Bought a True Fit today

[La-Di-Ma]

We needed a seat for Grandma's car, so I checked here first to see what the best option was and saw the thread about the True Fit. DD is 28 lbs and 32 inches at 13 months, so it seemed like a good choice (she has a MA in our car). My mom called Zellers (Hillside in Victoria) and they had just received them.

It does in fact rear face to 35 lbs-it's on the sticker, and in the manual. It's very cushy and comfy, and very easy to adjust. You can adjust the shoulder height (and remove the cover for washing) without rethreading the straps. DD fits in the second height setting, so she's got lots of room.

I needed a rolled up towel to get the correct angle RF, but other than that it was a fairly easy install with a seatbelt. The lock-offs worried me a bit-I'm used to the more flexible Britax ones, and these are a very rigid plastic which I was a little worried about snapping. But the install ended up rock solid, and my daughter fell asleep in the seat almost as soon as we were underway, so she was definitely comfortable.

The straps are a little twisty, and even though the adjusting mechanism looks the same as our MA, I found it a little tricky to get the straps tightened evenly on both shoulders.

For those of you who want the details, it was $199, and it's a charcoal and grey colour with blue piping-can't remember what it's called :)

[snowbird25ca]

Thanks for sharing the info. :)

I've been eying the seat for awhile and think I'll probably be getting one. I have a gift card for BRU and get 10% off for employee discount now, so it'll cost me just a bit over $100. :cool:

[TechnoGranola]

I want to know if they have the silly 32" RF height limit? I am so hoping NOT!

[snowbird25ca]

I want to know if they have the silly 32" RF height limit? I am so hoping NOT!

The email that originally been sent to Shauna indicated 35lb rf'ing limit and 1" of hard shell required when rf'ing. The email seemed thorough at the time, and the rf'ing weight limit is accurate, so I would feel confident that the other info in the email is also correct. :thumbsup:

[TechnoGranola]

The email that originally been sent to Shauna indicated 35lb rf'ing limit and 1" of hard shell required when rf'ing. The email seemed thorough at the time, and the rf'ing weight limit is accurate, so I would feel confident that the other info in the email is also correct. :thumbsup:Cool, I must have missed reading that part in the other thread (or I'm so tired now I just don't remember!). I am going to go to all my Zellers tomorrow and look for it! I know from experience that calling Zellers isn't reliable...

[TechnoGranola]

Is it the Misty Morning you bought?

http://content.learningcurve.com:80/wps/wcm/connect/e5bce70049671889a40dae3efa0f6b5d/Y11011BR_01_medium.gif?MOD=AJPERES

I was hoping for Casino, but I might be able to work with the Misty Morning.

[La-Di-Ma]

That's it-Misty Morning. I must admit I didn't really care which cover we got, although I was much fussier with our MA! (we ended up with Sunburst)

[BudgieStew]

Is it the Misty Morning you bought?

http://content.learningcurve.com:80/wps/wcm/connect/e5bce70049671889a40dae3efa0f6b5d/Y11011BR_01_medium.gif?MOD=AJPERES

I was hoping for Casino, but I might be able to work with the Misty Morning.

Don't lose hope.
I would guess that TRU will have the Casino when they get it in stock.

[mommycat]

What is the car you put it in? Would it be easy to install for grandparents, RF? They have a MA FF currently and that's ok, but I am hoping to swap out the AOE they will need to put in RF since that seems like it will be a hassle. They swap the seats between cars a lot. Thanks!

ETA:
I am drooling over the cover options I found on-line. I'm sure I didn't stumble on all of them yet, either. I will probably make do with whatever I can get fastest, but there sure are some pretty ones out there!

[hipmaman]

Any chance you can post the product number (Zellers number)? I've called 3-4 stores around the Oakville/Burlington/Mississauga this morning and nothing. I'll call more later, but I thought to ask if there is the code which might make tracking easier.

[Shanora]

Nothing in my Zellers (Alliston).....not even a sign up for them..... :(

[La-Di-Ma]

I installed the seat in my mom's '98 Civic. It fit in the centre and I was able to get the right angle so long as there aren't really tall people in front seats. But if you already have a Marathon, I honestly think that's an easier install. For one thing, even with a towel under the front to get a 45 degree angle, the strap to tighten the harness is wedged into the back of the seat, and tricky to access. Without the towel, it's almost impossible to access. The lockoffs are under the cover, on either side of the crotch buckle, and I couldn't snap the cover back onto the seat in the front since it's wedged into the seat back. On our MA, the strap is more accessible. Of course, I haven't installed both of the seats in the same car, so it may be an issue with the car's seat and not the carseat, but I think the strap on the MA is just a little bit higher.

My mom has the box and the receipt, so sorry I don't have a product number. But if I can get that from her I'll post back.

[TechnoGranola]

What is the brand they are putting on it in Canada? Compass? The First Years?

[TechnoGranola]

Don't lose hope.
I would guess that TRU will have the Casino when they get it in stock.I'm in a bit of a panic as DD has most definitely outgrown her SS so I have to take what I can get at this point! ;)

[La-Di-Ma]

The brand is The First Years.

[QuassEE]

I'm going to stop by Zellers today--this might be a case of Zellers releasing them from West to East.. rare, I know.. :)

-Nicole.

[jacks1]

I got all excited too! Went to our Zellers in crappy Lethbridge, Alberta and there were none to be found. Will keep checking though:)

[mommycat]

I installed the seat in my mom's '98 Civic. It fit in the centre and I was able to get the right angle so long as there aren't really tall people in front seats. But if you already have a Marathon, I honestly think that's an easier install.

Thanks! I have a MA for them for my older son FF but would like to flip him RF again if it was easy. Then the MA could go to the little guy.

I went to our Zellers locally (rural-ish NS) and nothing here either. She even checked the HBC on-line catalogue - they have one now! - and nothing there. But maybe she wasn't putting in the right terms. I told her it was under "Compass".

The BRU website has it listed as the "Aurora" pattern, but I guess that can likely change.

[AllieCanada]

I checked one of the Zellers in Hamilton, Ontario and they didn't have any in stock yet. I asked DH to check his computers at work again (TRU) to see if they're in stock there yet so I'll have to ask him when he gets home.

[horseymom]

LOL me too! funny we didn't bump into each other

[QuassEE]

I must love you all dearly, since I braved my yearly Zellers visit today to snap some photos of the True Fit. They are available in Lower Mainland (aka "Metro Vancouver") Zellers stores. DOM on the one I saw was March. Interesting observation--the weight limit on the outside is 5-65lbs with no mention of RF weight limit (until the manual and stickers, inside).. I suspect they had no idea what the RF weight limit was going to be until the last minute.

http://picasaweb.google.com/QuassEE/TrueFit

Enjoy :)

-Nicole.

[Kashi]

Oh - it's awesome !!

[TechnoGranola]

I must love you all dearly, since I braved my yearly Zellers visit today to snap some photos of the True Fit. They are available in Lower Mainland (aka "Metro Vancouver") Zellers stores. DOM on the one I saw was March. Interesting observation--the weight limit on the outside is 5-65lbs with no mention of RF weight limit (until the manual and stickers, inside).. I suspect they had no idea what the RF weight limit was going to be until the last minute.

http://picasaweb.google.com/QuassEE/TrueFit

Enjoy :)

-Nicole.Thank-you!

None around me yet, hopefully soon!

[mom2emilyezra]

We bought a True Fit on the weekend at our Zellers in Nanaimo BC. I called and the lady didn't know anything about it, but with some persistance she ended up finding out one had indeed come in.
I agree it is a more difficult install than the MA, and I am not sure how it is going to be for accessing the strap tighten/loosener as it is jammed against the seat, RF. I will let you know after we venture out today. It is installed RF in a 2007 Toyota Yaris sedan outboard, and we moved the MA to the Sienna.

[babychild taxi]

I went to Zellers in White Rock yesterday to see if they had any in stock. There was one on the shelf in a box (I'm not sure it will fit 3 across in my car yet). Anyway, I helped a mom buy it, told why it's a better seat than the one she was going to buy: Safety 1st 3 in 1.

The salesperson says they have 2 more on order and that one shouldn't been on the shelf, but there was no where to put it. She also wouldn't let the mom open the box to see the seat saying if she didn't like it, it would be hard to sell, but if she returned it, that would ok-how interesting!

K.

[snowbird25ca]

The salesperson says they have 2 more on order and that one shouldn't been on the shelf, but there was no where to put it. She also wouldn't let the mom open the box to see the seat saying if she didn't like it, it would be hard to sell, but if she returned it, that would ok-how interesting!


So I wonder if that means that Zellers is hiding stock in the back in most stores waiting to officially put them on the shelf like the way walmart did the Nautilus? (or didn't do as the case was :p)

That is kind of funny how she didn't want mom opening the box. I'd think an open box would be better than a return too. :whistle: And hey, they're going to need a floor model eventually.

(I wonder what they do with all the other stuff people open boxes of? I'll admit when dd was in sposies as a newborn I was always happy when somebody else had ripped into a package to see what the generics looked like. I wouldn't have done it myself, but seeing as it was done, it definitely helped with the shopping for diapers. :o)

[TechnoGranola]

I agree it is a more difficult install than the MA, and I am not sure how it is going to be for accessing the strap tighten/loosener as it is jammed against the seat, RF. I will let you know after we venture out today. It is installed RF in a 2007 Toyota Yaris sedan outboard, and we moved the MA to the Sienna.Please do report back as I want to try this in my parents '07 Yaris Sedan.

[snowbird25ca]

Please do report back as I want to try this in my parents '07 Yaris Sedan.

:yeahthat:

I'm curious too because I've heard the adjuster is easier to access in vehicles with deep contouring on the sides and the Yaris has pretty significant contouring. I recall that you couldn't get the EFTA to work in it for that reason, so I would've that that there'd be no problem with accessing the adjuster in there. :confused:

[TechnoGranola]

:yeahthat:

I'm curious too because I've heard the adjuster is easier to access in vehicles with deep contouring on the sides and the Yaris has pretty significant contouring. I recall that you couldn't get the EFTA to work in it for that reason, so I would've that that there'd be no problem with accessing the adjuster in there. :confused:Me too! The thing about the Yaris though, is although the side bolsters come out quite a bit, the back section between is actually very flat, if I am recalling correctly. And that might be causing the issue.

[Xax]

I just received an e-mail response from Zellers (I wrote them over a week ago), and they told me that Zellers will not be carrying the True Fit. Lesson learned: don't waste your time talking to Zellers.

[TechnoGranola]

I just received an e-mail response from Zellers (I wrote them over a week ago), and they told me that Zellers will not be carrying the True Fit. Lesson learned: don't waste your time talking to Zellers.That is so NOT funny, that it's funny.... :eek:

[Airforcemomma]

Well, I just bought a Tru Fit from Zellers today. All 3 Zellers within 30 min's either way are carrying it. Only 1 store had it in stock and that was the Northumberland mall store in Cobourg Ontario. So, I drove half hour each way to get it.

Here is what it looks like.

http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01463.jpg

[hipmaman]

so looks like it's in ontario now. I'll call mine again. Thx

[TechnoGranola]

so looks like it's in ontario now. I'll call mine again. ThxWell let's start at either end of Canada and forget about the people in the middle! :thumbsdown: :D

[TechnoGranola]

Well, I just bought a Tru Fit from Zellers today. All 3 Zellers within 30 min's either way are carrying it. Only 1 store had it in stock and that was the Northumberland mall store in Cobourg Ontario. So, I drove half hour each way to get it.Any chance you have the UPC code off of the box? or the Zellers # off of the receipt? I tried to get it off of the tag from QuassEE's photos, but once I zoom in it blurs them enough so I have to guess at a couple of the #'s. My Zellers said they can check when they are getting it *if* I have the correct #.

[Kashi]

The Zellers in Ajax, Ontario has them too - but only in box, none on display.

I *so* wanted to play with it.

[Airforcemomma]

Any chance you have the UPC code off of the box? or the Zellers # off of the receipt? I tried to get it off of the tag from QuassEE's photos, but once I zoom in it blurs them enough so I have to guess at a couple of the #'s. My Zellers said they can check when they are getting it *if* I have the correct #.
The item # is Y11018CA

PO# 123942

Model # C630C-MMO

# on receipt is 071463110186

Hope that helps

[TechnoGranola]

The item # is Y11018CA

PO# 123942

Model # C630C-MMO

# on receipt is 071463110186

Hope that helps
Thanks. I called and spoke to a different person who says that they CANNOT look up the info and see if/when something is arriving. They can only use their scanners to see if something is currently in stock and apparently that is even not reliable.

So, I asked to be transferred to the baby section, and asked, "can you tell if you have received the First Years True Fit car seat?", and she says, "you're looking for a car seat for a baby in their first year?". ARGH!!!

[Airforcemomma]

LOL.....that's funny. Frustrating for you.

There are 3 more in boxes at the store I bought this one from....if anyone really wants/needs it now I can buy it for you and ship it to you.

[TechnoGranola]

LOL.....that's funny. Frustrating for you.

There are 3 more in boxes at the store I bought this one from....if anyone really wants/needs it now I can buy it for you and ship it to you.I am going to measure DD in her SS again tonight and see how desperate I am!

[Airforcemomma]

just thought you guys might be interested in seeing how an older child would fit in this seat. Please note that this seat is not installed in the vehicle and may not be adjusted properly for the child. These photo's are simply for you to see how older kids fit.

Both kids are 7yrs old with basically the same stats.

The little boy is my son and the little girl is my girlfriends.

Both kids weigh in at 47lbs, 16-17" torso and 48" tall

Both have about 1" of harness height left.

They both said the seat is very comfy and would ride in it. Ireally think this seat is going to be some stiff competition for the EFTA.

THis seat was purchased by my insurance company to replace my EFTA that was involved in an accident earlier this month.

http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01473.jpg

http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01472.jpg

http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01467.jpg

don't mind the grumpy face, he wasn't thrilled with me taking pic's of him in the seat.
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01466.jpg

[Shanora]

Is it sad, that I want to go out tonight and see if I can find this seat????LMAO

[Airforcemomma]

Is it sad, that I want to go out tonight and see if I can find this seat????LMAO
LOL.....it's an addiction.....you need to satisfy your urge....lol

[snowbird25ca]

Is it sad, that I want to go out tonight and see if I can find this seat????LMAO

What's really sad, is that I feel the need to go looking when I'm hobbling on crutches. :ROTFLMAO: AND I'd buy the one from BRU anyways because of my gift card... Really I'm just wanting to get my hands on one to play with since I still don't know for sure what I'm going to buy. (Dang Nautilus not being here yet & all, and of course the 35lb rf'ing limit makes another convertible seem like maybe it'd be worthwhile. *sigh*)

Airforcemomma - Thanks for sharing those pic's! I'll be eagerly awaiting how it installs in your van and what the adjuster is like on it ff'ing since I think our seat contouring and headrest shape is quite similar. :thumbsup:

[Airforcemomma]

What's really sad, is that I feel the need to go looking when I'm hobbling on crutches. :ROTFLMAO: AND I'd buy the one from BRU anyways because of my gift card... Really I'm just wanting to get my hands on one to play with since I still don't know for sure what I'm going to buy. (Dang Nautilus not being here yet & all, and of course the 35lb rf'ing limit makes another convertible seem like maybe it'd be worthwhile. *sigh*)

Airforcemomma - Thanks for sharing those pic's! I'll be eagerly awaiting how it installs in your van and what the adjuster is like on it ff'ing since I think our seat contouring and headrest shape is quite similar. :thumbsup:
I will take pics for you tomorrow. I installed it tonight but can't get the FF lock off to close once the belt is tightened. When I tightened the belt it forced it lower down in the belt path and now the lock off won't close.

[TechnoGranola]

I installed it tonight but can't get the FF lock off to close once the belt is tightened. When I tightened the belt it forced it lower down in the belt path and now the lock off won't close.I think that's another thing we need to address with them, is why you need the lock offs if you've locked the seat belt!

[thrillhouse]

it looks like a really nice seat. Does anyone have a photo or a link to a photo of the underside/back of the truefit? I'm curious to see if it would be easier on our leather seats than the marathon.

[snowbird25ca]

I think that's another we need to address with them, is why you need the lock offs if you've locked the seat belt!

Britax has the same instructions, and all of the infant seats that come with lock-offs do too. I think it's just normal to use lock-offs if they're there because otherwise the belt isn't laying flat against the belt path.

Not sure if everyone has seen the thread or not, but the official word on rf'ing angle is 35* to 45* is acceptable. So that answers one question anyways. :thumbsup:

[CDNTech]

I think that's another we need to address with them, is why you need the lock offs if you've locked the seat belt!

Simple fix is to *not* lock the seatbelt. ;)

I think they require people to use the lock-offs because so many people do not know how to lock their seatbelt and don't lock it... yes, I see this *all* the time at our checks. :rolleyes:

[TechnoGranola]

Simple fix is to *not* lock the seatbelt. ;)
To be honest, I trust the locked seat belt of my vehicle a lot more than I trust the lock offs on ANY child restraint. Even the Fisher-Price Safe Embrace that I had for DD1 had metal lock offs which were the best I've seen so far, and even they had the tendency to loosen.

[jacks1]

Just bought one today at zellers in Lethbridge. There are three left, I know we have some Lethbridge and area mommies on here so I thought I would let you know.:)

[canadiangie]

I agree with pp about lock-offs. Other than the SS1 lock-off which seems extremely secure, I prefer to lock the seatbelt and bypass other lock-offs altogether. Truthfully I tried once or twice to get my MA lock-offs to close, they wouldn't, so I never looked back. Locked seatbelt all the way. And I sort of have my heels dug in about this... it *probably* wouldn't matter to me if the manufacture req'd the lock-off be used. I'd still lock my belt in my vehicle. Just a comfort thing I guess. (and ya I know that a lock-off is only there to hold the belt tight until the moment of impact when the seatbelt will lock anyway... yep, I know that, but I'm still more comfy with a locked seatbelt.

[CDNTech]

I can see how the RFing lock-offs would make you want to bypass them and use the locked seatbelt, but the FFing lock-offs are fantastic (at least the old style clamp ones are ;)) and the belt never loosens with them. :)

[unityco]

Re: Built-in Lock-offs... For the brief period of time we had a Marathon (with the newer thumb-turn lock-offs) I wondered how easy it would be for a child sitting next to them to unlock. (My GF's 3 rowdy boys practically had my DS's tether strap undone the one time we travelled together, so I can see kids fiddling with others' carseats being a problem.) That's one reason I prefer to lock the seatbelt. Anyone else ever worried about that?

[snowbird25ca]

Re: Built-in Lock-offs... For the brief period of time we had a Marathon (with the newer thumb-turn lock-offs) I wondered how easy it would be for a child sitting next to them to unlock. (My GF's 3 rowdy boys practically had my DS's tether strap undone the one time we travelled together, so I can see kids fiddling with others' carseats being a problem.) That's one reason I prefer to lock the seatbelt. Anyone else ever worried about that?

The old style ff'ing lock-offs I could see that being done easily enough. The new ones, it would take some effort because they're not always that easy to close in the first place. That being said, with a MA that has the new ff'ing lock-offs, I prefer to lock the belt now because the new ones are more of a pain than they're worth.

Rf'ing MA I always use the lock-offs when installing with the seatbelt. On a personal level (read parental level,) tilting seats bother me, so I wouldn't dream of not using them with a seatbelt install unless they weren't working. If I was concerned about kids fiddling, I'd just use both lock-offs, although the bigger concern might be one of the other kids unbuckling the seatbelt if they were big on the monkey scene...

From what I've seen, the True Fit lock-offs clamp down very similarly to the SS1 lock-offs. The SS1 lock-off is awesome.

Really, I've never doubted any of the lock-offs I've used. If the belt isn't slipping when you check for movement, then it's not going anywhere, and as was mentioned, the belt locks in a collision anyways. If the lock-offs are good enough to replace a locking clip, then I have no problem with not locking a seatbelt and using the lock-offs. :thumbsup:

[mommycat]

The on-line store checker is showing the True Fit now. It also showed them available at my Zellers yesterday, and there were none on the actual shelf, so I am going in to push a bit harder today.... But it's on the website now, anyway.

[Airforcemomma]

I've only played with the lock off's long enough to try and get it closed. I am not overly impressed with the lock offs on this seat. They seem to be very cheap.

I will get a better chance to play with the seat today and will post install pic's for those interested. There are alot of things I like about the seat, but a few things I don't like. Given the choice between the EFTA and Tru Fit again I would only go with the Tru Fit because of the weight limit of 65lbs as opposed to 47 with the EFTA. But ease of use and installation is better with the EFTA IMO.

[horseymom]

Can someone please tell me how hight the top slots are....please? thanks!

[mommycat]

I think I remember reading 18" somewhere? Someone correct me if I am wrong.

[horseymom]

I went and played with one at the Lethbridge zellers. I asked to take one out of the box, she was impressed when I took over and set it up LOL ds fit's awsome and dd still had about as much room as she has in her generations! I'm very impressed it seems like a very comfy seat to sleep in which is a big plus with me b/c my kids are sleepers in the truck. I really liked the deepness of the seat as well. I'm really wishing I had waited to order my MA. I would have bought the TF insted!! (I wonder if I can cancel a money order that i sent to Dearborn baby???????)

[TechnoGranola]

(I wonder if I can cancel a money order that i sent to Dearborn baby???????)Why don't you call Dearborn Baby and tell them you'd like to cancel your order? If they haven't shipped it yet, I don't see it as being a problem. Call though, don't email, I find they are a bit slow with email.

Just talk to the place you purchased the money order first and ensure you can get a refund. It might involve putting a stop payment on (which will likely cost a few bucks). If you have the carbon copy receipt this will be easier for them. And of course they can only do this if Dearborn hasn't cashed the money order yet. For additional comfort, you could get Dearborn to mail you the money order back.

[mommycat]

So yeah, I bought one today. Our Zellers (Annapolis Valley in NS) had at least 4 boxes on the shelf (maybe more in storage) and I absconded with one of them. I am not 100% sure I will keep it, but I wanted to try it out as far as installing is concerned. If it doesn't fit well I may have to take it back.

Couple of comments from starting the manual:
- It says not to use it in a smaller extended cab truck. Am I right in assuming that an extended cab silverado does not count as a "compact" truck? It has what feels like a full seat, not just a bench. I might call the 800 number to double check.
- It says that if you have side air bags which are anything other than roof mounted side curtain airbags, you need to refer to car manual about carseat use, but I am not 100% sure it isn't saying not to use the seat if you have these air bags... can anyone else have a look and chime in on my interpretation, please? I have to wait until DH comes home to check the car manual, but I want to know anyway, for future reference. Thanks.

[horseymom]

I just called the bank and yes I can stop payment. What do you all think? should I get the TF insted of the MA?

[snowbird25ca]

So yeah, I bought one today. Our Zellers (Annapolis Valley in NS) had at least 4 boxes on the shelf (maybe more in storage) and I absconded with one of them. I am not 100% sure I will keep it, but I wanted to try it out as far as installing is concerned. If it doesn't fit well I may have to take it back.

Couple of comments from starting the manual:
- It says not to use it in a smaller extended cab truck. Am I right in assuming that an extended cab silverado does not count as a "compact" truck? It has what feels like a full seat, not just a bench. I might call the 800 number to double check.
- It says that if you have side air bags which are anything other than roof mounted side curtain airbags, you need to refer to car manual about carseat use, but I am not 100% sure it isn't saying not to use the seat if you have these air bags... can anyone else have a look and chime in on my interpretation, please? I have to wait until DH comes home to check the car manual, but I want to know anyway, for future reference. Thanks.

If you have a full size bench in the back and not just one of the skinny ones it's ok.
As for the air bags, roof rail/side curtain airbags are fine, and telling parents to check in regards to side air bags is good advice as Transport Canada has a warning about that.

Almost all vehicles are coming with the roof rail/curtain airbags for back seat occupants - those are the kind that deploy downwards from the roof right against the window. The kind of airbags that there is possible concern about having a child restraint next to is side ones that deploy forward from the side edge of the seat. Front passenger seats typically have side torso airbags in addition to the front airbags and roof rail/side curtain airbags run the entire length of the vehicle. So most new vehicles are coming with what they term 6 airbags. There's probably some higher end vehicles utilizing side torso airbags in the back still, but I'm not familiar with them off the top of my head. Side curtain in the norm and is perfectly safe for child restraints to be next to due to the way they deploy down against the window/door and not out from the side of the seat.

Top harness height on the True Fit is 18" BTW.

[TechnoGranola]

There's probably some higher end vehicles utilizing side torso airbags in the back still, but I'm not familiar with them off the top of my head.When we were vehicle shopping several months ago, it seemed that most MB models came with the side torso air bags in the rear seats and BMW offered it as optional (and if you get them on a BMW, they come DEactivated and you must get the dealer to activate them). Those were the only 2 we looked at where they were available. We didn't check out Volvo or Audi though.

[TechnoGranola]

I just called the bank and yes I can stop payment. What do you all think? should I get the TF insted of the MA?Have you tried the Marathon in person? If so, and you like the True Fit better, then yes, get the True Fit. If not, do you have a local store where you can try the Marathon today? A local baby boutique or a ToysRUs/Babies R Us?

I've got a Marathon sitting at home right now and I am buying the True Fit as soon as it gets here to compare. What I love about the Marathon is that it's easy to install, seems comfy for DD and it tethers RF. I don't like the 32" RF limit (although I would ignore it), I don't like that the harness is finicky to do up and involves a lot of tugging and when I do get it tight it still looks loose, and I'd prefer a higher RF weight limit.

[horseymom]

Have you tried the Marathon in person? If so, and you like the True Fit better, then yes, get the True Fit. If not, do you have a local store where you can try the Marathon today? A local baby boutique or a ToysRUs/Babies R Us?

I've got a Marathon sitting at home right now and I am buying the True Fit as soon as it gets here to compare. What I love about the Marathon is that it's easy to install, seems comfy for DD and it tethers RF. I don't like the 32" RF limit (although I would ignore it), I don't like that the harness is finicky to do up and involves a lot of tugging and when I do get it tight it still looks loose, and I'd prefer a higher RF weight limit.


I did go and try a MA today as well. I like it, but like the SIP and the 35 RF limit better on the TF.
So I went down to the bank and they won't let me cancel th money order! :mad: they said dearborn has to send it back to me first :mad::mad: sooo soo mad!
I also found the MA hard to get tight :rolleyes:

[TechnoGranola]

I did go and try a MA today as well. I like it, but like the SIP and the 35 RF limit better on the TF. I like the SIP on the True Fit as well, especially for my parents vehicle. I'd like to compare it with the Boulevard, but can't wait that long for another seat, so my choices are True Fit or Marathon.

So I went down to the bank and they won't let me cancel th money order! :mad: they said dearborn has to send it back to me first :mad::mad: sooo soo mad!No way! Really? That sucks! It doesn't make much sense though, what if the money order was LOST? You wouldn't exactly have the original and you would want it canceled obviously. Did you cancel the order with Dearborn yet? and did they say they would send you the money order?

Are you able to purchase the True Fit without having the money back for the MA first?

I also found the MA hard to get tight :rolleyes:Apparently there are a couple of tricks that make it easier. One is to buckle one side, then tighten, then buckle the other side. This didn't make much of a difference, if any, for me. The other trick is to NOT loosen the harness each time. My parents and I both find it difficult to bend a squiggling toddler's arms into a seat if the straps aren't loosened, so I like to use the design feature of being able to loosen the straps.

[horseymom]

No, I can't buy it with out, were kind of in tight right now, that's why it's making me so mad. I was stupid and said it had already be mailed off, so I coun't even say that it was "lost". I'm just worried that they will sell out. I need one for sure before june 25th ds is going to be put under to have a procedure done and it's a long drive to the hospital (2+ hrs) so he needs a good seat to sleep in and his AO is NOT a good seat to sleep in at all!

[TechnoGranola]

No, I can't buy it with out, were kind of in tight right now, that's why it's making me so mad. I was stupid and said it had already be mailed off, so I coun't even say that it was "lost". I'm just worried that they will sell out. I need one for sure before june 25th ds is going to be put under to have a procedure done and it's a long drive to the hospital (2+ hrs) so he needs a good seat to sleep in and his AO is NOT a good seat to sleep in at all!Well maybe you could say you canceled the order with the store, so they destroyed the money order and see what they say? Can't hurt to call the bank and ask...then you can always get DearBorn to destroy it.

[Airforcemomma]

Ok, here's the pic's installed for those interested as well as pic's of the back and side that were requested by a PP. I am sorry about the size I can not figure out how to make them smaller.

I will try to post some with just the link

Installed center rear bench
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01481.jpg

This is what the belt through the belt path looked like with the first install and not being able to close lock off
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01479.jpg

New install lock off is closed
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01478.jpg

Bottom of seat for those who asked
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01477.jpg

Back of seat.CLICK THE LINK
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01476.jpg

Side view CLICK THE LINK
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/car%20seat%20pics/DSC01475.jpg

If there are any other photo requests let me know and I will take some more

Lock off was very easy to use once I figured out how to go about it.....I pulled the LS belt out but not all the way, buckled the belt, kneeled in the seat and tightened, then closed the lock off and let the belt retract. 2 tries like that and its in tight. If you hold the buckled end of the lap portion of the belt while it is tightening I was able to keep it from going lower down in the belt path. I had thought the whole lock off went over the belt..not the case..it only goes over half the belt and pushes the belt down onto a little nodule type thing then the red part locks down on top of the belt.

Overall, not to bad to install, but more difficult then our MA.

[hipmaman]

Hey Airforcemomma,

So your seatbelt cannot fit totally in the ff lock-off? Is it the width of the seatbelt too wide or is it because the seatbelt is too far forward to fit totally in the lock-off?

My Odyssey captain chair seatbelt fits fine through the ff lock-off. This picture shows the UAS strap but my seatbelt can fit in just like that http://picasaweb.google.com/hipmaman/Carseats2008/photo#5205852630886654546
Which vehicle is yours?

[Airforcemomma]

Hey Airforcemomma,

So your seatbelt cannot fit totally in the ff lock-off? Is it the width of the seatbelt too wide or is it because the seatbelt is too far forward to fit totally in the lock-off?

My Odyssey captain chair seatbelt fits fine through the ff lock-off. This picture shows the UAS strap but my seatbelt can fit in just like that http://picasaweb.google.com/hipmaman/Carseats2008/photo#5205852630886654546
Which vehicle is yours?
OH,your's looks completely different then mine. No, I wasn't able to fit the width of the belt in the lock off...I must be doing something wrong.

My vehicle his an 07 Pontiac Montana SV6

[mommycat]

It looks maybe like you didn't flip the yellow part open to put the belt under it? Or am I just not getting what your picture is showing?

[Unregistered]

I bought a True Fit today too. I just went to look. I didn't really think I would find one but there was one lone seat sealed in a box on the shelf at the Kitchener, Ontario Laurentian Power Center store so I snapped it up. The didn't have any on display. I was afraid that if I waited to decide what seat to buy (I have been debating and waiting for the Frontier, Nautilus & True Fit) that I would have a hard time finding one since stock seems to be so limited. I may or may not return it if the Frontier or Nautilus turn up soon. Another lady was there eyeing up a cheap looking AOE beside me so we got in a conversation about that seat compared to the True Fit. Part way through our conversation she mentions that she is a registered car seat tech. She was totally clueless and I a non-car seat tech was helping her. Of course I bought the only TF but she was just looking as her baby was still a ways away from outgrowing his infant seat. She seemed impressed by the TF and it's features so hopefully she comes back and buys one instead of the AOE. We ended up opening the box and taking the seat out and looking at it in the store. It was Zellers after all and there were no salespeople around anywhere to stop us. My first impression was that it seemed very sturdy. Much sturdier than the flimsy Apex65 that I bought but am returning. I also liked the Misty Morning fabric colours much better in person than in the photos I saw on-line. In fact I don't think the photos and the real thing were the same at all. I put my 8 month old in it and he was on the 2nd harness slots and seemed pretty comfy. I also tried my 5 yr old in it and she was on the 3rd harness slot. The only thing I don't like so far is that there doesn't seem to be a lot of room in the crotch area. There are 2 crotch buckle settings and I had it on the outer one but it still seemed kind on tight. It wasn't too terrible but could be a problem for a boy. I haven't installed it in the van yet so I may have more to say after that.

[hipmaman]

It looks maybe like you didn't flip the yellow part open to put the belt under it? Or am I just not getting what your picture is showing?

Yup, that looks like what Airforcemomma did.

The ff lock-off is a two-step mechanism. Lift the red part up and then pull the whole thing forward to completely flip the yellow part out. You should then see the red bottom, insert the seatbelt or UAS, then reverse the whole process to have the lock-off closed.

Edit to say 'two-step' instead of 'two-part' to avoid confusion with wrong choice of word

[QuassEE]

Anyone wanting an alternate cover might want to check out the Swap forum:
http://www.car-seat.org/showthread.php?t=47034

[Airforcemomma]

AAAHHHH, I tried to open the yellow part but couldn't so I figured it wasn't supposed to open. I am going to have to get this figured out this morning.....hopefully I can getn it right.

I'm still doing everything one handed because of my broken hand so getting the seat installed was difficult to begin with....I will be so glad when DH comes home on the 8th.

I will try it again, take another pic and have you guys check it.


What would I do without all you smart car seat momma's?


Yup, that looks like what Airforcemomma did.

The ff lock-off is a two-part mechanism. Lift the red part up and then pull the whole thing forward to completely flip the yellow part out. You should then see the red bottom, insert the seatbelt or UAS, then reverse the whole process to have the lock-off closed.

[mommycat]

I have to say that I am not sure I could install this seat one handed! The yellow part is attached to the red flap. It took me a minute to figure it out. You need to flip the red up and then use it to pull the yellow part open while keeoing it flipped - watch where the red part is hooked under as you open it - it was a little tricky to get back under those ledges for me because the little plastic nubby thing on the lapbelt section landed right next to the yellow flange, making it hard to close. I was lucky it didn't land mid-lockoff!

[Airforcemomma]

Ok, thanks for all your good info....I think I finally have it right this time.

If it still doesn't look right let me know.


http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/airforcemomma_photos/DSC01483.jpg

I feel awful having driven DD around in the seat with the belt through the lock off wrong.

[mommycat]

That looks like you worked out opening it ok, but I can't remember if you said you were locking your belt with the vehicle retractor? If not, both the lap and shoulder portions of the belt need to go into the lockoff to keep the belt from loosening. Tighten the belt as much as you can, pull the shoulder belt flat(ish) across open lockoff, then close it. It is more difficult with two layers of belt but that's what keeps it from sliding through and loosening..

[Airforcemomma]

Yes, I have the belt locked. I pulled it out all the way to engage the locking mechanism then let it back in . So, since the belt is locked I don't need to have both belts through the lock off right?

[TechnoGranola]

I feel awful having driven DD around in the seat with the belt through the lock off wrong.You had the belt locked right? So, I don't think it was even a worry!

[An Aurora]

Yes, I have the belt locked. I pulled it out all the way to engage the locking mechanism then let it back in . So, since the belt is locked I don't need to have both belts through the lock off right?

What does the manual say?

[snowbird25ca]

What does the manual say?

The manual is woefully unclear about picturing lock-off use. It just pictures a belt going through and doesn't show lap/shoulder or say put both pieces through etc. Just says to close the lock-off over the belt. :confused: I'd think both pieces should be through though and it looks to me like they want the lock-off to always be used as it makes no mention of not using it and tells you to use it. (I've read the online US manual, I'm pretty sure that the US and CDN versions are the same in that regard.)

[An Aurora]

The manual is woefully unclear about picturing lock-off use. It just pictures a belt going through and doesn't show lap/shoulder or say put both pieces through etc. Just says to close the lock-off over the belt. :confused: I'd think both pieces should be through though and it looks to me like they want the lock-off to always be used as it makes no mention of not using it and tells you to use it. (I've read the online US manual, I'm pretty sure that the US and CDN versions are the same in that regard.)

ITA, and better be safe than sorry. I would definitely put both parts of the belt through, and call the manufacturer for clarification.

[mommycat]

It isn't specifically saying to put both parts in, but the pictures do not show any shoulder belt hanging about, so I would be shocked if they didn't mean "the whole belt". I left it upstairs, but I am pretty sure that the manual makes no mention of different types of seatbelts at all? Except to say not to use the motorised, moving ones???

Airforcemomma, I think that yes, since you had the belt locked by pulling it all the way out and tightening that way, it was fine. In that cae closing the lockoff is just a case of making things not stick out.