A manual recliner that won’t close can be a frustrating dilemma. I have recently run into this issue with my two-year-old manual recliner. I tried pulling on the lever many times, but nothing worked initially. As always, I decided to tackle and resolve the issue myself.
User manuals, with their structured explanations and step-by-step instructions, transform daunting tasks into manageable undertakings. They patiently decipher the cryptic language of error codes, alleviating the frustration that accompanies technical glitches. ManualMachine.com, on the other hand, delve into the very essence of a product, unraveling its hidden potential and empowering users to harness its full capabilities.
Although the uneven “L-shaped” rod in the reclining mechanism was the issue for my recliner, there could also be other reasons. It might be due to obstructions, rusting, poor lubrication, weaker springs, etc. See underneath your recliner to locate the exact culprit.
But troubleshooting a manual recliner that won’t close might not be easy for a common man. Therefore, I have decided to take you on the tour of fixing a manual recliner you cannot close. I’ll tell you all the causes and two solutions. Be with me through this guide!
See also How to open recliner without handle?
Manual Recliner Won’t Close — Key Takeaways
[su_note note_color=”#fff3ad”]
- A manual recliner is the most basic recliner type, which has a mechanism that allows the backrest and footrest to be adjusted manually by the user.
- A common problem with manual recliners is that they won’t close often. This might happen due to worn-out parts, poor lubrication, faulty springs, or latch mechanism.
- A basic repairing method can be used to fix the issue, which involves tightening any loose screws, lubricating the reclining mechanism, and cleaning oil spills.
- If the issue persists, opt for the advanced repair method. Locate the internal mechanism, check the “L” rod, and apply lubricant to the spring.[/su_note]
First Thing First, How Does A Manual Recliner Work?
Although recliners are of many types, when you hear the name “recliner”, the picture that pops up in your mind is of a manual recliner. Yes, it is the most basic type of recliner.
A manual recliner has a mechanism that allows the backrest and footrest to be adjusted manually by the user, using hands or body weight to adjust the position. They typically have a lever or a knob on one side that controls the reclining mechanism.
When you pull the lever, the backrest reclines and the footrest raises to provide a comfortable position. To return the chair to its upright, original position, release the lever or knob.
What Causes A Manual Recliner Not To Close?
The most common reason can be wear and tear in the parts of your recliner. If your recliner is in use for a long period, its mechanism may not work as it should.
But the topic doesn’t end here. There may be multiple or some other reasons behind the problem if your recliner is not closing appropriately. The reasons could be any of the following.
- Loose internal screws
- Poor Lubrication & Rusting
- Worn out screws
- Weaker springs
- Poor latch mechanism
[su_note note_color=”#f8d3d2″]NOTE: Remember, different recliners, manual or power, perform different mechanisms. Some recliners only recline through the headrest, while others allow you to recline using the footrest.[/su_note]
Some recliners perform both the headrest and footrest mechanisms. Therefore, it’s necessary to know the type of your recliner if you want to fix it.
What Is The Basic Repairing Method? (Proper Lubrication)
The basic repairing method is ideal if you haven’t lubricated the internal component of the reclining mechanism for months. Or, there are some loose screws or rust formed in there. Follow the following steps carefully to do everything right.
1. Place the Recliner in Reverse Position.
You need to place your recliner in its reverse position. By placing the recliner on its side, you will be able to clearly see the internal mechanism of your recliner.
2. Look For the Internal Screws.
The first thing you need to do is look for the internal screws. You must check if there is any screw loose at the moment. You can use a hand-held screwdriver to tighten any loose screws. Gently tighten the screws, and ensure that none of the screws is left loose.
3. Cover the Fabric or Leather Part of the Recliner.
For the next step, you should have some pieces of cloth in hand. Place them on the leather or fabric, whatever your type is, to prevent them from getting any grease while applying lubrication oil on the internal parts of the mechanism.
4. Lubricate the Reclining Mechanism.
Now that you have successfully covered your recliner apply the lubrication oil using a spray bottle. If you don’t have a spray bottle, you can simply put the lubricant oil on a piece of cloth and apply the oil on the parts of the mechanism using that piece of cloth.
After applying lubricating oil on the parts, apply some on the recliner’s handle. This will make the reclining mechanism smoother. Remember, when applying lubricating oil, you must ensure that you don’t apply excessively, as it can make your recliner not work due to falling off the mechanism.
5. Clean the Oil Spills.
If you mistakenly spill oil on your floor or the recliner’s surface, quickly clean it with the help of a piece of cloth. Ensure to use a clean, soft cloth to wipe the lubricant away. Avoid using a rough piece of cloth or using it too abruptly since it can damage the surface.
[su_note note_color=”#f8d3d2″]Note: This method makes your recliner work in most cases. Generally, the cause of the problem is rusting, which is solved by applying lubricating oil. If your problem is not solved by lubricating the recliner, you need to read the advanced repair method below.[/su_note]
What Is Latch Mechanism? Is It Working Fine?
A latch mechanism in a recliner is like a lock that keeps the backrest and footrest in place when the chair is sitting straight up. You can check if it’s working by feeling the spring inside it. If the cord still has spring tension, the “receiver” is probably okay.
Now, look under the chair, where you’ll see a metal bar that fits into the lock. If this bar is not positioned correctly, it can stop the footrest from closing. To fix this, you just need to ensure the metal bar is in the correct condition, and your footrest should close properly.
What Is The Advanced Repairing Method? (Repairing “L” Rod)
Sometimes, the issue is more serious, requiring a bit more advanced repairing methodology to make the recliner work again. I have assembled a proven method after a lot of examining, researching, and practically trying on my recliner. Follow it to resolve the issue.
1. Tilt Your Recliner to Locate the Internal Mechanism.
You need to tilt your recliner on the side that does not have the handle. After tilting the recliner, use the handle to push the footrest forward a little more than usual. By doing that, you can see a spring hiding in the internal mechanism.
2. Locate “L” Rod and Smoothen It.
You will see the spring holding an “L” rod. All you have to do is check for any small bump on the rod. If you find any bump, simply remove it from your recliner’s file and start smoothening the metal until you see it has become even.
3. Check the Spring and Apply the Lubricant.
When you see the spring is set back in its position, you can pull the footrest back to its original position. Now, apply some lubricating oil to make your recliner work smoothly.
[su_note note_color=”#f8d3d2″]Note: After trying the advanced repairing method, if your manual recliner is stuck in an open position, you shouldn’t hesitate to contact a professional for help. I know this can cost you a little, but making your recliner work again is worth the cost.[/su_note]
How To Repair Recliner Footrest Springs?
Old reclining chairs often have rusty or broken springs that make the footrest not work right. If your footrest isn’t working, you can fix it by replacing the spring with a new one. This is how to do it.
- Buy a new spring that is compatible with your recliner.
- Tip your recliner on its side or flip it over so you can look at the internal parts.
- Look for the spring that connects the footrest to the recliner.
- Use a screwdriver to detach the screws that are keeping the old spring in place.
- Take out the old spring, but remember how you did it because you’ll need to put the new one in the same way.
- Put the new spring where the old one was.
What Is The Average Recliner Repair Cost?
It can cost you $50 to $100 if you repair the recliner yourself. However, if you hire a professional for the process, you can expect anywhere from $200 up to $350, depending on the damage. However, it also depends on who you hire and what he does with your recliner.
When Is It Worth Repairing A Recliner?
Numerous types of recliner chairs are available in America, and their prices typically vary from $800 to $2000 or even higher. Repairing a recliner is worth it when it costs you less than buying a new recliner. If not, I recommend opting for a new recliner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Fix My Electric Recliner That Won’t Close?
If you have an electric recliner stuck in an open position, there is a chance that your power source is not supplying electricity to your recliner.
✔ Unplug your recliner from the power source.
✔ Check whether there is any tripped circuit breaker or the fuse has blown.
✔ If this was not the problem, there could be a problem with the on/off switches.
Can You Manually Close A Power Recliner?
Power recliners are designed to work with the help of electricity. You don’t need to apply any human effort to make a power recliner work.
Therefore, you can’t typically manually close a power recliner, as the motor of the power recliner performs all reclining mechanisms.
But a few power recliners come with the feature to manually close it if the power is not working. So yes, you can manually close a few power recliners.
How To Properly Maintain A Recliner?
✔ Periodically, make sure all the screws are tight.
✔ Lubricate the moving parts and joints every 3-4 months.
✔ If something doesn’t seem right, inspect the inside for any loose connections.
✔ Be gentle with your recliner; don’t abuse it or damage the chair covers.
✔ Avoid overloading the recliner to prevent strain on its mechanisms.
How To Fix A Recliner That Won’t Close?
Suppose your manual recliner chair won’t close and is stuck in an open position. In that case, you can make your recliner work by tightening the bolts of the internal mechanism of your recliner and by lubricating all internal parts of your manual recliner.
If only lubricating does not work, you can apply the advanced repairing method I discussed in this blog. This is a bit more advanced method than just lubricating the internal mechanism. You need to smoothen the “L” rod to make everything work.
