Besides the car seat vest- other options for middle row lap belt only seats?

augustgirl69

New member
Do I have any other options? We have a Mazda MPV- so it's small and DD (5) has a radian 80 in the passengers side in the way back- but we often need to transport other kids- kids no longer in car seats- age 9 and 10- but the lap belt is not acceptable and if I put the radian in the middle (and I can) it's tough for daily use KWIM? So Iam looking for a solution to turn the middle lap belt into a safe seat with as little cost and complication as possible........ suggestions?
 
ADS

Neatfreak

New member
Britax used to manufacture a product called the Laptop that worked with lap belts. I think they've been the market since 2002 or 2003, so you might be able to find a gently used one from a reputable source to use for a short while (six year expiry, if I recall correctly).
 

crunchierthanthou

New member
I believe all laptops are officially expired. They met their demise with the introduction of LATCH, which has been required since September 2002.

There's the 86-Y, but getting an appropriate anchor installed can be tricky in some vehicles.

Does your center position have a headrest?
 

augustgirl69

New member
OK so the harness looks better to me as I am going to have to out my 9 yo in it and the vest may be too babyish KWIM? I have a tether in my van for it so is that I would need? It's for such occasional use.
THANKS mamas!
 

Defrost

Moderator - CPSTI Emeritus
I think the vest you're talking about is the Ride Safer Travel Vest? Keep in mind that it also requires a tether when used with a lap-only seat belt.

As for the 86Y, the tether anchor that came with your van has a weight limit, so for kids using the 86Y over that weight limit, you have to install a heavy-duty tether anchor instead. That job can range from pretty simple in a sedan, to impossible in other vehicles like vans and SUVs.

Now, as for the weight limit: in this case you have a Mazda, and since Mazda defers to the carseat manufacturer, that means you go by the limit set by EZ-On. They have an 80lb maximum-allowed weight for anything except their heavy-duty tether anchor. If your 9yo is over 80lbs, you'll have to install the heavy-duty tether anchor to use the 86Y. Also, if your 9yo is under 65lbs, you MUST use a booster with the 86Y - it's required.

I have an 86Y and I like it for what it is, but I think you'll find that it's even more of a hassle than just using the Radian in that seating position.
 

Kat_Momof3

New member
the last laptops expired in august of 08... so last month.

the 86-Y harness or ride safer vest would be a great option, but you definitely need to make sure you can tether when necessary.
 

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