Kecia
Admin - CPST Instructor
I didn't want to put this in the tech forum because I think everyone (not just techs) can learn and benefit from the discussion.
In the Summer edition of Tech Update from the National CPS Board there is a segment on using locking clips. The first paragraph deals with using a LC when your 3-pt vehicle seatbelt has no pre-crash locking features (and your CR has no built-in lockoff device). In these cases you need to use a LC. The second paragraph deals with using a LC as a "fix" for a tilt issue caused by a 3-pt belt with a locked switchable retractor. It states:
"Another time you might use a locking clip is when you install a rear-facing restraint with a three-point belt using a switchable retractor. Sometimes when you tighten the seat belt, the shoulder portion pulls up on the child restraint and makes it tip to one side. If it's tipping a lot when you can pass the 1" test, you can use a locking clip instead of the switchable retractor. But always try to install first with the vehicle belt features because they are usually easier to use than locking clips. Locking clips should be the last choice, not the first choice. It would be better to use the switchable retractor to obtain an install with slight tipping that passes the 1" test than to use a locking clip to achieve zero movement and no tipping. Parents and caregivers are more likely to get the install correct without a locking clip."
Agree? Disagree? Thoughts?
In the Summer edition of Tech Update from the National CPS Board there is a segment on using locking clips. The first paragraph deals with using a LC when your 3-pt vehicle seatbelt has no pre-crash locking features (and your CR has no built-in lockoff device). In these cases you need to use a LC. The second paragraph deals with using a LC as a "fix" for a tilt issue caused by a 3-pt belt with a locked switchable retractor. It states:
"Another time you might use a locking clip is when you install a rear-facing restraint with a three-point belt using a switchable retractor. Sometimes when you tighten the seat belt, the shoulder portion pulls up on the child restraint and makes it tip to one side. If it's tipping a lot when you can pass the 1" test, you can use a locking clip instead of the switchable retractor. But always try to install first with the vehicle belt features because they are usually easier to use than locking clips. Locking clips should be the last choice, not the first choice. It would be better to use the switchable retractor to obtain an install with slight tipping that passes the 1" test than to use a locking clip to achieve zero movement and no tipping. Parents and caregivers are more likely to get the install correct without a locking clip."
Agree? Disagree? Thoughts?