P&T explorer - have i bought a lemon?

[clara10]

Decided to buy an inline double for DS who is just 2 and expecting DD in 4 weeks. Phil and teds look good so opted for the new explorer. Can anyone help with start up issues?

1. wheel guards don't fit properly so scrape on tyres - is this a usual p&t problem?
   
2. double kit on front rests on hood brackets - again is this normal?
   
3. if hood raised up to prevent problem above or to accomodate a tall child then it doesn't hold on to frame properly and pops off if you try to open it. Also with this scenario if the handle is at full height your knuckles constantly rub the scratchy velcro on the hood.
   
4. how on earth does the retaining strap on double kit fit round the frame?
   
5. probably most importantly - with doubles kit on the back the rear child can squeeze the trigger for the front seat recline mechanism and in a jiffy the front child has fully reclined onto the poor sod at the back. With the weight of the seat and child there are bound to be bruises.
   
   Not used outside as yet so can get a refund and get sport or vibe. Cannot waste money. Panicing. What should i do?

[michellej]

I have been looking at upgrading my sport for this new one and loved the idea of the recline as i struggle with the sport. Its hard to do back up if baby is in it. Also i struggle with the brake to the point i just cant use it on my sport as i cant get it off!

On your 5th point my son has a couple of times undone the clips to make it recline while sat in doubles seat in our sport(but after the 2nd time didnt do it again!)so i too had thought that this is quite easy for one in the back to do on the new model. To be honest like i said its just as easy with the sport for this to happen so just need to be vigilant and make sure they dont touch and usually they dont do it again if they have done done it!
Cant help with the other probs as not actually seen one yet. Can say though being a sport owner that the explorer does look much better

[clara10]

Thanks for advice michellej.

The recline is the same as my baby jogger and i find that you need to put the brake on, and with a heavy child hold the seat up with your knee to get them sitting again. Actually easier and quicker than it sounds!

I was a bit cross yesterday but i've got more used to it today and you can secure the straps round the side to hopefully prevent this happening.

I feel i should balance out my comments with the good points

• the fold is a doddle
  
• the brake couldn't be easier - you push down or lift up, easily done with bare feet, not stiff at all (best brake i've come across)
  
• the hood on the back seat will come in very useful
  
• the large hood on the front seat is great and like the advertising says moves round to follow the sun so handy in winter when you go round a corner and the sun is low in the sky
  
• well padded and very comfortable
  

I picked up my son from nursery and he loves getting in and out in every mode. Also the hood is quite a long way from the top of his head with the double seat on the front so will not need to be moving it upwards (problem 3 eliminated). The rear guards have also straightened themselves out over night so though a bit flappy are not rubbing anymore.

[michellej]

Glad you are getting on better with it now!
Your advise for doing the recline up with your knee to help is a good point and have actually done this if near a wall to keep buggy still as i really hate using my brake as its a real struggle to get it off even using my hands. I thought it would get better with use but hasnt so now just dont use it!

I ordered a Baby Jogger today, the city mini, as a replacement for my p&t as i really only seem to use it as a single these days so have decided to change. I would have loved to try the explorer but was alot more money.

[CountessVonKnackerstein]

What did you do with your p&t? Did your pushchair shop accept return?
(just asking as I've had 9 pushchairs in various makes and models - Mothercare have been pretty good in helping me get the perfect pushchair and have accepted returns :) )