Britax DECATHLON User manual

Decathlon
User Guide
P2500_R01b.qxd 12/7/2004 9:30 AM Page 1

Table of Contents
Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
WARNINGS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Important Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Rear View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Vehicle Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Vehicle Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Vehicle Buckle Position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Vehicle Seating Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Installation: Rear Facing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
LATCH Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Lap-Shoulder Belt Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Lap Belt Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Installation: Forward Facing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
LATCH Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Lap-Shoulder Belt Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Lap Belt Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Installation: Versa-Tether® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Using the Versa-Tether . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Using the Rear Facing Tether Connector Strap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Installation: Aircraft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Restraint Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Switching the LATCH Harness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Storing the LATCH Harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Recline Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Infant Positioning System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Toddler Pillow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Chest Clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
HUGS™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Harness Buckle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Harness Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Securing Your Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
This product and its components are subject to change without notice.
© 2004 Britax Child Safety, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.
P250000 R1:11/04
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32
• Use only in a rear-facing position when using restraint with an
infant weighing less than 20 pounds (9 kg). The American
Academy of Pediatrics recommends rear facing until at least 1
year of age and 20 pounds.
• Use only with children who weigh between 5 and 65 pounds
(2.3 and 29 kg) and whose height is 49 inches (124 cm) or less.
Rear facing 5–33 pounds (2.3–15 kg) and forward facing
maximum 65 pounds (29 kg).
• Snugly adjust the belts provided with this child restraint around
your child. A snug strap should not allow any slack. It lies in a
relatively straight line without sagging. It does not press on the
child’s flesh or push the child’s body into an unnatural position.
• Secure the top anchorage strap provided with this child restraint.
•
Secure this child restraint with the vehicle’s child restraint
anchorage system if available or with a vehicle belt.
•
Follow all instructions on this child restraint and in the written
instructions.
• Register your child restraint with the manufacturer.
•
Use vehicle belt (not LATCH connectors) for installations with
children weighing more than 48 pounds (21 kg). Refer to the
vehicle owner’s manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer for
the maximum weight rating for their LATCH anchors. Unless
specified otherwise by the vehicle manufacturer, assume a 48-
pound child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit.
• This child restraint must not be used in the home, in boats, or
other non-certified applications.
• Based on crash statistics, the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration recommends that parents select the back seat as
the safest location for a properly installed child restraint. Please
study the section on Vehicle Safety Belts in this booklet to
ensure the child’s safety. If in doubt about installing the child
restraint, consult the vehicle owner’s manual.
• Secure this child restraint even when it is not occupied. In a
crash, an unsecured child restraint may injure vehicle occupants.
• When using in vehicle with air bags, refer to the vehicle owner’s
manual for child restraint installation instructions and
precautions.
•
Restraint must be in the full upright position when installed in
forward facing mode with children over 33 pounds (15 kg).
•
Never use the adjuster strap to lift or carry this child restraint. Doing
so could cause damage to the harness adjuster and webbing.
Always carry this child restraint by the shell or tether straps.
• The primary protection for occupants of a vehicle in a collision is
the body of the vehicle itself; a child restraint will not protect a
child when the vehicle is seriously impacted. However, correctly
installed, a child restraint will substantially improve the chances
for survival in most crashes. Make sure that all users fully
understand the correct ways to use this child restraint in a
vehicle.
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54
Safety Information
Safety Information
IMPORTANT:
• Verify that the child restraint is secure and that the harness is
properly adjusted around the child each time the child restraint
is used.
• Adjust the harness to fit the clothes the child is wearing. The fit for
a child in winter clothes will differ from a child in summer clothes.
• Cover the restraint when the vehicle is parked in direct sunlight.
Parts of the child restraint could become hot enough to burn the
child.
• Store the child restraint in a safe place when it is not being used.
Avoid placing heavy objects on top of it.
• Discontinue use of a child restraint that is older than six years or
has been in a severe crash to prevent injury due to deterioration
or hidden damage. See date of manufacture, located on restraint.
•
Do not leave children alone in a vehicle, even for a short time.
• Do not, except as described in this booklet, attempt to disassem-
ble any part of the child restraint or change the way its harness or
the vehicle restraint belts are used.
• Do not leave loose objects, e.g. books, bags, etc., in the back of a
vehicle. In the event of a sudden stop, loose objects will keep
moving, potentially causing serious injuries.
• Do not leave folding vehicle seats unlatched. In the event of a
sudden stop, a loose seat back could prevent the child restraint
from protecting the child as well as it should.
• Do not allow children to play with the child restraint.
• Do not use anything to raise the restraint off the vehicle seat,
except as described in these instructions. In a crash, it could slide
and may not protect the child as well as it should.
This child restraint system conforms to all applicable Federal motor
vehicle safety standards. This restraint is certified for use in motor
vehicles and aircraft.
Child restraints could be recalled for safety reasons. You must
register this restraint to be reached in a recall. Send your name,
address, and the restraint's model number and manufacturing
date to Britax Child Safety, Inc. 13501 South Ridge Drive
Charlotte, NC 28273 or call 1-888-4BRITAX. For recall
information, call the U.S. Government's Auto Safety Hotline at
1-888-327-4236.
Visit BritaxUSA.com to register your restraint online!
WARNING! DO NOT place a child
restraint in the front seat of a vehicle with
a passenger air bag unless the air bag is
turned off. DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY
can occur. The back seat is the safest place
for children under 12.
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Features
7
Features
6
1
2
6
5
4
3
7
10
8
9
11
12
13
17
18
19
10
20
21
22
23
24
25
16
26
16
14
15
LATCH
Lower Anchors and
Tethers for CHildren
1Cover
2Shell
3Forward Facing Lock-off
4Rear Facing Belt Slot
5Rear Facing Lock-off
6Forward Facing Belt Slot
7Toddler Pillow Attachment Strap
8Versa-Tether®
9Versa-Tether Pouch
10 Harness Straps
11 Harness Yoke
12 Belt Guard
13 Base
14 LATCH Adjuster
15 LATCH Connector Release Button
16 LATCH Connector
17 Toddler Pillow
18 Infant Positioning System: Infant Pillow
19 Infant Positioning System: Body Pillow
20 Comfort Pads
21 Chest Clip
22 HUGS™Shoulder Pads
23 Harness Buckle
24 Harness Adjuster Release Button
25 Harness Adjuster Strap
26 Recline Handle
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Vehicle Buckle Position
WARNING: The position of the vehicle belt
buckle can affect the stability of the child
restraint. In an accident, an improperly
positioned buckle could become loose and the
child would be unprotected.
If the buckle lies near the position marked
as wrong ( ) when the vehicle belt is tight-
ened, try fitting the child restraint in anoth-
er seating position in the vehicle.
If it is not possible to achieve the correct
position ( ) for the buckle, then anoth-
er seating position MUST be used.
Vehicle Seating Positions
WARNING: Forward facing vehicle seats MUST be
used with this child restraint. Side Facing or rear facing
seats CANNOT be used (see diagram below).
Vehicle Compatiblity
9
Vehicle Compatibility
8
Vehicle Safety Belts
IMPORTANT:
• The information in this section only applies to installation with
vehicle safety belts.
• Some vehicles do not have seating positions which are compatible
with this child restraint. If in doubt, contact the vehicle manufacturer.
The following types of vehicle belts are not compatible with this child
restraint:
Front vehicle belts with top or bottom
anchorage points in the door.
Motor driven automatic vehicle belts.
Three-point belts that have separate
retractors for the shoulder section and
the lap section.
Non-locking (ELR) two-point vehicle
belts.
The owner's manual for your vehicle will
have information on the types of vehicle
belts in your vehicle. If your belt type is
listed above, select another seating position
or use LATCH connectors.
This child restraint can fit securely in most
vehicles using the existing vehicle belts.
However, some types of vehicle designs
prevent a secure fit of the child restraint due
to the position of the vehicle belt lower
anchorage points.
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Installation: Rear Facing
11
Installation: Rear Facing
10
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.
1If stored, remove LATCH connectors
from storage slots under cover (pg. 25).
2Press each LATCH adjuster release
button, then pull LATCH harness to full
length.
3Thread each LATCH connector through
adjacent rear facing belt slot (fig. B).
4Fully recline the restraint then place it
sideways on the vehicle seat, with the
front facing toward you.
5Attach the farthest LATCH connector
to the farthest LATCH anchor (fig. C).
• A positive click confirms attachment.
• If LATCH connectors will not attach with
a positive click, it may be necessary to
switch the LATCH connectors as shown
on page 25.
6Rotate seat into rear facing position.
7Verify that the LATCH harness is not
twisted, then attach the closest LATCH
connector to the closest LATCH anchor
(fig. D).
8Push the child restraint firmly into the
vehicle seat while pulling each LATCH
harness tight (fig. E).
9Verify that all connections are secure
and the restraint is stable.
•The restraint is tight when it cannot be
moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the
belt path.
•The back angle of the child restraint
should not exceed 45º when properly
installed rear facing.
•If there is a problem stabilizing the
restraint or achieving necessary angle,
place a tightly rolled towel in the crease
of the vehicle seat to help level the
restraint.
•
Installation can be improved by the use
of the
Versa-Tether
®
(pgs. 21–23) . The
recline angle can be adjusted by
tightening the tether as described on
page 22, using anchor point 3.
WARNING: Do not raise the restraint off of the front edge of the vehicle seat;
doing so will reduce the protection for your child.
Removal
1While pushing the restraint firmly into the vehicle seat, press the
red release button on the LATCH connector to release.
2If connected, disconnect the Versa-Tether from the tether anchor.
3 When not in use, always store the LATCH connectors in
storage slots (pg. 25) .
A
BE
C
D
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Installation: Rear Facing
13
Installation: Rear Facing
12
Lap-Shoulder Belt Installation
•Figure A illustrates a typical rear facing
lap-shoulder belt installation.
•
When not in use, always store the
LATCH connectors in storage slots.
1Fully recline the restraint then place it
rear facing on the vehicle seat.
2Open rear facing lock-off farthest from
where the vehicle belt will be buckled.
3 Pull the vehicle belt out then pass it
through the first rear facing belt slot
(fig. B) .
• The vehicle belt can be routed over or
under the cover.
4 Route vehicle belt across the seat
then through the second rear facing
belt slot.
5 Verify that the vehicle belt is not
twisted, then buckle (
fig. C) .
6Push the restraint firmly into the seat
while removing slack from the lap
portion of the vehicle belt, then the
shoulder portion ( fig. D).
7
Position both sections of vehicle belt
through the rear facing lock-off
farthest from vehicle buckle, then
close lock-off arm
( fig. E) .
• Lock-off is properly closed when a click
is heard.
• To prevent breakage, never bend the
lock-off arm up or down.
8Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and
the child restraint is stable.
•The restraint is tight when it cannot be
moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the
belt path.
•The back angle of the child restraint
should not exceed 45º when properly
installed rear facing.
•If there is a problem stabilizing the
restraint or achieving necessary angle,
place a tightly rolled towel in the crease
of the vehicle seat to help level the
restraint.
•
Installation can be improved by the use of the Versa-Tether
®
(pgs.
21–23) . The recline angle can be adjusted by tightening the tether as
described on page 22, using anchor point 3.
WARNING: Do not raise the restraint off of the front edge of the vehicle seat;
doing so will reduce the protection for your child.
Removal
Release the Versa-Tether, if used, then reverse the above directions.
A
BE
C
D
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1514
Installation: Rear Facing Installation: Rear Facing
Lap Belt Installation
•Figure A illustrates a typical rear facing
lap belt installation.
•
When not in use, always store the
LATCH connectors in storage slots.
1Fully recline the restraint then place it
rear facing on the vehicle seat.
2Open rear facing lock-off farthest from
where the vehicle belt will be buckled.
3Pull the vehicle belt out, then pass it
through the closest rear facing belt slot
(fig. B).
• The vehicle belt can be routed over or
under the restraint cover.
4 Route vehicle belt across the seat
then through the second rear facing
belt slot.
5 Verify that the vehicle belt is not
twisted, then buckle (
fig. C) .
6Push the child restraint firmly into the
vehicle seat while removing slack from
the vehicle belt (fig. D).
7 Position the vehicle belt through the
rear facing lock-off farthest from the
vehicle buckle, then close lock-off arm
( fig. E) .
• Lock-off is properly closed when a click
is heard.
• To prevent breakage, never bend the
lock-off arm up or down.
8Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and
the child restraint is stable.
•The restraint is tight when it cannot be
moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the
belt path.
•The back angle of the child restraint
should not exceed 45º when properly
installed rear facing.
•If there is a problem stabilizing the
restraint or achieving necessary angle,
place a tightly rolled towel in the crease
of the vehicle seat to help level the
restraint.
•
Installation can be improved by the use of the Versa-Tether
®
(pgs.
21–23) . The recline angle can be adjusted by tightening the tether as
described on page 22, using anchor point 3.
WARNING: Do not raise the restraint off of the front edge of the vehicle seat;
doing so will reduce the protection for your child.
Removal
Release the Versa-Tether, if used, then reverse the above directions.
A
BE
C
D
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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.
1If stored, remove LATCH connectors
from storage slots under cover (pg. 25),
then pull completely through right-side
rear facing belt slot.
2Press each LATCH adjuster release button,
then pull LATCH harness to full length.
3Thread each LATCH harness through
forward facing belt path (fig. B).
4Place restraint sideways on the vehicle
seat, with the back facing toward you.
• Restraint must be in the full upright
position when installed in forward facing
mode with children over 33 pounds (15kg).
• If using Versa-Tether
®
, remove from
pouch and loosely attach to an approved
tether anchorage point. (pg. 25).
5Attach the farthest LATCH connector
to the farthest LATCH anchor (fig. C).
• A positive click confirms attachment.
• If LATCH connectors will not attach with
a positive click, it may be necessary to
switch the LATCH connectors as shown
on page 25.
Installation: Forward Facing
17
Installation: Forward Facing
16
6Rotate seat into forward facing position.
7Verify that the LATCH harness is not
twisted, then attach the closest LATCH
connector to the closest LATCH anchor
(fig. D).
• A positive click confirms attachment.
8Kneel on the child restraint to force it
into the vehicle seat while pulling each
LATCH harness tight (fig. E).
9Verify that all connections are secure
and the restraint is stable.
•The restraint is tight when it cannot be
moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the
belt path.
•
Installation can be improved by the use
of the Versa-Tether
®
(pgs. 21–22)
.
Removal
1While pushing the restraint firmly into the
vehicle seat, press the red release button
on the LATCH connector to release.
2If connected, disconnect the Versa-Tether from the tether anchor.
3 When not in use, always store the LATCH connectors in
storage slots (pg. 25) .
WARNING: Use vehicle belt (not LATCH connectors) for installations with
children weighing more than 48 pounds (21 kg). Refer to the vehicle owner’s
manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer for the maximum weight rating
for their LATCH anchors. Unless specified otherwise by the vehicle
manufacturer, assume a 48-pound child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit.
A
BE
C
D
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Installation: Forward Facing
19
Installation: Forward Facing
18
4Rotate lever downward to open
forward facing lock-off farthest from
where the vehicle belt will be buckled.
5Remove slack from the lap portion of
the vehicle belt.
6 Kneel on the child restraint to force it
into the vehicle seat while pulling the
shoulder portion of the vehicle belt
tightly through the lock-off (fig. D).
7 Hold the shoulder belt tight, then rotate
the lock-off upward until secured ( fig. E) .
8Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and
the child restraint is secure.
•The restraint is tight when it cannot be
moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the
belt path.
•
Installation can be improved by the use
of the
Versa-Tether
®
(pgs. 21–22) .
Removal
Release the Versa-Tether, if used, then
reverse the above directions.
Lap-Shoulder Belt Installation
•Figure A illustrates a typical forward
facing lap-shoulder belt installation.
•
When not in use, always store the
LATCH connectors in storage slots.
1Place the child restraint forward facing
on the vehicle seat.
• Restraint must be in the full upright
position when installed in forward facing
mode with children over 33 pounds
(15kg).
• If using
Versa-Tether
®
, remove from
pouch and loosely attach to an approved
tether anchorage point (pg. 22).
2 Pull the vehicle belt out then thread it
through the forward facing belt path.
(fig. B) .
3 Verify that the vehicle belt is not
twisted, then buckle (
fig. C) .
A
BE
C
D
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Installation: Forward Facing
20
Lap Belt Installation
•Figure A illustrates a typical forward
facing lap belt installation.
•
When not in use, always store the
LATCH connectors in storage slots.
1 Place the child restraint forward facing
on the vehicle seat.
• Restraint must be in the full upright
position when installed in forward facing
mode with children over 33 pounds (15kg).
• If using Versa-Tether
®
, remove from
pouch and loosely attach to an approved
tether anchorage point (pg. 22).
2 Pull the vehicle belt out then thread it
through the forward facing belt path.
(fig. A)
.
3 Verify that the vehicle belt is not
twisted, then buckle (fig. B) .
4Kneel on the child restraint to force it
into the vehicle seat
while removing
slack from the vehicle belt (fig. C).
5 Verify that the vehicle belt is tight and
the child restraint is secure.
•The restraint is tight when it cannot be
moved more than 1” (2.5 cm) at the
belt path.
•
Installation can be improved by the use
of the
Versa-Tether
®
(pgs. 21–22) .
Installation: Versa-Tether®
21
WARNING:
• WHEN USING THE RESTRAINT IN FORWARD FACING
MODE, ATTACH THE VERSA-TETHER ONLY TO TETHER
ANCHORS IDENTIFIED BY THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER AS
TETHER ANCHORAGE POINTS. USE OF OTHER LOCATIONS
IS NOT APPROVED OR PERMITTED.
• If a tether anchorage is not available, DO NOT modify the
vehicle without advice from the vehicle manufacturer.
• DO NOT hook the Versa-Tether to the bottom of a vehicle
seat adjuster!
IMPORTANT:
• Britax®recommends that the tether be used at all times. Using
the tether will improve the stability of the child restraint and
reduce the risk of injury.
•
If the vehicle does not currently have a tether anchor
attachment, refer to the vehicle owner’s manual or contact
the vehicle manufacturer for assistance.
• The back angle of the child restraint should be 45º–45º from
vertical when properly installed in the rear facing position.
NOTE:
•
The rear facing recline angle can be adjusted by tightening the
tether as described on page 24, using anchor point 3.
• It may be necessary to loosen the tether and vehicle seat belt
before adjusting the recline position.
A
B
C
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Installation: Versa-Tether®
Installation: Versa-Tether®
Using the Versa-Tether Forward Facing
1Remove tether from pouch.
2Press and hold the tether adjuster release button, then pull to fully
extend tether strap into a V-shape.
3Locate the hook on the tether strap.
4 Loosely attach the tether to an approved tether anchor point
for the desired restraint installation position (fig. A).
5Secure the child restraint in the vehicle.
6
Pull the tether adjuster strap to remove all slack.
7 Verify that there is tension in the tether strap and that child
restraint is properly secured.
Using the Versa-Tether Rear Facing
1Secure the child restraint in the vehicle.
2Remove tether from pouch.
3Press and hold the tether adjuster
release button, then pull to fully extend
tether strap into a V-shape.
4Locate the hook on the tether strap.
5 Loosely attach the tether to an
approved tether anchor point for the
desired restraint installation position (fig. B or C).
6 Pull the tether adjuster strap to remove all slack.
7 Verify that there is tension in the tether strap and that child
restraint is properly secured.
Using the Rear Facing Tether Connector Strap
If you cannot find a suitable location to anchor the tether, use the
tether connector strap to create an anchor point.
WARNING: Only use the tether connector strap (fig. D) for rear facing tether
installation.
1Find a fixed vehicle seat belt anchor or vehicle seat leg, that is
bolted to the floor, that the strap can be wrapped around.
2Loop the strap around the metal anchor (fig. D).
3Take the metal D-ring and thread it through the webbing loop on
the other end of the strap.
4Pull the metal D-ring all the way through until the strap is tight
around the metal anchor.
5Use the D-ring as an attachment point for the hook on the tether
strap.
3
Rear Facing Location (Swedish)
1
2
Rear Facing Locations (Australian)
1
2
Forward Facing Locations
22 23
AB
C
D
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Restraint Functions
25
Switching the LATCH Harness
The LATCH harness may need to be
switched for proper alignment in rear
facing (fig. C) or forward facing (fig. D)
installations. If a proper connection cannot
be achieved, complete the following
procedure to switch the connectors.
1Pull the LATCH harness and connectors
from the current location.
2Rotate the harness so that the LATCH
connectors are on opposite sides.
3Thread the LATCH harness through the
appropriate belt path.
• Refer to figure C for rear facing
installation OR figure D for forward
facing installation.
• Verify that the harness is not twisted.
4Follow instructions for installation with
LATCH.
Storing the LATCH Harness
When the LATCH Harness is not in use, lift
the cover to access LATCH storage slots
(fig. E). Fold the LATCH adjuster and
connector, then slide each set into the
adjacent slot.
NOTE: Restraints are shipped from Britax with
LATCH connectors in the Storage Slots.
Installation: Aircraft
24
This child restraint is certified for aircraft
use. Most airlines in the U.S. and
Canada will allow the use of a child
restraint if it is labeled as an approved
child restraint for airline use and fits
properly on the plane. Contact the
airline about their policy prior to
traveling.
• The FAA recommends that a child
weighing up to 40 pounds use a
certified, harnessed child restraint while
travelling on aircraft.
• Install your child restraint in a window
seat to avoid blocking the aisle.
• If the aircraft lap belt is too short, ask the
flight attendant for a Belt Extender.
Rear Facing Installation
For rear facing aircraft installation
( fig. A ) , follow Rear Facing Lap Belt
Installation instructions on pages 14–15.
Forward Facing Installation
For forward facing aircraft installation
( fig. B ) , follow Forward Facing Lap Belt
Installation instructions on page 20.
Certified for
Aircraft Travel
A
BE
C
D
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Recline Adjustment
Pull the recline handle, then slide the
restraint shell into the desired position.
Release the recline handle, then verify that
the child restraint has locked into position.
IMPORTANT: Restraint must be in the full
upright position when installed in forward
facing mode with children over 33 pounds
(15 kg).
Infant Positioning System
The Infant Positioning System is designed
to provide better fit and comfort for
infants using this restraint. The system
consists of a body pillow and infant pillow,
connected to the harness.
For additional side support, fold side flaps,
as shown in figure B.
NOTE: Remove after child can sit
comfortably in restraint without additional
support (see pg. 34).
Toddler Pillow
The toddler pillow provides extra head support and comfort for taller
children.
NOTE: Although the toddler pillow can remain installed through the life
of the restraint, instructions for removal are located on page 34.
Restraint Functions
26 27
Restraint Functions
Fastening the Chest Clip
Fasten the chest clip by pushing the two
halves together until a positive click is
heard (fig. C).
Releasing the Chest Clip
1Squeeze the middle tabs together.
2Pull the two pieces apart (fig. D).
Adjusting the Chest Clip
1 Slide chest clip up or down (fig. E) on
harness so it is positioned at the middle
of the child's chest, level with the child's
armpit.
2 Slide the HUGS™ pads and comfort
pads to a location that is comfortable for
the child.
HUGS™ and Comfort Pads
IMPORTANT: HUGS™ (Harness Ultra Guard
System) pads must be installed for forward
facing use. Removal of HUGS is optional for
rear facing use.
A
B
E
C
D
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Restraint Functions
28 29
Restraint Functions
Fastening the Harness Buckle
1Hold the harness buckle with one
hand.
2Use the other hand to insert one buckle
tongue at a time into the harness
buckle (fig A).
•Proper connection is confirmed with a
positive click, after inserting the second
buckle tongue.
Releasing the Harness Buckle
1Brace the rear of the harness buckle
with hand.
2Use thumb to press release button until tongues are ejected from
harness buckle (fig A).
IMPORTANT: Periodically clean the harness buckle to ensure safe
operation (see pg. 35).
Unbuckle
Buckle
Adjusting Harness Buckle Position
This restraint allows the buckle to be
adjusted to one of three positions (fig. B),
based on the size of the child. Adjusting
the buckle properly increases comfort and
safety.
1 Fully recline the child restraint.
2 Locate the metal buckle strap retainer
on bottom of the restraint.
3 Pull retainer away from child restraint
to loosen.
4 Turn the retainer so that the short
side will go through the slot in the
restraint shell (fig. C) .
5 Push the retainer through slots in the
shell and cover, to the top of the
restraint.
6 Locate slot in cover and shell for
desired harness buckle location.
•Harness buckle should be located in the slot that is as snug as
possible, yet still comfortable.
7 Turn the buckle retainer so that the short side will go through
the slot in the cover and restraint shell.
8 Pull harness buckle away from restraint until tight, then verify
that the strap is not twisted and the release button is facing
outward.
1
2
3
A
B
C
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Restraint Functions
31
Restraint Functions
30
Harness Height Adjustment
1Loosen the harness by pressing the
harness adjuster button while pulling
the shoulder straps forward as far as
possible (fig. A).
2From the rear of the child restraint,
unhook the shoulder harness from the
yoke (fig. B).
3Pull straps through the shell and cover,
to the front of the restraint.
•It is not necessary to pull the straps
through the infant pillow.
4 Thread the harness straps through the
appropriate harness height slots (fig.
C).
5 Reattach harness straps to the yoke
(fig. B).
6Pull harness adjuster strap to tighten
the harness.
7Verify that all straps are threaded at the
same height and are not twisted.
Harness Height
1Place child in restraint, then secure
harness (see pgs. 28–29 ).
2Observe where the shoulder harness
is positioned on the child.
• Rear Facing Strap Height: Harness
straps should be located in the
nearest slot at or below the child’s
shoulder.
• Forward Facing Strap Height:
Harness straps should be located in
the nearest slot at or above the
child’s shoulder.
3If harness height is okay, continue
using child restraint without
adjustment. If harness height requires
adjustment, refer to page 31.
Forward Facing
Strap Height
Rear Facing
Strap Height
Maximum Child Size
Once the top slots become necessary, the
child may continue to use the restraint until
the top of the ears become level with the top
of the restraint shell OR child’s weight
exceeds 65 pounds (29 kg) OR height exceeds
49 inches (124 cm) OR top slots are below the
child’s shoulders.
A
B
C
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Securing Your Child
33
Securing Your Child
32
Once the child restraint has been
installed in the vehicle and adjustments
have been made, follow these
instructions to secure the child.
1Loosen the harness by pressing the
adjuster button located in front of the
restraint, then pull the shoulder straps
forward (fig. A).
2Release the chest clip by squeezing the
tabs and sliding pieces apart (fig. B).
3Unfasten the harness buckle by
pressing the release button and sliding
the tongues out.
4Move the harness straps to the side of
the restraint.
• Use the harness holder located on the
straps and side of the cover to aid in
holding the straps.
5Place child in the restraint.
6Position the harness straps around the
child and fasten the harness buckle (fig
C) and chest clip (fig. D).
• Proper connection of the harness buckle is
confirmed with a positive click after
inserting the second buckle tongue.
7Gently pull up on the harness straps to
tighten the lap section of the harness,
which should fit low on the child's
body.
8Slowly pull the adjuster strap to tighten
the harness around the child (fig. E).
9 Position the chest clip at the middle of
the child's chest, level with the child's
armpit
(fig. F) .
10 Verify that harness is not twisted and
child is properly secured.
IMPORTANT:
• Always pull on the harness after securing
the child to make sure the buckle tongues
are secure in the harness buckle. If not, the
harness buckle or adjuster area may be
clogged with food, drink, or other objects
that need to be removed. See pages 33 and
35 for cleaning instructions.
• Snugly adjust the belts provided with
this child restraint around your child. A
snug strap should not allow any slack. It
lies in a relatively straight line without
sagging. It does not press on the child’s
flesh or push the child’s body into an
unnatural position.
A
BE
C
D
F
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Care and Maintenance
35
Care and Maintenance
34
Cover Removal
1Remove Toddler Pillow by unhooking each attachment clip.
2Remove Body Pillow.
3Loosen the harness by pressing the harness adjuster button while
pulling the shoulder straps forward as far as possible.
4Unhook the shoulder straps from the yoke on the rear of child
restraint.
5Pull upper harness straps through the shell, cover, and infant pillow
to the front of the restraint.
6Remove infant pillow from harness straps.
7Remove the belly pad from the harness buckle.
8Gently remove the upper portion of the cover. Be careful not to
damage the energy absorbing foam.
9Pull the lower harness straps, buckle tongues, chest clip, and
harness buckle through the slots in the cover.
WARNING:
• Do not take apart or attempt to take apart the harness. It is
unnecessary and dangerous to do so.
• Never remove the buckle tongues from the harness. They cannot be
reattached after removal.
10 Remove the entire cover from the restraint.
Refitting the Cover
To refit the cover, reverse Cover Removal directions. Make sure that
the shoulder straps are threaded through the chest clips and that
the harness is not twisted.
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.
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Care and Maintenance
37
Care and Maintenance
36
Cleaning the Harness Buckle
If a child eats and drinks while in the
restraint, the harness buckle may need
to be periodically checked and cleaned
of any accumulated debris or dried
liquids.
• THOROUGHLY RINSE, using
warm water (fig. B).
• SOAK, overnight if possible, using
warm water to loosen hardened
drinks or food.
• TEST THE HARNESS BUCKLE, by
fastening and unfastening until a
positive click is heard after
inserting the second buckle
tongue (fig. C). If click is not
heard, repeat cleaning procedure.
• TOWEL DRY
• DO NOT: Lubricate, use solvents,
abrasive cleaners, soap or
household detergents.
Harness Buckle Removal
1 Fully recline the child restraint.
2 Locate the metal buckle strap retainer
on bottom of the restraint.
3 Pull retainer away from child restraint
to loosen.
4 Turn the retainer so that the short
side will go through the slot in the
restraint shell (fig. A) .
5 Push the retainer through slots in the shell and cover, to the top
of the restraint.
Rethreading the Harness Buckle
1 Locate slot in cover and shell for desired harness buckle location.
•Harness buckle should be located in the slot that is as snug as
possible, yet still comfortable.
2 Turn the buckle retainer so that the short side will go through
the slot in the cover and restraint shell.
3 Pull harness buckle away from restraint until tight, then verify
that the strap is not twisted and the release button is facing
outward.
Unbuckle
Buckle
AB
C
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