Small success

trailrunnermom

New member
I just re-installed two carseats for my nephew's DDs, after finding out his recently acquired '99 Dodge minivan did not have auto-locking seatbelts. Now the seatbelts are tightly secured with locking clips - yay! I've only been reading these boards for a few weeks, but it's been *very* educational -- thank you!! :)
 
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scatterbunny

New member
Than van DOES have locking belts, but it isn't how you first think (at the shoulderbelt retractor). Dodge has lightweight locking latchplates. They will hold a seat tight most of the time, though. If they do slip, it's because the latchplate is not at the correct angle with the belt (must be parallel), and a half-twist will solve the problem. :)
 

trailrunnermom

New member
Dodge has lightweight locking latchplates. They will hold a seat tight most of the time, though.

Thanks -- I still have things to learn! So, if I check the belt/latchplate connection and it's the way it should be, then I don't need to add the locking clips? Or should I still use them, too? Thanks! :)
 

scatterbunny

New member
No, I would not use a locking clip on belts that lock on their own UNLESS it is for a rear-facing seat, to combat tipping to one side. BUT only the belts that lock at the shoulder retractor cause tipping. The Dodge belts, because they lock at the lap portion, will not cause a seat to tip.

The shoulder portion of the belt will be loose, that's no problem. The lap portion is all that needs to be tight.

A helpful site:

http://www.carseatsite.com/lockingclips.htm
 

skaterbabs

Well-known member
Sometimes (not often) the lightweight locking latchplates on Dodge vehicles will continue to slip even with the half-twist. Using a locking clip in this case is acceptible.
I would say, if you doubt your sibling's ability/desire/willingness to correct the issue when/if necessary, use the locking clips. We generally recommend not using them unless absolutely necessary because they are a bit tricky at best, and a real pain at worst.
 

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