5 mo and outgrowing Snugride. What next?

[coccinelle]

Our 5 month old is 17 lbs and seems to be outgrowing our Snugride 35--we just can't seem to get the straps to fit around her and there's no slack left. DD is a hearty baby--very wide torso and VERY yummy, large thighs. It is a struggle to get her in and out of the seat. We're trying to find a convertible seat and I'm overwhelmed by the choices.

We have a 2006 CR-V. DH is 6'1". The snug ride has been behind the driver, which has worked great for me but isn't comfortable for DH. We also have a 6 yr old in a Nautilus behind the passenger.

Can anyone recommend seats and configurations for our situation? With DD1 we had a Roundabout and were very happy with it, but gave it away when we went to the Nautilus. Not sure if we should get same and want to make sure we don't have a fit problem. I welcome any suggestions.

Thanks,
Coccinelle

[chickabiddy]

There should be two sets of loops on the straps that connect to the splitter plate.  Make sure you are on the second set -- there should be enough harness to accommodate a 17# baby, even a roundish one.

If you'd prefer suggestions for convertibles, though, I'd look at the Graco MyRide.  It can be installed fairly upright and should be very comfortable for your child.

[DahliaRW]

There are 2 or 3 (can't remember) sets of loops on the straps of that snugride, both at the shoulders and at the hips to make the straps longer.  Your manual will tell you which loops to used based on what slot you have the shoulder straps through.  I could buckle my 22lb nearly 2yo in that seat a couple of months back, so I know that it will fit your baby!

[coccinelle]

Thank you both for the helpful replies! It seemed early to be outgrowing it.... I will have another look at the seat straps and adjust them.

[Mom2M]

I also just finished using the snugride 35 for my 19 month old who was about 22-23 pounds. The straps were on the highest level (there are 3)
I really loved that seat but we put her in a Britax Marathon rear facing now and she loves it.