Taking apart a recliner may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite straightforward with the right tools and knowledge. Recliners are typically constructed with a few basic components, including the frame, seat, and backrest. By following a few simple steps, you can easily disassemble your recliner for cleaning, repairs, or moving.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a screwdriver, a wrench, and possibly a pair of pliers. Once you have your tools ready, you can start by removing the back of the recliner. To do this, simply locate the screws that are holding the back in place and remove them. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to lift the back off of the frame.
Next, you’ll need to remove the seat. To do this, you’ll need to locate the screws that are holding the seat in place. Once you’ve found the screws, remove them and lift the seat off of the frame. Now that the seat and back are removed, you can access the frame of the recliner. The frame is typically made of metal or wood, and it’s what holds the recliner together. To disassemble the frame, you’ll need to remove the screws that are holding the frame together. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to separate the frame into its individual pieces.
Essential Tools and Materials
Disassembling a recliner requires a basic toolkit and a few essential materials. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure you have everything you need before starting the task:
Tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Philips Screwdriver | Unscrewing screws of various sizes and types |
| Flathead Screwdriver | Prying loose panels and panels |
| Hex Key or Allen Wrench | Removing bolts that hold frame components together |
| Adjustable Wrench | Tightening or loosening bolts and nuts |
| Pliers | Gripping, cutting, and bending wires and other small parts |
In addition to these essential tools, you may also find a flashlight, a pair of gloves, and a small cloth useful during the disassembly process.
Removing the Seat Cushion
To remove the seat cushion, you will first need to identify the type of recliner you have. There are two main types of recliners: manual recliners and power recliners.
Manual Recliners: Manual recliners are operated by pulling a lever or pushing a button to recline the chair. To remove the seat cushion, you will need to locate the release lever or button. It is usually located on the side of the chair, near the bottom. Once you have located the release lever or button, pull or push it to release the seat cushion. The seat cushion will then slide forward and you will be able to lift it off the chair.
Power Recliners: Power recliners are operated by an electric motor. To remove the seat cushion, you will need to unplug the recliner from the power outlet. Once the recliner is unplugged, you will need to locate the release button. The release button is usually located on the side of the chair, near the bottom. Once you have located the release button, press it to release the seat cushion. The seat cushion will then slide forward and you will be able to lift it off the chair.
Here is a table that summarizes the steps for removing the seat cushion from a manual recliner and a power recliner:
| Manual Recliner | Power Recliner |
|---|---|
| Locate the release lever or button. | Unplug the recliner from the power outlet. |
| Pull or push the release lever or button to release the seat cushion. | Locate the release button. |
| Slide the seat cushion forward and lift it off the chair. | Press the release button to release the seat cushion. |
Detaching the Arms
Now that the back is detached from the base, it’s time to remove the arms. This process can vary depending on the design of your recliner, but the following steps will provide a general guide:
Step 3: Disassemble the Armrests
This step usually involves removing screws or bolts that hold the armrests in place. Some recliners may have decorative covers over these screws, so you may need to pry them off gently with a flathead screwdriver. Once the screws or bolts are removed, carefully lift the armrests straight up and off the recliner. If the armrests are particularly heavy or awkward, you may need to ask for assistance.
In some cases, the armrests may be connected to the back of the recliner. If this is the case, you may need to detach the back from the base before you can remove the armrests. Again, refer to your recliner’s user manual for specific instructions on how to do this.
| Recliner Type | Screw Location |
|---|---|
| Traditional Recliner | Underneath the armrest, near the base of the chair |
| Push-Back Recliner | On the inside of the armrest, near the back of the chair |
| Electric Recliner | May require specialized tools or knowledge; refer to user manual |
Unlocking the Footrest Mechanism
The methods for unlocking the footrest mechanism depend on the specific recliner design and model. Generally, most recliners have a lever or handle located on the side of the chair towards the front. Steps to unlock the footrest mechanism vary depending on the design:
External Lever or Handle
Some recliners feature an external lever or handle located on the side of the chair, typically near the front. To unlock the footrest, locate the lever and pull it towards you or lift it up, depending on the chair’s design. This action releases the locking mechanism and allows the footrest to be extended.
Internal Lever
Other recliners have an internal lever mechanism that unlocks the footrest. To access the lever, you may need to remove a cover or panel on the side of the chair. Once the lever is located, pull it towards you or lift it up to disengage the locking mechanism and extend the footrest.
Pull Tab or Cord
Some recliners, often those with power-operated footrests, have a pull tab or cord located on the side of the chair. To unlock the footrest, simply pull on the tab or cord, which will activate the motor and extend the footrest automatically.
Separating the Backrest
To separate the backrest from the base, follow these steps:
- Identify the reclining mechanism lever, usually located on the side of the recliner.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the mechanism in place.
- Locate the brackets or hinges that connect the backrest to the base.
- Remove the screws or bolts securing the brackets, taking care not to lose the hardware.
- Gently lift the backrest away from the base, ensuring that all connections are completely disengaged.
Tip If the backrest is particularly heavy, ask for assistance or use a lifting strap for safety.
Disconnecting Electrical Components (if applicable)
In some recliners, electrical components may be present to facilitate functions such as power reclining and integrated lighting. Before dismantling the recliner, it is crucial to disconnect these electrical components to prevent any electrical hazards.
Identify the electrical junction box or connection points on the recliner. Carefully disconnect the wires by loosening the terminals or unplugging the connectors. Make sure to note the wire arrangement for reassembly later.
If dealing with a powered reclining mechanism, disconnect the motor and any related electrical components. Ensure the power source to the recliner is turned off or unplugged before performing this step.
To avoid confusion, label the wires or connectors with tape or tags to facilitate reconnection during reassembly.
| Component | Disconnect Method |
|---|---|
| Lighting | Unplug connectors or loosen terminals |
| Power Reclining Motor | Disconnect motor wiring |
Removing Seat Springs or Coils
Depending on the age and design of your recliner, the seat may be supported by springs or coils. To remove these springs or coils, follow these steps:
1. Identify the Type of Support
Examine the seat to determine if it is supported by springs or coils. Springs are usually individual coils that are attached to the frame, while coils are a continuous wire that runs around the frame.
2. Remove the Seat Cushion
To access the springs or coils, remove the seat cushion by unzipping or unhooking the fabric covering.
3. Expose the Springs or Coils
Remove any foam or padding that is covering the springs or coils. This may require carefully cutting or tearing the material.
4. Remove the Spring Clips (For Springs)
If the seat is supported by springs, locate and remove the metal clips that are holding the springs to the frame. Use a pair of pliers to bend or remove the clips.
5. Pull Out the Springs
Once the clips are removed, carefully pull the springs out of the frame. Be careful not to bend or damage the springs.
6. Unhook the Coils (For Coils)
If the seat is supported by coils, locate the hooks or clips that are attaching the coils to the frame. Unhook or remove these clips to release the coils.
7. Remove the Coils
With the hooks or clips removed, carefully unwind and remove the coils from the frame. Avoid stretching or damaging the coils during this process.
| Spring | Coil |
|---|---|
| Individual coils | Continuous wire |
| Attached to frame by clips | Hooks or clips to frame |
| Pull out of frame | Unwind and remove from frame |
Detaching the Frame
Once the cover is removed and the recliner is turned upside down, you can begin detaching the frame. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Remove the Armrests
Locate the screws or bolts that secure the armrests to the frame. Using a screwdriver or wrench, remove these fasteners and carefully lift the armrests off the frame.
2. Disconnect the Backrest
The backrest is typically attached to the frame using hinges or brackets. Locate the hinges or brackets and remove the screws or bolts that hold them in place. Carefully lift the backrest off the frame.
3. Remove the Seat
The seat is usually attached to the frame using four screws or bolts. Locate these fasteners and remove them. Carefully lift the seat off the frame.
4. Remove the Footrest
The footrest is attached to the frame using two screws or bolts. Locate these fasteners and remove them. Carefully lift the footrest off the frame.
5. Disconnect the Reclining Mechanism
The reclining mechanism is connected to the frame using four screws or bolts. Locate these fasteners and remove them. Carefully lift the reclining mechanism off the frame.
6. Remove the Base
The base is attached to the frame using four screws or bolts. Locate these fasteners and remove them. Carefully lift the base off the frame.
7. Separate the Frame Sections
The frame is typically made up of three sections: the headrest, the seat, and the footrest. To separate these sections, locate the screws or bolts that hold them together and remove them. Carefully separate the frame sections.
8. Disassemble the Metal Frame
The metal frame is usually held together by screws or bolts. Locate these fasteners and remove them. Carefully disassemble the metal frame into its individual components.
Disassembling the Footrest
Step 1: Remove the Footrest Bracket
Locate the two bolts that secure the footrest bracket to the recliner frame. Use a socket wrench to loosen and remove these bolts.
Step 2: Remove the Footrest
Once the brackets are removed, you can lift the footrest off the frame. Be careful not to damage the upholstery or frame.
Step 3: Remove the Footrest Springs
On the underside of the footrest, you will find four springs that connect it to the frame. Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove these springs.
Step 4: Remove the Footrest Support
Once the springs are removed, you can remove the footrest support. This is usually a metal bar that runs across the back of the footrest.
Step 5: Remove the Footrest Cushion
The footrest cushion is typically held in place by Velcro or snaps. Remove the cushion by unzipping the Velcro or unsnapping the snaps.
Step 6: Remove the Footrest Cover
On some recliners, the footrest cover can be removed separately from the cushion. To do this, locate the zipper or snaps that secure the cover to the cushion.
Step 7: Remove the Footrest Armrest
If your recliner has footrest armrests, you will need to remove them before you can remove the footrest assembly. Locate the bolts that secure the armrests to the footrest and remove them using a socket wrench.
Step 8: Remove the Footrest Leg Assembly
The footrest leg assembly is typically held in place by four bolts. Locate these bolts and remove them using a socket wrench.
Step 9: Remove the Footrest
Once the footrest leg assembly is removed, you can lift the footrest off the frame. Be careful not to damage the upholstery or frame.
Reconditioning or Repairing Components
Once you’ve disassembled the recliner, you can begin reconditioning or repairing its components.
Renewing Upholstery:
If the upholstery is worn or damaged, you can replace or repair it. To replace the upholstery, you’ll need to remove the old fabric and replace it with new fabric. To repair the upholstery, you can use a sewing machine or leather repair kit.
Fixing Frame:
If the frame is damaged, you can repair it using wood glue or screws. However, if the frame is severely damaged, you may need to replace it.
Lubricating Moving Parts:
To ensure smooth operation, lubricate all moving parts, such as hinges, levers, and springs, with WD-40 or a similar product.
Tightening Loose Screws:
Inspect all screws and tighten any that have become loose. This will prevent sagging or rattling and ensure the stability of the chair.
Replacing Springs:
If the springs are broken or damaged, replace them with new ones of the same size and strength. This will restore the chair’s support and comfort.
Fixing Electrical Components:
If the recliner has electrical components, such as a motor or remote, troubleshoot and repair any issues. This may involve checking wiring, replacing batteries, or contacting a qualified electrician.
Reassembling the Recliner:
Once you’ve serviced or repaired the components, reassemble the recliner in the reverse order of disassembly. Ensure all parts fit together securely and the chair operates smoothly.
Testing and Final Adjustments:
Test the recliner’s functionality to ensure it operates as intended. Make any necessary adjustments to the tension, support, or positioning for optimal comfort and support.
Protecting and Maintaining the Recliner:
To maintain the longevity of your recliner, keep it clean by vacuuming or brushing it regularly, and protect its surfaces from spills and scratches. Proper maintenance will extend its lifespan and contribute to continued comfort and relaxation.
How To Take Apart A Recliner
Taking apart a recliner can be a daunting task, but it is actually quite simple if you follow the steps below. Before you begin, gather all of the necessary tools, including a screwdriver, wrench, and pliers. You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands.
1. Start by removing the cushions from the recliner. This will make it easier to access the other parts of the chair.
2. Next, locate the screws that are holding the back of the recliner in place. There will typically be two screws on each side of the back. Remove these screws and carefully lift the back off of the chair.
3. Once the back of the recliner is removed, you will need to remove the seat. To do this, locate the screws that are holding the seat in place. There will typically be four screws on each side of the seat. Remove these screws and carefully lift the seat off of the chair.
4. The next step is to remove the footrest. To do this, locate the screws that are holding the footrest in place. There will typically be two screws on each side of the footrest. Remove these screws and carefully lift the footrest off of the chair.
5. Once the footrest is removed, you can now remove the frame of the recliner. To do this, locate the screws that are holding the frame in place. There will typically be four screws on each side of the frame. Remove these screws and carefully lift the frame off of the chair.
6. The final step is to disassemble the frame of the recliner. To do this, locate the screws that are holding the frame together. There will typically be four screws on each side of the frame. Remove these screws and carefully disassemble the frame.
People Also Ask About How To Take Apart A Recliner
How Do You Disassemble A Power Recliner?
To disassemble a power recliner, you will need to follow the same steps as outlined above. However, you will also need to disconnect the power cord from the recliner before you begin. Once the power cord is disconnected, you can follow the steps above to disassemble the recliner.
How Do You Fix A Recliner That Won’t Recline?
There are a few things that could cause a recliner to not recline. One possibility is that the release lever is stuck. To fix this, simply try to wiggle the release lever back and forth until it loosens up. If this does not work, you may need to replace the release lever.
How Do You Fix A Recliner That Makes Noise?
There are a few things that could cause a recliner to make noise. One possibility is that the springs are loose. To fix this, simply tighten the springs using a wrench. Another possibility is that the frame of the recliner is loose. To fix this, simply tighten the screws that are holding the frame together.
