Britax FRONTIER User Manual

PLEASE READ
INSTRUCTIONS
STORE UNDER
COVER
Frontier
For Children 2 years and 25 lbs and up
Contents
Registration and Certification Information ..............................................................2
General Warnings ....................................................................................................3
Child Size: Height and Weight Limitations ..............................................................4
Harness Mode ...................................................................................................... 4
Booster Mode ......................................................................................................5
Child Seat features Overview ..................................................................................6
Harness Height Adjustment .................................................................................8
Head Restraint Adjustment ..................................................................................9
Adjusting Buckle Position .....................................................................................10
Fastening the Buckle ............................................................................................12
Releasing the Buckle ............................................................................................12
Using the LATCH Connectors ..............................................................................12
Using the Versa-Tether .........................................................................................13
Using the Chest Clip ...........................................................................................15
Using the Recline Block ........................................................................................15
Using the Cup Holders .........................................................................................16
Using the Arm Rests .............................................................................................16
Vehicle Compatibility ...............................................................................................17
Vehicle Seating Positions ...................................................................................... 17
Understanding Vehicle Seat Belts .........................................................................18
General Information .................................................................................................20
Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat ...............................................................22
Harness Mode ...................................................................................................... 22
LATCH – Short Path .......................................................................................22
Selecting a Belt Path .............................................................................................24
Lap-Shoulder Belt – Short Path ......................................................................26
Lap Shoulder Belt – Long Path .......................................................................28
Lap Belt –Short Path .......................................................................................30
Switching Between Modes...................................................................................32
Booster Mode: Positioning Your Child Seat ............................................................ 36
Booster Mode ......................................................................................................36
LATCH ............................................................................................................36
Lap-Shoulder Belt ...........................................................................................38
Securing Your Child ..................................................................................................39
Harness Mode ...................................................................................................... 40
Booster Mode ......................................................................................................42
Care and Maintenance .............................................................................................44
Cover Removal ...................................................................................................44
Replacing the Cover ............................................................................................. 47
Cleaning the Cover ..............................................................................................49
Cleaning the Harness ........................................................................................... 50
Cleaning the Shell ................................................................................................50
Cleaning the Buckle .............................................................................................50
Versa-Tether .............................................................................................................53
Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................54
Warranty ...................................................................................................................55
This product and its components are subject to change without notice.
© 2009 Britax Child Safety, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A. P329100_R1:02.09
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Child restraints could be recalled for safety reasons. You must register this restraint to be reached in a recall. Send your name, address, e-mail address, if available, and the restraint’s model number and manufacturing date to Britax Child Safety, Inc., 13501 South Ridge Drive, Charlotte, NC 28273, or call 1-888-427-4829 or register online at BritaxUSA.com/registration. 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.
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; when Used in Harness Mode.
This Restraint is Not Certified for Use in Aircraft; when Used in Booster Mode.
Follow Lap-Belt installation method found on page 26, for installation of child seat in aircraft.
NOTE: The Versa-Tether cannot be used on aircraft.
Install your child seat 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.
General WarningsRegistration and Certification Information
WARNING!
Use only with children who weigh between 25 and 80 lbs (11.3 and •
36.3 kg) and whose height is between 30 and 53 in. (76.2 and 134.6 cm) and at least 2 years of age in harness mode.
Use only with children whose height is between 42 and 60 in. (106.7 • and 152.4 cm) and at least 40 lbs in booster mode.
Snugly adjust the belts provided with this child restraint around your • child.
Secure the top anchorage strap provided with this child seat.• Use only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system when restraining the •
child in this booster seat. 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 located on the lanyard under the cover in the lumbar region of the child seat.
Register your child restraint with the manufacturer.• This child seat is NOT for use in booster mode with children who weigh •
less than 40 lbs (18.1kg). For harness mode refer to your vehicle owner’s manual or contact the •
vehicle manufacturer for the maximum weight rating for the LATCH anchors in your vehicle. Use the vehicle belt (not LATCH connectors) for installations with children who weigh more than the vehicle LATCH anchor limit. Unless specified otherwise by the vehicle manufacturer, assume a 40 pound (18.1 kg) child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit.
Use this child seat forward-facing only.• This child seat 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 this child seat that is older than nine years or has been in a moderate or severe crash. See date of manufacture and expiration date located on child seat shell.
The primary protection for occupants of a vehicle in a collision is the • body of the vehicle itself; a child seat will not protect a child when the vehicle is seriously im pact ed. However, correctly installed, a child seat will substantially improve the chances for survival in most crashes.
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5
Shoulder level
Above Shoulder Level Below Shoulder Level
General Warnings
WARNING!
Cover the child seat when the vehicle is parked in direct sunlight. Parts • of the child seat can become hot enough to burn a child.
Secure this child seat even when it is not occupied. In a crash, an • unsecured child seat may injure vehicle occupants.
Store the child seat in a safe place when it is not being used. Avoid • placing heavy objects on top of the child seat.
Never use the harness or adjuster strap to lift or carry this child seat. • Doing so could damage the harness adjuster and webbing. Always carry this child seat by the shell or tether straps.
Do not allow children to play with this child seat.• The use of non-Britax covers, inserts, toys, accessories, or tightening •
devices is not approved by Britax. Their use could cause this child seat to fail Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or not perform as intended in a crash.
Always check the back seat upon leaving your vehicle to prevent leaving • a child restrained in a child seat alone in the vehicle.
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 cause the child seat not to perform as intended.
Child Size: Height and Weight Limitations
the top of the child’s ears must be 4 below the top of the head restraint when seated and
IMPORTANT:
they are too small, another type of child seat must be used such as an infant carrier or convertible child seat which can be installed rear-facing. If your child does not meet all of the above fit requirements because they are too large, you may need to use this child seat in booster mode. See page 5 for booster fit requirements.
If your child does not meet all of the above fit requirements because
the harness straps must be located at 5 or above the child’s shoulders when seated.
Booster Mode:
Children must:
stand 42 – 60 in. (106.7 – 152.4 cm) in height 1 and be at least 40 lbs (18.1 kg) or more 2 and
the top of the child’s ears must be below the top of the head restraint 3 and the vehicle belt must be appropriately positioned at or above the child’s shoulder 4
through the shoulder belt guide.
Child Size: Height and Weight Limitations
This child seat is for use forward-facing only with children who meet
all of the following fit requirements.
Harness Mode:
Children must:
be at least two years of age 1 and weigh between 25 – 80 lbs. (11.3 – 36.3 kg.)
2 and
stand 30 – 53 in. (76.2 – 134.6 cm) in height
3 and
NOTE: Britax recommends booster mode only after the child outgrows harness mode at 80 lbs (36.3 lbs) or at least meets all of the above fit requirements (usually around age 4).
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1
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22
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19
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12
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13
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3
7
5
6
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35
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28
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Child Seat features OverviewChild Seat features Overview
Head Restraint1 Head Restraint Cover2 Harness Slot3 Comfort Pads4 HUGS™ Chest pads5 Harness Straps6 Chest Clip7 Arm Rest8 Lap Belt Guide9 Buckle10 Belly Pad11 Harness Adjuster Release Lever 12 (under cover)
Harness Adjuster Strap13 Cover14 Shoulder Belt Guide15 User Guide Storage (under cover)16 LATCH Strap17 LATCH Adjuster Release Button18 LATCH Adjuster19 LATCH Connector Release Button20 LATCH Connector21 Cup Holder22
LATCH Connector Storage Slot23 Harness Yoke24 Head Restraint Adjuster Lock25 Head Restraint Adjuster Release26 Manufactured Date and 27 Expiration Date Label Harness Height Adjuster28
Versa-Tether29 Versa-Tether30 Shell31 Belt Shield32 Harness Yoke Storage (on belt 33 shield) Versa-Tether34
®
Adjuster
®
Storage Clip
Recline Block35
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9
Harness Height Adjustment
Child Seat features OverviewChild Seat features Overview
Head Restraint Adjustment
NOTE: The harness height adjuster also adjusts the height for the head
restraint in harness mode. The head restraint will be properly adjusted once the harness is placed appropriately at or above your child’s shoulders.
2. Pull BOTH
harness
straps
1. Lift lever
Loosen the harness by lifting the 1 harness adjuster release lever located on the front of the child seat while pulling BOTH harness straps forward.
2
Pull the harness adjuster and slide into the nearest position at or slightly above your child’s shoulders.
NOTE: The harness adjuster will lock into place once released.
WARNING:
The head restraint adjuster is for booster mode
only. DO NOT use the head restraint adjuster when the harness
is still attached.
Remove the screw from the head 3 restraint adjuster and store in a safe place. The screw will be needed to convert back to harness mode.
Lift the head restraint adjuster
4
release to move the head restraint.
NOTE: The head restraint adjuster will lock into place once released.
The vehicle belt must be
5
appropriately positioned at or above the child’s shoulder through the shoulder belt guide.
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11
Adjusting Buckle Position
Removing the Buckle
2. Pull
tongues
from
buckle
1. Press release button
1 Locate the buckle retainer on the 2
Unbuckle the harness.
Slide the buckle retainer up or 3 down to release it from the child seat shell.
Turn and push the buckle retainer so 5 that the short side will pass through the slot in the child seat shell
bottom of the child seat.
Pull the buckle retainer away from
4
the child seat to loosen.
6
Pull the buckle retainer through the slots in the child seat shell and cover to the top of the child seat.
Child Seat features OverviewChild Seat features Overview
Re-threading the Buckle
IMPORTANT:
Turn and push the buckle retainer
1
so that the short side will pass through the slot in the cover and child seat shell.
Slide the buckle retainer back into
3
place to hold it against the child seat shell.
Select the slot closest to, but not under the child.
2
Pull the buckle retainer through the slots in the cover and child seat shell to the bottom of the child seat.
Pull the buckle away from the
4
child seat until tight. Verify that the buckle retainer lies flat against the child seat shell.
Ensure that the buckle strap * is not twisted and that the button faces out.
NOTE: The belly pad must be pulled over the buckle retainer to remove.
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Fastening the Buckle
Child Seat features OverviewChild Seat features Overview
Top
1
Insert one tongue at a time into the buckle.
2
NOTE: Proper connection is confirmed with an audible click after inserting
each buckle tongue.
Releasing the Buckle
1
Press the release button and pull the tongues from the buckle.
NOTE: Periodically clean the buckle to ensure proper operation.
2
Using the LATCH Connectors
Disconnect the LATCH 1 connectors from the LATCH connector storage slots.
Locate the LATCH anchors in your
2
vehicle.
3
Verify that the LATCH connector is right-side up and that the LATCH strap is not twisted before connecting.
NOTE: Proper connection is confirmed with an audible click after attachment.
IMPORTANT: Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual or contact the vehicle
manufacturer for the maximum weight rating for their LATCH anchors. Use the vehicle belt (not LATCH) for installations with children who weigh more than the vehicle LATCH anchor limit. Unless specified otherwise by the vehicle manufacturer, assume a 40 pound (18.1 kg.) child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit. Only use the vehicle’s designated tether anchor for the chosen seating position.
Using the Versa-Tether
WARNING:
Attach the Versa-Tether only to tether anchors identified by your vehicle • manufacturer as tether anchorage points.
If your vehicle does not currently have a tether anchor attachment, refer to your • vehicle owner’s manual or contact your vehicle man u fac tur er for assistance. DO NOT modify your vehicle without advice from your vehicle manufacturer.
When using the child seat in harness mode:
Britax recommends that the tether be used at all times when installing the child • seat. Using the tether will improve the stability of your child seat and reduce the risk of injury.
Always use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 80 lbs (29.5 – 36.3 kg).• You must use the Versa-Tether if installing the child seat using the LATCH •
connectors.
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To Attach the Versa-Tether:
Child Seat features OverviewChild Seat features Overview
Using the Chest Clip
Remove the Versa-Tether from the 1 storage clip.
Tilt the tether adjuster tab and pull
3
to fully extend the tether.
Attach the tether hook to a
5
designated anchor point.
NOTE: Anchor point locations in vehicles vary. Consult your vehicle owner’s manual to help identify the anchor location. IMPORTANT: Ensure any excess Versa-Tether® webbing is contained within your vehicle.
2
Loosen the tether and place over the child seat back.
4
Locate the tether hook on the strap.
6
Tighten the tether.
Opening the chest clip. 1
IMPORTANT:
the chest clip is at the middle of the chest at armpit level.
The correct height for
Fastening the chest clip
2
Using the Recline Block
IMPORTANT: Set the recline block position BEFORE installing into your
vehicle.
Recline
block
Booster Position
1 Harness Position2
NOTE:
must unhook the Versa-Tether from the storage clip (if connected) before moving the recline block.
The default position of the recline block is booster position. You
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See your vehicle owner's manual for child seat installation instructions. The back seat is the safest place for children 12 and under.
Child Seat features Overview
Using the Cup Holders
Vehicle Compatibility
Vehicle Seating Positions
Pull the handle up and out to open 1 the cup holder.
Push the base of the cup holder up
3
to unlock.
2
Push the base of the cup holder down to lock into place.
4
Push the cup holder in to return to the stowed position.
IMPORTANT: Do not put containers of hot liquids in the cup holders. Stow
the cup holders when not in use.
Using the Armrests
The armrests can be rotated up and down. They also can be used to hold the harness straps while securing your child.
IMPORTANT: The armrests
must be in the down position during travel.
WARNING:
A forward-facing child seat in the front seat of a vehicle with a • passenger air bag is not recommended. DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur.
When using this child seat in a vehicle with air bags, refer to the • vehicle owner’s manual for child seat installation instructions and precautions.
Based on crash statistics, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that parents select a rear seating position as the safest location for a properly installed child seat. The back seat is the safest place for children 12 and under.
Please study Understanding Vehicle Seat Belts on page 18 of this booklet to ensure the child’s safety. If in doubt about installing the child seat, consult the vehicle owner’s manual.
WARNING:
Forward-facing vehicle seats MUST be
used with this child seat. Side-facing or rear-facing seats
CANNOT be used.
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Vehicle Compatibility Vehicle Compatibility
Vehicle seat belts and LATCH anchor locations vary. Consult your vehicle owner’s manual for details on what type of seat belts your vehicle has and where to find your LATCH
anchors (if available).
If your belt type is listed below, select another seating position or use the LATCH connectors. The following types of vehicle belts are not compatible with this child seat:
IMPORTANT:
manufacturer for the maximum weight rating for their LATCH anchors. Use the vehicle belt (not LATCH) for installations with children who weigh more than the vehicle LATCH anchor limit. Unless specified otherwise by the vehicle manufacturer, assume a 40 pound (18.1 kg.) child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit. Only use the vehicle’s designated tether anchor for the chosen seating position. Do not connect more than one LATCH anchor or tether hook to a single vehicle anchor.
Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual or contact the vehicle
Understanding Vehicle Seat Belts
NOTE: The information in this section only applies to installation with
vehicle safety belts.
This child seat can fit securely in most vehicles using existing vehicle belts; however, some vehicle designs prevent a secure fit of the child seat due to the position of the vehicle belt lower anchorage points.
WARNING:
when restraining a child in booster mode. Never restrain a child
with a lap belt only in booster mode.
Use only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system
Vehicle belts with the top or bottom 1 anchorage points in the door
3
Lap-shoulder belts that have separate retractors for the shoulder and lap sections.
Unless the lap belt retractor can * be locked. You cannot use this type of belt * with this child seat in booster
mode.
2
Automatic (motor-driven) vehicle belts.
Lap and Lap-shoulder vehicle belts 4 which only lock during a sudden stop or crash (Emergency Locking Retractor-ELR belts).
Unless a locking clip is used with * a lap-shoulder belt. Unless a belt shortening clip is *
used with a lap belt
NOTE: If a locking clip is needed and one is not available, please call Britax Consumer Services at: 1-888­427-4829.
Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual to determine the kind of retractors used in your vehicle and how to operate them.
General Information General Information
WARNING:
Install forward-facing only.• Do not use anything to raise the child seat off of the vehicle seat.• When using the LATCH connectors you must also use the top tether. If LATCH •
anchors are not available, you must use vehicle belt installation methods. The child seat is shipped prepared for use in harness mode with the exeption of the recline block position. Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer for the maximum weight rating for the LATCH anchors in your vehicle. Use the vehicle belt (not LATCH connectors) for installations with children who weigh more than the vehicle LATCH anchor limit. Unless specified otherwise by the vehicle manufacturer, assume a 40 pound (18.1 kg) child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit.
Harness Mode
Always use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 80 lbs (29.5 – •
36.3 kg) in harness mode. Long belt path is only for use with a lap-shoulder belt. Never use the long belt •
path option with LATCH or a lap belt.
This child seat can be used in harness mode with children at least 2 years • of age and 25 – 80 lbs (11.3 – 36.3 kg) who stand 30 – 53 in. (76.2 – 134.6 cm) in height. Britax recommends using harness mode to 80 lbs (36.3 kg). See the Child Size: Height and Weight Limitations section on page 4 for information on when your child has outgrown harness mode.
Booster Mode
The recline block must be • rotated to the back when positioning the child seat in booster mode.
This child seat can be used • in booster mode with children who stand 42 – 60 in. (106.7 – 152.4 cm) in height and weigh more than 40 lbs (18.1 kg). Britax recommends using harness mode to 80 lbs (36.3 kg). See the Child Size: Height and Weight Limitations section on page 4 for information on when your child has outgrown harness mode.
Recline
block
Harness Mode
NOTE: This seat is shipped with the recline block in booster mode.
IMPORTANT:
This child seat can be installed using LATCH, a lap-shoulder belt, or a lap belt • only.
The recline block must be • rotated to the front when installing the child seat in harness mode.
Based upon your vehicle’s • seat belt configuration, you may achieve a more secure installation using one of two approved lap­shoulder belt path options (long belt path or short belt path). If the first installation method results in more than 1” (2.5 cm) of front-to-back or side­to-side movement at the belt path, then try the other option. See page 24 for information on selecting a belt path to install this child seat in your vehicle.
20
WARNING:
Use only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system
when restraining a child in booster mode. Never restrain a child with a lap belt only in booster mode.
When positioning this child • seat in booster mode use the vehicle’s lap-shoulder belt to secure the child and child seat into the desired seating position.
In booster mode, this child • seat can be positioned on the vehicle seat using LATCH. Use the vehicle’s lap-shoulder belt to secure the child. Ensure that the LATCH system does not interfere with the vehicle belt function and alignment when securing your child.
Booster Mode
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23
Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat
LATCH – Short Path Only
Checklist for proper installation:
Does your vehicle:
Have a top tether anchor? 9
Always use the Versa-Tether * for children weighing 65 – 80 lbs (29.5 – 36.3 kg). Britax recommends that the Versa-
Tether be used at all times.
Have LATCH anchors? 9
Check your vehicle owner’s manual for the vehicle’s latch anchor limits. *
IMPORTANT: When using the LATCH connectors you must also use the
Harness Mode
top tether. If LATCH anchors are not available, you must use vehicle belt installation methods.
LATCH short path
Locate the LATCH anchors in your
5
vehicle.
6
Verify that the LATCH strap is not twisted.
Harness Mode
Remove the Versa-Tether from the 1 storage clip.
Rotate the recline block to harness
3
position.
2
Loosen the tether and place over the child seat back.
4
Place the child seat on the vehicle seat.
Attach the LATCH connectors to 7 their adjacent LATCH anchors.
Attach and tighten the
9
Versa-Tether.
IMPORTANT: Ensure any
excess Versa-Tether is contained within your vehicle.
Check all connections and verify that child seat is secure.
10
The child seat is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to-* side more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the belt path. If the child seat is not secure, repeat the installation procedure or use a different seating location.
®
webbing
8
Push the child seat into the vehicle seat and pull the loop end of each LATCH strap through the belt slot to tighten.
Repeat as necessary.*
24
25
Outside edge of child seat
Buckle
stalk
behind
child seat
Buckle
stalk
behind
child seat
The buckle stalk is in position for
short belt path installation
Outside edge of child seat
Buckle
stalk
beside
child seat
Buckle
stalk
beside
child seat
The buckle stalk is in position for
long belt path installation
Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat
Lap-Shoulder Belt – Selecting a Belt Path
Due to the variability in vehicle seat designs and belt systems, the Frontier child seat can be secured to the vehicle seat by a lap­shoulder belt with either a short belt path or a long belt path installation method.
WARNING: Do not use the long belt path for LATCH or
If the buckle stalk is to the C side of the child seat (i.e. the child seat is narrower than the insertion points of the vehicle belt system), then the long belt path may be the best option to try first.
Lap-belt installations.
The following may help with selecting which belt path to try first:
Harness Mode
Place the child seat on the A
Harness Mode
vehicle seat in the chosen seating position. Note the position of the vehicle belt buckle stalk relative to the child seat.
If the buckle stalk is behind
B
the child seat (i.e. the child seat is wider than the insertion points of the vehicle belt system), then the short belt path may be the best option to try first.
If one installation method results in more than 1” (2.5 cm) of front­to-back or side-to-side movement at the belt path, then try the other method.
Both the short and long lap-shoulder belt path installation methods meet or exceed all compliance standards required by the federal government. Either of these options can be used based upon vehicle compatibility for children at least 2 years old and 25 lbs (11.3 kg) up to 80 lbs (36.3 kg) in the harness mode.
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Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat
Lap-Shoulder Belt – Short Path
Checklist for proper installation
Does your vehicle:
Have a seat belt that can be locked? 9
Check your vehicle owner’s manual * to determine what type of vehicle belt you have and how it can be locked for use with child seats.
Have a top tether anchor? 9
Always use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 80 lbs (29.5 – 36.3 kg). *
Harness Mode
Britax recommends that the Versa-Tether be used at all times. Using the tether will improve the stability of the child seat and reduce the risk of injury. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for tether anchor locations.
If the vehicle has a tether anchor for
1
the chosen seating position, then remove the Versa-Tether from the storage clip.
Lap-shoulder belt short path
2
Loosen the tether and place it up and over the child seat back.
Pull the vehicle belt out and route 5 the belt through the first belt slot, under the cover and through the second belt slot.
7
Push the child seat firmly into the vehicle seat while removing all slack from the lap portion, then shoulder portion of the vehicle belt.
Ensure that the vehicle belt * is locked as directed by your vehicle owner’s manual.
Verify that the belt is not twisted
6
and then buckle.
Attach and tighten the Versa-
8
Tether.
IMPORTANT: Ensure any excess
Versa-Tether within your vehicle.
®
webbing is contained
Harness Mode
3
Rotate the recline block to harness position.
4
Place the child seat on the vehicle seat.
Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and the child seat is secure.9
The child seat is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-back or * side-to-side more than 1” (2.5 cm.) at the belt path. If the child seat is not secure, repeat the installation procedure or use a different seating location.
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29
Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat
Lap-Shoulder Belt – Long Path
Checklist for proper installation
Does your vehicle:
Have a seat belt that can be locked? 9
Check your vehicle owner’s manual * to determine what type of vehicle belt you have and how it can be locked for use with child seats.
Have a top tether anchor? 9
Always use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 80 lbs (29.5 – 36.3 kg). * Britax recommends that the Versa-Tether be used at all times. Using the tether
Harness Mode
will improve the stability of the child seat and reduce the risk of injury. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for tether anchor locations.
Lap-shoulder belt long path
5
Pull the vehicle belt out. Route the lap portion of the belt over the red lap belt guide, while positioning the shoulder portion of the belt inside the child seat shell, behind the head restraint.
Do NOT route the shoulder * portion of the vehicle seat belt through the red shoulder belt guide on the head restraint.
Rejoin the lap and shoulder belt portions
6
of the vehicle belt, route through the belt slot to the back of the child seat, across the back of the child seat shell, then through the second belt slot to the front of the child seat.
Harness Mode
1
If the vehicle has a tether anchor for the chosen seating position, then remove the Versa-Tether from the storage clip.
Rotate the recline block to harness 3 position.
Loosen the tether and place it up and 2 over the child seat back.
Place the child seat on the vehicle 4 seat.
Push the child seat firmly into the
Route the vehicle belt over the red
7
belt guide around to the outside of the child seat. Verify the vehicle belt is not twisted, then buckle.
NOTE: Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and the child seat is secure. The child seat is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to-side more than 1” (2.5 cm.) at the belt path. If the child seat is not secure, repeat the installation procedure or use
a different seating location.
Attach and tighten the Versa-Tether.
9
IMPORTANT: Ensure that any excess Versa-Tether® webbing is contained within your vehicle.
8
vehicle seat while removing all slack from the lap portion and then from the shoulder portion of the vehicle belt.
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31
Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat
Lap Belt – Short Path Only
Checklist for proper installation
Does your vehicle:
Have a seat belt that can be locked? 9
Check your vehicle owner’s * manual to determine what type of vehicle belt you have and how it can be locked for use with child seats.
Have a top tether anchor? 9
Always use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 80 lbs (29.5 – 36.3 * kg). Britax recommends that the Versa-Tether be used at all times. Using the tether
Harness Mode
will improve the stability of the child seat and reduce the risk of injury. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for tether anchor locations.
Lap belt short path
Pull the vehicle belt out and route
5
the belt through the first belt slot, under the cover and through the second belt slot.
Verify that the belt is not twisted 6 and buckle.
Harness Mode
If the vehicle has a tether anchor 1 for the chosen seating position, then remove the Versa-Tether from the storage clip.
Rotate the recline block to harness
3
position.
Loosen the tether and place it up 2 and over the child seat back.
4
Place the child seat on the vehicle seat.
Push the child seat firmly into the 7 vehicle seat while pulling the lap belt webbing through the belt slot to remove all slack.
Ensure that the vehicle belt *
Attach and tighten the Versa-
8
Tether.
IMPORTANT: Ensure any excess
Versa-Tether
®
webbing is contained
within your vehicle.
is locked as directed by your vehicle owner’s manual.
9
Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and the child seat is secure.
The child seat is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-back or * side-to-side more than 1” (2.5 cm.) at the belt path. If the child seat is not secure, repeat the installation procedure or use a different seating location.
32
33
Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat
This seat can be used in booster mode with children who stand 42” – 60” (106.7 – 152.4 cm) in height and weigh more than 40 lbs (11.3 kg). Britax recommends using harness mode to 80 lbs (36.3 kg) and using booster mode only after the child outgrows harness mode or at least meets all of the fit requirements listed on page 5 (usually around age 4).
Switching Between Modes
Harness to Booster Mode To remove the harness and buckle:
Harness Mode
1. Lift lever
Loosen the harness by lifting the 1 harness adjuster release lever located on the front of the child seat while pulling BOTH harness straps forward.
2. Pull BOTH
harness
straps
2
Unhook both harness straps from the yoke.
Do not remove the HUGS™ * pads or chest clip.
On the bottom of the seat, slide 5 the metal retainer of one harness strap up or down to release it from the child seat shell, then turn the metal retainer so it will slide through the slot in the child seat shell.
Pull the harness webbing tight * from the other side before pulling the retainer through.
Pull the retainer all the way
6
through to the top of the seat to remove the harness strap.
Repeat the process for the * remaining harness strap. Remove the harness buckle * strap (see page 10 for buckle strap removal instructions).
Harness Mode
Store the yoke on the belt shield.
3
Pull the shoulder straps of the 4 harness from the slots.
7
Buckle the harness and store all parts in a safe place.
Remove the screw from the head 8 restraint adjuster and store in a safe place. The screw will be needed to convert back to harness mode.
34
35
Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat Harness Mode: Installing Your Child Seat
Booster to Harness Mode
To replace the harness and buckle:
Locate the harness assembly.1
Harness Mode
Move the head restraint to the lowest 2 position. Move the harness adjuster to the highest position.
Turn the metal retainer of one harness 6 strap so it will slide through the slot.
Ensure that the harness strap is * not twisted.
Pull the retainer to the bottom of the 7 child seat shell, then slide the retainer up or down back into place to hold it against the child seat shell.
Pull the harness strap to ensure the * retainer lies flat against the shell.
Ensure that the chest clip faces out.*
Harness Mode
Ensure that harness slots in cover, 3 head restraint and harness adjuster are aligned. Replace the screw to lock the head restraint adjuster.
Pull on the buckle to ensure the retainer 5 lies flat against the shell. Verify that the button faces out.
Seat models vary. You may have * to slide the buckle retainer back into place on the bottom of the child seat to hold it in place against the child seat shell. See page 11.
From the top of the child seat, turn the 4 metal retainer of the buckle strap so it will slide through the slot.
Choose the slot that is closest to, * but not under your child.
Insert the top through the harness slot 8 and harness adjuster to the back of the seat.
Repeat steps 5 through 8 for the remaining harness strap.10
Once the harness has been
11
connected ensure the chest clip faces out, the straps are not twisted, and are securely fitted onto the
harness yoke.
9
Connect the harness strap to the yoke.
36
37
Booster Mode: Positioning Your Child Seat Booster Mode: Positioning Your Child Seat
WARNING:
Position forward-facing only in a seating position with a lap-shoulder • belt.
Use only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system when securing • a child in booster mode. Never secure a child with a lap belt only in booster mode.
In booster mode, this child seat can be positioned to the vehicle seat • using LATCH.
If the LATCH anchors in your vehicle prevent proper vehicle belt • fit across your child you cannot use LATCH to position this seat in
Booster Mode
booster mode.
The vehicle belt fits properly when the lap portion sits low across * the child’s hips and the shoulder portion lies across the child’s shoulder and does not contact the child’s neck when properly routed through the upper belt guide
LATCH
Checklist for proper installation:
Does your vehicle:
Have a top tether anchor in the chosen seating position? 9
Have LATCH anchors in the chosen seating position? 9
IMPORTANT: Use LATCH to position this child seat to your vehicle seat. You must secure your child using the vehicle Lap-Shoulder belt system.
Detatch the Versa-Tether1 from the storage clip.
3
Place the child seat on the vehicle seat.
Push the child seat into the vehicle
5
seat and pull the loop end of each LATCH strap through the belt slot to tighten.
®
hook
Ensure the recline block is in the 2 booster position.
Connect the LATCH connectors to 4 the LATCH anchors.
6
Attach the Versa-Tether to the vehicle’s designated tether anchor for the chosen seating position.
Booster Mode
Booster Mode: Positioning Your Child Seat
Securing Your Child
Tighten the Versa-Tether.7 Use the vehicle’s lap-shoulder 8
Lap-Shoulder Belt
Booster Mode
Recline
block
Ensure that the recline block is in 1 booster position.
Use the vehicle’s lap-shoulder 3 belt to secure your child.
belt to secure your child.
2
Place the child seat on the vehicle seat.
WARNING:
Harness Mode
Never route the vehicle belt over the child when using this child seat • in harness mode.
Adjust the belts provided with this child seat 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.
The HUGS™ chest pads must be used at all times.•
Adjust the harness to fit the clothes the child is wearing. Remove • bulky coats and/or jackets before putting the child in the child seat.
Verify that the child seat is secure and the harness is properly adjusted • around the child each time the child seat is used.
Harness Mode
IMPORTANT: Before securing your child in the child seat, always check the
seat area for debris and remove it to prevent interference with the harness adjuster mechanism.
2. Pull BOTH
harness
straps
Harness ModeHarness Mode
38
WARNING:
Always secure this child seat in your vehicle when
unoccupied by using LATCH or the lap-shoulder belt.
1. Lift lever
Loosen the harness by lifting the 1 harness adjuster release lever located on the front of the child seat while pulling BOTH harness straps forward.
2
Open the chest clip.
Press tabs1 Pull apart2
39
40
41
Harness Mode continued
Release the buckle.3 Place the harness straps around 4
the armrests.
Harness Mode
Fasten the child seat buckle.
Place the child in the child seat 5 and position the harness straps around the child.
IMPORTANT: Check the fit of the harness height on your child each time
the child seat is used. See page 4 for child fit requirements. The harness height must be set before the seat is installed in your vehicle (see page 8). If the harness needs adjustment, remove the seat, adjust the harness and reinstall.
6
Securing Your ChildSecuring Your Child
Fasten the chest clip.7
The correct height for the chest * clip is at the middle of the chest at armpit level. The HUGS™ chest pads may * be placed in any position that is comfortable for the child within the range of the correctly placed chest clip.
Pull the harness adjuster strap to
8
tighten the harness.
It may be necessary to adjust * the harness straps and HUGS™ chest pads for comfort and snugness as you tighten the harness. The harness should have a comfortable but snug fit around the 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. You should not be able to pinch excess.
Pull the harness adjuster away from
the child seat (parallel to the ground) to tighten.
Verify secure installation.9
Do not pull sideways.
Check that the:
Harness straps are not twisted. 9 Harness is snug. 9 Buckle is fastened. 9 Chest clip is at the child’s armpit level. 9
NOTE: The armrests must be in the down position during travel.
Harness Mode
42
43
Booster Mode
Securing Your ChildSecuring Your Child
WARNING:
Booster Mode
Only use a lap-shoulder belt to secure the child in booster mode.•
Use the red belt guides on the child seat to ensure proper fit. •
Ensure the lap portion of the belt sits low across the child’s hips and • that the shoulder portion does not contact the child’s neck.
Booster Mode
Place the child seat on the vehicle 1 seat and have the child sit in the child seat.
Pull the vehicle belt out.
3
2
Adjust the head restraint so when seated, the ears are below the top of the head restraint and the vehicle belt will be appropriately positioned at or above the child’s shoulder through the shoulder belt guide.
Route the shoulder portion of the 4 vehicle belt through the upper belt guide.
Remove slack from the
6
vehicle belt.
The shoulder belt * should rest on the child’s shoulder and not touch the neck.
Verify secure installation.
7
Check that the:
Vehicle belt is not twisted. 9
Buckle does not rest on red belt guide. 9
Shoulder portion of vehicle belt is routed through upper belt guide. 9
Lap part of the vehicle belt is routed low across the child’s hips 9
5
Fasten the vehicle belt across the child.
The lap part of the vehicle * belt should rest low on the child’s hips.
Booster Mode
44
45
Care and Maintenance Care and Maintenance
WARNING:
Do not take apart the harness. •
Never remove the buckle tongues from the harness. They cannot be • reattached after removal.
Never remove the HUGS system from the harness straps.•
Cover Removal
2. Pull BOTH
harness
straps
1. Lift lever
Loosen the harness by lifting the 1 harness adjuster release lever located on the front of the child seat while pulling BOTH harness straps forward.
2
Move the harness adjuster to the highest position
Remove the screw to unlock the head 5 restraint adjuster. Raise the head restraint to the highest position.
Store the screw in a safe place.*
7
Pull the elastic from the cup holders on the bottom of the seat. (Seat shown laying on back.)
Unhook the elastic bands, then remove 6 the cover from the head restraint.
Be careful not to damage the * energy-absorbing foam.
Pull the fabric from the cup holder
8
housing. (Seat shown laying on back.)
Unhook the harness straps from
3
the yoke.
4
Pull the harness straps through the shell and cover to the front of the child seat.
9
Unfasten the clips behind the armrests. (Seat shown laying on back.)
Pull the cover from the lower belt 10 guides.
46
47
Care and Maintenance Care and Maintenance
Cover Removal continued
Slide the buckle retainer up or 11 down to release it from the child seat shell.
Turn and push the buckle
13
retainer so that the short side will pass through the slot in the child seat shell
Pull the buckle retainer away 12 from the child seat to loosen.
Pull the harness straps, buckle
14
tongues, HUGS™ chest pads, and chest clip through the slots in the cover.
Replacing the Cover
Move the head restraint to the 1 highest position.
Remove the screw to unlock the * head restraint adjuster. Store the screw in a safe place.
Fit the bottom of the cover over the 3 lower part of the child seat shell.
Fit the cover around the head 2 restraint.
Be careful not to damage the * energy-absorbing foam.
4
Pull the harness straps through the appropriate holes in the cover.
Pull the lower part of the cover
15
from the bottom of the child seat shell.
16
Route the cover around the head restraint and remove the entire cover from the child seat shell.
5
Fit the elastic around the cup holders on the bottom of the child seat shell. (Seat shown laying on back.)
Move the head restraint to the
6
lowest position. Ensure that harness slots in cover, head restraint and harness adjuster are aligned and route the harness straps through the harness slots and harness adjuster.
48
49
Care and Maintenance Care and Maintenance
Route the harness straps behind
7
the belt shield and re-attach to the harness yoke.
Ensure the harness straps are not * twisted.
Push the retainer through the slots 8 in the child seat shell and cover to the bottom of the child seat.
Pull the buckle strap to tighten it * against the child seat shell.
Re-attach the clips behind the 13 arm rests. (Seat shown laying on back.)
Push the fabric into the groove 14 around the cup holder housing.
Slide the buckle retainer into place 9 up or down to hold it against the child seat shell.
Replace the head restraint cover 11 and re-attach the elastic loops to hold the cover in place.
10
Buckle the harness.
Ensure the harness straps are * not twisted and that the buckle faces out.
Replace screw in head restraint to
12
lock the head restraint adjuster.
Push the fabric under the lower 15 belt guides. (Seat shown laying on back.)
Cleaning the Cover
HAND WASH the cover using cold water and mild soap.•
LINE DRY to prevent the cover from shrinking.•
DO NOT:•
Bleach* Machine wash* Machine dry*
Re-attach the elastic to hold 16 the cover in place. (Seat shown laying on back.)
50
51
Care and Maintenance Care and Maintenance
Cleaning the Harness
SPONGE CLEAN the harness using warm water and mild soap.•
TOWEL DRY•
DO NOT:•
Disassemble the harness* Bleach* Machine wash* Machine dry* Iron*
Cleaning the Shell
SPONGE CLEAN the shell using warm water and mild soap.•
TOWEL DRY•
DO NOT use abrasive cleaners•
Cleaning the Buckle
If your child eats and drinks while in the child seat, you may need to check the buckle periodically and wash out any accumulated debris or dried liquids.
Remove the Buckle
Locate the metal buckle strap 1 retainer on the bottom of the child seat.
2
Slide the buckle retainer up or down to to release it from the child seat shell.
Pull the buckle retainer away from 3 the child seat to loosen.
Pull the retainer through
5
the slots in the child seat shell and cover to the top of the child seat.
4
Turn and push the buckle retainer so that the short side will pass through the slot in the child seat shell
THOROUGHLY RINSE the buckle using warm water.•
TEST THE BUCKLE by fastening and unfastening until a positive • click is heard after inserting each buckle tongue. If clicks are not heard, repeat the cleaning procedure.
TOWEL DRY•
DO NOT:•
Soak* Lubricate* Use solvents* Use soap or household detergents*
52
53
Care and Maintenance Versa-Tether
Re-thread the Buckle
Select the slot closest to, but not under the child.1
Energy-Absorbing Tether
The Versa-Tether has been designed to manage energy, reduce forward head movement, and help children ride down the force of a crash in the event of an impact. It also has been designed to help indicate when the child seat has been in a moderate or severe crash and replacement of the child seat is necessary.
Figure 1 shows the tether when the child seat is acceptable for continued use (provided the child seat has not been involved in a
Turn and push the buckle retainer 2 so that the short side will pass through the slot in the cover and child seat shell.
Pull through the slots in the cover 3 and shell to the bottom of the child seat.
crash). The colored stitching will be intact and the webbing will be held under a tether label.
Figures 2 and 3 show examples of
1
when the child seat is unacceptable for continued use. If the tether label is torn, or if one or both of the loops have pulled through the back side of the shell and/or any of the colored stitching has
2
ripped, the child seat is no longer acceptable for use.
Slide the buckle retainer into place
4
up or down to hold it against the child seat shell.
Pull the buckle away from the 5 child seat until tight. Verify that the buckle retainer lies flat against the child seat shell.
Ensure that the buckle strap * is not twisted and that the button faces out.
3
IMPORTANT: Discontinue use of child seat if it has been involved in a
moderate or severe crash regardless of whether the loops have pulled
NOTE: The belly pad must be pulled over the buckle retainer to remove.
through the back side of the shell and the colored stitching has been ripped.
54
55
Troubleshooting Warranty
Problem: The harness is hard to adjust. Possible Solution: Check that the harness slots in the head restraint
and harness adjuster are properly aligned. Do not use the head restraint adjuster when the harness is attached. Possible Solution: The yoke may be caught on a strap or other component of the child seat. Remove the obstruction and try adjusting the harness again.
Problem: The harness straps detach from the harness yoke. Possible Solution: When loosening the harness, pull BOTH harness
straps. Pulling only one strap increases the chance for the harness yoke to become tangled or caught behind the child seat, resulting in the potential occurance of the harness straps detatching from the harness yoke.
Problem: The adjuster strap is fraying at the sides: Possible Solution: Pull the harness adjuster strap away from the child
seat (parallel to the ground) to tighten. Do not pull sideways. Doing so can cause the harness adjuster strap to fray at the sides. See page 41.
Problem: The buckle will not fasten with a click after each tongue is inserted Possible solution: There may be debris in the buckle mechanism. Clean the buckle as shown on page 50 and 51 and try fastening the buckle again.
Problem: The cup holder will not go back into the stowed position. Possible solution: The base of the cup holder is not unlocked. Push it
up to unlock the cup holder and try stowing the cupholder.
This child seat was manufactured by 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 work man ship for one year from the date of original purchase. Proof of purchase is required. Your 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, you must contact Britax Consumer Services at 1-888-427-4829 or write to us using the address on the back cover of this booklet.
PLEASE COMPLETE AND MAIL THE OWNER REGISTRATION CARD WITHIN (30) DAYS OF PURCHASE
You may also register online at www.BritaxUSA.com/registration.
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 child seat to fail Federal Safety Standards or not perform as intended 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 to you 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 lim i ta­tions may not apply to you. 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.
If you have misplaced your head restraint lock-out screw, you can purchase a replacement #8 x 1/2” sheetmetal screw at any hard­ware store.
Please contact Consumer Services at 1.888.427.4829 if you have an issue not listed here.
IMPORTANT!
DOUBLE CHECK EVERY TIME YOU USE THIS CAR SEAT.
Double Check Car Seat-to-Vehicle Installation:
Check that the LATCH or vehicle seat belt connections to the vehicle
are tight and secure.
Verify the car seat cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to-side
more than one inch at the belt path.
Double Check Child-to-Car Seat Installation:
Tug on the buckle to ensure a proper connection.
Confirm that the harness straps are snug and over both shoulders
and hips. You should not be able to pinch excess harness strap webbing at the child’s shoulder.
Make sure the chest clip is properly fastened and positioned in
the middle of the child’s chest at armpit level.
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