Question RF Chicco Keyfit 30 in a 2001 Infiniti - Shoulder belt to center receiver?

JonWolf · Mar 4, 2019

Hi, I am trying to install a RF Chicco Keyfit 30 base in a 2001 infiniti i30, 1 year before the LATCH system was built-in.
When I install the base with the right-rear shoulder belt, the receiver/buckle extends too far, and I am unable to use the belt lock on the car seat base.
However, if I use the right shoulder belt and cross over to the center receiver/buckle, it works just fine. I am able to lock the belt with both the seat belt lock and the car seat base.
The base is stable, with less than an inch of movement left, right, or forward.
When I went to have the installation inspected, they won't sign off because this not a listed method in the vehicle or car seat manual.
Do you think there is anything inherently unsafe about using the right shoulder belt clicked in to the center receiver?
It is a positive connection to the vehicle, without compromising and components (such as twisting the cord to the buckle).
Please let me know what you think or any suggestions.
Thank you,
Jonathan

wendytthomas · Mar 4, 2019

Hi Jonathan,

The techs you saw were correct. You must use the buckle for the position you are installing. You cannot use the middle buckle for a side position. You also don't lock the belt AND the lockoff. Just the lockoff. You CAN twist the female end of the buckle up to three full twists to lower down the receiving end. Why don't you try that on the passenger side instead of using the center buckle? Or, just install in the center if that works better (that's the safest position in the vehicle anyway).

Wendy

SafeDad · Mar 5, 2019

It is technically possible to get a secure installation in a manner that is not consistent with instructions for the child safety seat and/or vehicle. The problem is that these methods are not tested in any manner. You'd essentially be using your child as the crash test dummy.

As Wendy said, in some vehicles, it may be acceptable to "twist" a flexible belt buckle receiver to shorten it. This should not be done if prohibited in an owner's manual and usually no more than 3 twists is the rule-of-thumb.

The center seating position is also a good option to try.