There comes a time in the life of many a recliner when a little disassembly is required. Perhaps you need to move it through a narrow doorway, maybe you’re tackling a deep clean, or you could be attempting a repair on the reclining mechanism itself. Whatever your reason, the prospect of taking apart a piece of furniture can feel daunting. The good news is that with the right approach and a bit of patience, it’s a task well within the reach of a determined DIYer. This guide is designed to walk you through the process safely and effectively.
Knowing how to remove the back of a recliner: a step-by-step guide can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. The method can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and model, but most recliners follow a similar design philosophy. By understanding the common types of attachments and preparing properly, you can confidently separate the back from the base without causing any damage. Let’s get your workspace ready and identify what kind of recliner you’re working with.
Getting Ready: Your Pre-Removal Checklist
Before you lay a hand on a single bolt, a little preparation will make the entire process smoother and safer. Start by clearing a spacious, well-lit work area. You’ll want enough room to lay the recliner on its front and have the back rest flat once it’s detached. Gather your tools; you likely won’t need anything too exotic. A rubber mallet, a set of hex keys (Allen warts), a Phillips and flat-head screwdriver, and a pair of pliers are a great starting kit. For some modern recliners, a special T-handle socket wrench might be required, which is often provided with the furniture upon purchase.
Safety is paramount. Recliners are heavy and can be awkward to handle. If possible, enlist a friend to help you, especially when you’re maneuvering the recliner or lifting the detached back. Always wear work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and pinch points. Finally, take a few “before” photos with your phone. These can be an invaluable reference when it’s time to put everything back together, ensuring all wires and connectors go back to their original places.
Identifying Your Recliner’s Attachment Style
Not all recliner backs are created equal. The method of removal hinges entirely on how the manufacturer designed the connection. The two most common types are bolt-on backs and slide-in backs. Some older or simpler models might use a series of screws or even large clips. Take a moment to carefully examine the area where the back meets the seat. You may need to gently pull back the fabric or feel underneath the joint to locate the fasteners.
A bolt-on back will typically have two or four large bolts, often with plastic caps covering them. These are usually accessible from the sides or the back of the recliner. A slide-in back, on the other hand, might not have any visible bolts. Instead, it will have metal brackets that slide into receivers on the main frame. This type is often released by pulling a lever or lifting a latch, sometimes located underneath the seat. Identifying this early on will direct you to the correct steps.
How to Remove the Back of a Recliner: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now for the main event. Follow these general steps, adapting them as needed for your specific recliner model.
Step 1: Position the Recliner
First, fully recline the chair. This often provides the best access to the connection points. Then, carefully lay the entire recliner on its front, using an old blanket or towel to protect the armrests and finish from scratches. Ensure it’s stable and won’t tip over.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Fasteners
For a bolt-on back, look for the plastic caps on the sides or back. Gently pop these off with a flat-head screwdriver. Underneath, you will find the bolts. Using the correct size hex key or socket wrench, turn the bolts counterclockwise to loosen and remove them. Keep them and the caps in a secure container like a zip-top bag.
For a slide-in back, you need to find the release mechanism. This is often a metal lever or a pull-cord located on the underside of the seat, near the back hinges. You may need to feel around for it. Once located, pull the lever or cord while gently pulling the top of the recliner back away from the base.
Step 3: Separate the Back from the Base
With the fasteners removed or the latch released, the back should be loose. It might still be held in place by friction or a wiring harness for connected features like power or massage. If your recliner has electrical functions, you will now see a wiring connector. Do not just pull the wires apart. Look for a plastic clip on the connector, press the tab, and gently separate the two halves.
Now, with a helper if possible, firmly grasp the sides of the recliner back and lift it straight up and away from the base. Avoid any twisting or jiggling motions, as this could damage the mounting brackets.
What to Do If the Back Seems Stuck
It’s not uncommon for a recliner back to be stubborn, especially if it hasn’t been removed in years. If it won’t budge after you’ve removed the bolts, don’t force it. Double-check that you haven’t missed a hidden fastener. Sometimes, a second set of bolts is located underneath the rear of the seat cushion, which may require you to remove the cushion first.
If you’re sure all fasteners are out, a gentle tap with a rubber mallet on the frame (not the wood or upholstery) can help break the grip of corrosion or paint that may have sealed the joint. Never use excessive force, as this can crack the frame or bend the metal brackets, making reinstallation impossible.
Mission Accomplished: Final Thoughts
Successfully removing the back of your recliner opens up a world of possibilities, from a simple move to a complex repair. The key takeaways are to always prepare your workspace and tools, correctly identify your recliner’s attachment style, and proceed with patience and care. Keep your fasteners organized and take photos along the way for a stress-free reassembly. Whether you’re making your living space more accessible or giving your favorite chair a new lease on life, you’ve now mastered a valuable and practical skill.