RSTV in Subaru

[momtoirs]

We got DS (4 1/2) an RSTV so that we can do 3 people (1 teen, 1 adult and DS) in the backseat of our 2000 Subaru Impreza for a 12 + hour trip later this summer. We tried it out for the first time today with DS in the center of the rear seat using lap belt and tether. I think DS was happier with it than he thought he would be.

I have 3 questions:

*I think I've seen here that the head rest piece is not required, am I right with this?

*We have the super long belt stalks typical of Subaru's. I've almost always had to twist the buckle stalks for car seat installs. With the RSTV, the buckle comes all the way up to the clips for the lap belt. Can I twist the buckle stalk when using the RSTV? When I tighten the lap belt, it almost has the latch plate needing to go into the lap belt guides.

*Any tips for getting it to really sit on their hips when first gettting in? Leaving the vest in the car seemed help.

Other than those questions, I think we're good The tech who used to check DS's seats is going to meet with me and we're going to review how I'm using it, just to be sure.

DS made me bring the vest in from the car tonight -- he's hoping to ride with Grandma and Grandpa or an aunt/uncle when they come to town tomorrow!

Tina

[wendytthomas]

I have 3 questions:

*I think I've seen here that the head rest piece is not required, am I right with this?

Right. Piper hates it, so we don't use it.

*We have the super long belt stalks typical of Subaru's. I've almost always had to twist the buckle stalks for car seat installs. With the RSTV, the buckle comes all the way up to the clips for the lap belt. Can I twist the buckle stalk when using the RSTV? When I tighten the lap belt, it almost has the latch plate needing to go into the lap belt guides.

I would see no harm in twisting it. My Xterra has super long stalks too. I can't remember if I have to twist it in the middle of my car or not. But I would if it was too long without a problem.

*Any tips for getting it to really sit on their hips when first gettting in? Leaving the vest in the car seemed help.

I worry a little less about this in the vest than I do in a booster, since the vest will help disperse the forces. It's not using their hip bones to hold the belt down, for instance. But otherwise, no, I haven't got any other than to make sure the vest and crotch strap are done up properly.

Wendy