apart or attempt to take apart the harness. It is unnecessary and dangerous to do so.

•

Never remove the buckle tongues from the harness. They cannot be reattached after removal.

10 Remove the entire cover from the restraint.

Refitting the Cover

To refit the cover, reverse Cover Removal directions. the shoulder straps are threaded through the chest clips and that the harness is not twisted.

Make sure that

Cleaning the Cover and Pillows

•

HAND WASH,

•

LINE or LIE FLAT DRY, to prevent cover from shrinking.

•

DO NOT:

using cold water and mild soap.

Bleach, machine wash, machine dry, or iron.

Cleaning the Shell

•

SPONGE CLEAN, using warm water and mild soap.

•

TOWEL DRY

•

DO NOT:

Use solvents, abrasive cleaners, or disassemble the

harness.

Cleaning the Harness

•

SPONGE CLEAN, using warm water and mild soap.

•

TOWEL DRY

•

DO NOT:

Bleach, machine wash, machine dry, or disassemble

the harness.

Cleaning the Harness Adjuster

Periodically check the adjuster area to be sure it is clean and free of food, coins, dirt, and other objects. removed to prevent interference with the adjuster mechanism.

•

BRUSH AWAY LOOSE DEBRIS, using a soft bristled brush.

•

SPONGE CLEAN, using warm water and mild soap.

•

TOWEL DRY

•

DO NOT:

Use solvents, abrasive cleaners, or disassemble the

harness.

If debris is present, it must be

Care and Maintenance

Harness Buckle Removal

Fully recline the child restraint.

Locate the metal buckle strap retainer on bottom of the restraint.

Pull retainer away from child restraint to loosen.

Turn the retainer so that the short side will go through the slot in the restraint shell

Push the retainer through slots in the shell and cover, to the top

(fig. A)

of the restraint.

Rethreading the Harness Buckle

Locate slot in cover and shell for desired harness buckle location.

• Harness buckle should be located in the slot that is as snug as

possible, yet still comfortable.

Turn the buckle retainer so that the short side will go through the slot in the cover and restraint shell.

Pull harness buckle away from restraint until tight, then verify that the strap is not twisted and the release button is facing outward.

Cleaning the Harness Buckle

If a child eats and drinks while in the restraint, the harness buckle may need to be periodically checked and cleaned of any accumulated debris or dried liquids.

•

THOROUGHLY RINSE, using warm water (fig. B).

•

SOAK, overnight if possible, using warm water to loosen hardened drinks or food.

•

TEST THE HARNESS BUCKLE, by fastening and unfastening until a positive click is heard after inserting the second buckle tongue (fig. C). If click is not heard, repeat cleaning procedure.

•

TOWEL DRY

•

DO NOT:

abrasive cleaners, soap or household detergents.

Lubricate, use solvents,

Buckle

Unbuckle

Warranty

This child restraint was manufactured by Britax®. Britax Child Safety, Inc. (“Britax”) warrants this product to the original retail purchaser as follows:

LIMITED ONE-YEAR WARRANTY

This product is warranted against defective materials or workmanship for one year from the date of original purchase. Proof of purchase is required. The exclusive remedy for this warranty is that Britax will, at its option, provide repair or replacement components for this product or refund the original purchase price of the product. Britax reserves the right to discontinue or change fabrics, parts, models or products, or to make substitutions.

To make a claim under this warranty, contact Britax Consumer Services at 1-888-427-4829 or write to us using the address on the back cover of this booklet. Proof of purchase is required.

PLEASE COMPLETE AND MAIL THE OWNER REGISTRATION CARD WITHIN (30) DAYS OF PURCHASE.

WARRANTY LIMITATIONS

This warranty does not include damages which arise from negligence, misuse or use not in accordance with the product instruction.

The use of non-Britax Child Safety, Inc. covers, inserts, toys, accessories, or tightening devices is not approved by Britax. Their use could cause this restraint to fail Federal Safety Standards or perform worse in a crash. Their use automatically voids the Britax warranty.

LIMITATION OF DAMAGES

The warranty and remedies as set forth above are exclusive and in lieu of all others, oral or written, express or implied. In no event will Britax, or the retailer selling this product, be liable for any damages, including incidental or consequential damages, arising out of the use or inability to use this product.

LIMITATIONS OF WARRANTIES AND OTHER WARRANTY TERMS AND STATE LAWS

Any implied warranties, including implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, shall be limited to the duration and terms of the express written warranty. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights, which vary from state to state. Neither Britax, nor the retailer selling this product, authorizes any person to create for it any other warranty, obligation, or liability in connection with this product.

Britax DECATHLON User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual