Obviously, the LATCH system is not getting easier to use, and LATCH Manual continues to grow with needed explanations and model-by-model details.
The 2011 edition, available now, see SRN Quick Links box to the left , Product Order From. The new manual has over 400 pages, including:
1. A new chapter on rear-facing tethering.
2. A new appendix covering child safety restraints used
on school buses.
3. Ten more pages in the CR manufacturer appendix,
including coverage of three new CR manufacturers.
4. Forty-seven more pages in the vehicle model
appendix, due to expanded topics in the general
bullets for each brand and two new brands.
5. Also new—by users’ request—is much more detail
on domestic trucks and vans.
There have been some major changes in anchor weight limits for vehicle brands. Most allow installation using the full LATCH system to 48 pounds or indicate that the CR instructions should be followed. For the first time, SRN asked about—and found—differences between vehicle manufacturer weight limits for TAs when used with lower anchors versus seat belts, as well as for retrofitted anchor points. One important update is that, for General Motors brands and Saab, the weight limit for use of TAs when used with a seat belt is now different for MY 04 and older vehicles (40 pounds) than for MY 05 and newer vehicles (48 pounds).
Though the instances of vehicle manufacturers allowing use of the inboard LA bars of the outboard positions to create a nonstandard center LATCH position have not changed, several CR manufacturers did change their stance. Most notably, Combi, Graco, and Sunshine Kids now allow this use in vehicles when it is also allowed by the vehicle manufacturer.
For the first time, SRN surveyed manufacturers who make CRs with a rear-facing tethering option specifically about RF CRs. A representative sample of vehicle manufacturers also was queried. The new chapter on this subject incorporates the feedback gathered to provide needed guidance and warnings.
The new school bus appendix (D) contains several new tables. As is the case for the entire manual, all advice was approved for publication and sometimes provides details not found in the owner’s manuals.
© Safe Ride News, November/December 2010