Britax Boulevard ClickTight Installation⁚ A Comprehensive Guide
This guide provides detailed instructions for installing the Britax Boulevard ClickTight car seat, covering rear-facing and forward-facing installations using both vehicle seat belts and LATCH. Consult the official user manual for complete details and safety recommendations.
Rear-Facing Installation with Vehicle Seat Belt
To install your Britax Boulevard ClickTight rear-facing using the vehicle seat belt, begin by opening the ClickTight mechanism. Press the dimple on the dial and rotate clockwise until it releases. Fully recline the car seat before placing it rear-facing on the vehicle seat. Route the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt through the designated belt paths. Ensure the belt is snug and properly routed to minimize slack. The ClickTight system simplifies this process; however, always refer to your user manual for detailed diagrams and warnings. Never use a two-point or non-locking vehicle belt. After securing the seat belt, check for proper tightness and stability. The seat should not move more than one inch side-to-side or front-to-back at the belt path. Remember, proper installation is crucial for your child’s safety. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and the Britax Boulevard ClickTight user guide for specific instructions and recommendations.
Rear-Facing Installation with Lower Anchors (LATCH)
For rear-facing installation using the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system, begin by opening the Britax Boulevard ClickTight mechanism as described previously. Locate your vehicle’s lower LATCH anchors. These are typically located between the vehicle seat cushions. With the car seat reclined, position it on the vehicle seat and connect the LATCH connectors to the vehicle’s lower anchors. Ensure a secure connection; you should hear a distinct click. Once connected, tighten the LATCH straps to eliminate any slack. The car seat should not move more than one inch side-to-side or front-to-back. For optimal stability, ensure the lower anchors are properly engaged. Always consult both your vehicle’s owner’s manual and the Britax Boulevard ClickTight user guide for precise LATCH anchor locations and appropriate tightening procedures. Remember, a secure LATCH installation is vital for your child’s safety during a collision. Do not use the top tether strap for rear-facing installations.
Forward-Facing Installation with Vehicle Seat Belt
Once your child has outgrown the rear-facing weight and height limits, transition to forward-facing installation. Begin by opening the ClickTight mechanism. Position the car seat forward-facing on the vehicle seat. Route the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt through the designated belt paths on the car seat, ensuring the belt is snug against the car seat’s structure. The shoulder belt should lie flat against the car seat’s shell and not twist. Buckle the vehicle’s seat belt firmly. Tighten the seat belt by pulling on the vehicle’s seat belt retractor. The car seat should not move more than one inch side-to-side or front-to-back. Next, attach the top tether strap to the vehicle’s top tether anchor. Tighten the tether strap until it is snug. Ensure that the car seat remains stable and does not shift. Refer to both your vehicle’s manual and the Britax Boulevard ClickTight user guide for specific instructions and tether locations. Always check your installation to guarantee a secure fit before each trip.
Understanding the ClickTight System
The Britax ClickTight system simplifies car seat installation. It features a patented mechanism for easy and secure connection to the vehicle’s seat belt.
Opening and Closing the ClickTight Mechanism
To open the ClickTight mechanism, locate the dial on the car seat’s base. Press the dimple on the dial; this will disengage the locking mechanism. Rotate the dial clockwise until you hear a distinct “click” and the ClickTight compartment opens. The car seat base will now be accessible for installation. To close the ClickTight, carefully align the vehicle seat belt or LATCH connectors with the designated slots within the ClickTight compartment. Push firmly and steadily until you hear a secure “click” indicating that the mechanism is fully closed. Always ensure that the ClickTight is securely closed before driving.
The dimple on the dial acts as a safety feature to prevent accidental opening. The clockwise rotation is crucial for proper engagement; counterclockwise will not close the system. If you experience difficulty opening or closing the mechanism, refer to your Britax Boulevard ClickTight user manual for troubleshooting steps or contact Britax customer support.
Securing the Car Seat with ClickTight
Once the ClickTight mechanism is open, position the Britax Boulevard ClickTight car seat on the vehicle seat, ensuring it’s properly reclined for rear-facing installation or upright for forward-facing. Route the vehicle seat belt or LATCH connectors through their designated slots within the ClickTight compartment. For seat belt installation, ensure the belt is snug and free from twists before closing the ClickTight. For LATCH, connect the lower anchors and tighten the straps securely.
Close the ClickTight mechanism by firmly pressing the compartment shut until a secure “click” is heard. Always check for proper installation using the appropriate method (seat belt or LATCH). Ensure there is minimal movement of the car seat. If there is excessive movement, readjust the seat belt or LATCH straps and securely close the ClickTight again. Refer to the Britax Boulevard ClickTight user manual for detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your vehicle and installation method.
Harness and Headrest Adjustments
This section details adjusting the Britax Boulevard ClickTight’s harness height and headrest to accommodate your child’s growth, ensuring a proper and safe fit at all times. Consult your user manual for detailed instructions.
Adjusting the Harness Height
Proper harness height adjustment is crucial for your child’s safety in the Britax Boulevard ClickTight. The harness should always sit at or above your child’s shoulders. To adjust, locate the harness height adjusters—usually found on the sides of the car seat. These adjusters may involve buttons, levers, or straps. Consult your user manual for the specific mechanism on your model. Ensure the harness is snug against your child’s body with no twisting or slack. Proper adjustment prevents the harness from riding up during a collision. Always refer to the height and weight guidelines in your user manual to determine the correct harness position for your child’s age and size. Never use the car seat if the harness cannot be adjusted to the appropriate height. Regularly check the harness for proper adjustment, especially after adjusting the headrest or following a car wash.
Adjusting the Headrest
The Britax Boulevard ClickTight’s headrest is designed to grow with your child, offering adjustable height to maintain optimal safety and comfort. To adjust, locate the headrest adjustment mechanism; this is typically a button, lever, or similar device on the sides or back of the car seat. Consult your specific user manual for detailed instructions and diagrams as mechanisms vary by model. Once located, press, pull, or otherwise manipulate the mechanism according to your manual’s instructions to raise or lower the headrest. Ensure the headrest is positioned so that the top of your child’s head is comfortably nestled against the headrest’s top edge, ideally with at least one inch of space between their ears and the top of the headrest. Incorrect headrest positioning can compromise the effectiveness of the harness and overall safety. After making adjustments, always double-check the harness height to ensure proper alignment and fit.
Additional Safety Features
The Britax Boulevard ClickTight includes a tether strap (forward-facing only) and may incorporate an anti-rebound bar for enhanced safety. Always refer to your user manual for proper usage instructions.
Tether Strap Usage (Forward-Facing Only)
When installing your Britax Boulevard ClickTight car seat in the forward-facing position, the tether strap is crucial for added safety and stability. It helps to prevent excessive rotation and forward movement in the event of a collision. Locate the tether anchor point in your vehicle; this is usually found near the top of the vehicle seatback. Thread the tether strap through the anchor point and secure it tightly. Ensure the strap is taut but not overly stretched; a slightly loose tether is better than one that’s too tight. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to find the appropriate tether anchor and ensure compatibility. Improper tether usage can compromise safety. Never use the tether strap for rear-facing installations. Always ensure the tether strap is correctly attached before each journey to maximize its protective benefits. A properly secured tether significantly enhances the overall safety and performance of the car seat. Regularly inspect the tether strap for any signs of wear or damage; replace it immediately if necessary.
Anti-Rebound Bar (If Applicable)
The Britax Boulevard ClickTight may include an anti-rebound bar, a safety feature designed to minimize the car seat’s rotation during a frontal impact, particularly important for rear-facing installations. If your model has this bar, ensure it’s properly positioned against the vehicle’s seatback before securing the car seat. The bar should be flush against the vehicle seat; any gaps could reduce its effectiveness. Its purpose is to limit the forward movement of the car seat during a collision, enhancing the protection offered to your child. Proper placement of the anti-rebound bar is crucial to its intended safety function. Consult your user manual for specific instructions and diagrams on its correct positioning. Do not use the anti-rebound bar during forward-facing installations; it is solely for rear-facing use. Regularly inspect the bar for any signs of damage or wear; replace it immediately if any issues are found to ensure optimal safety. A damaged bar is compromised and will not provide adequate protection.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
This section addresses common installation issues and provides guidance on cleaning and maintaining your Britax Boulevard ClickTight car seat for optimal safety and longevity.
Common Installation Problems and Solutions
Experiencing difficulty installing your Britax Boulevard ClickTight? Tightening the ClickTight mechanism may require firm pressure; ensure the dial clicks securely. If the seat belt doesn’t fit snugly, check for twisting or slack. For LATCH installation, verify the lower anchors are properly engaged and the tether is secured correctly (forward-facing only). If the car seat feels loose, double-check all connections and refer to the diagrams in your user manual. A common issue involves the belt path; ensure the seat belt follows the designated routing, avoiding any kinks or twists. The Britax website and YouTube offer helpful videos demonstrating proper installation techniques. Still having trouble? Contact Britax customer support for personalized assistance, providing your car’s make and model for specific guidance. Remember, a properly installed car seat is crucial for your child’s safety.
Cleaning and Caring for Your Boulevard ClickTight
Regular cleaning maintains the safety and hygiene of your Britax Boulevard ClickTight. For spot cleaning, use a mild detergent and damp cloth; gently wipe the fabric, avoiding harsh scrubbing. Always air dry the car seat completely; never use a dryer or place it in direct sunlight. For more significant spills or stains, consult the user manual for specific cleaning instructions. The fabric cover is typically removable for machine washing (check the care label); always use a gentle cycle and mild detergent. Do not bleach or dry clean the cover. After washing, ensure the cover is completely dry before reinstalling it on the car seat. Periodically inspect the car seat for any wear and tear. Replace any damaged parts immediately to maintain optimal safety and performance. Remember, a clean car seat is a safer car seat.
User Manual Resources
Locate your Britax Boulevard ClickTight user manual online or download a PDF version. Helpful installation videos and tutorials are also available online.
Accessing the Official Britax User Manual
Finding the official Britax Boulevard ClickTight user manual is crucial for safe and proper installation. Britax provides manuals in various formats for easy access. You can typically find the manual on the Britax website by navigating to their support or product pages. Search for “Boulevard ClickTight manual” or the specific model number found on your car seat. Look for a downloadable PDF version for convenient offline access. Alternatively, some retailers may provide links to the manual on their product pages. Ensure you download the most current version; Britax occasionally updates manuals to reflect changes or improvements. If you encounter difficulties accessing the manual online, contact Britax customer support directly for assistance. They can provide you with a digital copy or possibly even a printed one. Always refer to the official manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Finding Helpful Videos and Tutorials Online
Supplementing the written manual, numerous online video tutorials demonstrate Britax Boulevard ClickTight installation. Searching platforms like YouTube for “Britax Boulevard ClickTight installation” yields various videos showcasing different installation methods, addressing common issues, and offering step-by-step guidance. These videos often provide visual aids clarifying written instructions, particularly helpful for understanding the ClickTight mechanism’s operation and proper harness adjustments. Look for videos from reputable sources, such as official Britax channels or trusted parenting/safety websites. Pay close attention to the car seat model year shown in the video; installation procedures might vary slightly across different model years. Remember that videos are supplementary; always cross-reference with the official written manual for complete and accurate instructions. Prioritize videos with clear, concise explanations and demonstrations from trusted sources.
