Performance SPORT Instruction Manual

Transcription

1 Child Safety Seats Performance SPORT Instruction Manual Forward-Facing Combination Harness to Booster Child Restraint System for children lbs (9.1 to 54.4 kg). Approved in accordance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. Only suitable for use in vehicles with 2-point (lap only), 3-point (lap/shoulder) seat belts and LATCH anchorages when used in Harness Mode. Only suitable for use in vehicles with 3-point (lap/shoulder) seat belts when used in Booster Mode. El manual de instructiones Performance SPORT esta disponible en español en Por favor visite el internet para bajar una versión en español. Please read instructions prior to installation. Store this manual in the pocket on the trim cover.

2 Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle. Prevent Child Heatstroke in Cars Even great parents can forget a child in the back seat. Unfortunately, heatstroke is one of the leading causes of death among children. Be sure to follow these three important rules to prevent child heatstroke in your car: 1. Never leave a child alone in a car It s never OK to leave a child alone in a car, even for a few minutes, and even if the car is on. Opening windows will not prevent heatstroke. Heatstroke happens even on cloudy days and in outside temperatures below 70 degrees. Don t let kids play in an unattended vehicle. 2. Look Before You Lock Always check the back seats of your vehicle before you lock it and walk away. Keep a stuffed animal or other memento in your child s car seat when it s empty, and move it to the front seat as a visual reminder when your child is in the back seat. If someone else is driving your child, or your daily routine has been altered, always check that your child arrived safely. 3. Take Action if You See a Child Alone in a Car Don t wait more than a few minutes for the driver to return before calling. Don t worry about getting involved in someone else s business protecting children is everyone s business. Good Samaritan laws offer legal protection for those who offer assistance in an emergency. If you see a child alone in a hot vehicle, call the police. If they are in distress due to heat, get them out as quickly as possible. Cool the child rapidly. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

3 Contents Section 1: Safety Warnings...p. 4-6 Section 2: Register Your New Child Restraint... p. 7 Section 3: Getting to Know Your Child Restraint...p Section 4: Securing Your Child in Harness Mode...p Section 5: Adjusting the Harness System to Fit Your Child in the Harness Mode...p Section 6: Adjusting the Buckle to Fit Your Child in the Harness Mode...p Section 7: Choosing a Seating Location in Your Vehicle...p Section 8: Learning About Your Vehicle Safety Systems...p Section 9: Installing the Child Restraint in Your Vehicle in Harness Mode...p Section 10: Converting Between Usage Modes...p Section 11: Positioning Your Child in Booster Mode...p Section 12: Vehicle Lap/Shoulder Belt Routing and Positioning Around Your Child...p Section 13: Certification...p. 47 Section 14: Use in Aircraft...p. 47 Section 15: Care and Maintenance...p. 48 Section 16: Trim Cover Removal / Installation...p Section 17: Troubleshooting...p. 54 Section 18: Replacement Parts and Accessories... p. 55 Section 19: Warranty...p. 56 Section 20: Additional Contact Information...p. 57 Section 21: Glossary...p D 1

4 Dear Parents, Welcome to the RECARO family of high quality child safety products and thank you for purchasing your new RECARO Child Restraint System. RECARO has over 100 years experience in the design and manufacture of premium automotive products. To assure all products RECARO manufactures are worthy of the name, we ve subjected them to a comprehensive development program complying with American FMVSS 213 safety standards. Although each RECARO child restraint system is equipped with state-of-the-art safety features such as Side Impact Protection (SIP), it is not a guarantee that this child restraint will prevent injury or death. However, if you stress careful driving and proper use of your child restraint, it can lower the risk of injury or death. Therefore, please make sure to carefully review all information in this instruction manual to properly restrain your child. Also, before using your new child restraint for the first time, please review all components carefully to make sure nothing has been damaged during shipping. Failure to follow these instructions and the labels on the seat can result in serious injury or even death. Remember, parents are a child s best examples. Be sure to ALWAYS buckle your seat belt and your children will be much more likely to do the same. Thank you again for choosing RECARO and enjoy your child restraint. If you have any questions or need assistance of any kind please contact us at: RECARO Child Safety, LLC 1600 Harmon Road Auburn Hills, MI Tel: RECARO Internet: info-usa@recaro-cs.com El manual de instructiones Performance SPORT esta disponible en español en Por favor visite el internet para bajar una versión en español. Sincerely, The RECARO Child Safety Team The RECARO child seat you have purchased is a high quality product. Its different settings and its stable and ergonomic design ensure that the RECARO child seat is a safe and comfortable place for your child to sit when traveling in your car. However, before you use it, you need to adjust it to your child s size and then install it carefully so that the seat will perform as required. These instructions will help you do this, so please read them carefully. 2 3

5 SAFETY WARNINGS Section 1: Safety Warnings WARNING! DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur Failure to follow warnings on the child restraint labels could cause serious injury or death. Use the child restraint ONLY with children who weigh between 20 and 120 pounds (9.1 and 54.4 kg) and whose standing height is between 27 and 59 inches (69 and 150 cm). For use with the integrated Harness Mode, children who weigh between 20 and 65 pounds (9.1 and 29.5 kg) and who are over 1 year old. For high back belt-positioning Booster Mode, children who weigh between 30 and 120 pounds (13.6 and 54.4 kg) and who are over 1 year old. Do NOT use the lower anchors of the child restraint anchorage system (LATCH system) to attach this child restraint when restraining a child weighing more than 40 pounds (18.1 kg). Do NOT use this child restraint system until you have read and understood the instructions in this manual and in your vehicle s owner s manual. Do NOT let others install or use this child restraint system unless they understand how to use it. The owner s manual should be stored in the manual pocket sewn on the trim cover. NEVER give this child restraint to someone else without also giving them this manual. Discontinue use of your child restraint six (6) years after the manufactured in date located on a sticker on the back of the seat. Do NOT make any technical modifications to the child restraint system and use it only as outlined in these instructions. Otherwise, the safety function of the seat will be reduced or completely voided. Before each use, inspect the child restraint. Make sure nothing on the child restraint is damaged, loose or broken. If anything on the restraint appears damaged, loose or broken, do NOT use the restraint. WARNING! DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur If the child restraint was occupied during a crash or vehicle accident, it must be replaced. Do NOT use the child restraint again. A crash can cause unseen damage and using it again can cause serious injury or death. If the child restraint was in the vehicle unoccupied as a high back belt-positioning booster seat during a crash and no airbags were deployed, it does NOT need to be replaced. Do NOT use the child restraint with any stroller. NEVER place the child restraint in a shopping cart. This child restraint must NOT be used in the home, on boats or any other non-certified applications. NEVER leave a child unattended even when sleeping. The child restraint should be securely belted to the vehicle at all times. In a crash, an unsecured child restraint system may injure other occupants. Do NOT place a child restraint in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger airbag. According to accident reports, children under the age of 12 are safest when properly restrained in the back seat. When using the integrated Harness Mode on this seat, 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. When using the integrated Harness Mode on this seat, secure this child seat with the vehicle s child restraint (LATCH) anchorage system, if available, or with the vehicle s seat belt system. When using the high back belt-positioning Booster Mode, secure this child seat with the vehicle s lap/shoulder (3-point) seat belt system only. 4 5 SAFETY WARNINGS

6 SAFETY WARNINGS WARNING! DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur Secure the top anchorage strap provided with this child restraint. Do NOT lubricate any part of this child restraint. Do NOT add accessories, toys, padding or other items to this child restraint unless approved by RECARO. NEVER allow a child to play with this child restraint, it is NOT a toy. Placing your child in a hot child restraint may result in burns. There is no guarantee that this child restraint will prevent injury or death in a particular crash. However, if you stress careful driving and proper use of your child restraint, it can lower the risk of injury or death in most crashes. NEVER use a used child restraint unless you know its complete history. Extreme Weather When it is HOT, RECARO recommends the following tips to reduce possible injury or discomfort to your child: Park your vehicle in the shade to help keep the restraint cooler. Cover the child restraint with a sheet or blanket when not in use. ALWAYS check surface temperatures of the child restraint before placing a child in it. When it is COLD, RECARO recommends the following tips to reduce possible injury or discomfort to your child: Remove the child s bulky clothing before restraining the child. This will help belts and other safety features function properly. After restraining the child in the seat, cover the child and the restraint system with a blanket or their jacket to maintain warmth and comfort of the child. Section 2: Register Your New Child Restraint Child restraints could be recalled for safety reasons. You must register this restraint to be reached in a recall. Send your name, address, address if available, and the restraint s model number, serial number and manufacturing date to: RECARO Child Safety, LLC 1600 Harmon Road Auburn Hills, MI or call: RECARO or register online at: For recall information, call the U.S. Government s Vehicle Safety Hotline at (TTY: ) or go to ALL information provided to RECARO on the registration card or on the online registry will NOT be sold, distributed, or used for any purposes other than to contact you in the event of a recall. 6 7 REGISTER YOUR NEW CHILD RESTRAINT

7 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CHILD RESTRAINT Section 3: Getting to Know Your Child Restraint This child restraint is known as a combination harness to booster seat because it converts from a Harness Mode into a Booster Mode as your child grows. It is important to know the difference between these two use modes, be able to choose which mode is appropriate for your child, and be able to choose which sections of this instruction manual apply to the mode that you desire. To facilitate choosing the right set of the instructions for the mode that you desire, look for color codes on the sides of the pages in this instruction manual. Harness Mode instructions are indicated in PINK, and Booster Mode instructions are indicated in GREEN. Note that general information and information applying to both user modes is not color-coded. NEVER use the child restraint system for a child who is NOT within the height, weight and age recommended in this instruction manual. RECARO strongly encourages keeping children in Harness Mode up to the maximum Harness Mode weight or height limits of your child restraint. Child Fit Information and Requirements The child restraint is NOT appropriate for all children. You must confirm the child meets ALL of the height, weight and other fit requirements. Please measure and weigh the child to verify the Performance SPORT is the correct seat for them. NOTE: If the child does NOT meet ANY one of the height, weight or other fit requirements for this child restraint, the child CANNOT use it. If that is the case, please see the other fine child restraint systems that are offered by RECARO. Harness Mode: A child CAN use the Performance SPORT in the Harness Mode ONLY if: Child is at least 1 year of age and, The child s weight is between 20 and 65 pounds (9.1 kg and 29.5 kg) and, The child s standing height is less than 49 inches (125 cm) and, When sitting in the child restraint the top of the child s head is NOT closer than 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the top edge of the headrest. GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CHILD RESTRAINT 8 9

8 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CHILD RESTRAINT Booster Mode: A child CAN use the Performance SPORT in the Booster Mode position ONLY if: The child is at least 1 year of age and, The child s weight is between 30 and 120 pounds (13.6 and 54.4 kg) and, The child s standing height* is between 37 and 59 inches (94 and 150 cm) and, When the headrest is in the highest position, the top of the child s ears must be BELOW the top of the headrest. If ANY portion of the child s head exceeds the top edge of the child restraint, there must be a vehicle headrest support. *NOTE: A child s standing height measures the distance from the top of their head to the bottom of their feet, when they are standing. A child is ALWAYS safest in a child restraint system that has a 5-point harness system built-in. RECARO cannot recommend what age your child has to be in order to ride in this seat as a belt-positioning booster, please refer to your state s law, as each state is different. Even though your child s standing height may meet the requirements, your child s head should NEVER be below the headrest in the lowest position or their ear should NEVER be above the top of the headrest in the highest position. Performance SPORT Features It is important to become familiar with the features of your child restraint system. These diagrams help you identify key features. 3-Point Shoulder Belt Guide (2) (BOOSTER MODE) Backrest HERO Harness System Chest Clip Integrated 5-Point Harness Cushion Insert Buckle Storage Pocket (2) Harness Release Lever Harness Release Lever Cover Harness Adjuster Strap Headrest Armrest (2) Latch Plate (2) Trim Cover LATCH Strap Belt Routing (2) (HARNESS MODE) 3-Point Lap Belt Guide (2) (BOOSTER MODE) Side Impact Protection GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CHILD RESTRAINT

9 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CHILD RESTRAINT Performance SPORT Features It is important to become familiar with the features of your child restraint system. These diagrams help you identify key features. Carry Handle Headrest and Harness Adjustment Handle LATCH Connectors (2) Harness Mode Top Tether LATCH Storage Pocket (2) Recline Wedge (Not Shown) Booster Mode Performance SPORT Recline Wedge The recline wedge MUST be used for children weighing between 20 and 30 pounds (9.1 and 13.6 kg). Do NOT use for children weighing more than 30 pounds (13.6 kg). 1. To make this adjustment, 1 locate the plastic wedge under the seat base Unsnap the plastic wedge from the rear snap position to the front snap position to raise the child restraint into the recline position. NOTE: NEVER make adjustments while the vehicle is in motion. Safety Stripe System TM Your child restraint is equipped with the easy-to-use RECARO Safety Stripe System TM. You will notice that your harness has a white stripe on the outside edges. This added safety feature will allow you to ensure that your harness is not twisted. The white stripe should always remain at the outside edge of the harness above the lower buckle. If it is not, please loosen your harness system and remove any twist prior to use. GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CHILD RESTRAINT 12 13

10 SECURING YOUR CHILD IN HARNESS MODE Section 4: Securing Your Child in Harness Mode Loosen the harness system. Pull up on the harness release lever located under the harness release lever cover and pull the shoulder straps forward. 2. Open the chest clip by squeezing the tabs and separating. 3. Open the buckle by pressing the red button. Place harness straps to the side or around the side wings to keep them out of the way. 4. Place the child in the child restraint with their bottom fully into the seat. Position the harness straps around the child and fasten both latch plates into the buckle Fasten the chest clip. 6. Pull up on each shoulder strap to tighten the lower section of the harness. 7. Tighten the harness by pulling the adjuster strap straight out through the harness release lever cover. The harness webbing should be snug around the child in both the lap and shoulder sections. 8. Slide the chest clip so it is at the child s armpit level. 9. The harness is tight enough when you cannot pinch a loop of webbing between two fingers at the child s collarbone. SECURING YOUR CHILD IN HARNESS MODE 14 15

11 ADJUSTING THE HARNESS IN HARNESS MODE Section 5: Adjusting the Harness System to Fit Your Child in Harness Mode Place your child in the child restraint prior to installing it in your vehicle and determine if the shoulder strap height needs to be adjusted. The shoulder straps MUST ALWAYS be located at or above the child s shoulders. There are four (4) height positions available for adjustment. Your child s ears must be centered vertically between the top and bottom of the headrest. It is important if any portion of the child s head exceeds the top of the child restraint, there must be a vehicle headrest support Loosen the harness system. Pull up on the harness release lever located under the harness release lever cover and pull the shoulder straps forward. 2. Locate the adjustment handle on the back of the child restraint Pull the handle away from the seat back and move the headrest up or down. The harnesses will move up and down with the headrest. The child restraint is designed to fit a wide range of children and depending on the size of your child, you may need to adjust the harness strap length. 1. If the harness straps are too loose for your child, you will need to rethread the harness connector bracket. There are 3 available 1 harness connector bracket positions on the harness. Loop 1: This is for larger/taller children, 2 this is how the child restraint is shipped. Loop 2: This if for average size children. 3 Loop 3: This is for small children. 2. Loosen the harness straps while pulling up on the harness release lever and pulling the harness straps out. Thread the harness loop out of the harness connector bracket. 3. Rethread the harness through the desired harness loop. Be certain to use the same loop position on both the left and right strap. NOTE: Check that the straps are secure by tightening the harness completely and pulling on the harness straps. 17 ADJUSTING THE HARNESS IN HARNESS MODE

12 ADJUSTING THE BUCKLE IN HARNESS MODE Section 6: Adjusting the Buckle to Fit Your Child in Harness Mode As your child grows, you may need to adjust the position of the buckle to accommodate your child s size. There are three (3) locations that the buckle can be positioned. Use the buckle slot that is closest to your child, but NOT under their body Loosen and unbuckle the harness and move the shoulder straps to the side. 2. Locate the harness connector bracket on the bottom of the seat base. You may have to move the webbing strap out of the way. 3. Pop the bracket out of the plastic tabs Turn the bracket sideways and thread it up through the seat base. Pull all the way through the seat trim cover. 5. Find the correct slot in the seat base and trim cover to appropriately fit your child. 6. Turn the bracket sideways and thread it back down through the appropriate slot in the seat base. 7. Pull the bracket through the seat and slide it into place under the seat clips on the seat base. NOTE: You MUST ensure that the bracket is securely locked into place. 19 ADJUSTING THE BUCKLE IN HARNESS MODE

13 CHOOSING A SEATING LOCATION IN YOUR VEHICLE Section 7: Choosing a Seating Location in Your Vehicle Forward-Facing vehicle seats must ALWAYS be used with this child restraint. If your vehicle does not have rear seats, consult your vehicle s owner s manual to help identify safety features in your vehicle or contact the vehicle manufacturer. Do NOT install this child restraint into any of the following types of seating positions: NEVER install on a rear-facing vehicle seat. NEVER install in the rear seat of small extended cab pickups if the base is NOT fully supported. NEVER install on a side-facing vehicle seat. If the vehicle backrest angle is adjustable, adjust vehicle s backrest into the upright position. Be sure this area is flat and clear of objects that might get in the way of installing the child restraint. WARNING! DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur Do NOT place rear-facing child seat on front seat with air bag. The high pressure deployment of the airbag can cause serious injury or death to a child. If your vehicle is equipped with front passenger airbags, consult your vehicle s owner s manual for installation instructions for child restraints. If your vehicle does not have rear seats, consult your vehicle s owner s manual to help identify safety features in your vehicle or contact the vehicle manufacturer. RECARO and the U.S. Department of Transportation warn that children age 12 and under MUST ride in the rear seat away from front airbags. Restraint systems should be securely belted to the vehicle, even when they are not occupied, since in a crash an unsecured child restraint system may injure other occupants or store it somewhere outside the passenger cabin so that it cannot injure anyone while the vehicle is in motion. RECARO recommends storing the child restraint in a cool and dry location. CHOOSING A SEATING LOCATION IN YOUR VEHICLE 20 21

14 LEARNING ABOUT YOUR VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS Section 8: Learning About Your Vehicle Safety Systems It is important to become familiar with the features of your vehicle so that your child rides as safely as possible. Read the owner s manual to learn about the safety features and adjustments available for safe travel. Below is a diagram that helps you to identify key features. Not ALL vehicles will have all features described here. Air Bags Top Tether Anchorage Lower Latch Anchorage Seat Belts Some vehicles may have inflatable seat belts. As this is new technology, please refer to for updates. WARNING! DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur Because the design and operation of vehicle belts vary, make sure to observe the following guidelines: Do NOT use motorized passive restraint shoulder belt mounted systems. Do NOT use passive restraints lap or shoulder belt mounted on a door. Do NOT use vehicle lap/ shoulder belt systems that have independent retractors for the lap and shoulder portion of the vehicle seat belt system. IMPORTANT! Check to be sure which type of seat belt system you have in the chart on the next page. Some vehicles have more than one type of belt system depending on the seating position. The center rear position may have a lap only belt while the side seating locations may have a lap/shoulder system. If you are not sure which system you have, check your vehicle s owner s manual or contact your vehicle dealer or manufacturer. LEARNING ABOUT YOUR VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS 22 23

15 LEARNING ABOUT YOUR VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS Types of Seat Belt Systems Seat Belt System LATCH Switchable Retractor w/ Sliding Latch Plate Emergency Locking Retractor with Locking Latch Plate Emergency Locking Retractor with Switchable Latch Plate Lap Belt Only Emergency Locking Retractor with Sliding Latch Plate (MUST use lock off) Description LATCH straps are provided with the base. One of the most common systems. To activate, pull the shoulder belt out fully. As you feed the shoulder belt back, a clicking sound will indicate the belt is locked. Note that the latch plate slides freely. The latch plate locks when buckled. The belt can be pulled to tighten but the lap portion cannot be loosened without unbuckling. The shoulder belt retractor locks only in an emergency. The latch plate will have a button or switch to move from the adult pre-crash position to the child pre-crash position. The shoulder belt retractor locks only in an emergency. Most common in the rear middle seating position, only the lap portion of the seat belt is present. The latch plate has no locking features and no moving parts. The shoulder belt retractor locks only in an emergency. Installation Instructions Page Page Page Page Page Page 33 Section 9: Installing the Child Restraint in Your Vehicle in the Harness Mode WARNING! DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur LATCH Installation - Harness Mode Refer to your vehicle s owner s manual to determine if lower anchors and top tether anchors are available and for which seating positions. If your vehicle has lower anchors, then the LATCH connector system on your child restraint can be used. If lower anchors are not available, then the vehicle seat belt must be used. Your vehicle may also have top tether anchors located behind the vehicle seats. The top tether can be used with the vehicle seat belt or LATCH connector system. Do NOT use a cargo tie down for the top tether attachment. RECARO recommends always using the top tether when an anchor is available, regardless of the type of installation. If you do not have a top tether anchor in your vehicle, we recommend using a three point lap/shoulder belt for installation. Lower anchors and top tether anchors are designed to a maximum limit that can vary by vehicle. Due to this variation, the Performance SPORT requires use of the vehicle seat belt for any child weighing more than 40 lbs (18.1 kg). NOTE: The recline wedge MUST be used for children weighing between 20 and 30 pounds (9.1 and 13.6 kg). See pg. 13. HARNESS MODE - LATCH INSTALLATION 24 25

16 HARNESS MODE - LATCH INSTALLATION Place the child restraint on a vehicle seat facing forward. 2. Locate the LATCH connectors in the storage pockets on each side of the child restraint. 3. Lengthen the LATCH strap by pressing the LATCH adjuster release button and pull to its full length. Do NOT attach the lower anchors yet. Make sure that the LATCH strap is located behind the headrest trim cover and that the strap is NOT twisted. 4. Before attaching the LATCH connectors, locate the top tether anchor behind the seating position. Refer to your vehicle s owner s manual if it is difficult to find. Connect the tether hook to the anchor but do not tighten. NOTE: Do NOT use a cargo tie down for tether attachment. Check your vehicle s owner s manual if you are not sure of the tether anchor location. 5a 5b 6 7 5c 5. Make sure the arrows molded on the LATCH connectors are facing up. Make sure the LATCH strap is routed securely across the red plastic belt guides and not twisted. Connect each LATCH connector to the anchors in the vehicle. 6. While pressing down in the center of the child restraint, pull the loop of the LATCH strap and tighten the strap. Repeat as needed until the child restraint cannot be moved more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) in any direction at the belt path. 7. Snugly tighten the top tether by pulling the free end of the tether strap while pressing the top of the child restraint back into the vehicle seat. HARNESS MODE - LATCH INSTALLATION 26 27

17 HARNESS MODE - LATCH INSTALLATION 8 8. Check the tightness of the LATCH straps and retighten if needed. This strap may become loose when the top tether strap is tightened. Recheck that both the LATCH strap and the top tether strap are tight and properly secured. 9. To remove the LATCH connectors from the vehicle, first loosen the adjuster by pressing the adjuster button and lengthening the strap. Press the red buttons on the LATCH connectors and remove from the vehicle s lower anchors. 10. To remove the top tether, press the release button on the tether adjuster and pull the restraint forward to loosen. It may be necessary to press the top of the child restraint into the vehicle seat back to loosen the tether adjuster. Unhook the top tether hook from the vehicle anchor. Do not install by this method for a child weighing over 40 lbs. 28 DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur Lap Belt Only Installation - Harness Mode Do NOT use this method of installation with an Emergency Locking Retractor. RECARO recommends always using the top tether when an anchor is available, regardless of the type of installation. If you do not have a top tether anchor in your vehicle, we recommend using a three point lap/shoulder belt for installation. NOTE: The recline wedge MUST be used for children weighing between 20 and 30 pounds (9.1 and 13.6 kg). See pg WARNING! 1. Place the child restraint the vehicle seat facing forward. 2. Before routing the vehicle seat belt, locate the top tether anchor behind the seating position. Refer to your vehicle s owner s manual if it is difficult to find. Connect the tether hook to the anchor but do not tighten. NOTE: Do NOT use a cargo tie down for tether attachment. Check your vehicle s owner s manual if you are not sure of the tether anchor location. 29 HARNESS MODE - LAP BELT ONLY INSTALLATION

18 HARNESS MODE - LAP BELT ONLY INSTALLATION Make sure that the webbing is NOT twisted then route the lap belt behind the headrest trim cover. Make sure that the seat belt webbing is routed securely across red plastic belt guides. 4. Buckle the seat belt. 5. While pressing down in the center of the child restraint, pull the end of the seat belt strap to tighten or feed back into the automatic retractor. Repeat as needed until the child seat cannot be moved more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) in any direction at the belt path. 6. Snugly tighten the top tether by pulling the free end of the tether strap while pressing the top of the child restraint back into the vehicle seat. 7. Check the tightness of the lap belt and retighten if needed. The lap belt may become loose when the top tether strap is tightened. Recheck that both the lap belt and the top tether strap are tight and properly secured. 30 WARNING! DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur Locking Lap/Shoulder Belt Installation - Harness Mode RECARO recommends always using the top tether when an anchor is available, regardless of the type of installation. NOTE: The recline wedge MUST be used for children weighing between 20 and 30 pounds (9.1 and 13.6 kg). See pg Place the child restraint on the vehicle seat facing forward Before routing the vehicle seat belt, locate the top tether anchor behind the seating position. Refer to your vehicle s owner s manual if it is difficult to find. Connect the tether hook to the anchor but do not tighten. NOTE: Do NOT use a cargo tie down for tether attachment. Check your vehicle s owner s manual if you are not sure of the tether anchor location. 3. Fully extend the seat belt webbing and route the shoulder belt portion across the top corner of the child restraint and under the trim cover. Look for the red tag labeled 3-POINT SHOULDER BELT ROUTING. 31 HARNESS MODE - LOCKING LAP/SHOULDER BELT INSTALLATION

19 HARNESS MODE - LOCKING LAP/SHOULDER BELT INSTALLATION 4a 4b Route the lap belt portion across the red plastic belt guides. Make sure both portions of the seat belt are routed across the red plastic belt guide on the vehicle s buckle side of the child restraint. 5. Make sure the belts are not twisted then buckle the seat belt. 6. If necessary, switch the retractor or the latch plate to locked mode according to your vehicle s owner s manual. 7. While pressing down in the center of the child restraint, pull the seat belt to remove any slack. Repeat as needed until the child restraint cannot be moved more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) in any direction at the belt path. 8. Snugly tighten the top tether by pulling the free end of the tether strap while pressing the top of the child restraint back into the vehicle seat. 9. Check the tightness of the lap/ shoulder belts and retighten if needed. The straps may become loose when the top tether strap is tightened. Recheck that both the lap/shoulder belts and the top tether strap are tight and properly secured. 32 WARNING! DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur Non-Locking ELR Lap/Shoulder Belt Installation - Harness Mode If you have this seat belt configuration you will require a locking clip. Please contact RECARO and RECARO will ship you a locking clip and instructions. Some older vehicles (typically pre-1996 model year) have lap/shoulder belt systems which remain loose and cannot be locked for use with a child restraint unless a separate locking clip is used. These systems use emergency locking retractors (ELR) which lock only during a sudden stop or crash. Check your vehicle s owner s manual to determine which type of seat belt system is in each seating location. There may be a label located on the door side of the seat belt with instructions for use with a child restraint. 33 HARNESS MODE - NON-LOCKING ELR LAP/SHOULDER BELT

20 CONVERTING BETWEEN USAGE MODES Section 10: Converting Between Usage Modes From Harness Mode to Booster Mode If you would like to use the Booster Mode, you MUST completely configure your child restraint into Booster Mode before installing it in a vehicle. 1a 2 3 1b 1. Loosen the harness straps by pulling up on the harness release lever while pulling the harness. Unbuckle the chest clip and the harness buckle so the harness is free. 2. Remove the buckle pad by sliding it off of the buckle. 3. Remove the cushion insert by pushing the buckle through the center slot. NOTE: The cushion insert is designed to provide optimum comfort for your child and is optional in both Harness Mode and Booster Mode On the back of the restraint, unhook the straps from the metal harness connector bracket to remove the harness. 5. Snap the harness connector bracket into its storage position on the rear side of the child restraint. The harness connector bracket is NOT used in Booster Mode. NOTE: The harness adjuster strap is not removable. 6. On the front of the seat, remove the harness straps by pulling them from below the HERO pads. 7. Flip the headrest trim cover upward so you have access to the under-structure of the child restraint. CONVERTING BETWEEN USAGE MODES 34 35

21 CONVERTING BETWEEN USAGE MODES b 11a 8. Pull the HERO harness system out from behind the headrest trim cover. NOTE: Do NOT misplace the HERO Harness System. Store it with the Harness Mode items for future use. 9. Remove the front of the cover to view and have access to the harness slots locations. 10. Locate the metal bracket for the lap portion of the harness. Turn the bracket sideways and thread it down through the seat base. 11. From the underside of the seat, pull the metal belt anchor through the slot. Turn the bracket sideways again and thread it up toward the top of the seat. Repeat on the other side. The harness is now removed Locate the metal bracket for the buckle on the underside of the seat base. You may have to move the webbing strap out of the way. Slide the bracket out of the seat clips. 13. Turn the bracket sideways and thread it up through the seat base. Remove the buckle assembly from the child restraint. 14. Reinstall the trim cover. NOTE: NEVER, under any circumstances, remove the LATCH strap or the top tether from the child restraint system! LATCH strap may be used while in Booster Mode to secure the seat and prevent it from becoming a projectile when unoccupied. Top tether If your vehicle is equipped with top tether anchors, RECARO always recommends using the top tether when an anchor is available in Harness Mode and Booster Mode. If your vehicle is NOT equipped with top tether anchorages, make certain the top tether is securely behind or under the restraint so it is NOT loose in the vehicle. IMPORTANT Do NOT misplace Harness Mode items while using the Booster Mode. Store the extra items in a safe place because you will need them again later if/when you switch back to Harness Mode. CONVERTING BETWEEN USAGE MODES 36 37

22 CONVERTING BETWEEN USAGE MODES From Booster Mode to Harness Mode If you would like to use the Harness Mode, you MUST completely configure your child restraint to Harness Mode before installing it in a vehicle Flip the headrest cover upward so you have access to the under structure of the child restraint. 2. Insert the HERO harness system into the slots on the headrest cover. 3. Remove the trim cover from the seat to be able to view the harness threading location. 4. Reinstall the harness by turning the metal bracket at the end of the webbing sideways and thread it down through the outer hole in the seat. 5. From under the seat, route the bracket back up into the seat base through the inner hole. Pull the strap snug. Do this for both the right and the left shoulder belts. The sewn label should be facing out. 6a 6b 8a 9 8b 6. Next, locate the appropriate buckle slot to fit your child, as described on page 18. Turn the bracket sideways and thread it back down through the seat base. Pull the bracket through the seat and slide it under the tabs on the seat base. 7. On both sides of the unit, you MUST ensure that the harness shoulder belt anchor plates are fully seated for both harness shoulder belts and the center buckle. 8. Fasten the chest clip and center buckle as they would be with a child in the restraint. Lay them flat on the seating surface. This will help keep the belts organized while you finish the conversion. You MUST ensure that the belts are NOT twisted. 9. Reinstall the backrest and headrest trim covers. Route the harness straps through the HERO, headrest, and seat shell. Make sure the harness straps are not twisted. CONVERTING BETWEEN USAGE MODES 38 39

23 CONVERTING BETWEEN USAGEMODES Reach around the back side of the unit and feed both left and right shoulder belts through the trim cover slots, the headrest housing slots, the backrest frame, and over the tube on the back, but under the plastic guide. 11. Unsnap the harness connector bracket from its storage pocket. 12. Hook the ends of both the left and right shoulder belts securely onto the harness connector bracket. 13. After you have secured the harness shoulder belts onto the harness connector bracket, pull the adjuster strap on the front side of the seat to remove excess slack in the belts. This will allow you to inspect the belts to ensure no belt is twisted and that the harness system has been correctly installed. NOTE: The cushion insert is designed to provide optimum comfort for your child and is optional when using in either Harness Mode or Booster Mode. The HERO pads are optional when using the Harness Mode. NOTE: NEVER, under any circumstances, remove the LATCH strap or the top tether from the child restraint system! Section 11: Positioning Your Child in Booster Mode Headrest Adjustment The purpose of adjusting the headrest is to maximize side impact protection for the child s head and properly position the vehicle shoulder belt across the child s body. There are four (4) height adjustment positions of the headrest that will allow the child restraint to grow with your child. Prior to placing and fitting your child restraint system to the vehicle seat, the headrest should be adjusted to properly fit your child. To properly fit your child, the headrest should be positioned as follows: The red shoulder belt guide on the child restraint system must be above the child s shoulder to allow for correct vehicle belt positioning. AND Your child s head must be centered vertically between the top and bottom of the headrest. POSITIONING YOUR CHILD IN BOOSTER MODE 40 41

24 POSITIONING YOUR CHILD IN BOOSTER MODE To adjust the headrest: 1. Have your child sit in the 1 child restraint before it is placed in the vehicle. 2 2a. Adjust the headrest by pulling out on the headrest adjustment handle located on the back of the seat. 2b. Once the headrest adjustment handle is separated from the slots, either slide the headrest up or down until it locks one of the proper positions. Your child is too TALL for the child restraint when: The child s shoulders are ABOVE the red shoulder belt guides when the headrest is adjusted to its highest position. The child s ears are ABOVE the top edge of the headrest when the headrest is adjusted to its highest position. 42 Your child is too SHORT for the child restraint when: The child s ears are BELOW the bottom edge of the headrest when the headrest is adjusted to its lowest position. ALWAYS use the lap and shoulder (3-point) vehicle belt system WARNING! Use only the vehicle s lap and shoulder belt system to restrain the childin this booster seat. Do NOT use a lap belt only. The center rear seating position can be used ONLY if there is a lap and shoulder belt system in that seating position. Do NOT place a child restraint in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger side air bag. The back seat is the safest place for children under 12 years old. Forward-facing vehicle seats must ALWAYS be used with this child restraint. If your vehicle does NOT have rear seats, consult your vehicle s owner s manual to help identify safety features in your vehicle or contact the vehicle manufacturer. 43 POSITIONING YOUR CHILD IN BOOSTER MODE

25 BOOSTER MODE BELT ROUTING Section 12: Vehicle Lap/Shoulder Belt Routing and Positioning Around Your Child You must ALWAYS secure your child in the child restraint using your lap/shoulder (3-point) vehicle belt system in the Booster Mode. You must ALWAYS repeat the following steps each time you secure your child in the child restraint using the lap/shoulder belt system in your vehicle. NEVER allow your child to slide in and out of the seat belt Place your child in the child restraint and confirm the correct headrest location (see Section 11: Positioning Your Child in Booster Mode, pages 41-43). 2. Pull the vehicle s lap/ shoulder belt out and around your child and the child restraint. Be certain that the vehicle seat belt is NOT twisted Position the lower portion of the vehicle seat belt system through the red lower lap belt guides under the arm rest Fasten the vehicle seat belt to the vehicle buckle. Ensure the buckle is engaged by gently pulling on the seat belt. 5. The vehicle buckle should be below the red lap belt guide. 6. Position the top portion of the shoulder belt into the red shoulder belt routing guide near the child s ear. 7. Remove the slack from the seat belt system but do NOT lock the seat belt; it should be free to move. First remove the slack from the lap portion of the vehicle seat belt and then the shoulder portion for the most comfortable fit. 8. The lap belt should be positioned flat across the child s lap or thigh area. It should NOT be lying against the child s abdomen or belly. 45 BOOSTER MODE BELT ROUTING

26 BOOSTER MODE BELT ROUTING 9 10 WARNING! 9. The shoulder belt should be flat against the child s chest and collarbone. The shoulder portion of the vehicle seat belt system should NEVER be located across the child s neck. 10. Double check the seat to make certain that it is squarely positioned on the vehicle seat and that the child is NOT pinched, squeezed or experiencing discomfort. 11. If you have a top tether anchorage in your vehicle, attach and tighten as shown on page DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur The vehicle s lap/shoulder seat belt system must ALWAYS be adjusted snugly (but NOT LOCKED) around the child. The vehicle s lap and shoulder belt should NOT have any excess webbing. NEVER place the shoulder belt under the child s arm. NEVER secure a child with a lap only vehicle seat belt. Your child could be seriously injured in a vehicle crash. Do NOT use anything to raise the booster seat off of the vehicle seat. You may need to adjust or remove the vehicle s headrest to fit the child restraint properly against the vehicle s seat back. Refer to your vehicle s owner s manual for information on how to operate this feature. Section 13: Certification This child restraint conforms to all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Section 14: Use in Aircraft This child restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft when used in harness mode. The aircraft seat belt (which is not a LATCH system) must be used since lower anchors are not available on airplanes. Most airlines will allow child restraint use if it is labeled as certified for use on aircraft. Check with the airline to confirm seating is available for use with a child restraint before booking flights. At the armrest height of the aircraft seat, the child restraint is 18 in (45.7 cm) wide. Use this information when talking with the airline to ensure the child restraint will fit in the designated seating location. Secure the child restraint in the Harness Mode as shown on pages 29-30, Lap Belt Only Installation. Place in the window seat to avoid blocking the aisle This child restraint is NOT certified for aircraft use when used as a belt-positioning booster without the harness. The use of a booster seat requires the use of a shoulder belt and lap belt. Aircraft generally only provide a lap belt. CERTIFICATION / USE IN AIRCRAFT

27 CARE AND MAINTENANCE Section 15: Care and Maintenance This child restraint has been engineered for long life and trouble-free usage. The fabric has been designed to resist stains and soiling. With proper care and maintenance, this premium fabric will retain its beauty for years to come. To clean the trim cover or harness straps on the go, follow these easy steps: Remove excess soiling immediately. Blot area with dry cloth. To remove remaining stain, spray a light mist of soap solution and rub gently in a circular motion with a clean cloth or soft toothbrush so not to damage the fabric. Pat dry with cloth. When dry, use a soft brush to regain fabric s smooth feel. To clean the trim cover or harness straps at home, follow these steps: Remove the trim cover as explained in Section 16: Trim Cover Removal / Installation. HAND WASH using cold water and mild soap. Line dry to avoid shrinkage of the trim cover. Do NOT bleach, machine wash, or machine dry. To clean the child restraint s plastic structure, follow these tips: Clean by hand with a sponge or soft cloth using warm water and mild soap. Dry the structure off thoroughly with a soft towel. NOTE: Heavily soiled areas can be spot-treated using non-solvent commercial cleaners. Use only water soluble cleaning agents. NEVER use solutions that contain a petroleum or alcohol base. Where light creases occur, they may be removed by light steaming (an ordinary tea kettle will do). Brush the area with a soft brush. Though RECARO tests many cleaning solutions, we cannot test them all we suggest you ALWAYS test in a discrete area first to ensure that the cleaner does not damage the fabric. Section 16: Trim Cover Removal / Installation Trim Cover Removal Lift the harness release lever, located under the harness release lever cover, and pull the shoulder straps forward to loosen the harness. 2. Unbuckle the harness and chest clip and remove the buckle pad and seat cushion insert. 3. On the back of the restraint, unhook the straps from the metal harness connector bracket to remove the harness. 4. Pull the harness straps out of the child restraint from the front by pulling below the HERO pads. TRIM COVER REMOVAL 48 49

28 TRIM COVER REMOVAL Reach behind the top of the headrest and unfasten the two snaps on the trim cover. Unfasten the Velcro from the red fabric on the outer side of the headrest and pull the red fabric carefully through the red plastic guides. 6. Pull the headrest trim cover off of the seat structure. 7. Loosen the main seat cover by locating and unfastening the three (3) cover snaps on one side of the seat and slide the cover out from behind the latch strap guides. Repeat from the other side of the seat. 8. Carefully slide the harness straps and buckle down through their respective slots in the trim cover to separate the cover from the seat. Trim Cover Installation a 4b 1. Carefully slide the buckle, harness adjuster strap and harness straps through the four (4) slots of the trim cover. 2. Feed the cover down into the belt guide areas under the armrests and then pull the cover tight down around the frame in the guide area. 3. Pull the front edge of the cover (elastic trim) down over the front of the seat frame. 4. Slide one side of the seat cover over the side wall and then attach the three (3) snaps to the mating snaps on the seat. Route the cover behind the outer edge of the red plastic guide. Repeat for the other side. Route the LATCH strap over the trim cover and secure the LATCH connectors in the storage pockets on each side of the seat. TRIM COVER INSTALLATION 50 51

29 TRIM COVER INSTALLATION 5a 5b Pull the headrest trim cover over each side of the headrest. Attach the two (2) snaps on the cover to the mating snaps on the top and back of the headrest. Route the large piece of red fabric carefully through the red plastic guide on each side of the headrest. Route the small piece of red fabric behind the red plastic guide. Secure both pieces of red fabric to the Velcro on the underside of the trim cover. 6. Insert the HERO harness system into the headrest trim cover slots. 7. Reinstall the cushion insert and buckle pad over the buckle. 8. Buckle the harness making sure they are not twisted Route the harness straps through the HERO pads, the headrest, and the seat shell. Make sure the harness straps are not twisted by checking that the white stripes are on the outside. 10. Reach around the back side of the seat and feed both the left and right shoulder belts through the trim cover slots, through the headrest slots, through the backrest frame, and over the tube on the back, but under the plastic guide. 11. Hook the straps to the harness connector located in the back of the seat by sliding the loop edges into the slots of the harness connector bracket. TRIM COVER INSTALLATION 52 53