GRACO NWL0000644875C Convertible Car Seat Instruction Manual
- June 14, 2024
- Graco
Table of Contents
NWL0000644875C Convertible Car Seat
Specifications
-
Product Name: ContenderTM 65/AdmiralTM 65 Convertible Car
Seat -
Model Number: NWL0000644875C
-
Weight Limit: Rear-Facing: 5-40 lb (2.2-18 kg), Forward-Facing:
22-65 lb (10-30 kg)
Product Usage Instructions
1. Important
1-A A Quick Guide to Your Manual
This section provides a quick overview of the manual and its
contents.
1-B Welcome to the Graco Family
A warm welcome to the Graco family and introduction to the
convertible car seat.
1-C Right Mode of Use
Information on the correct mode of use for the car seat based on
the child’s weight and age.
1-D Before You Begin
Important information on registering the car seat, seeking help,
certification, useful life, vehicle seat protection, and warm
weather use.
1-E Safety Warnings
Important safety warnings related to the proper use of the car
seat.
2. Features
Detailed description of the features of the convertible car
seat.
3. Rear-Facing Use
3-A Rear-Facing
Instructions on using the car seat in the rear-facing
position.
3-B Install Rear-Facing with LATCH Strap
Detailed steps on installing the car seat in the rear-facing
position using the LATCH strap.
3-C Installing With Vehicle Seat Belt
Detailed steps on installing the car seat in the rear-facing
position using the vehicle seat belt.
4. Forward-Facing Use
4-A Forward-Facing
Instructions on using the car seat in the forward-facing
position.
4-B Install Forward-Facing with LATCH Strap
Detailed steps on installing the car seat in the forward-facing
position using the LATCH strap.
4-C Installing With Vehicle Seat Belt
Detailed steps on installing the car seat in the forward-facing
position using the vehicle seat belt.
5. Securing Child
5-A Securing Child 5-Point Harness
Instructions on properly securing the child using the 5-point
harness system.
6. Accessories
Information on optional accessories available for the car
seat.
7. Moving LATCH
7-A Moving the LATCH Strap
Instructions on moving the LATCH strap for proper
installation.
8. Additional Information
8-A How to Remove LATCH and Tether
Instructions on removing the LATCH and tether from the car
seat.
8-B Choosing Vehicle Seat Location
Tips for choosing the right location in the vehicle to install
the car seat.
8-C Unsafe Vehicle Seat Locations
Information on unsafe vehicle seat locations to avoid when
installing the car seat.
8-D Vehicle Seat Belts
Instructions on using different types of vehicle seat belts for
installation.
9. Care & Cleaning
9-A Cleaning Seat Pad
Instructions on cleaning the seat pad of the car seat.
9-B Cleaning Buckle
Instructions on cleaning the buckle of the car seat.
9-C Cleaning Harness and LATCH
Instructions on cleaning the harness and LATCH system of the car
seat.
FAQ
Does Your Car Seat Fit Your Child Correctly?
To ensure proper fit and securement of your child, review
sections 3 and 4 of the manual for instructions on adjusting the
car seat to fit your child correctly.
www.gracobaby.com
CONTENDERTM 65/ADMIRALTM 65
CONVERTIBLE CAR SEAT
NWL0000644875C 4/19
Do not install or use this child restraint until you read and understand the
instructions in
this manual.
FAILURE TO PROPERLY USE
THIS CHILD RESTRAINT
INCREASES THE RISK OF
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
IN A SUDDEN STOP OR
1
CRASH.
1 Important
1-A A Quick Guide to Your Manual 1-B Welcome to the Graco Family 1-C Right
Mode of Use 1-D Before You Begin
Register This Car Seat If You Need Help Cer tification Car Seat’s Useful Life
Vehicle Seat Protection Warm Weather Use 1-E Safety Warnings
2 Features
2-A Car Seat Features
2
Pages 6-23 Pages 24-29
3 Rear-Facing Use
3-A Rear-Facing 3-B Install Rear-Facing with LATCH Strap 3-C Installing With
Vehicle Seat Belt
4 Forward-Facing Use
4-A Forward-Facing 4-B Install Forward-Facing with LATCH Strap 4-C Installing
With Vehicle Seat Belt
5 Securing Child
5-A Securing Child 5-Point Harness
3
Pages 30-44 Pages 45-58 Pages 59-66
6 Accessories
6-A Accessories
7 Moving LATCH
7-A Moving the LATCH Strap
4
Pages 67-68 Pages 69-71
8 Additional Information
8-A How to Remove LATCH and Tether 8-B Choosing Vehicle Seat Location 8-C
Unsafe Vehicle Seat Locations 8-D Vehicle Seat Belts
9 Care & Cleaning
9-A Cleaning Seat Pad 9-B Cleaning Buckle 9-C Cleaning Harness and LATCH
5
Pages 72-82 Pages 83-86
1-A A Quick Guide to Your Manual
This car seat is for children: Rear-Facing: 5-40 lb (2.2-18 kg) Forward
Facing: 22-65 lb (10-30 kg)
· Children less than 22 lb (10 kg) MUST use this car seat rear-facing. Review
section 1-C for more information.
Get to Know Your Car Seat Review section 2-A to see all of the features of
this infant car seat.
What Seating Location Should I Use? The best seating location for this infant
car seat is one that: · Is recommended by your vehicle owner’s manual, and ·
Results in a secure installation of this car seat. Some vehicles have specific
requirements for where the car seat can be installed, so be sure to check your
vehicle owner’s manual for available seating positions, if any.
Review section 8-B, 8-C of this manual AND your vehicle owner’s manual.
6
According to accident statistics, the safest place for your child in any
vehicle is the back seat. The center of the back seat can be the safest during
a possible side impact.
Which Installation Method Should I Use?
This car seat can be installed in your vehicle using either the vehicle seat
belt OR the LATCH system. Both are equally safe to use. DO NOT USE BOTH AT THE
SAME TIME. Vehicle Seat Belt: Review section 8 and your vehicle owner’s manual
to learn how to install your car seat with the vehicle seat belts. LATCH: The
LATCH system allows you to securely attach your safety seat in your car
without using the vehicle seat belt and possibly to get a better fit. All 2003
and newer model year vehicles are required to have a LATCH system, although
some manufacturers began including LATCH earlier. Some vehicle owner manuals
use the term ISOFIX to identify the LATCH system.
7
What is LATCH?
LATCH consists of lower anchors and top tether anchors, which are builtin to
your vehicle, and connecting hooks that are built-in to your car seat. Lower
anchors are used INSTEAD of the vehicle’s seat belt to secure the child seat
to the vehicle. Top tethers are used IN ADDITION to the lower anchors OR the
vehicle’s seat belt to secure a forward-facing car seat to the vehicle.
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for exact location and use.
Vehicle Top Tether Anchor Points
Typical seat in a passenger vehicle. Other vehicle types may have different
LATCH
locations.
Vehicle Seat Bight
Vehicle Lower Anchor Points
8
continue next page
When Installing Rear-Facing & Forward-Facing LATCH System LATCH consists of
two lower anchors, which are built-in to your vehicle, and connecting hooks
that are built-in your car seat. Review section 3-B & 4-B of this manual AND
your vehicle owner’s manual.
Vehicle Seat Belt There are two types of vehicle seat belts that can be used.
Lap/Shoulder Seat Belt or Lap Only Seat Belt. Review section 3-C & 4-C of this
manual AND your vehicle owner’s manual.
9
Does Your Car Seat Fit Your Child Correctly?
To make sure your child is secured properly, review section 3 and 4 to
understand all of the actions you need to take to properly adjust the car seat
to fit your child.
For Rear-Facing, You Need to Adjust:
Harness Height, Rear-Facing (A) Harness straps at or just below the child’s
A
B
shoulders and top of head must be 1″ (2.5 cm)
below the headrest adjustment lever (B). Review
section 5.
C Buckle Position (C) The correct slot is the one that is closest to your child without being underneath them. Review section 5.
Harness Tightness (D)
D
If your fingers slide off the harness straps
without pinching the straps, it is tight enough.
Review section 5.
10
continue next page
For Forward-Facing, You Need to Adjust:
Harness Height, Forward-Facing (A) Harness straps at or just above the child’s
A
B
shoulders and top of child’s ears below top of
headrest (B). Review section 5.
Buckle Position (C) The correct slot is the one that is closest to
C
your child without being underneath them.
Review section 5.
Harness Tightness (D) If your fingers slide off the harness straps
D
without pinching the straps, it is tight enough.
Review section 5.
11
Rear-Facing Installation
Car Seat Does Not Move More than 1″ (2.5 cm) at the Belt
A
Path (A)
Review section 3
Check level indicator (B)
Review section 3
Harness Straps at or Just Below Child’s Shoulders (C) Review section 5
B
C
Chest Clip Even With Armpits (D) Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps
at the Shoulder (E) Review section 5
D
E
12
Forward-Facing Installation
Use the top tether strap when using forward-facing (A)
A
When used properly, the top tether
helps reduce injury in a sudden
stop or crash.
Review section 4
Car Seat Does Not Move More
than 1″ (2.5 cm) at the Belt
B
C
Path (B)
Review section 4
Harness Straps at or Just
Above Child’s Shoulders (C)
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits (D)
D
E
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the Shoulder (E) Review section 5
13
1-B Welcome to the Graco Family!
Your child’s safety depends on you. No car seat can guarantee protection from
injury in every situation, but proper use helps reduce the risk of serious
injury or death. Even if this car seat seems easy to figure out on your own,
you must follow the detailed instructions in this instruction manual to ensure
the steps below are performed correctly.
14
1-C Right Mode of Use
5 lb (2.2 kg)
22 lb (10 kg)
40 lb (18 kg)
65 lb (30 kg)
Rear-Facing with 5-Point Harness 5-22 lb (2.2-10 kg) less than 1 year old
MUST be rear-facing. 22-40 lb (10-18 kg) SHOULD be rear-facing.
Forward-Facing with 5-Point Harness 22-40 lb (10-18 kg) can sit upright
unassisted CAN be forward-facing. 40-65 lb (18-30 kg) MUST be forward-facing.
- Check your state laws and the AAP/NHTSA recommendations. See page 21.
15
1-D Before You Begin
Register This Child Restraint
Please fill out the prepaid registration postcard attached to the harness and
mail it in today or register online at www.gracobaby.com/carseatregistration.
Child restraints could be recalled for safety reasons. You must register this
restraint to be reached in a recall. Send your name, address, and the
restraint’s model number and manufacturing date to:
Graco Children’s Products, Inc. Attn: Customer Service
P.O. Box 169, Elverson, PA 19520-9901 or call
1-800-345-4109 or register online at
www.gracobaby.com/carseatregistration For recall information, call the U.S.
Government’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at
1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 18004249153),
or go to http://www.NHTSA.gov.
16
For future reference or if you change addresses, record the model name, model
number, date of manufacture and purchase date of this car seat on the below.
You can find this information either on the registration card if you still
have it or on the date label located on the back of the car seat.
Model Name__
Model Number
Date of Manufacture __
Date of Purchase _____
If You Need Help
In the U.S.A, please contact our Customer Service Department with any
questions you may have concerning parts, use, or maintenance. When you contact
us, please have your product’s model number and date of manufacture ready so
that we may help you efficiently. These numbers can be found on a sticker on
the back side of your car seat. For additional resources or to get your car
seat checked by a child passenger safety technician, please visit the
following web sites:
www.nhtsa.gov · www.seatcheck.org · www.safekids.org
17
Certification
This child restraint meets or exceeds all applicable requirements of Federal
motor vehicle safety standard 213 for use in motor vehicles.
This child seat is certified for use in aircraft. Use only on fowardfacing
aircraft seats. Follow the instructions for vehicle installation. For rear-
facing installation, see section 3-C and 8-D Lap Belt Installation. For
forward-facing installation, see section 4-C and 8-D Lap Belt Installation,
but do not use top tether. Contact the airline for their specific polices.
Car Seat’s Useful Life
STOP using this car seat and throw it away 7 years after the date of
manufacture. Look for this sticker on back of the car seat.
Graco Children’s Products Inc. advises against loaning or passing along a car
seat unless you know the complete history of the product. We also advise
against purchasing a car seat second hand.
Vehicle Seat Protection
Protect vehicle seat. Use a car seat mat, towel, or thin blanket under and
behind car seat.
18
Warm Weather Use Car seat parts can get very hot in the sun or warm weather.
To avoid burns, always check before putting child in car seat.
1-E Safety Warnings
No car seat can guarantee protection from injury in every situation, but
proper use helps reduce the risk of serious injury or death. READ THIS MANUAL
CAREFULLY.
Failure to follow these instructions and child restraint’s labels can result
in child striking the vehicle’s interior during a sudden stop or crash.
19
! NEVER PLACE THIS CHILD RESTRAINT REAR-FACING IN A VEHICLE SEATING LOCATION
THAT HAS AN ACTIVE FRONT AIR BAG. If an air bag inflates, it can hit the child
and car seat with great force and cause serious injury or death to your child.
! Review your vehicle owner’s manual for more information about air bags and
car seat use. ! If your vehicle does not have a back seat, review your vehicle
owner’s manual.
20
! Children are safer riding rear-facing and should ride rearfacing as long as possible, until they reach the maximum rearfacing height or weight rating for their car seat. Then children should ride forward-facing, using the built-in harness system for as long as possible until they reach the maximum forwardfacing weight or height for their car seat. Be sure to check your local and state laws, as well AAP and NHTSA recommendations, for car seat usage.* ! Choose the correct mode of use for the car seat depending on your child’s size. Infants less than 22 lb (10 kg) MUST use this car seat rear-facing. ! Select a suitable location for the car seat in your vehicle. ! Secure car seat with a vehicle seat belt or LATCH that is properly routed as shown in this manual.
- Graco supports the American Academy of Pediatrics and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Car Seat Guidelines. Visit www.gracobaby.com/en-US/safety for information on car seat usage recommendations.
21
! Vehicle seat belt system MUST hold car seat securely. Not all vehicle seat
belts can be used with a car seat.
! If vehicle seat belt does not hold car seat securely, read “Vehicle Seat
Belts” section 8-D and your vehicle owner’s manual.
! Always secure car seat with LATCH or a vehicle seat belt, even when
unoccupied. In a crash, an unsecured car seat can injure passengers.
! If car seat is in a crash, it must be replaced. DO NOT use it again! A crash
can cause unseen damage and using it again could result in serious injury or
death.
! DO NOT use car seat if it is damaged or missing parts.
! DO NOT use accessories or parts other than those provided by Graco except
for a thin towel or mat to protect your vehicle seat or rolled towels or pool
noodles to help get your car seat level. Their use could alter the performance
of the car seat.
! DO NOT remove LATCH system from car seat. If using vehicle seat belt to
secure car seat, LATCH connectors must be stored.
22
! Never leave child unattended, even when sleeping. Child may become tangled
in harness straps and suffocate or strangle. ! Rear-facing car seat must be
properly leveled:
· Too reclined can result in injury or ejection. · Too upright can result in
breathing difficulties.
! Never attach two LATCH connectors to one vehicle lower anchor point unless
specifically allowed by the vehicle manufacturer. ! Do not use both the
vehicle belt and LATCH belts at the same time when using the car seat rear or
forward facing.
Note: Preterm or low birth weight infants may be at special risk in a vehicle
or aircraft. According to the AAP, these infants may suffer breathing issues
if improperly reclined in a car seat. When rear-facing, use the corrected age
for preemies. Graco advises that you have your physician or hospital staff
evaluate your infant and recommend the proper car seat or car bed before you
and your infant leave the hospital.
23
2-A Car Seat Features
F
2 Features
A
G
H
B C D
E
24
2 Features
A Harness Slots B Harness Buckle C Buckle Strap D Harness Release Lever
(Under Flap) E Harness Adjustment Strap F Headrest/ Harness
Adjustment Handle G Harness Straps H Chest Clip
25
2 Features
A
B
A
B
26
C
D
E
2 Features
A LATCH Storage Bar B LATCH Strap (stored) C Level Indicator D Forward-Facing
Belt Path E Rear-Facing Belt Path
27
2 Features
A
B C
G
28
D
E
F
2 Features
A Harness Straps B Splitter Plate C Harness Cover Plate D Tether Storage Bar E
Tether Hook F Tether Strap G Instruction Manual Storage
29
3-A Rear-Facing
LATCH Strap
Vehicle Seat Lap/ Shoulder Belt
Rear-Facing: 5-40 lb (2.2-18 kg) and whose head is at least 1 inch (2.5 cm)
below the top of the car seat
· Infants who weigh less than 22 lb (10 kg) MUST be rear-facing.
· Place car seat rear-facing in the vehicle back seat.
· Make sure LATCH strap or vehicle seat belt is routed through the rear-facing
belt path marked with a blue label.
· Install this car seat tightly in your vehicle. Car seat should not move at
the rear-facing belt path more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) from side to side, front
to back.
· Check recline level making sure the ball is within the blue area.
30
3 Rear Facing
· Harness straps need to be even with or just below the top of child’s
shoulders and chest clip is at armpit level.
· Children are safer riding rear-facing and should ride rear-facing as long as
possible, until they reach maximum rear-facing height or weight rating for
their car seat. Then children should ride forward-facing, using the built-in
harness system for as long as possible until they reach the maximum forward-
facing weight or height for their car seat. Be sure to check local and state
laws, as well as AAP and NHTSA recommendations, for car seat usage.
Vehicle Seat Lap Belt
3 Rear Facing
NEVER place this child restraint rear-facing in a vehicle seating location
that has an active front air bag.
31
How to Read the Level Indicator: Use corrected age for preemies. · If the ball
is entirely in light blue, the restraint is level for infants 0+ months in
age. · If the ball is in light blue and dark blue, the restraint is level for
a child 3+ months in age.
· If the ball is in RED, child restraint is NOT level. You must adjust your
recline position.
2.
32
3 Rear Facing
3-B Install Rear-Facing with LATCH Strap
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for LATCH location and use. 1. Store Top
Tether Strap Attach tether hook to the plastic bar on either side of the car
seat.
2. Remove LATCH Strap from Storage Location
33
3 Rear Facing
3. Make Sure LATCH Strap is in the Rear-Facing Belt Path Marked With a Blue
Label If it is not, see section 7-A to move LATCH strap.
4. Recline the Car Seat Flip recline foot under car seat for rear facing use.
34
3 Rear Facing
5. Place Car Seat Rear-Facing in Back Seat of the Vehicle Place rear-facing
in vehicle seat and center the car seat between the lower LATCH anchors. The
bottom of the car seat should sit as flat as possible on the vehicle seat.
6. Extend the LATCH Strap For easier installation, extend the LATCH strap to
its maximum length by pressing the grey button and pulling on the strap.
35
3 Rear Facing
7. Check the Level Indicator Vehicle MUST be on level ground. Ball must be
completely in the blue zone. Readjust if needed. For infants 3 months and
under, the ball must completely cover the light blue circle. If needed, rolled
towels may be placed under the car seat at the vehicle seat crease, until the
ball is completely in the blue zone.
8. Attach LATCH Connectors to Vehicle’s Lower LATCH Anchors. LATCH strap
should lie flat and not be twisted.
36
3 Rear Facing
9. Tighten the LATCH Strap Press down firmly in the center of the car seat
while tightening the LATCH strap. You may need to tighten through the rear-
facing belt path as shown.
10. Test For Tightness Grab the sides of the seat where the LATCH strap is
and slide the car seat side-to-side and front-to-back. If the seat moves less
than 1inch (2.5 cm), it is tight enough.
37
3 Rear Facing
11. Check the Level Indicator Vehicle MUST be on level ground. Ball must be
completely in the blue zone. Readjust if needed. For infants 3 months and
under, the ball must completely cover the light blue circle. If needed, rolled
towels may be placed under the car seat at the vehicle seat crease, until the
ball is completely in the blue zone. See section 5-A to secure your child.
Recheck the level indicator with child in seat.
12. To Remove LATCH Strap From Vehicle See section 8-A.
38
3 Rear Facing
Is Everything Correct?
Car Seat Does Not Move More than 1 inch (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Level Indicator’s Ball in the Blue Zone and Vehicle on Level Ground
Harness Straps at or Just Below the Child’s Shoulders. Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the Shoulder Review section 5
39
3 Rear Facing
3-C Installing Rear-Facing With Vehicle Seat Belt
1. Store Top Tether and LATCH Strap Attach tether hook and LATCH connectors
to the plastic bars as shown.
2. Recline the Car Seat Flip recline foot under car seat for rear facing use.
40
3 Rear Facing
3. Place Car Seat Rear-Facing in Back Seat of the Vehicle Place rear-facing
in vehicle seat. The bottom of the car seat should sit as flat as possible on
the vehicle seat.
4. Check the Level Indicator Vehicle MUST be on level ground. Ball must be
completely in the blue zone. Readjust if needed. For infants 3 months and
under, the ball must completely cover the light blue circle. If needed, rolled
towels may be placed under the car seat at the vehicle seat crease, until the
ball is completely in the blue zone.
41
3 Rear Facing
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for vehicle seat belt use
5. Route the Vehicle Seat Belt
Thread vehicle seat belt through the rearfacing belt path (marked with a blue
label) and out the other side. Buckle it. The seat belt should lie as flat as
possible and not be twisted.
Note: It may be easier to route the vehicle seat belt by lifting seat pad up
to expose the belt path.
Make sure the vehicle seat belt is in front of the buckle strap when the
buckle is in the inner-most position, and in behind when in the outter-most
position.
6. Lock Vehicle Seat Belt
In most vehicles today, slowly pull the shoulder belt all the way out and then
let it go back in. You will hear a clicking sound. Slowly pull out on the belt
and it should be locked. If not, review your car’s owner manual and section
8-D.
42
3 Rear Facing
7. Tighten the Vehicle Seat Belt
Press down firmly in the center of the car seat. Pull on the shoulder belt to
tighten while feeding the slack back in the retractor.
8. Test For Tightness
Grab the sides of the seat where the vehicle seat belt is and slide the car
seat side-to-side and front-to-back.
If the seat moves less than 1 inch (2.5 cm), it is tight enough.
9. Check the Level Indicator
Vehicle MUST be on level ground. Ball must be completely in the blue zone.
Readjust if needed.
For infants 3 months and under, the ball must completely cover the light blue
circle.
If needed, rolled towels may be placed under the car seat at the vehicle seat
crease, until the ball is completely in the blue zone.
43
3 Rear Facing
Is Everything Correct?
Car Seat Does Not Move More than
1 inch (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Fo
Level Indicator’s Ball
22
in the Blue Zone and
Vehicle on Level Ground
Harness Straps at or Just Below the Child’s Shoulders.
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the Shoulder
Review section 5
3 Rear Facing
44
4 Forward ImFapcoinrtgant
4-A Forward-Facing
Forward-Facing: 22-65 lb (10-30 kg) 49″ (125 cm) or less
· Place car seat forward-facing in the vehicle back seat.
· Make sure LATCH strap or vehicle seat belt is routed through the forward-
facing belt path marked with a orange label.
· Install this car seat tightly in your vehicle. Car seat should not move at
the forward-facing belt path more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) from side to side,
front to back.
· Harness straps need to be even with or just above the top of child’s
shoulders and chest clip is at armpit level.
LATCH Strap Do not install by this method for a child weighing more than 45 lb (20 kg)
45
4 Forward Facing
· Children are safer riding rear-facing and should
ride rear-facing as long as possible, until they
reach the maximum rear-facing height or weight
rating for their car seat. Then children should
ride forward-facing, using the built-in harness
system for as long as possible until they reach
Vehicle Lap/Shoulder
the maximum forward-facing weight or height
Seat Belt
rating for their car seat. Be sure to check
your local and state laws, as well as AAP and NHTSA recommendations, for car seat usage.
Vehicle Seat Lap Belt
46
4 Forward ImFapcoinrtgant
4-B Install Forward-Facing with LATCH Strap
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for LATCH location and use.
1. Remove LATCH Strap from Storage Location
2. Make Sure LATCH Strap is in the Forward-Facing Belt Path Marked with
Orange Label If it is not, see section 7-A to move LATCH strap.
3. Flip recline foot out for forward facing use.
47
4 Forward Facing
4. Remove Top Tether Strap from Storage Location Unhook tether and lay it in
the seat.
5. Extend the LATCH Strap. For easier installation, extend the LATCH strap to
its maximum length by pressing the grey button and pull out on the strap.
48
4 Forward ImFapcoinrtgant
6. Place Car Seat Forward-Facing inBack Seat of the Vehicle Place forward-
facing in vehicle seat. The bottom of the seat should sit as flat as possible
on the vehicle seat.
7. Attach LATCH Connector to Vehicle’s Lower LATCH Anchors. LATCH strap
should not be twisted.
49
4 Forward Facing
8. Tighten the LATCH Strap Press down firmly in the center of the car seat
while tightening the LATCH strap.
9. Attach Top Tether Strap Extend the top tether pressing the grey button and
pulling out on the strap and attach. Consult vehicle’s owner manual for
specific location.
10. Tighten Top Tether Strap Remove all the slack.
50
4 Forward ImFapcoinrtgant
11. Test For Tightness Grab the sides of the seat where the LATCH strap is
and slide the car seat side-to-side and front-to-back. If the seat moves less
than 1 inch (2.5 cm), it is tight enough. See section 5-A to secure your
child.
12. To Remove LATCH Strap From Vehicle See section 8-A.
51
4 Forward Facing
Is Everything Correct?
Car Seat Does Not Move More than 1 inch (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Harness Straps at or Just Above the Child’s Shoulders. Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the Shoulder Review section 5
52
4 Forward ImFapcoinrtgant
4-C Installing With Vehicle Seat Belt
1. Store LATCH Strap Attach LATCH connectors to the plastic bars as shown.
2. Adjust child restraint to Upright position. Flip recline foot out for
forward facing use.
53
4 Forward Facing
3. Unhook Top Tether Strap From Storage location and Lay it in the Seat
4. Place Car Seat Forward-Facing in Back Seat of the Vehicle Place forward-
facing in vehicle seat. The bottom of the seat should sit as flat as possible
on the vehicle seat.
54
4 Forward ImFapcoinrtgant
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for vehicle seat belt use
5. Route the Vehicle Seat Belt Thread vehicle seat belt through the
forwardfacing belt path (marked with a orange label) and out the other side.
Buckle it. The seat belt should lie as flat as possible and not be twisted.
6. Lock the Vehicle Seat Belt In most vehicles today, slowly pull the
shoulder belt all the way out and then let it go back in. You will hear a
clicking sound. Slowly pull out on the belt and it should be locked. If not,
review your car’s owner manual and section 8-D.
55
4 Forward Facing
7. Tighten the Vehicle Seat Belt Press down firmly in the center of the car
seat. Pull on the shoulder belt to tighten while feeding the slack back in the
retractor.
8. Attach Top Tether Strap Extend the top tether by pressing the grey button
and pulling out on the strap and attach. Consult vehicle’s owner manual for
specific location.
9. Tighten the Tether Strap Push the car seat back while tightening the
tether strap to remove all the slack.
56
4 Forward ImFapcoinrtgant
10. Test For Tightness Grab the sides of the seat where the vehicle seat belt
is and slide the car seat side-to-side and front-to-back. If the seat moves
less than 1 inch (2.5 cm), it is tight enough. See section 5-A to secure your
child.
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4 Forward Facing
Is Everything Correct? Car Seat Does Not Move More than 1 inch (2.5 cm) at the
Belt Path
Harness Straps at or Just Above the Child’s Shoulders. Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the Shoulder Review section 5
58
WARNING! In cold weather, do not put snowsuits or bulky garments on your child when placing them in the car seat. Bulky clothing can prevent the harness straps from being tightened properly. To keep child warm, buckle your child in the car seat and place a blanket around the child or place the child’s coat on backwards after buckling in.
5 Securing Child
5-A Securing Child 5-point Harness
1. Loosen Harness Straps
Push down on the harness release lever while pulling out on the harness straps at the chest clip.
Unbuckle the chest
clip and the buckle
strap. Place harness
straps off to the
A
sides.
B C
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2. Place Your Child in the Seat
Make sure their back is flat against the car seat back.
Avoid bulky or heavy clothing when it is cold out. Doing so will prevent the harness straps from being tighten properly. If needed, place a blanket over the child after you have secured the child.
3. Place Harness Straps Over Child’s Shoulders and Buckle
You will hear a “click” when buckle tongues are securely attached. Pull up on
each buckle tongue to make sure it is securely attached.
5 Securing Child
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4. Be Sure the Harness Straps Are at the Proper Height
Rear-Facing: Harness straps should be at or
just below the child’s shoulders. Top of head
MUST be at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) below the
Rear-Facing
e a
handle.
5 Securing Child
Forward-Facing: Harness straps should be at or just above the child’s shoulders. Top of child’s ears below top of car seat.
Forward-Facing
To Raise or Lower Headrest/Harness Height
Squeeze the adjustment handle and move headrest for the proper harness height.
61
5 Securing Child
When head support is in lowest position, always pull flap forward as shown.
5. Check the Buckle Position The correct slot is the one that is closest to
your child without being underneath them.
To adjust, recline flip foot must be in forward-facing position.
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5 Securing Child
From bottom of car seat, rotate metal retainer to side in order to push it
through slot easier.
Pull buckle strap from child restraint as shown.
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5 Securing Child
Insert buckle strap into desired slot. Pull up on buckle strap to be sure it
is secure.
When changing buckle strap location LATCH belt must pass between the LATCH
belt lines as shown.
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6. Buckle the Chest Clip
is
You will hear a “click” when the chest clip is
securely buckled.
7. Pull All the Slack Out From Around the Waist
Pull up on the harness strap while pushing the chest clip down. Do this to
both sides.
5 Securing Child
65
5 Securing Child
8. Tighten the Harness by Pulling the Harness Adjustment Strap A snug harness
should not allow any slack. It lies in a relatively straight line without
sagging. It does not press on the child’s flesh or push the child’s body into
an unnatural position. When you are not able to pinch any of the harness
webbing at your child’s shoulder, the harness is tight enough.
9. Raise the Chest Clip to Child’s Armpit Level
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6 AccImespsoorriteasnt
6-A Accessories (on select models)
ng. Harness Covers Make sure that harness covers do not interfere with
placement of the chest clip at armpit level.
67
6 Accessories
Body Support Only use body support in rear-facing mode. Body support must be
used if shoulders are below the lowest harness setting. Never allow body
support to bunch or fold behind child.
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7-A Moving the LATCH Strap
1. For Ease of Moving the LATCH Strap
B
A. Unclip The Seat Pad From The Front Of
The Child Restraint.
B. Pull the LATCH strap out of the belt path opening, so that the LATCH connectors end up on the same side of the child restraint.
A
7 Moving LATCH
69
2. Slide Entire LATCH Strap Along Bar to 4. Correct Belt Path Opening Rear-
Facing: Slide LATCH strap down to the blue label. Forward-Facing: slide the
LATCH strap up to the orange label.
3. Feed the LATCH Connector with the Adjuster Closest to it Through the
Chosen Belt Path
OR
7 Moving LATCH
Rear-Facing: Make sure the LATCH strap is routed behind the buckle strap, is
flat and is not twisted.
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Forward-Facing: Make sure the strap is flat and not twisted.
4. Replace the seat pad fabric on the front of the child restraint.
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7 Moving LATCH
8-A How to Remove LATCH and Tether
LATCH
Push gray button in while pulling on LATCH strap to loosen. Press in on the
hook’s spring. Push hook in, lift hook up, twist and pull out away from anchor
point.
Top Tether Strap
To remove, press the grey
button and pull out on the
strap to release the tension.
Press in on the hook’s spring.
Push tether hook in, then lift
up and pull away from tether
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anchor.
8 Additional Information
8-B Choosing Vehicle Seat Location
Review your vehicle owner’s manual for seating locations.
The best seating location for this car seat is one that: · Is recommended by
your vehicle owner’s manual, and · Results in a secure installation of this
car seat
According to accident statistics, the safest place for your child in any
vehicle is the back seat. The center of the back seat can be the safest during
a possible side impact.
Some vehicles have specific requirements for where the car seat can be
installed, so be sure to check your vehicle owner’s manual for available
seating positions, if any.
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8 Additional Information
In the event there is no available back seat and / or you have no other option
than to place a child other than an infant in a rear-facing car seat in a
front passenger seating position, the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) recommends that you take the following steps:
· Ensure the child is properly restrained according to their age and size ·
Move the seat as far back as possible · Make sure the child is not leaning out
of position, such as leaning
forward into the deployment path of the air bag · Set the air bag ON-OFF
switch, if available, to the OFF position · Move the seat as far back as
possible
8-C Unsafe Vehicle Seat Locations
Never install this car seat in any of the following vehicle seating locations:
Rear-facing or side-facing vehicle seats Rear-facing with an active front air
bag 74
8 Additional Information
8-D Vehicle Seat Belts
Review your vehicle owner’s manual for vehicle seat belt use
This car seat can be installed using a vehicle seat belt. To do this, you will
need to change the seat belt to a locked mode for use with car seats. With
some vehicle seat belts, this is done with the latchplate; with other vehicle
seat belts, this is done with the retractor.
Vehicle Seat Belt Terms
Retractor A device that winds up the unused vehicle seat belt. It is often
hidden inside the panels on the walls of the vehicle or in the vehicle
seatback. Latch Plate The male end of the seat belt with the silver tongue.
Seat Bight The crease where the vehicle seat back and seat bottom meet.
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8 Additional Information
Identify Your Seat Belt Type There are two different types of vehicle seat belts that can be used with this car seat:
Lap/Shoulder Belt
3 connections points. Can be used in all car seats modes of use.
Lap Belt Only 2 connection points. Can ONLY be
used in harness mode.
The following types of vehicle seat belts CANNOT be used safely with this car seat:
Belts Forward of the Seat Bight
Lap Belt with Motorized Shoulder Belt
Lap Belt or Shoulder Belt Mounted on Door
76
Some vehicles you may not get a secure fit. Read both your vehicle and car
seat
manuals.
8 Additional Information
Lap/Shoulder Belt Installation – Rear-Facing/Forward Facing Modes
Always review your vehicle owner’s manual for specific information about your
vehicle seat belts.
There are three types of retractors: ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor), ALR
(Automatic Locking Retractor) , and Switchable (ELR switch to ALR). To
determine your type of retractor, follow these steps: 1. Slowly pull the belt
out about halfway and stop. 2. Let the belt retract back several inches. 3.
Try to slowly pull the belt out more. If the belt cannot be pulled any
further, it is
ALR. If it can be pulled further, go to the next step. 4. Slowly pull the belt
all the way out, and then allow it to retract several inches. 5. Try to pull
the belt all the way out again. If it cannot be pulled out, it is
Switchable. If it can still be pulled out freely, it is ELR. Note: Most
vehicles manufactured after 1996 will have Switchable retractors in the back
seat. If you have any questions about your retractor type, consult your
vehicle owner’s manual or call Graco for assistance.
77
8 Additional Information
How to Lock Your Lap and Shoulder Vehicle Seat Belt
Sliding Latch Plate and Switchable Retractor
A latchplate that slides freely on the belt webbing and cannot, by itself,
hold the belt snug around a car seat.
When installing the car seat, route the vehicle seat belt through the proper
belt path and buckle it in. Slowly pull the shoulder belt all the way out to
switch it to locking mode. Then, as you pull the vehicle seat belt tight, feed
all the slack back into the retractor.
Grab the sides of the seat at the belt path and slide the seat side-to-side
and front-to-back. The seat should not move more than 1 inch (2.5 cm).
Note: With the vehicle seat belt in this locking mode, all the tension is
upwards in the shoulder belt. This may start to tilt your car seat sideways.
If this happens, use a locking clip instead of this switching the retractor.
See Sliding Latch Plate and ELR Retractor.
78
8 Additional Information
Locking Latchplate and ELR Retractor A latchplate that holds the lap belt snug
after it has been adjusted; contains a metal bar on the underside of the
hardware that “locks” the belt in position. When installing the car seat,
route the vehicle seat belt through the proper belt path and buckle it in.
Then, pull upwards on the shoulder belt so that the lap belt gets tight around
the car seat. Grab the sides of the seat at the belt path and slide the seat
side-to-side and front-to-back. The seat should not move more than 1 inch (2.5
cm).
79
8 Additional Information
Sliding Latch Plate and ALR Retractor
Sli
A latchplate that slides freely on the belt webbing and cannot, by itself, hold the belt snug around a car seat.
Slowly pull the shoulder belt all the way
out. Route the vehicle seat belt through the proper belt path and buckle it in. Then, as you pull the vehicle seat belt tight, feed all the slack back into the retractor.
Grab the sides of the seat at the belt path and slide the seat side-to-side and front-to-back. The seat should not move more than 1 inch (2.5 cm).
8 Additional Information
80
Sliding Latch Plate and ELR Retractor
A latchplate that slides freely on the belt webbing and cannot, by itself,
hold the belt snug around a car seat.
With this retractor, you will need to use the locking clip to lock the vehicle
seat belt.
To obtain a locking clip call
1-800-345-4109.
Route the vehicle seat belt through the proper belt path and buckle it in.
Pull the vehicle seat belt tight. While pushing down on seat, pinch the two
straps together behind the buckle tongue. Unbuckle the belt without allowing
it to slip.
Attach locking clip to lap and shoulder belts as shown.
Rebuckle belt. Check that lap belt does not move by pulling hard. If belt
loosens or lengthens, repeat procedure.
81
Locking Clip 1 in (2.5 cm)
8 Additional Information
Lap Belt Installation
Always review your vehicle owner’s manual for specific information about your vehicle seat belts.
Grab the sides of the seat at the belt path and slide the seat side-to-side and front-to-back. The seat should not move more than 1 inch (2.5 cm).
Locking Latch Plate and No Retractor
When installing the car seat, route the lap seat belt through the proper path
and buckle it in. Then, pull upwards on the tail of the belt so that the lap
belt gets tight around the car seat.
Sewn On Latch Plate and ALR
Slowly pull the lap belt all the way out. Route the vehicle seat lap belt
through the proper belt path and buckle it in. Then, pull the lap belt tight
while feeding all the slack back into the retractor.
8 Additional Information
82
9 Care & CIlmeapnoinrtgant
9-A Cleaning Seat Pad
Clean with a damp sponge using mild soap and cool water. Refer to seat pad
care tag for washing instructions. 1. Make sure harness straps are loose,
remove
both harness strap loops from splitter plate on back of child restraint and
pull through front of pad. Open chest clip, release tongues from buckle. 2.
Remove the elastic straps from the hooks on back of seat as shown.
83
9 Care & Cleaning
3. Remove Seat Pad from Shell by Pushing Harness Straps and Buckle Strap
Through Seat Pad.
4. Remove head support cover by pulling the tab out from behind the head
support foam and then peel the cover off the head support.
84
9-B Cleaning Buckle
Recline the car seat and locate the metal retainer. Rotate the metal retainer
up through the shell and pad. From the front, pull the buckle strap out. To
clean buckle, place in a cup of warm water and gently agitate the buckle.
Press the red button several times while in the water. DO NOT SUBMERGE THE
BUCKLE STRAP. DO NOT USE SOAPS, HOUSEHOLD DETERGENTS or LUBRICANTS. Shake out
excess water and allow to air dry. Repeat steps as needed until it fastens
with a click. Re-insert the buckle into the same slot it was removed. Pull up
on buckle strap to make sure it is secured.
85
WARNING! Inspect and clean buckle from time to time to remove any objects or debris that could prevent latching.
9 Care & CIlmeapnoinrtgant
9 Care & Cleaning
9-C Cleaning Harness and LATCH
Surface wash only with mild soap and damp cloth. DO NOT IMMERSE THE HARNESS
STRAPS or LATCH STRAP IN WATER Doing so may weaken the straps. If harness
straps or LATCH strap are frayed or heavily soiled, contact Customer Service
at www.gracobaby.com or 1-800-345-4109.
86
NOTES:
87
Replacement Parts
To purchase parts or accessories in the United States, please contact us at
the following:
www.gracobaby.com or
1-800-345-4109
www.gracobaby.com
CONTENDER 65/ADMT IRAL 65
CONVERTIBLE CAR SEAT
NWL0000644875C 3/19
Do not install or use this child restraint until you read and understand the
instructions in this manual.
FAILURE TO PROPERLY USE THIS CHILD RESTRAINT INCREASES THE RISK OF
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH IN A SUDDEN STOP OR
Store instruction manual behind the tab with the instruction book icon as
shown.
88
References
- NHTSA | National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- Safe Kids Worldwide
- Car Seat & Booster Seat Safety, Ratings, Guidelines | NHTSA