Britax Diplomat User Manual

Diplomat
PLEASE READ
INSTRUCTIONS
STORE UNDER
COVER
User Guide
Safety Information
Table of Contents
WARNINGS............................................................................
Important Notes.....................................................................
Certification............................................................................
Registration............................................................................
Weight Range/Maximum Height............................................
Installation: Aircraft...............................................................................
Features
Front View..............................................................................
Rear View...............................................................................
Vehicle Compatibility
Vehicle Safety Belts................................................................
Vehicle Seating Positions........................................................
Vehicle Buckle Position..........................................................
Installation: Rear Facing
LATCH Installation.................................................................
Lap/Shoulder Belt Installation................................................
Lap-Belt Installation...............................................................
Installation: Forward Facing
LATCH Installation.................................................................
Lap/Shoulder Belt Installation................................................
Lap-Belt Installation..............................................................
Installation: Versa-Tether®
Safety Information................................................................
Using the Versa-Tether..........................................................
Rear-Facing Tether Connector Strap......................................
Energy-Absorbing Tether.......................................................
Restraint Functions
Switching the LATCH Harness...............................................
Storing the LATCH Connectors...............................................
Recline Adjustment...............................................................
Infant Body Pillow.................................................................
Chest Clip.............................................................................
Harness Buckle......................................................................
Harness Height.....................................................................
Securing Your Child.............................................................................
Care and Maintenance.........................................................................
Warranty..............................................................................................
2 4 5 5 6 7
8 9
10 11 11
12 14 16
18 20 22
23 24 25 26
27 28 28 29 29 30 30 31 33 37
This product and its components are subject to change without notice.
WARNING!
DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur:
Infants should remain in a rear-facing child restraint for as
• long a possible. The American Academy of Pediatrics and Britax recommends rear facing until at least 1 year of age and 20 pounds.
Use only with children who weigh between 5 and 40
• pounds (2.3 and 18 kg.) and whose height is 40 inches (102 cm.) or less. Use rear facing for children 5–35 pounds (2.3–15.9 kg.) and forward facing to a maximum of 40 pounds (18 kg.).
Adjust the belts provided with this child restraint so they
• fit snugly 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 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.
Register your child restraint with the manufacturer, Britax
• Child Safety, Inc.
This child restraint must not be used in the home, in boats,
• or other non-certified applications.
To prevent injury due to deterioration or hidden damage,
• discontinue use of a child restraint that is older than six years or has been in a severe crash. See date of manufacture located on restraint.
2
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 Vehicle Safety Belts section in this booklet to ensure your child’s safety. If in doubt about installing child restraint, consult your vehicle’s 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 a vehicle with air bags, refer to your vehicle‘s
• owner’s manual for child restraint installation instructions and precautions.
Never use adjuster strap to lift or carry this child restraint.
• Doing so could cause damage to harness adjuster and webbing. Always carry this child restraint by its 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 a vehicle is seriously impacted. However, correctly installed, a child restraint will substantially improve chances for survival in most crashes. Make sure all users fully understand the correct ways to use this child restraint in a vehicle.
3
Safety Information
Important Notes
Verify child restraint is secure and harness is properly adjusted
• around child each time child restraint is used.
Adjust harness to fit clothes the child is wearing. Remove
• bulky coats and/or jackets before putting child in restraint.
Cover restraint when vehicle is parked in direct sunlight. Parts
• of child restraint could become hot enough to burn a child.
Store child restraint in a safe place when it is not being used.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on top of it.
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 vehicle’s 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 event of a
• sudden stop, a loose seat back could prevent child restraint from protecting the child as well as it should.
Do not allow children to play with this or any child restraint.
• Do not use anything to raise restraint off vehicle seat except
• as described in these instructions. In a crash, restraint could slide and may not protect the child as well as it should.
4
Safety Information
Certification
This child restraint system conforms to all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. This restraint is certified for use
in motor vehicles and aircraft.
Registration
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, or register online at www.BritaxUSA.com. For recall information, call the U.S. Government’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236
(TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.NHTSA.gov.
WARNING! DO NOT place a child
restraint in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger air bag. DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur. The back seat is the safest place for children under 12.
5
Safety Information
Standing Heigh
t
Child
We
ight
5 - 35 lbs.
1 Y
ear & 20 lbs.
Up to 40 lbs.
22” - 33”
27” - 40
15
15
Rear
ac
g
Forward
Fa
cing
Seated
Shoulder Heigh
t
For proper fit, your child must fall within the weight, standing height, and
seated shoulder height ranges li sted for this product.
Weight Range Rear-Facing
Weight 5-35 pounds (2.3-15.9 kg).
Forward-Facing
Weight 20 pounds (and 1 year) - 40 pounds (9-18 kg.)
Maximum Height
Rear-Facing
The child is too tall when the top of the head is 1 inch from the top of the restraint.
Forward-Facing
Use of the restraint should be discontinued when any of the following occurs:
The top of the ears are above the top of the
• restraint The top harness slots fall below the child’s
• shoulders The child exceeds the weight capacity of the
• restraint
6
Aircraft Installation
This child restraint is certified for aircraft use. Most airlines in the U.S. and Canada will allow use of a child restraint if it is labeled as an approved child restraint for airline use and fits properly on 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 traveling on an 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 16–17.
Forward-Facing Installation
For forward-facing aircraft installation (fig. B), follow Forward-Facing Lap-Belt Installation instructions on page 22.
Installation: Aircraft
A
B
7
Features
Cover
1
Headrest Adjustment
2
Knob LATCH Adjuster
3
LATCH Release Button
4
LATCH Connector
5
Headrest
6
Harness Slots
7
Comfort Pads
8
Infant Body Pillow
9
Chest Clip
10
Harness
11
Harness Buckle
12
Belly Pad
13
Harness Release Button
14
Harness Adjuster Strap
15
Recline Handle
16
8
Forward-Facing Lock-Off
17�
Rear-Facing Lock-Off
18�
Base
19�
Versa-Tether® Adjuster and Hook
20�
(inside pouch) Belt Guard
21�
Serial Number and Manufacturing
22�
Date (under cover)
IMPORTANT: When not in use, this user
guide should be stored under the cover. DO NOT discard foam inserts found under the cover.
Features
9
Vehicle Compatibility
Vehicle Safety Belts
NOTE: The information in this section only applies
to installation with vehicle safety belts. IMPORTANT: Vehicle seats and safety belts differ
from vehicle to vehicle. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific information about vehicle safety belts and their use with child restraints. Some vehicles have no seating positions which are compatible with this child restraint or any other child restraint. If in doubt, contact the vehicle manufacturer for assistance.
This child restraint can fit securely in most vehicles using existing vehicle belts. However, some vehicle designs prevent a secure fit of the child restraint due to position of the vehicle belt lower anchorage points.
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 below, select another seating position or use Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) connectors.
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. (Fig. A) Motor-driven, automatic vehicle belts. (Fig. B) Lap-shoulder belts that have separate retractors for shoulder section and lap section in which
lap section retractor does not lock. Non-locking, two-point Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) vehicle belts. Lap-shoulder ELR vehicle belts without use of the lock-off.
NOTE: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the kind of retractors used in your vehicle and how to operate them.
A
B
10
Vehicle Seating Positions
Vehicle Compatibility
WARNING!
with this child restraint. Side-facing or rear-facing seats CAN­NOT be used. See diagram below.
Forward-facing vehicle seats MUST be used
Vehicle Buckle Position
WARNING!
affect stability of the child restraint. In a crash, an improperly positioned buckle could become loose and the child would be unprotected.
The position of vehicle belt buckle can
If buckle lies near position marked as wrong ( ) when vehicle belt is tightened, try fitting child restraint in another seating position in vehicle.
If it is not possible to achieve correct position ( ) for buckle, another seating position MUST be used.
11
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.
NOTE: LATCH connectors must be in an upright position (as shown in figure B) and strap should be tight and not twisted to ensure proper installation.
If stored, remove LATCH connectors from storage slots
1�
A
under cover (see page 28). Press and hold first LATCH adjuster button, then pull
2�
LATCH strap to full length. Repeat for remaining LATCH connector. Fully recline restraint then place it sideways on vehicle
3�
Release Button
Top
seat with front facing toward you. Verify LATCH strap is not twisted, then attach closest
4�
LATCH connector to vehicle seat back to farthest LATCH anchor from you (fig. C).
B
NOTE: It may be necessary to switch LATCH harness as shown on page 27 if ANY of the following conditions exist:
LATCH connector is not in an upright position as shown
in figure B. LATCH strap is twisted.
A positive click is NOT heard when LATCH connector and
LATCH anchor are connected.
NOTE: If a positive click is not heard, but LATCH
connector is in an upright position, you should not switch LATCH harness. The strap may be too tight or twisted, or there may be debris in LATCH connector. If a positive connection cannot be made, do not use LATCH installation; install using vehicle belt method.
Rotate seat into rear-facing position.
5�
Verify LATCH strap is not twisted, then attach remaining LATCH connector to
6�
C
adjacent LATCH anchor (fig. D).
12
Installation: Rear Facing
Push child restraint firmly into vehicle seat while pulling
7�
each LATCH strap tight (fig. E). Verify all connections are secure and that restraint is
8�
stable. The restraint is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to-side more than 1” (2.5 cm.) at belt path. If restraint is not secure, repeat procedure, or use an alternate seating location or vehicle belt installation method.
Britax recommends use of the Versa-Tether® to improve
installation. See pages 23-26. The back angle of the child restraint should be 30º-45º
from vertical (not to exceed 45º from vertical) when car is parked on a level surface (fig. F). The proper recline angle can be achieved by placing a
rolled towel or pool noodle in crease of vehicle seat to help level child restraint’s base. If there is a problem stabilizing restraint, tighten tether as
described on page 24 using anchor point 3.
D
E
WARNING!
Do not raise restraint off front edge of vehicle seat. Doing so will reduce protection for your child and may damage recline adjustment.
Removal Disconnect the Versa-Tether from tether anchor, if attached. While pushing the restraint firmly into the
F
vehicle seat, press the red release buttons on the LATCH connectors to release. When not in use, always store the LATCH connectors and Versa-Tether.
13
Installation: Rear Facing
Lap/Shoulder Belt Installation
Figure A illustrates a typical rear-facing, lap/shoulder belt
• installation. When not in use, always store LATCH connectors in storage
• slots. (see page 28).
Fully recline restraint then place it rear facing on
1�
vehicle seat. Lift cover to open rear-facing lock-off farthest from
2�
where vehicle belt will be buckled. Pull vehicle belt out then pass it through farthest
3�
rear-facing belt slot from where vehicle belt will be buckled (fig. B).
Vehicle belt can be routed over or under cover.
Route vehicle belt across seat, behind buckle strap,
4�
then through second rear-facing belt slot. Verify vehicle belt is not twisted, then buckle
5�
(fig. C). Push restraint firmly into seat while removing
6�
slack first from the lap portion of vehicle belt, then shoulder portion (fig. D). Lift cover to access lock-off farthest from vehicle
7�
buckle. Position both sections of vehicle belt through lock-off, tighten belt, close lock-off arm (fig. E) and replace cover.
Lock-off is properly closed when a click is heard.
To prevent breakage, never extend lock-off arm beyond its
natural open position and always keep lock-off closed when not in use. If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic locking
retractor (ALR), use of lock-offs is not required as long as ALR is activated. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine type of retractor your vehicle has, and for proper use of retractor.
A
B
C
14
D
Installation: Rear Facing
Verify all connections are secure and that restraint is
8�
stable. The restraint is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to-side more than 1” (2.5 cm.) at belt path. If the restraint is not secure, repeat procedure or use an alternate seating location.
Britax recommends use of the Versa-Tether® to improve
• installation. See pages 23-26. The back angle of the child restraint should be 30º-45º
• from vertical (not to exceed 45º from vertical) when car is parked on a level surface (fig. F). The proper recline angle can be achieved by placing a
• rolled towel or pool noodle in crease of vehicle seat to help level child restraint’s base. If there is a problem stabilizing restraint, tighten tether as
• described on page 24 using anchor point 3.
E
F
WARNING!
Do not raise restraint off front edge of vehicle seat. Doing so will reduce protection for your child and may damage recline adjustment.
Removal
Disconnect the Versa-Tether from tether anchor if attached. While pushing the restraint firmly into the vehicle seat, release the lock-off and vehicle belt.
15
Installation: Rear Facing
Lap-Belt Installation
Figure A illustrates a typical rear-facing, lap-belt
• installation. When not in use, always store LATCH connectors in
• storage slots. (See page 28).
WARNING!
Do not install with non-locking (ELR), 2-point vehicle belt.
Fully recline restraint, then place it rear facing on
1�
vehicle seat. Lift cover and open rear-facing lock-off farthest
2�
from where vehicle belt will be buckled. Pull vehicle belt out, then pass it through farthest
3�
rear-facing belt slot from where vehicle belt will be buckled (fig. B).
The vehicle belt can be routed over or under restraint
• cover.
Route vehicle belt across seat, behind buckle strap,
4�
then through second rear-facing belt slot.
Verify vehicle belt is not twisted, then buckle (fig. C).
5�
Push child restraint firmly into vehicle seat while
6�
removing slack from vehicle belt. Position vehicle belt through lock-off (fig. D),
7�
tighten belt, close lock-off arm and replace cover.
Lock-off is properly closed when a click is heard.
• To prevent breakage, never extend lock-off arm beyond
• its natural open position and always keep lock-off closed when not in use.
If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic locking retractor (ALR), use
of lock-offs is not required as long as ALR is activated. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine type of retractor your vehicle has, and for proper use of retractor.
A
B
C
16
Installation: Rear Facing
Verify all connections are secure and that restraint is
8�
stable. The restraint is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to-side more than 1” (2.5 cm.) at belt path. If the restraint is not secure, repeat procedure or use an alternate seating location.
Britax recommends use of the Versa-Tether® to improve
• installation. See pages 23-26. The back angle of the child restraint should be 30º-45º
• from vertical (not to exceed 45º from vertical) when car is parked on a level surface (fig. E). The proper recline angle can be achieved by placing a
• rolled towel or pool noodle in crease of vehicle seat to help level child restraint’s base. If there is a problem stabilizing restraint, tighten tether as
• described on page 24 using anchor point 3.
D
WARNING!
Do not raise restraint
E
off front edge of vehicle seat. Doing so will reduce protection for your child and may damage recline adjustment.
Removal
Disconnect the Versa-Tether® from tether anchor if attached. While pushing the restraint firmly into the vehicle seat, release the lock-off and vehicle belt.
17
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.
NOTE: LATCH connectors must be in an upright position (as shown in figure B) and strap should be tight and not twisted to ensure proper installation.
If stored, remove LATCH connectors from storage slots
1�
under cover (see page 28). Press and hold first LATCH adjuster button, then pull
2�
LATCH strap to full length. Repeat for remaining LATCH connector. Place restraint sideways on vehicle seat, with back of
3�
restraint facing toward you.
Restraint can be used in recline position when installed in
forward-facing mode with children up to 40 pounds (18 kg.). Britax recommends use of Versa-Tether® to improve
installation. If using Versa-Tether® (see pages 23-26), locate tether on rear of restraint and place up and over seat back while securing restraint.
Verify LATCH strap is not twisted, then attach closest
4�
LATCH connector to vehicle seat back to farthest LATCH anchor from you (fig. C).
NOTE: It may be necessary to switch LATCH harness as shown on page 27 if ANY of the following conditions exist:
LATCH connector is not in an upright position as
shown in figure B. LATCH strap is twisted.
A positive click is NOT heard when LATCH connector
and LATCH anchor are connected.
NOTE: If a positive click is not heard, but LATCH connector is in an upright position, you should not switch LATCH harness. The strap may be too tight or twisted, or there may be debris in LATCH connector. If a positive connection cannot be
made, do not use LATCH installation; install using vehicle belt method.
A
Release Button
B
C
Top
18
Installation: Forward Facing
Rotate seat into forward-facing position.
5�
Verify LATCH strap is not twisted, then attach
6�
remaining LATCH connector to adjacent LATCH anchor (fig. D).
A positive click confirms attachment.
Push child restraint into vehicle seat while
7�
pulling each LATCH strap tight (fig. E). Verify all connections and restraint are
8�
secure. The restraint is secure when it cannot be moved front- to-back or side-to­side more than 1” (2.5 cm.) at belt path. If
restraint is not secure, repeat procedure, or use an alternate seating location or vehicle belt
installation method.
If using Versa-Tether® complete Versa-
9�
Tether® installation (pages 23-26) and store excess webbing in tether pouch.
D
E
Removal
Disconnect the Versa-Tether® from tether anchor if attached. While pushing restraint firmly into vehicle seat, press red release buttons on LATCH connectors to release. When not in use, always store LATCH connectors and Versa-Tether.
19
Installation: Forward Facing
Lap/Shoulder Belt Installation
Figure A illustrates a typical forward-facing lap/
• shoulder-belt installation. When not in use, always store LATCH connectors in
• storage slots.
Place child restraint forward facing on
1�
vehicle seat.
Restraint can be used in recline position when
installed in forward-facing mode with children up to 40 pounds (18 kg.).
Britax recommends use of Versa-Tether® to
improve installation. If using Versa-Tether® (see pages 23-26), locate tether on rear of restraint and place up and over seat back while securing restraint.
Pull the vehicle belt out, then pass it through
2�
both forward-facing belt slots (Fig. B). Verify that the vehicle belt is not twisted, then
3�
buckle (Fig. C). Rotate the lock-off lever downward to open
4�
(Fig. D).
Only use lock-off farthest from where the vehicle
• belt is buckled.
Push child restraint into the vehicle seat while
5�
pulling the shoulder portion of the vehicle belt tightly through the lock-off to remove slack.
A
B
C
20
Installation: Forward Facing
Hold shoulder belt tight, then rotate lock-
7�
off upward until secured (fig. E).
If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic locking
• retractor (ALR), use of lock-offs is not required as long as ALR is activated. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine type of retractor your vehicle has, and for proper use of retractor.
Verify all connections are secure and restraint
8�
D
is stable. The restraint is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to­side more than 1” (2.5 cm.) at belt path. If restraint is not secure, repeat procedure or use an alternate seating location. If using Versa-Tether® complete Versa-Tether
9�
installation (pages 23-26) and store excess webbing in tether pouch.
®
E
Removal
Disconnect the Versa-Tether® from tether anchor if attached. While pushing restraint firmly into vehicle seat, release lock-off and vehicle belt.
21
Installation: Forward Facing
Lap-Belt Installation
Figure A illustrates a typical forward-facing, lap-belt
• installation. When not in use, always store LATCH connectors in
• storage slots.
WARNING!
non-locking (ELR) two-point vehicle belt.
If using Versa-Tether® (pg. 23-26) locate and place up
Do not install with
A
and over seat.
Place child restraint forward facing on vehicle seat.
1�
Restraint can be used in recline position when installed in
forward-facing mode with children up to 40 pounds (18 kg.).
Britax recommends use of Versa-Tether® to improve
installation. locate tether on rear of restraint and place up and over seat back while securing restraint.
Pull vehicle belt out, then pass it through
both forward-facing belt slots (fig. A).
Verify vehicle belt is not twisted, then buckle (fig. B).
2�
Push child restraint into vehicle seat while
3�
If using Versa-Tether® (see pages 23-26),
B
removing slack from vehicle belt (fig. C). Verify all connections are secure and that
4�
restraint is stable. The restraint is secure when it cannot be moved front to back or side to side more than 1” (2.5 cm.) at belt path. If restraint is not secure, repeat procedure or use an alternate seating location.
If using Versa-Tether
5�
®,
complete Versa-Tether® installation
C
(pages 23-26) and store excess webbing in tether pouch.
Removal
Disconnect the Versa-Tether® from tether anchor if attached. While pushing restraint firmly into vehicle seat, release lock-off and vehicle belt.
22
Installation: Versa-Tether
Safety Information
WARNING!
When using restraint in forward-facing mode, attach Versa­Tether® only to tether anchors identified by 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 vehicle without advice from vehicle manufacturer.
DO NOT hook Versa-Tether to bottom of a vehicle seat adjuster!
IMPORTANT:
Britax recommends that tether be used at all times. Using tether will
• improve the stability of child restraint and reduce risk of injury.
If vehicle does not currently have a tether anchor attachment, refer
• to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or contact vehicle manufacturer for assistance.
The back angle of child restraint should not exceed 45º from vertical
• when properly installed in rear-facing position.
NOTE: It may be necessary to loosen tether and/or vehicle seat belt before adjusting recline position. Tether and/or vehicle seat belt must be properly re-tightened per the instructions in this manual.
®
23
Installation: Versa-Tether
®
Using the Versa-Tether
Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for
1�
approved tether-anchorage locations. Locate the tether on rear of restraint
2�
and place up and over seat back while securing restraint. Secure child restraint by a seat-belt or
3�
LATCH system. Lift lock adjuster, then pull to fully extend
4�
tether strap into a "V" shape. Locate hook on strap and loosely attach
5�
tether to an approved anchor point.
See figure A for forward-facing installation.
• See figures B and C for rear-facing
• installation.
NOTE: Rear-facing installation may also require use of Tether Connector Strap, as described on page 25.
Pull Versa-Tether strap to remove all
6�
slack. Verify there is tension in Versa-Tether
7�
strap and that child restraint is properly secured. The restraint is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-back or side­to-side more than 1 inch (2.5 cm.) at belt path. If restraint is not secure, repeat procedure or use an alternate seating location. Roll up excess webbing and store in tether pouch.
8�
A
B
C
24
Installation: Versa-Tether
NOTE:
The rear-facing recline angle of the child restraint should be 30º-45º
• from vertical (not to exceed 45º from vertical) when car is parked on a level surface.
The rear-facing recline angle can be adjusted by placing a rolled
• towel or pool noodle in the crease of the vehicle seat, and restraint can be stabilized by tightening tether as shown in figure C, using anchor point 3.
It may be necessary to loosen tether and vehicle seat belt before
• adjusting recline position.
Rear-Facing Tether Connector Strap
®
WARNING!
strap for rear-facing tether installation.
Because every vehicle model is different, sometimes you cannot find a location to properly anchor the tether, or the structural part of seat is too large for the hook. Use rear-facing tether connector strap (fig. D) to assist in creating an anchor point.
Find a fixed vehicle seat belt anchor or vehicle seat leg (that is bolted
1
to the floor) to which the strap can be wrapped around. If you cannot find an acceptable location to create an anchor point,
2
contact vehicle manufacturer to identify a suitable tether connection point.
Loop strap around metal anchor.
3
Take metal D-ring and thread it through webbing loop on other end
4
of strap. Pull metal D-ring all the way through until strap is tight around metal
5
anchor. Use D-ring as an attachment point for hook on tether strap.
6
Only use tether connector
D
25
Installation: Versa-Tether
®
Energy-Absorbing Tether*
WARNING! The energy-absorbing
tether has been designed to help indicate when child restraint has been in a severe crash and replacement of child restraint is necessary.
Figure A shows the tether when child restraint is acceptable for continued use (provided the restraint has not been involved in a crash). The colored stitching will be intact and webbing will be held under a tether label.
Figures B and C show examples of when child restraint is unacceptable for continued use. If tether label is torn, or if one or both of the loops have pulled through back side of shell and the colored stitching has ripped, child restraint is no longer acceptable for use. Discontinue use of child restraint and contact Britax Consumer Services for further instruction.
IMPORTANT: Regardless of whether loops have pulled through the back side of the shell and the colored stitching has been ripped, discontinue use of restraint if it has been involved in a moderate to severe crash.
A
B
C
*Patent Pending
26
Switching the LATCH Harness
The LATCH harness must be switched for proper alignment in rear facing (Fig. D) or forward facing (Fig. E) installations. Complete the following procedure to switch the connectors. NOTE: LATCH connectors must be in an upright position (as shown in figure G) and strap should be tight and not twisted to ensure proper installation.
1 Pull the LATCH harness and connectors
out of the current belt path OR from the storage slots (Fig. F).
2 Align the LATCH harness in the
appropriate belt path.
Refer to figure D for rear-facing installation
• OR figure E for forward-facing installation. Verify that the harness is not twisted.
3 Follow instructions for restraint installation
with LATCH.
Restraint Functions
D
E
Release Button
Top
F
G
27
Restraint Functions
Storing the LATCH Connectors
When LATCH connectors are not in use, lift cover to access LATCH stor­age slots (fig. A). Fold 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.
Recline Adjustment
Pull recline handle (fig. B) then slide restraint shell into desired position. Release recline handle, then verify the child restraint has locked into position.
NOTE: Restraint can be in recline position
when installed in forward-facing mode with children up to 40 pounds (18 kg.).
28
A
B
Infant Body Pillow
The Infant Body Pillow is designed to provide better fit and comfort for infants using this restraint. For additional side support, fold side flaps, as shown below. (fig. D)
NOTE: Remove Infant Body Pillow after child can sit comfortably in restraint without additional support.
Chest Clip Fastening the Chest Clip
Fasten chest clip by pushing the two halves together until a positive click is heard (fig. E).
Releasing the Chest Clip
Squeeze middle tabs together.
1�
Pull the two pieces apart.
2�
Adjusting the Chest Clip
Slide chest clip up or down on har­ness so it is positioned at the middle of child’s chest, level with child’s armpits.
Restraint Functions
D
E
29
Restraint Functions
-
-
-
Harness Buckle
Fastening the Harness Buckle
Hold harness buckle with one hand.
1�
Use other hand to insert one buckle tongue
2�
at a time into harness buckle (fig. A).
Proper connection is confirmed with a positive click
• after inserting second buckle tongue.
Releasing the Harness Buckle
Brace rear of harness buckle with one
1�
hand. Use thumb to press release button until
2�
both tongues are ejected from harness buckle (fig. B).
IMPORTANT: Periodically clean harness buckle to ensure safe operation (pg. 36).
Harness Height
Place child in restraint then secure harness
1�
(see pages 31-32). Observe where shoulder harness is
2�
positioned on child.
Rear Facing: Harness straps should be located at
• or below top of child’s shoulders (fig. C). Forward Facing: Harness straps should be located
• at or above top of child’s shoulders (fig. C)
3 If harness height is okay, continue using
child restraint without adjustment. If harness height requires adjustment, see “Harness Height Adjustment” (pg. 32).
A
B
C
30
Securing Your Child
Once child restraint has been installed in the vehicle and adjustments have been made, follow these instructions to secure child.
Loosen harness by pushing the adjuster
1�
button located in front of the restraint, then pull the shoulder straps forward (fig.
A).
Release chest clip by squeezing tabs and
2�
sliding pieces apart (fig. B). Unfasten harness buckle by pressing
3�
release button and sliding tongues out. Move harness straps to the side of
4�
restraint.
Use harness holder located on straps and side of
• cover to aid in holding straps.
Place child in restraint.
5�
Position harness straps around child and
6�
fasten harness buckle (fig. C) and chest clip.
Proper connection of harness buckle is confirmed
• with a positive click after inserting the second buckle tongue.
Gently pull up on harness straps to tighten
7�
lap section of harness which should fit across child’s upper thighs. Slowly pull adjuster strap to tighten
8�
harness around the child (fig. D). Position chest clip at middle of child’s
9�
chest, level with child’s armpits (fig. E). Verify that harness is not twisted and child
10�
is properly secured.
Securing Your Child
A
B
C
31
Securing Your Child
IMPORTANT:
Always pull on harness after securing child
• to make sure harness buckle and harness adjuster are secure. If not, harness buckle or adjuster area may be clogged with food, drink or other objects that need to be removed. See pages 34 – 36 for cleaning instructions. Adjust the belts provided with this child
• restraint so they fit snugly 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.
Harness Height Adjustment
Loosen harness by pressing adjuster
1�
release button while pulling harness straps forward as far as possible. Rotate headrest adjustment knob on
2�
either side of restraint to raise or lower headrest and harness (fig. F).
NOTE: DO NOT force headrest adjustment knob in either direction. If the knob is difficult to turn, headrest may be at maximum or minimum height.
Before each use, make sure harness is
• tight. See “Harness Height” (pg. 30) to determine
• correct harness height for your child.
D
E
F
32
Care and Maintenance
Cover Removal
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.
Remove infant body pillow.
1�
Loosen harness by pressing adjuster release button while
2�
pulling shoulder straps forward as far as possible. Unhook shoulder straps from yoke on rear of child
3�
restraint. Pull upper harness straps through headrest and cover to
4�
front of restraint. Remove buckle and belly pad (pg. 35).
5�
Gently remove headrest cover. Be careful not to damage
6�
the energy-absorbing foam. Remove upper portion of cover.
7�
Pull lower harness straps, buckle tongues, and chest clip
8�
through slots in cover. Remove entire cover from restraint.
9�
Refitting the Cover
To refit the cover, reverse above directions. Make sure that the shoulder straps are threaded through the chest clips and that the harness is not twisted.
33
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning the Cover and Pillows
HAND WASH using cold water and mild soap.
• LINE or LIE-FLAT DRY to prevent cover from shrinking.
DO NOT 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. If debris is present, it must be 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.
34
Care and Maintenance
Harness Buckle Removal
Fully recline the child restraint.
1�
Locate the metal-buckle strap
2�
retainer on bottom of the restraint.
Pull retainer away from child
3�
restraint to loosen. Turn the retainer so the short side will go through the
4�
slot in restraint shell. Push the retainer through slots in the shell and cover, to
5�
the top of the restraint.
Rethreading the Harness Buckle
Locate slot in cover and shell for harness buckle.
1�
Turn the buckle retainer so the short side will go through
2�
the slot in the cover and restraint shell. Pull harness buckle away from restraint until tight, then
3�
verify the strap is not twisted and the release button is facing outward.
35
Care and Maintenance
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.
REMOVE BUCKLE as described on
page 35.
THOROUGHLY RINSE using warm
water.
TEST THE HARNESS BUCKLE by
fastening and unfastening until a positive click is heard after inserting the second buckle tongue. If click is not heard, repeat cleaning procedure.
TOWEL DRY
DO NOT lubricate, use solvents,
abrasive cleaners, soap or other household detergents.
36
Warranty
This child restraint was manufactured by Britax Child Safety, Inc. (Britax®). 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 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.
37
Notes
38
Notes
39
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