Graco Nautilus

[dolly_foxburr]

I'm confused. I was reading the manual and it sounds like you need to use the locking clip with a free moving seat belt clip, even if the seat belt locks when you pull it all the way out (KWIM?). Is that right? I installed it using LATCH because he's only 28 lbs, but then I started getting nervous about my 4yr old (54 lbs) Apex that is installed with a seat belt and no locking clip. I just pulled the seat belt all the way out until it locked, then clicked the seat belt together and put my knee in the seat and tightened the seat belt. It's in there good, no room to move. I was just worried that I needed to use a locking clip.

Also, has anyone had problems with the tether on the Nautilus? Mine will not hold tension when I tighten it. It just slides right back out. I tried to push the little pins on the side of the belt the other way, but it doesn't change it. I emailed them but haven't heard back yet.

[Robert]

As long as you have something locking with the seat belt system itself, such as a locking latch plate or locking retractor (automatic locking retractor or switchable retractor in the locking mode) your fine. If nothing locks with the seat belt system (sliding latch place, emergency locking retractor, lap and shoulder belt) then the locking clip is used.

[Patriot201]

You are right, the manual does make it sound that way.

But, as Robert said, a locking retractor is fine. :)

[crunchierthanthou]

I think I know the section you're talking about.

• Combination Lap/Shoulder Belt with
Sliding Latch PlateThis belt has a
latchplate that slides freely along the belt.
• This belt MUST be converted to prevent
movement of the lap portion of the belt. You
must use the locking clip provided with the
child restraint, unless your vehicle's seat
belt can be converted in another way as
described in your vehicle owner's manual.

note the unless. :)

meaning, you only need a locking clip with an ELR l/s belt without a locking latchplate or switchable retractor.

[BookMama]

You might also want to check out this site about how/when to use a locking clip, the varies types of seat belts and how they lock, etc. I've found it extremely helpful in the past. http://www.carseatsite.com/lockingclips.htm

[dolly_foxburr]

Thanks for the replies!

I see the "unless" now. I wasn't sure if the "unless your vehicle's seat
belt can be converted in another way as described in your vehicle owner's manual" was referring to the locking mechanism on the seat belt or not. The Nautilus is installed with the LATCH, anyway. It just had me second guessing myself about the Apex.

Thanks again! I'm still waiting to hear back from Graco regarding the tether.