Recliner Mechanisms

If you take care of your recliner mechanisms, they will last you for a long time!

• Most recliners have threaded knobs (or screws), in the very backrest of the recliner.   At the back of the backrest, very back outside back panel, at the rear of the recliner, there is (usually) velcro holding the bottom of that back panel down. Lift this outside back panel and just underneath the panel there are usually knobs or screws, on the left and on the right.   These knobs or screws hold the backrest on to the mechanism. By keeping these knobs/screws hand tightened, it will help keep your mechanism in good working order.   If your outside back panel is stapled down instead of Velcro, give Furniture Tech a call.
• Sometimes, lightly tightening up (snug) all the bolts on the mechanism, will tighten up the operation of the recliner.  Do this at least every six months (more for heavy use), and this will also keep your mechanism working good for years to come.   Do not over tighten any screws, nuts or bolts on your mechanism or recliner.
• Lightly oiling the mechanism (moving) joints can reduce squeak, and can sometimes loosen up the operation of the recliner.  Be sure to lay down an old rug, towel, or rag under the mechanism to keep oil from dripping on your carpet.
• Use the hand lever (actuator handle), to operate your recliner footrest, not your feet.  Using your feet to close the footrest may badly bend the mechanism extension bars, and the mechanism will have to be replaced.  This is a very common problem.   If you have to use your feet, like for a pull handle mechanism or handless mechanisms, please be gentle with the footrest as you close it.  Do not force your footrest down!    Most recliners require the backrest to be in the full upright position before closing the footrest.
• Never sit, stand, plop or jump on your recliner’s backrest, footrest, or arms, especially in the open position.   This could severely damage the mechanism, or frames.   Never jump, plop or stand on the seat of your recliner, as you could damage the seat springs, fabric, mechanism, or frame.
• It is always good advice to keep an old throw rug or towel under your reclining furniture, especially if you have new carpet.   Those are moving metal parts, and will sometimes drip;  oil, dirt, rust and powdered black paint scrapings on your carpet.