Last night I sat down in this mid/late-1970's (really!) La-Z-Boy recliner that I got from my Dad. I've had this chair since maybe 1997 and I've only had to make one minor repair, ever. And when I sat down last night there was a loud POP and the recliner went back to full-stop. Only five-ten minutes searching TH-cam, watching this video, and after a quick look underneath now I know a dowel snapped on the right-side rocker block and it's only attached at one end. It appears to be intact; so I know how to fix it, thanks to you. You're the man!
Thanks so much for posting this, and all of your other content. Normally I would have asked my dad but I can't do that anymore. You have explained not just the repairs, but the mechanics and the 'why we are doing it this way,' just as he would have. Thank you!
My rocker arm was slightly cracked so tonight I wood glued it back together. And tomorrow I am going to reinstall it with the hex bolts! I am glad I found your video. Thanks
The rocker block wood glued solid, but then I applied 2 coats of flex steel on 3 sides of the rocker block. The side which wood glues to the chair I left bare. Also, I had a little piece of wood missing about 1/4 inch by 2 inches, so I filled it with plastic wood filler, and it bonded solid. I let everything cure for about 5 days and today I put my lazy boy chair back together, and everything works great. (I used 3/8 inch x 3inches hex bolts)
What a fantastic channel. My recliner is about 18 months old, and the rocker block was wobbling. Upon closer inspection, they never glued the factory dowels in. As they worked out, all the force was on the three screws, two of which were broken. I used your videos to understand how to take it apart. The most helpful tip was that the springs are under tension and need to be blocked to make the removal/and reinstall of the rocking base easier. Thanks for all of your videos. You are providing a great service by sharing this information! LaZBoy wanted a minimum of $300 between the pickup charge and at least an hour or two of labor to fix it. About $2 worth of bolts/nuts/washers and two hours of my time later, and I'm just waiting on the glue to dry. The bolts look far stronger/superior to the factory setup (even if they hadn't left out the glue).
Thank you, thank, thank you. Did I tell you "Thank you ". The rocker block broke on my 22 year old Lazy boy. I called the local retailer and txt pics of the problem, they said good luck "We have recliners on sale if we can assist you. " I have a wood working friend who can cut a new one, now, thanks to you, I will be able to repair my old friend. 😊👍
I just wanted to tell you thank you. I have a Lazy Boy recliner that was made back in 2000 and was the most comfortable chair I owned up until a couple of years ago when the rocker block split, I tried to fix it but never got it right. I didn’t want to get rid of the chair because i knew it could be fixed somehow. Yesterday after following your instructions and cutting a new rocker block out of a 2x4 and purchasing the hardware that you recommended. I now have my the use and enjoyment of my recliner again.
Good concise clear and unhurried explanations. You show a respect for La-Z-Boy construction but also how that can be strengthened. You been a great help to me personally and save me $100s
This video is right on time. One of the rocker blocks in my chair came loose Saturday night while I was reclined in it. The back left of the chair sank. I was stuck in it like a turtle on it back. Now I have the fix info....THANK YOU!
You're a great teacher. If I had you as a professor in college I would have gotten a PhD instead of all the trash teachers I had to put up with. Anyway, well done and just what I needed to repair my old La A Boy recliner. Thanks
Thank you for this video. The rocker block on my 23 month old chair detached. It had very little glue on the block, and none on the dowels. The dowels simply slid out, and the block detached. Reattached it with plenty of wood glue and metal bolts, and it is far better than new. The other block appears properly attached, but I'll know how to fix it when it comes loose.
Thanks to you for showing the way on how to fix my rocker arm and springs Im back up and in my favorite chair again for just a few dollars spent at Lowes. Though I was not prepared for a couple decent size spiders coming after me I guess protecting there nest in the bottom of chair. LOL!
I bought a Lazyboy Harbor Town recliner thinking it was a rocker recliner but nooo. Recliner only. Now I trying to see if it's possible to switch out the recliner part with the rocker/recliner from my older La-z-yboy . It's not a Harbor Town but looks to be same size.
This video is exactly hat I needed, however, I have a Layzboy Astor power recliner. I need to replace the rocker block (I have one) but don't know how to disassemble the base. It is not like the non power base.
Love your videos, wish I would have found them years earlier! I'm pleased to see that the rocker block repair I made on my own years ago closely matches yours, except I stuck with using new wooden dowels instead of the bolts. Over time, the original machine screws attaching the metal side plates on the back have broken, one by one, and I've replaced them with stainless steel equivalents, from the local hardware store. I anticipate these replacements will probably last forever, and if I ever discard this chair, I plan to recover those screws first. Speaking of which, this old La-Z-Boy is pretty worn out and uncomfortable. In an ideal world I would replace it, but I'm not impressed with quality of any of the rocker recliner I see made now. As a technician, what do you think? Are there any rocker recliners made with decent quality anymore?
@AlexStangl42 - Mass-produced furniture today -- La--z-boy, Flexsteel, Ashley, Catnapper, etc. -- is not good quality throughout. Cheaper frame materials & construction along with low-quality padding are the primary culprits. If you don't get the basics right, you don't have a good-quality furniture product. To find better furniture you have to look beyond the mass-produced market to furniture that is built with better quality frames & padding. It will certainly cost more, but will last longer.
My wooden dowels broke off and rocker block came loose from the side. I was able to get them to send me a placement rocker block though so it seems they do have them again. I'll use this when i try to replace it later. thank you
Great video, thanks! I'm going to attempt this fix tomorrow. The dowel on mine broke, I threw a couple 3 inch wood screws in to get me by. Is there a science to why dowels are still used? Seems strange. I noticed with my temporary fix I've got a significant creek when rocking, do you think something else is broke or loose? Thanks!!
@Barrett Jarabek - When a Rocker Block dowel breaks, the glue bond that held the block against the inside arm frame usually fails as well. Adding a couple of screws is not a permanent fix. Follow the instructions in the video for regluing & reattaching the block. You can use new dowel pins or bolts (stronger). Why are dowels used, ask La-z-boy. ;)
If the dowel breaks it’s always because the glue joint failed. Dowels are used not only because the tight fit but also the similar porosity of the wood has the same expansion and contraction rate as the block and the wood arm frame. While I agree the bolt is made of stronger material, over time the wood will expand around the washers compressing the wood. When the wood contracts, the bolt is loose. This is the reason La-Z-Boy stopped sending rocker cams.
Thanks for the wonderful video. I have replaced the rocker block on one side of my chair and I used the lag bolts with washers and lock nut instead of dowel rods. My question is: Do you think it would of any benefit to drill a third "dowel" hole through the rocker block and OSB and attach a THIRD lag bolt? It just seems like that design gets a lot of downward pressure (and I'm a big guy) and I guess I am thinking an extra lag bolt would be helpful. My thought would be to put the 3rd hole about an inch from where the spring mounts. Thanks again!
@Ronald Jurgeson - Just to be clear, lag bolts are bolts that are screwed into the wood like a large screw. Since you are using locknuts, I'm assuming that you are not using lag bolts, as that would not be recommended. If you've prepped & set the block properly with wood glue & the bolts are tight, the bond is significantly stronger than the original. The bolts are like having 2 permanent clamps in places. I also typically add one La-z-boy screw from the outside of the arm frame, through the panel & into the Rocker Block in the middle of the block. You could install a 3rd bolt there instead, but as you said, those blocks carry a lot of weight. And drilling more holes into them also increases the risk that the block could split along those pre-drilled holes some point.
@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thanks for the reply. Yes, I am using the lock nuts. So that is a lag whatever you would call it. I actually call those lag bolts and the ones that look like large screws I call "lag screws," but I'm probably wrong. I did think about the large hole actually decreasing the total wood stability, and decided against it. I've got it all wrapped back up and restapled, been sitting in it for a couple days now and so far it's okay. Thanks again for your wonderful video and tips.
I had the rocker block fall off my recliner a couple weeks after i bought it. I brought it back and exchanged it for another. The same thing happened to the 2nd chair. Since then i know 3 other people that have had the same issue. In every case the dowels broke because there wasn't any glue on them and they walked out making them weak. For the price LayZBoy charges, they should just use bolts in the first place.
Is it 7/16 x 3 bolts i should look for? I haven't disassembled yet, but it looks like no or very little glue was used. The dowel is almost backed fully into the block.
I am 73 yo and 5'9" tall woman. My Pinnacle La-Z-Boy is 15 years old. The leather is still in excellent shape, but I find when exiting the rocker/recliner, it rocks forward and my knees are so high that it is difficult to get up. I know that the seat needs to be "restuffed". I also feel that when I sit in the chair the pitch is too great toward the back. We will be trying to adjust the springs soon. I feel the 1/2" would help me some. My feeling is that at my age, I don't want a recliner that rocks anymore. How can I stabilize the rocking?
@sarahfcouture1178 - Here's something you can try until you find a repair tech to address these issues for you: Find a firm (supportive) loose seat cushion or flat pillow that's about 2-4" thick. Put it on top of your seat for a while & try it out.
Is there an easy way to stop my father in law’s Power Lazy Boy recliner from rocking? He is 85 years old and has fallen several times trying to get out of it.
Great video. I will be watching this a couple more times before I attempt to fix my brothers recliner. His recliner is a little newer and they no longer use plywood they use particleboard. And my brother is a very large man. I’m thinking I might need to strengthen further by using wood on the other side of the particleboard as well and use longer bolts.
You didn’t talk about the smaller pilot hole in the rocker cam and how it should be oriented to the rear or how its original purpose was to secure a bolt used for the old style toggle. I can date this chair to the early 90’s. Again, the bolts aren’t stronger and will cause damage to the wood because the materials are different, metal and wood expand and contract at different rates, crushing the wood fibers around the metal. Then the bolts are loose. It’s best to replicate the original design as close as possible. The strength is entirely from the glue joint. The wood dowels are to eliminate shear. The wood screws are to secure after clamping until the glue dries. It’s the same reason you don’t secure raised panels with brads like a lot of “pros” think it’s ok to cheat, then the panels crack. Just by tightening those bolts you are crushing the wood fibers around. Soon as the room temp is raised the wood swells faster than the bolt. Summer comes, the A/C cools that bolt faster than the wood, no more shear prevention. BTW, 35 yr. furniture tech.
@tfguru1 - Sorry, I don't share your concerns. And for those that have them, they can simply reattach the Rocker Blocks with wood dowels, as shown in the video. As I mentioned in the video, I prefer to use bolts. I've seen many Rocker Block failures that were glued from the factory, including some that we re-glued from a previous repair. I've never seen a bolted repair that has failed. That's not to suggest that "bolted" repairs cannot fail. Anything's possible, especially if the repair is not done properly, or the forces put upon the Rocker Blocks are rather extreme.
Also, I called La-Z-Boy today to try to get a repairman. They said that the foam for my La-Z-Boy is no longer available. They said that the foam for it was only available for 5 years after my purchase and that is true for all of their products. Is this true for all brands? They also said to get a local furniture repairman...how do I find one?
@sarahfcouture1178 - Some time ago I was told by a La-z-boy rep that they didn't provide replacement foam for chairs that were more than 9 years old. So, either way -- 5 or 9 years -- it's a bad policy. No, that's not true for all brands, but finding a brand that will stand behind their product for the long term is becoming increasingly difficult, if not impossible. Here are some tips regarding finding a furniture repair tech -------> th-cam.com/video/3GX8KRS2oVU/w-d-xo.html
When sitting in my rocking recliner it leans back too far for my comfort. Any way to restrict how far it leans back? Nothing seems loose, the tension wing nuts are set correctly. Any way to adjust how much it rocks back?
@River r - If the chair did not have this issue earlier, chances are something has come loose or needs to be repaired. Have a repair tech check it out. If you've had this issue since day 1, you may be able to adjust the chair pitch. (Keep in mind that on La-z-boys this adjustment is minimal.) Or, you can watch the 'Recliner Tip-Over Problem' video to see if that issue (excessive pitch-back) applies in your case.
can you help with disabling rocker for infant, what would be easiest way to stop all rocking on Lazyboy Power Recliner.... will disabling rocker cause problems with the power recline functions?
@@reclinerrepairguy4155 i want to try swapping the entire rocker base for a non-rocker base from a similar lazyboy recliner i have, do you think i can do it? what tools will i need (and what tools do you use exactly to remove the staples along the edges and reinsert them without staple gun?) can you help? can you guide me? or make a video? for reference my rocking Lazyboy is called "Pinnacle" with power recline function, and my non-rocker is called Lazyboy Rowan with Power recline function, i want to perform a double transplant, but the motors are in different orientations when i look underneath, i'm enclosing video to this email of their bases www.icloud.com/attachment/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcvws.icloud-content.com%2FB%2FAWYt1ldF451YeWnGz3JsfHrcs_gzATHlxT523TVI7DDUcVHdd4Kr5Ftm%2F%24%7Bf%7D%3Fo%3DAu6-1op9-oGCNJCkaOSXd7NIP93vgUc1hJZMcVaZ9xMT%26v%3D1%26x%3D3%26a%3DCAog_jbycMoA-zDWKciPS8Mx-8PIX9P-uI-4tGt9c4SsJdgSeBDH1sDU6y4Yx-a7qPUuIgEAKgkC6AMA_zuZOL1SBNyz-DNaBKvkW2ZqJv6zPHUua5VwmnE_umMxIOOP7ZR8p_3XPzRGTct5Bc77cHH6TsLGciYfxmLjkq63DU8bssODE0SUk03FlaIeU_PraNzx-9AWV6FXwQsTYw%26e%3D1612039779%26fl%3D%26r%3D3A71123B-F66E-4702-AF23-7484F8B41C3F-1%26k%3D%24%7Buk%7D%26ckc%3Dcom.apple.largeattachment%26ckz%3DCE259A65-2ACF-4726-9D51-BC46F3767D8D%26p%3D11%26s%3Db0aymTywk6itL7MGkHjzzuRwC5k&uk=z-nSzygwH5jGXTxf0lc4Ng&f=IMG_1264.MOV&sz=63711211 www.icloud.com/attachment/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcvws.icloud-content.com%2FB%2FAZjgf4628Qfy5dv0yK4cMzkHFji6AbPoFTxXt_WHKb_GElwJcJz3Kr1F%2F%24%7Bf%7D%3Fo%3DAk8v63MsUiQc8CloASjHLKVAhZLdnVrTLL2CofVY_IKE%26v%3D1%26x%3D3%26a%3DCAogQ1ve7HPI_tkDkqfdzY7FB52mG3XS-nNY1Bpjw4JQ45USeBCG18DU6y4Yhue7qPUuIgEAKgkC6AMA_2yOZbVSBAcWOLpaBPcqvUVqJu2VK86tnEp_dPjPbca3LclcuZ6yRKZNc2mTn9YtxWmJvItAlzeyciZoek1r4k3R0R-drnVgGfmSmCv4wleKdvS3uW-MfEmFYIp9XATthA%26e%3D1612039779%26fl%3D%26r%3DC62E2226-CF45-4F42-938C-75CCBBABA093-1%26k%3D%24%7Buk%7D%26ckc%3Dcom.apple.largeattachment%26ckz%3DCE259A65-2ACF-4726-9D51-BC46F3767D8D%26p%3D11%26s%3D1ydt1l9wrtLYj_O9JN-5znYTmrQ&uk=00B72w3Cd9CKBfXZOQTZag&f=IMG_1265.MOV&sz=82218206
I need to replace the 1/2" square bar that is counter sunk into each wood side piece and the foot rest scissors attach to. It broke in the center where a pin went through. Is this replaced as one piece or is the whole mechanism come with this piece ?
@jmb - La-z-boy typically requires that you request each replacement part that you need. The square rod is called the Drive Rod. Be sure to order any other parts that were bent or damaged when the Drive Rod failed, as well as any other mechanism parts that you may need. They charge a part order processing fee per warranty part order that ranges between $13-15 for each order.
@jmb - I forgot to mention there's a 3-part video series on the ReclinerRepairGuy.com website that covers Drive Rod removal & installation, if you need it.
@ReclinerRepairGuy What is the purpose of the dowels? Alignment of the block? Also I would assume the rocker block is made of hardwood and not easy to split/crack ? Is this correct?
@Dixon Bidenzmouth - The dowels are used for alignment and a bit of strength. Bolts are stronger, obviously. The Rocker Blocks are made of solid wood, though I don't know the type they are using on their new products. Or if it's considered to be a true hardwood (manufacturers are always looking for cheaper alternatives). The blocks do seem to break loose from the arm frame more often than split themselves. The downward force exerted on them can be significant, especially when a larger user "plops" down in the seat, rather than sitting down normally. It's typically from accumulated forces like these and others (2 people sitting in the chair, etc.) that eventually cause many blocks to break loose.
@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you. I just bought the ‘Joshua’ recliner but I take care of my stuff and go easy on it. You do a great service by sharing your knowledge thru these videos. You are an honest guy and I wish you lots of business for it and you have the video making/editing skills too. 👍
The original dowels are there for shear strength. The three little torx fastners they use seem to be more for holding the parts in place while the glue dries than anything else. The dowels support all the weight on the chair when people sit in it. The bolts that Recliner Repair Guy is replacing the dowels with is much stronger, and less likely to fail if you use proper nylon locking nuts or some loctite to make sure the nut doesn't back off.
@jamescampbell7003 - That's not unusual. Keep in mind that the 2 Rocker Springs are carrying quite a load by holding the chair -- and the person -- onto the base. Also, the manufacturer waxes the Rocker Blocks to help reduce noise while rocking. This makes the rocking surfaces quite smooth & slick. So yes, the wooden parts can move sideways from time to time taking the Rocker Springs with them. And the "twang" that you hear on occasion is the Rocker Springs pulling themselves back into proper alignment. Check to make sure the springs are securely fastened against both the Rocker Blocks & Base. If the springs are very old & you suspect that new springs would be tighter, you can try replacing them. But the sideways movement is common with these chairs, even when new.
iComplainer - No video on that subject yet, sorry. If the chair is less than 1 year old, you should still have full warranty coverage and can ask your dealer to check it out. They can also check it out if your chair is more than a year old, but there will likely be a charge associated with that (service call, etc.). Noises are not unusual for motion (moving parts) furniture. And they can increase over time as the chair ages, particularly with rocker/recliners. However, if a NEW noise develops that was not previously present, and is fairly noticeable (loud), that can indicate that your recliner needs repair service.
Have a look at your rocker block and make sure it isn't coming loose. LaZBoy of Orlando has a video that tells you to use a paste wax on the rocker block contact area with the base, and to use a dry teflon lube on the springs if they become noisy. I realized that my rocker block was loose, and I was hearing the screws creaking/squeaking in the wood.
I just put some thick books under each side of the back to stop it from rocking. Mine sits back a little too far anyway, so that turns into into a level stationary recliner.
I was told the rocker blocks are not available because the arm frames are now made of OSB not plywood. Meaning removing the rocker block from OSB will cause much of the OSB to splinter badly and not able to be reused. Ok but what about providing rocker blocks for older models made with plywood? I just get the whole arm frame, remove the rocker blocks, clean off the OSB remnants with a rasp and use for the repair.
bluesfanchad - Interesting. I never considered ordering an arm frame to remove the Rocker Block. I guess I was concerned that if I got one that was fully-adhered, I might damage it trying to remove it. Like that Dowel Pin I had to drill out in the video. I agree, there's no good reason they can't provide that part separately. Especially since Rocker Block repairs are still fairly common.
@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Probably because the mother______s have figured out, if you can't repair them you have to buy an *ENTiRE* new chair. Oh wait. I'm insulting private businessmen and capitalists aren't I?? Nevermind. They probably just never had that same complaint from customers 5,000 times before [looks into the the computer monitor with dead eyes]
The Rocker Block should still be a warrantied part. That is why they no longer make it. Cheaper to sell you what you don't need. When you see the arm frame, you'll buy another chair....
I could see this being reasonable if the OSB was destroyed. Mine was perfectly serviceable when I put mine back together using the rocker block that came with the chair. If you have the woodworking tools/ability, a rocker block would be a quite simple thing to make yourself, if you can't find one online through third party places.
I don't understand why but 7/16 - 20 x 3.25" bolts are very hard to find and very expensive !!! Even washers and fasteners to fit the bolts are expensive !!
@@timdgsr I wish I lived near you. Four 7/16"-20 x 3.25" bolts, Eight 7/16" x 2.25" washers, Eight 7/16-20 nuts and a 4 oz bottle of glue are running me about $40, but its still cheaper than buying a new chair.
I'm sorry I think it'd be easier just to get a piece of hardwood cut it out the same way and drill the holes to match exactly I don't think I'd want to spend that much money for a piece of wood
Last night I sat down in this mid/late-1970's (really!) La-Z-Boy recliner that I got from my Dad. I've had this chair since maybe 1997 and I've only had to make one minor repair, ever. And when I sat down last night there was a loud POP and the recliner went back to full-stop. Only five-ten minutes searching TH-cam, watching this video, and after a quick look underneath now I know a dowel snapped on the right-side rocker block and it's only attached at one end. It appears to be intact; so I know how to fix it, thanks to you. You're the man!
Thanks so much for posting this, and all of your other content. Normally I would have asked my dad but I can't do that anymore. You have explained not just the repairs, but the mechanics and the 'why we are doing it this way,' just as he would have. Thank you!
@David Murray - You're welcome!
My rocker arm was slightly cracked so tonight I wood glued it back together. And tomorrow I am going to reinstall it with the hex bolts! I am glad I found your video. Thanks
The rocker block wood glued solid, but then I applied 2 coats of flex steel on 3 sides of the rocker block. The side which wood glues to the chair I left bare. Also, I had a little piece of wood missing about 1/4 inch by 2 inches, so I filled it with plastic wood filler, and it bonded solid. I let everything cure for about 5 days and today I put my lazy boy chair back together, and everything works great. (I used 3/8 inch x 3inches hex bolts)
What a fantastic channel. My recliner is about 18 months old, and the rocker block was wobbling. Upon closer inspection, they never glued the factory dowels in. As they worked out, all the force was on the three screws, two of which were broken. I used your videos to understand how to take it apart. The most helpful tip was that the springs are under tension and need to be blocked to make the removal/and reinstall of the rocking base easier.
Thanks for all of your videos. You are providing a great service by sharing this information!
LaZBoy wanted a minimum of $300 between the pickup charge and at least an hour or two of labor to fix it. About $2 worth of bolts/nuts/washers and two hours of my time later, and I'm just waiting on the glue to dry. The bolts look far stronger/superior to the factory setup (even if they hadn't left out the glue).
@timdgsr - You're welcome -- good job!
Thank you, thank, thank you. Did I tell you "Thank you ". The rocker block broke on my 22 year old Lazy boy. I called the local retailer and txt pics of the problem, they said good luck "We have recliners on sale if we can assist you. " I have a wood working friend who can cut a new one, now, thanks to you, I will be able to repair my old friend. 😊👍
@wade coffie - You're welcome!
I just wanted to tell you thank you. I have a Lazy Boy recliner that was made back in 2000 and was the most comfortable chair I owned up until a couple of years ago when the rocker block split, I tried to fix it but never got it right. I didn’t want to get rid of the chair because i knew it could be fixed somehow. Yesterday after following your instructions and cutting a new rocker block out of a 2x4 and purchasing the hardware that you recommended. I now have my the use and enjoyment of my recliner again.
@jphilli832 - You're welcome -- good job!
Good concise clear and unhurried explanations. You show a respect for La-Z-Boy construction but also how that can be strengthened. You been a great help to me personally and save me $100s
This video is right on time. One of the rocker blocks in my chair came loose Saturday night while I was reclined in it. The back left of the chair sank. I was stuck in it like a turtle on it back. Now I have the fix info....THANK YOU!
Grate Smoke - You're welcome and good luck!
Thank you VERY MUCH!!!!! Your advice and tips not only helped me fix it, with the metal bolts it is better than new!!! Thank you!!
@richarddoan9249 - You're welcome -- good job!
Nice to know about the La-Z-Boy rocker block repair tips!!!! Keep uploading more videos for us youtube subscribers!
I just did this so thanks for the "how- to" Video. I used 3/8" x 3" long bolts and used fender washers and it worked like a charm!
@WarHoss - You're welcome - good job!
You're a great teacher. If I had you as a professor in college I would have gotten a PhD instead of all the trash teachers I had to put up with. Anyway, well done and just what I needed to repair my old La A Boy recliner. Thanks
@DanH88 - You're welcome -- good job!
Thank you for this video. The rocker block on my 23 month old chair detached. It had very little glue on the block, and none on the dowels. The dowels simply slid out, and the block detached. Reattached it with plenty of wood glue and metal bolts, and it is far better than new. The other block appears properly attached, but I'll know how to fix it when it comes loose.
@Doni Grande - You're welcome -- good job!
Would you do a video on how to stop recliners from rocking? Please and thank you.😊
Take notes Lazy Boy!!!! This video saved me and my chair!!!🔥🔥🔥🔥
Thanks for the video, I was able to get my recliner fixed up better than new for less than $10!
@Josh Jacobs - You're welcome - good job!
Love these videos, keep up the amazing work!
Thanks to you for showing the way on how to fix my rocker arm and springs Im back up and in my favorite chair again for just a few dollars spent at Lowes. Though I was not prepared for a couple decent size spiders coming after me I guess protecting there nest in the bottom of chair. LOL!
Unusual question I’m sure but is it possible to stop a Lazy-Boy reclining rocker? My wife doesn’t like the rocking. Thanks for any suggestion.
John Stegall - I've never blocked one off so that it wouldn't rock, so there's no particular method that I would recommend.
I bought a Lazyboy Harbor Town recliner thinking it was a rocker recliner but nooo. Recliner only. Now I trying to see if it's possible to switch out the recliner part with the rocker/recliner from my older La-z-yboy . It's not a Harbor Town but looks to be same size.
My rocker block just became loose. Thanks for this video!
@jimmymac1958 - You're welcome!
This video is exactly hat I needed, however, I have a Layzboy Astor power recliner. I need to replace the rocker block (I have one) but don't know how to disassemble the base. It is not like the non power base.
Love your videos, wish I would have found them years earlier! I'm pleased to see that the rocker block repair I made on my own years ago closely matches yours, except I stuck with using new wooden dowels instead of the bolts.
Over time, the original machine screws attaching the metal side plates on the back have broken, one by one, and I've replaced them with stainless steel equivalents, from the local hardware store. I anticipate these replacements will probably last forever, and if I ever discard this chair, I plan to recover those screws first.
Speaking of which, this old La-Z-Boy is pretty worn out and uncomfortable. In an ideal world I would replace it, but I'm not impressed with quality of any of the rocker recliner I see made now. As a technician, what do you think? Are there any rocker recliners made with decent quality anymore?
@AlexStangl42 - Mass-produced furniture today -- La--z-boy, Flexsteel, Ashley, Catnapper, etc. -- is not good quality throughout. Cheaper frame materials & construction along with low-quality padding are the primary culprits. If you don't get the basics right, you don't have a good-quality furniture product.
To find better furniture you have to look beyond the mass-produced market to furniture that is built with better quality frames & padding. It will certainly cost more, but will last longer.
That makes sense, thanks! Any specific recommendations?
@@AlexStangl42 - No. It's largely due to what quality brands are available in your area.
My wooden dowels broke off and rocker block came loose from the side. I was able to get them to send me a placement rocker block though so it seems they do have them again. I'll use this when i try to replace it later. thank you
@blakerichardson1519 - You're welcome -- good luck!
Great video, thanks! I'm going to attempt this fix tomorrow. The dowel on mine broke, I threw a couple 3 inch wood screws in to get me by. Is there a science to why dowels are still used? Seems strange. I noticed with my temporary fix I've got a significant creek when rocking, do you think something else is broke or loose? Thanks!!
@Barrett Jarabek - When a Rocker Block dowel breaks, the glue bond that held the block against the inside arm frame usually fails as well. Adding a couple of screws is not a permanent fix.
Follow the instructions in the video for regluing & reattaching the block. You can use new dowel pins or bolts (stronger).
Why are dowels used, ask La-z-boy. ;)
If the dowel breaks it’s always because the glue joint failed.
Dowels are used not only because the tight fit but also the similar porosity of the wood has the same expansion and contraction rate as the block and the wood arm frame. While I agree the bolt is made of stronger material, over time the wood will expand around the washers compressing the wood. When the wood contracts, the bolt is loose. This is the reason La-Z-Boy stopped sending rocker cams.
Thanks for the wonderful video.
I have replaced the rocker block on one side of my chair and I used the lag bolts with washers and lock nut instead of dowel rods.
My question is: Do you think it would of any benefit to drill a third "dowel" hole through the rocker block and OSB and attach a THIRD lag bolt? It just seems like that design gets a lot of downward pressure (and I'm a big guy) and I guess I am thinking an extra lag bolt would be helpful. My thought would be to put the 3rd hole about an inch from where the spring mounts. Thanks again!
@Ronald Jurgeson - Just to be clear, lag bolts are bolts that are screwed into the wood like a large screw. Since you are using locknuts, I'm assuming that you are not using lag bolts, as that would not be recommended.
If you've prepped & set the block properly with wood glue & the bolts are tight, the bond is significantly stronger than the original. The bolts are like having 2 permanent clamps in places.
I also typically add one La-z-boy screw from the outside of the arm frame, through the panel & into the Rocker Block in the middle of the block. You could install a 3rd bolt there instead, but as you said, those blocks carry a lot of weight. And drilling more holes into them also increases the risk that the block could split along those pre-drilled holes some point.
@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thanks for the reply. Yes, I am using the lock nuts. So that is a lag whatever you would call it. I actually call those lag bolts and the ones that look like large screws I call "lag screws," but I'm probably wrong. I did think about the large hole actually decreasing the total wood stability, and decided against it. I've got it all wrapped back up and restapled, been sitting in it for a couple days now and so far it's okay. Thanks again for your wonderful video and tips.
I had the rocker block fall off my recliner a couple weeks after i bought it. I brought it back and exchanged it for another. The same thing happened to the 2nd chair. Since then i know 3 other people that have had the same issue. In every case the dowels broke because there wasn't any glue on them and they walked out making them weak. For the price LayZBoy charges, they should just use bolts in the first place.
Is it 7/16 x 3 bolts i should look for? I haven't disassembled yet, but it looks like no or very little glue was used. The dowel is almost backed fully into the block.
I am 73 yo and 5'9" tall woman. My Pinnacle La-Z-Boy is 15 years old. The leather is still in excellent shape, but I find when exiting the rocker/recliner, it rocks forward and my knees are so high that it is difficult to get up. I know that the seat needs to be "restuffed". I also feel that when I sit in the chair the pitch is too great toward the back. We will be trying to adjust the springs soon. I feel the 1/2" would help me some. My feeling is that at my age, I don't want a recliner that rocks anymore. How can I stabilize the rocking?
@sarahfcouture1178 - Here's something you can try until you find a repair tech to address these issues for you: Find a firm (supportive) loose seat cushion or flat pillow that's about 2-4" thick. Put it on top of your seat for a while & try it out.
Is there an easy way to stop my father in law’s Power Lazy Boy recliner from rocking? He is 85 years old and has fallen several times trying to get out of it.
I have the same problem but my lazy boy chair is manual and not a power chair
@@DeniseLaFranceCDNpainter Seems like with a manual chair you could make your own "rocker" block that doesn't have a radius on the bottom?
Great video. I will be watching this a couple more times before I attempt to fix my brothers recliner. His recliner is a little newer and they no longer use plywood they use particleboard. And my brother is a very large man. I’m thinking I might need to strengthen further by using wood on the other side of the particleboard as well and use longer bolts.
You didn’t talk about the smaller pilot hole in the rocker cam and how it should be oriented to the rear or how its original purpose was to secure a bolt used for the old style toggle. I can date this chair to the early 90’s. Again, the bolts aren’t stronger and will cause damage to the wood because the materials are different, metal and wood expand and contract at different rates, crushing the wood fibers around the metal. Then the bolts are loose. It’s best to replicate the original design as close as possible. The strength is entirely from the glue joint. The wood dowels are to eliminate shear. The wood screws are to secure after clamping until the glue dries. It’s the same reason you don’t secure raised panels with brads like a lot of “pros” think it’s ok to cheat, then the panels crack.
Just by tightening those bolts you are crushing the wood fibers around. Soon as the room temp is raised the wood swells faster than the bolt. Summer comes, the A/C cools that bolt faster than the wood, no more shear prevention. BTW, 35 yr. furniture tech.
@tfguru1 - Sorry, I don't share your concerns. And for those that have them, they can simply reattach the Rocker Blocks with wood dowels, as shown in the video. As I mentioned in the video, I prefer to use bolts.
I've seen many Rocker Block failures that were glued from the factory, including some that we re-glued from a previous repair. I've never seen a bolted repair that has failed. That's not to suggest that "bolted" repairs cannot fail. Anything's possible, especially if the repair is not done properly, or the forces put upon the Rocker Blocks are rather extreme.
carriage bolts with thread facing in might be easier to tighten nuts later.
Also, I called La-Z-Boy today to try to get a repairman. They said that the foam for my La-Z-Boy is no longer available. They said that the foam for it was only available for 5 years after my purchase and that is true for all of their products. Is this true for all brands? They also said to get a local furniture repairman...how do I find one?
@sarahfcouture1178 - Some time ago I was told by a La-z-boy rep that they didn't provide replacement foam for chairs that were more than 9 years old. So, either way -- 5 or 9 years -- it's a bad policy. No, that's not true for all brands, but finding a brand that will stand behind their product for the long term is becoming increasingly difficult, if not impossible.
Here are some tips regarding finding a furniture repair tech -------> th-cam.com/video/3GX8KRS2oVU/w-d-xo.html
Good info. I part out chairs and sell hard to find parts like this on Ebay.
This is such niche content I love it! Lol thanks
@ghos7fire - You're welcome!
When sitting in my rocking recliner it leans back too far for my comfort. Any way to restrict how far it leans back? Nothing seems loose, the tension wing nuts are set correctly. Any way to adjust how much it rocks back?
@River r - If the chair did not have this issue earlier, chances are something has come loose or needs to be repaired. Have a repair tech check it out.
If you've had this issue since day 1, you may be able to adjust the chair pitch. (Keep in mind that on La-z-boys this adjustment is minimal.) Or, you can watch the 'Recliner Tip-Over Problem' video to see if that issue (excessive pitch-back) applies in your case.
can you help with disabling rocker for infant, what would be easiest way to stop all rocking on Lazyboy Power Recliner.... will disabling rocker cause problems with the power recline functions?
@Michael Gottlieb - That's difficult to do without interfering with the recline function. The chair pitches (rocks) back when the footrest extends.
@@reclinerrepairguy4155 i want to try swapping the entire rocker base for a non-rocker base
from a similar lazyboy recliner i have, do you think i can do it? what
tools will i need (and what tools do you use exactly to remove the
staples along the edges and reinsert them without staple gun?)
can you help? can you guide me? or make a video?
for reference my rocking Lazyboy is called "Pinnacle" with power
recline function, and my non-rocker is called Lazyboy Rowan with Power
recline function, i want to perform a double transplant, but the
motors are in different orientations when i look underneath, i'm
enclosing video to this email of their bases
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I need to replace the 1/2" square bar that is counter sunk into each wood side piece and the foot rest scissors attach to. It broke in the center where a pin went through. Is this replaced as one piece or is the whole mechanism come with this piece ?
@jmb - La-z-boy typically requires that you request each replacement part that you need. The square rod is called the Drive Rod. Be sure to order any other parts that were bent or damaged when the Drive Rod failed, as well as any other mechanism parts that you may need. They charge a part order processing fee per warranty part order that ranges between $13-15 for each order.
@jmb - I forgot to mention there's a 3-part video series on the ReclinerRepairGuy.com website that covers Drive Rod removal & installation, if you need it.
@ReclinerRepairGuy
What is the purpose of the dowels? Alignment of the block? Also I would assume the rocker block is made of hardwood and not easy to split/crack ? Is this correct?
@Dixon Bidenzmouth - The dowels are used for alignment and a bit of strength. Bolts are stronger, obviously.
The Rocker Blocks are made of solid wood, though I don't know the type they are using on their new products. Or if it's considered to be a true hardwood (manufacturers are always looking for cheaper alternatives). The blocks do seem to break loose from the arm frame more often than split themselves.
The downward force exerted on them can be significant, especially when a larger user "plops" down in the seat, rather than sitting down normally. It's typically from accumulated forces like these and others (2 people sitting in the chair, etc.) that eventually cause many blocks to break loose.
@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you. I just bought the ‘Joshua’ recliner but I take care of my stuff and go easy on it. You do a great service by sharing your knowledge thru these videos. You are an honest guy and I wish you lots of business for it and you have the video making/editing skills too. 👍
The original dowels are there for shear strength. The three little torx fastners they use seem to be more for holding the parts in place while the glue dries than anything else. The dowels support all the weight on the chair when people sit in it. The bolts that Recliner Repair Guy is replacing the dowels with is much stronger, and less likely to fail if you use proper nylon locking nuts or some loctite to make sure the nut doesn't back off.
How do you increase the tension between the rocker block and rocker springs? Mine seems to slide/skip sideways on the block and make a loud twang.
@jamescampbell7003 - That's not unusual. Keep in mind that the 2 Rocker Springs are carrying quite a load by holding the chair -- and the person -- onto the base. Also, the manufacturer waxes the Rocker Blocks to help reduce noise while rocking. This makes the rocking surfaces quite smooth & slick. So yes, the wooden parts can move sideways from time to time taking the Rocker Springs with them. And the "twang" that you hear on occasion is the Rocker Springs pulling themselves back into proper alignment.
Check to make sure the springs are securely fastened against both the Rocker Blocks & Base. If the springs are very old & you suspect that new springs would be tighter, you can try replacing them. But the sideways movement is common with these chairs, even when new.
@@reclinerrepairguy4155 thank you very much for the help!!
Have a vid on repairing a very squeaky (but new-ish) la-z-boy?
iComplainer - No video on that subject yet, sorry. If the chair is less than 1 year old, you should still have full warranty coverage and can ask your dealer to check it out.
They can also check it out if your chair is more than a year old, but there will likely be a charge associated with that (service call, etc.).
Noises are not unusual for motion (moving parts) furniture. And they can increase over time as the chair ages, particularly with rocker/recliners. However, if a NEW noise develops that was not previously present, and is fairly noticeable (loud), that can indicate that your recliner needs repair service.
Have a look at your rocker block and make sure it isn't coming loose. LaZBoy of Orlando has a video that tells you to use a paste wax on the rocker block contact area with the base, and to use a dry teflon lube on the springs if they become noisy. I realized that my rocker block was loose, and I was hearing the screws creaking/squeaking in the wood.
Can a rocker recliner be fixed so it does not rock?
@Nancy Marlowe - Yes. But since I don't do that procedure, there's no particular method that I would recommend.
Is it possible to make my recliner not rock as easily ?
I just put some thick books under each side of the back to stop it from rocking. Mine sits back a little too far anyway, so that turns into into a level stationary recliner.
I think I would drill another hole between the new bolts, and add another 7/16 bolt between the other two and skip the three #8 sheet rock screws....
I considered this as you recommended but the head of the bolt would interfere with the springs bracket, so I just did the two
I was told the rocker blocks are not available because the arm frames are now made of OSB not plywood. Meaning removing the rocker block from OSB will cause much of the OSB to splinter badly and not able to be reused. Ok but what about providing rocker blocks for older models made with plywood? I just get the whole arm frame, remove the rocker blocks, clean off the OSB remnants with a rasp and use for the repair.
bluesfanchad - Interesting. I never considered ordering an arm frame to remove the Rocker Block. I guess I was concerned that if I got one that was fully-adhered, I might damage it trying to remove it. Like that Dowel Pin I had to drill out in the video.
I agree, there's no good reason they can't provide that part separately. Especially since Rocker Block repairs are still fairly common.
@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Probably because the mother______s have figured out, if you can't repair them you have to buy an *ENTiRE* new chair. Oh wait. I'm insulting private businessmen and capitalists aren't I?? Nevermind. They probably just never had that same complaint from customers 5,000 times before [looks into the the computer monitor with dead eyes]
The Rocker Block should still be a warrantied part. That is why they no longer make it. Cheaper to sell you what you don't need. When you see the arm frame, you'll buy another chair....
I could see this being reasonable if the OSB was destroyed. Mine was perfectly serviceable when I put mine back together using the rocker block that came with the chair. If you have the woodworking tools/ability, a rocker block would be a quite simple thing to make yourself, if you can't find one online through third party places.
I don't understand why but 7/16 - 20 x 3.25" bolts are very hard to find and very expensive !!! Even washers and fasteners to fit the bolts are expensive !!
I'm not sure of your location, but you can find 7/16 in bolts that work at Tractor Supply for like $4/lb. Cost me under $2 for what I needed.
@@timdgsr I wish I lived near you.
Four 7/16"-20 x 3.25" bolts, Eight 7/16" x 2.25" washers, Eight 7/16-20 nuts and a 4 oz bottle of glue are running me about $40, but its still cheaper than buying a new chair.
I'm sorry I think it'd be easier just to get a piece of hardwood cut it out the same way and drill the holes to match exactly I don't think I'd want to spend that much money for a piece of wood
Our arm box was made out of OSB. Very disappointed in that material choice.
@laurel7562 - Unfortunately that's rather common with mass-produced furniture brands these days and has been for some time.
Thas. What I do. Cut wood. And maket