Disassembling an Ashley recliner chair might seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and a bit of guidance, you can accomplish it smoothly. Whether moving, performing maintenance, or replacing parts, this detailed step-by-step guide will help you take apart your Ashley recliner chair efficiently and safely.

How to Take Apart an Ashley Recliner Chair

Ashley Furniture recliners are famous for their comfort and durability. However, there are times when you need to disassemble your recliner, whether for moving, repairs, or part replacements. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary steps to take apart your Ashley recliner chair efficiently.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin the disassembly process, ensure you have the following tools and materials:

– Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)

– Pliers

– Adjustable wrench

– Allen wrenches

– A flashlight

– Ziplock bags for screws and small parts

– Marker and masking tape for labelling

– A blanket or soft surface to protect the chair parts

benefits of having the right tool

Benefits of having the right tool

The benefits of the right tools are crucial for a smooth disassembly process. A Phillips screwdriver is essential for removing screws that have a cross-shaped slot, while a flathead screwdriver is needed for screws with a straight slot. Pliers will help you grip and turn bolts and nuts, and an adjustable wrench will allow you to handle various sizes of bolts. Keep this in mind: Allen wrenches, also known as hex keys, are essential for assembling furniture with those pesky hexagonal screws.

Don’t forget to grab a flashlight; it’s perfect for shedding light on those tricky, hard-to-see spots! ensuring you don’t miss any screws or bolts. Ziplock bags are excellent for storing screws and small parts, preventing them from getting lost. Labeling these bags with a marker and masking tape will help you track where each part belongs, making reassembly easier.

Safety Precautions

Safety should always be your top priority when disassembling furniture. Follow these safety precautions to prevent injury and damage to your recliner:

-Disconnect Power: If your recliner has electrical components, unplug it from the power source.

-Wear Safety Gear: To shield yourself from jagged objects and debris, put on protective goggles and gloves.

-Clear the Area: Ensure you have enough space to work around the chair without tripping over other items.

-Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Refer to the manual that comes with your recliner for specific guidance and diagrams.

Disconnecting the power is the first and most crucial step if your recliner has electrical components. This prevents any accidental electrical shocks or short circuits during the disassembly process. Wearing goggles and gloves or other protective gear. When you’re dismantling components, watch out for flying particles and sharp edges that can nick your hands. Stay safe!

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation can save you time and prevent damage to your recliner. Follow these steps to prepare for disassembly:

1.Locate the Manual: If you have the manual, refer to it for specific instructions related to your model.

2.Remove Cushions: Take off any removable cushions or pillows and set them aside.

3.Inspect the Chair: Examine the recliner to identify all the parts and screws you’ll need to remove.

Locating the manual is the first step. It provides specific instructions and diagrams that can make the process easier. If you don’t have the manual, don’t worry; this guide will help you through the process.

What to do Next

It still might be unclear to you about what to do next, remove any cushions or pillows from the chair. This step clears the area you’ll be working on and prevents the cushions from getting in the way or getting dirty.

Inspecting the chair thoroughly will help you identify all the screws, bolts, and other components you’ll need to remove. This step ensures you’re aware of all the parts that need to be disassembled and helps you plan the process efficiently.

step by step disassembly process

Step-by-Step Disassembly Process

Removing the Backrest

1.Locate the Locking Levers: Most Ashley recliners have locking levers on the back that hold the backrest in place. These are usually found near the bottom of the backrest, inside the fabric.

2.Release the Levers: Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully lift the levers, releasing the backrest. You may need to wiggle the backrest gently to disengage it fully.

3.Lift the Backrest: Once the levers are released, lift the backrest upwards to remove it from the chair’s frame. Set it aside on a soft surface to prevent damage.

The backrest is typically the first part to be removed. Locating the locking levers may require you to feel through the fabric, but once found, lifting them with a flathead screwdriver will release the backrest. Gently wiggling the backrest can help it disengage from the frame. Once removed, place it on a soft surface to avoid any damage.

Detaching the Footrest

1.Find the Attachment Points: The footrest is typically connected to the main frame with screws or bolts.

2.Remove Screws/Bolts: To remove the screws or bolts, use the proper screwdriver or wrench, holding the footrest in place. Keep these screws in a labeled ziplock bag.

3.Disconnect Mechanisms: If there are any mechanical parts or springs connecting the footrest, carefully disconnect them using pliers or an adjustable wrench.

The footrest is usually connected to the main frame with screws or bolts, which need to be removed with the appropriate tools. It’s important to store these screws in a labeled ziplock bag to avoid losing them. Any mechanical parts or springs connecting the footrest should be carefully disconnected using pliers or an adjustable wrench.

Disassembling the Base and Frame

1.Locate the Base Screws: The base of the recliner is usually secured to the frame with screws or bolts. These are often found underneath the chair.

2.Remove the Base: Using the appropriate tool, unscrew the base from the frame. Ensure you keep track of all screws and bolts.

3.Separate the Frame Components: If your recliner’s frame is made of multiple sections, identify the connecting points and carefully disassemble them. Use an Allen wrench if necessary.

The base is typically secured to the frame with screws or bolts found underneath the chair. These need to be unscrewed with the appropriate tools. Keeping track of all screws and bolts is essential to ensure they don’t get lost. If the frame is made of multiple sections, identify the connecting points and disassemble them carefully using an Allen wrench if needed.

Removing Additional Components

1.Detach Armrests: If you need to remove the armrests, locate the screws or bolts holding them in place and remove them. Label and store these screws separately.

2.Remove Padding and Upholstery: In some cases, you may need to remove padding or upholstery to access hidden screws. Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry these components off.

3.Disassemble Mechanisms: If your recliner has a complex reclining mechanism, take note of how it is assembled before disassembling it. Take pictures if necessary to ensure you can reassemble it correctly.

Detaching the armrests involves locating and removing the screws or bolts holding them in place. These screws should be labeled and stored separately. Removing padding or upholstery may be necessary to access hidden screws. You can carefully peel these components off with a flathead screwdriver. If your recliner has a complex reclining mechanism, taking pictures during disassembly can be helpful for reassembly.

Reassembly Tips

When it’s time to reassemble your Ashley recliner, To make sure everything comes back together seamlessly, heed these advice:

-Refer to Your Notes: Use the labels and notes you made during disassembly to guide you.

-Tighten Screws Securely: Ensure all screws and bolts are tightened securely to avoid any wobbling or instability.

-Test Mechanisms: Before using the recliner, test all moving parts to ensure they function correctly.

Reassembling the recliner requires careful attention to the notes and labels you made during disassembly. Tightening all screws and bolts securely is crucial to ensure the chair is stable and doesn’t wobble. Testing all moving parts before using the recliner ensures everything functions correctly and prevents any surprises.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Stuck Screws or Bolts

-Use Penetrating Oil: Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to loosen rusted or stuck screws.

-Use the Right Tool: Ensure you’re using the correct size and type of screwdriver or wrench.

Stuck screws or bolts can be a common issue during disassembly. Small amounts of penetrating oil can be used to release screws that are stuck or corroded. It’s also crucial to use the proper size and kind of wrench or screwdriver to prevent stripping screws.

Misaligned Parts

-Check for Obstructions: Make sure there are no limitations.  preventing parts from aligning correctly.

-Revisit Your Notes: Refer back to your disassembly notes or photos to ensure you’re reassembling correctly.

Misaligned parts can occur during reassembly. Checking for obstructions that may prevent parts from aligning correctly is important. Revisiting your disassembly notes or photos can help ensure you’re reassembling the chair correctly.

Mechanism Malfunctions

-Inspect Springs and Levers: Check that all springs and levers are correctly installed and functioning.

-Consult the Manual: See your recliner model’s handbook for precise troubleshooting instructions.

If the reclining mechanism malfunctions, inspect all springs and levers to ensure they are correctly installed and functioning. Consulting the manufacturer’s manual can provide specific troubleshooting tips for your recliner model.

can i disassemble my ashley recliner chair without the manual

FAQ- How to take apart an ashley recliner chair

Question: Can I disassemble my Ashley recliner chair without the manual?

Answer: Yes, you can disassemble your Ashley recliner chair without the manual. However, having the manual can provide specific guidance and diagrams that make the process easier. If you don’t have the manual, follow the steps outlined in this guide and take detailed notes or photos during disassembly to assist with reassembly.

Question: What should I do if I lose a screw or bolt during disassembly?

Answer: If you lose a screw or bolt, check with your local hardware store for replacements. It’s helpful to bring a sample of a similar screw or bolt for comparison. Alternatively, you can contact Ashley Furniture’s customer service for replacement parts.

Question: How can I avoid damaging the upholstery while disassembling my recliner?

Answer: To avoid damaging the upholstery, work on a clean, soft surface and handle the fabric carefully. Use a flathead screwdriver gently when prying off any upholstery or padding. If the upholstery is glued, consider using a fabric adhesive remover to prevent tearing.

Question: Is it safe to disassemble an electric recliner chair?

Answer: Yes, it is safe to disassemble an electric recliner chair, provided you take the necessary precautions. Always disconnect the chair from the power source before beginning any disassembly. Follow the same steps as for a manual recliner, but be extra cautious with the electrical components.

Question: Can I disassemble my recliner chair by myself, or do I need help?

Answer: While it’s possible to disassemble your recliner chair by yourself, having an extra pair of hands can make the process easier and safer, especially when handling larger components like the backrest and base. If you feel uneasy or uncertain about the procedure, think about asking for help.

Conclusion

Taking apart an Ashley recliner chair may seem challenging, but with the right tools, preparation, With great care and attention to detail, you can deconstruct and reassemble your chair.

Whether you’re moving, performing maintenance, or replacing parts, this guide provides the comprehensive instructions you need to complete the task efficiently.

Always prioritize safety and refer to Consult your recliner’s handbook for detailed instructions pertaining to your model. With patience and care, you’ll have your recliner disassembled and reassembled in no time.