The La-z-boy Ratcheting Recline Feature

[@csly6411]

La-Z-Boy is friendly but they want $150/hr labor. You, my friend, are a treasure! God bless!

[@raydelea5426]

Thanks so much for posting this video. I had to replace the paw and pawl rack on my 2005 La-Z-Boy Recliners. It is truly amazing that they even lasted this long. The La-Z-Boy Factory sent me three replacement assemblies for only $15 total. All I had to do was provide chair serial numbers (ACK numbers) off of the original chair tags. Thank goodness I recorded those numbers on one of the La-Z-Boy owner's books because all of the original ID tags were removed when we had the chairs reupholstered. The 1.5" x 0.25 blocks definitely did the trick on reattaching the base. There was no need to tap the new pawl racks. The self-tapping original screws worked just fine. It took me about one hour per chair to do the repair. The only challenging part of the repair was restapling the leather near the interior of the recliner. PS: I called my original Lazy Boy store and they gave me a La-Z-Boy number in Michigan to call and get the parts. There is no need to buy parts off of ebay for an exorbitant price when you can get them, brand new, from La-Z-Boy for next to nothing. And, they came within two weeks of ordering them. As a footnote: I purchased two clips (pawl caps) off of Amazon for the pawl (a short term fix) . . . they didn't work at all and I returned them. Bottom line . . . get replacement parts from La-Z-Boy! I always wondered what those metal slivers were on my carpet over the last few years. It was those clips gradually falling apart. LOL

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@raydelea5426 - You're welcome -- great post!

[@mikepotter969]

Thanks for this video. Last night I repaired our old lazy boy, not only saving a thousand dollars but also having the satisfaction of repairing something myself in what has become a throw away world. It is people like you making the world a better place by sharing your knowledge.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Mike Potter - Good job, Mike. And thanks for the kind words!

[@johnlawrence2928]

You made that repair so simple, thank you! The pawl and ratchet are guaranteed for life (my chairs are currently 10 years old), the company only charged a few bucks for shipping the parts. Curiously, my bride had found that hardened pawl tip in the carpet years ago (or the vacuum did) but nobody knew what it was. She had an 'ah-ha' moment when you showed it in the video. She'd saved it all this time just in case. 😄

[@LordBourbon]

We recently purchased some la-z-boy recliners from 1997 online that were in great shape still. And had this exact same issue, so thank you! I had no idea where to start, and after seeing this video, I was able to order the part off Amazon and can now enjoy my la-z-boy recliners!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@LordBourbon - You're welcome -- good job!

[@zuzuspetals9281]

Thank you for saving my chair. Husband used your video to fix it several years ago and I’m still enjoying it. Simple and clear instructions, I got to keep my favorite recliner. And my Border Collie loves it too.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@zuzuspetals9281 - You're welcome -- and kudos to your husband!

[@Tom-ik5sc]

This video was everything I needed! Thank you SO much! After watching this, I figured I needed to order a new assembly. However, I noticed the spring which attaches the pawl to the arm, was missing. I happened to have a small spring from a pack of drum brake hardware which fit. It probably has a bit more tension than the proper spring, but it has completely fixed the collapsing issue. The pawl and rack are in good condition. On a side note, the bang you mentioned at the end, I thought was a sign of wear. I'm glad to know it's normal. However, since replacing that spring, the bang is gone, and releasing the lever is basically silent. Thanks again!

[@loopev]

Great video. I'm elderly and I'm going to show this to my son and see if he can fix mine for me. I looked at new chairs and most are electric or have the button on the side, meaning you have to be strong to push the foot rest down, which I can not do. I need the handle. Your video seems so well done and explains everything in detail. Hopefully my son can find the time to repair mine. He is great with repairs so I think he can. Thank you so much for the video.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@loopev - You're welcome!

[@TrevorColgan]

I replaced the ratchet and pawl on my lazboy following this video. Your instructions and video are so specific and clear I managed without any trouble. Thanks so much - it saved me over $100 to get a repairer to do it.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@TrevorColgan - You're welcome -- good job!

[@DavidDavisL]

Great instructions - clear and easy to follow. I was able to replace the rack and pawl on our recliner based on this walk-through. Contacted La-z-boy and ordered the parts late on Tuesday, 6 October - just a $14.83 handling charge since the parts are covered by a lifetime warranty. Received the parts on Saturday, 10 October via UPS. Installed on Sunday. Installation went smoothly for the most part. A couple of the screws for the rack were very tight, but they were eventually removed. Installing those screws was again a little challenging as they were quite tight going back in. The end result was better than expected and the recliner is very quiet again. Very much appreciate the guidance - thank you!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@David Davis - You're welcome -- & congrats on fixing your chair!

[@Walnut500]

Thank you! I bought a used la-z boy recliner to replace my other used la-z boy recliner, my "new" one would slide down randomly. thanks to your video I was able to take the parts out of my old one and put it in my "new" one! also thanks to another one of your videos about having difficulties getting parts, I decided to cannibalise that entire recliner for spare parts.

[@richardsmith7823]

Thank you for an excellent video on replacing the ratchet/paw parts. One of the easiest to follow video's I have seen in years. The step by step is very clear, clean, and easy to follow. The spacers for the rocker springs is an excellent tip. Wish I have thought of that the first time... I did not know that the paw had a hardend cap on it. So I removed it and built it up with some 8013 welding rod and the ground it back to angle...Of course here I am a few years down the road with the same problem...Going to track down the parts and do it right this time. Thanks again for the excellent video. Keep up the great work!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Richard Smith - Thanks for the kind words, you're most welcome!

[@snapdragon8888]

I just replaced my rack and pawl also. Very clear, informative video. Saved me a lot of money.

[@douglassullivan3717]

Wow! Thanks so much for this video & your knowledge. My 77 year old mom just received those exact two pieces from Lazyboy… you made it look easy, I’m gonna give it a try this weekend… very grateful sir

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Douglas Sullivan - You're welcome and good luck with the repair!

[@terb5804]

I just replaced the ratchet, with a new one, on one of my chairs. The holes in the ratchet were not tapped "No threads" so I had to tap them, 1/4-20 and the bit to remove the bolts is a T-30. Thanks to Recliner Repair Guy for the great videos!!

[@benebooksbookkeeping1194]

Thank you so much for this video! My poor wife has a five-gallon bucket holding up the foot of the recliner, and has to crawl out of the chair with great effort when she gets up. With your help I should be able to fix this for her.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

BeneBooks Bookkeeping - You're welcome!

[@GaryA]

Thanks for this great video. After getting the pawl and pawl rack shipped from La-Z-Boy I was able to replace the parts this morning and the chair now fully reclines like brand new. The only problem I ran into was that the 3 holes in the pawl rack were not pre-threaded. I had to put the pawl rack in a vice and slowly turn the screws into each hole manually, by hand, to cut threads into them. Then it was much easier to tighten it in place on the chair.

[@NormNormGMan]

Thank you so much for sharing. I was able to purchase the parts and I was able to extend the life of my chair and avoided having to purchase a new chair !

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@NormNormGMan - You're welcome -- good job!

[@BrandonBlackmoor]

YOU ROCK! I had no idea why my wife's La-z-boy kept slipping. It turns out that the "pawl cap" came off. One of the tiny tabs on one side broke off. I would never have been able to figure that out without your video. How did anyone ever figure this stuff out before KZbin?!?

[@LaurenSmith-vd7ti]

Thank you for all these instruction so clearly demonstrated! With your help we ordered our replacement parts and did the repair ourselves. I am grateful that my husband’s favorite 14-year old chair operates like new! He has no more sad face....so we are both pleased as punch!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Lauren Smith - You're welcome -- well done! :)

[@MatthewLantz]

Thanks for making this video. It gave me the confidence to fix my chair. The wear on my pawl was exactly the same as in the video. I couldn’t find parts online so contacted La-Z-Boy and those parts are covered by a lifetime warranty. The parts cost $13 for shipping and it took me less than an hour to fix it. Thanks again!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Matthew Lantz - You're welcome!

[@gordoncavis1374]

*REALLY* well done 'how to' - TY for the time & effort to share this. I'm on a tight fixed income & must sleep in my recliner for health reasons, so being able to have my chair fixed for the parts cost is truly fortunate. Again, THANKS !!!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Gordon Cavis - You're welcome!

[@mikebossner6404]

Thank you Recliner Repair Guy. Your video was a great help when I replaced the pawl and gear rack. Did it just as you said and it worked perfectly. You obviously know exactly what you are doing. The tips on those shims for the springs shows you have done this a time or two. Thanks again for your help.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@mike bossner - You're welcome -- good job!

[@PoopyPants-1955]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. Fixed mine for free. The furniture store owner gave me the piece no charge. The only thing I did was slide the wood shims in from the side instead of the ends. I used door shims,worked perfectly

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Jeff Vickers - You're welcome - good job!

[@charliekirkland9322]

Thank you for these Lazy Boy Videos. They have helped me get my recliner/rocker back in working order. The videos were very informative and helpful!!!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@charliekirkland9322 - You're welcome -- good job!

[@RueMontagu]

Extremely helpful! Clear and concise demonstration. Thank you!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Donna Donna - You're welcome!

[@SimplyAndi1]

Thank you so much for this video. I was able to identify the mystery part I found under my chair ages ago (tip off the pawl), then correctly diagnose the problem and identify problem parts. I was able to get the parts under warranty from lazy boy. Just paid shipping. Finally got it all fixed today flawlessly because I watched your video. Thanks again!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Andrea Smith - That's terrific -- you're welcome!

[@jeffschmidt207]

I just finished replacing the pawl and pawl rack on my chair. Works again! Your video was very informative. Thank you!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Jeffrey Schmidt - You're welcome!

[@chmann7476]

Great instructional video! I ordered the pawl and pawl rack from ebay b/c I couldn't find them on the la-z-boy website. Got the parts today and it's fixed. Thank you!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@chmann7476 - You're welcome -- good job!

[@davidgraham9590]

Thanks. We bought a nice used recliner and got it home and found this problem with it. Turned out just to be the blade part was worn. I took the old part off our old recliner and put it on the one we bought. Luckily they were a match. Thanks for your videos, they are great.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@David Graham - You're welcome - good job!

[@seanshay7646]

You have very good info on all this stuff. You are very good with this. I forgot to put a wood rocker between the springs and upset because I couldn't match the hose with the wood. I then saw your video about how to put a new bottom on The Lazy Boy recliner chair. I saw you left one side of the spring up and then the other side and put a wood there. Thank you so much you are great

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Sean Shay - Thanks -- you're welcome!

[@mishsparks]

Thanks for your very clear and thorough demonstrations and useful tips. Much appreciated.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Mish Sparks - You're welcome!

[@rondurand8403]

Thanks for a very informative video. I was able get pawl and pawl rack from the area Lazy Boy outlet. My Lazy Boy was five years old but thankfully these parts have a lifetime warranty. The local furniture store where it was purchased had not advised of the warranty and was going to charge for the parts and labor. With your video I was able to do the repairs and that done the trick. I did observe the hardened metal piece was missing on the original pawl and it had two worn groves in it. Thanks again.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Ron Durand - You're welcome!

[@Alan-qc3dk]

Thank you! I moved to a new house and somehow this piece was no longer connected to the seat. Luckily it just needed to be put back in place. Couldn't find it without you.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Alan Stupak - You're welcome!

[@Snail3r]

Thank you for making these videos im in europe and where i live its hard/impossible to find local knowledge on how these work :) im on my third lazy boy in 20 years due to not knowing how to repair them, even had to order my current recliner from abroad since there is no local retailer anymore. Your videos helped when i installed the swivel since the instructions werent that great for someone that didnt know the names of the parts that it reffered to especially the spring removal and replacment was helpfull.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

SNAiL MAN - You're welcome -- I'm glad the videos helped you out!

[@marshallgatten6465]

I found a La-Z Boy recliner at a garage sale in what looked like brand new condition. It was vintage enough that it was made with a hardwood base instead of the particle board they use now. It looked like it had never been sat upon. The only problem it had was that the ratcheting recline wasn’t working. They wanted ten whole dollars for it. While sitting in my car at the garage sale I did some googling and found this video. Then I went back in and looked at the pawl. The steel tip had fallen off. I checked eBay and found a new part for $45. I told the seller at the garage sale I’d give them five dollars. I brought it home and waited for the pawl. I now have a beautiful and comfortable La-Z Boy in perfect working order for a grand total of $50. Thank you!!!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@marshallgatten6465 - You're welcome -- good job!

[@marshallgatten6465]

@reclinerrepairguy4155 - The two screws that hold the pawl mechanism in keep getting loose causing the ratchet to slip. Do you have any suggestions to prevent that? I’ve thought about drilling through the wood and using bolts, but there’s VERY little space where the nuts would be and the wooden floor.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@@marshallgatten6465 - The easiest thing to try is to plug (or partially plug) the hole with wood. Then run the screws in by hand until they have a good "bite" or hold. If the first attempt or two only pushes the pieces of wood to the side of the hole, add more as needed. I use slivers or chunks cut off of a hardwood dowel for the plug.

[@marshallgatten6465]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Interesting. I’ve done that to fix stripped holes (for door hinges in particular), but it wouldn’t have occurred to me for a hole where the screws are turning themselves loose in a hardwood. I’ll give it a shot!

[@capoeirabrasil]

Thank you for the detailed video. I was able to fix a recliner that didn't lock with the footrest up - discovered that the two screws holding the pawl in place had pulled out of the wood. Good as new now!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@David Donnelly - You're welcome - good job!

[@DavidSmith-vo4ls]

Great job! Thank you for your video's on La-Z-Boy repair of the pawl and pawl ratchet as they really helped me to repair my recliner!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@David Smith - You're welcome -- good job!

[@womanofsamaria]

Currently, $190/hr to repair La Z Boy recliners. Thank you for taking time to share your knowledge with us.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@womanofsamaria - You're welcome! Unfortunately a $190/hr labor rate means "we really don't want to work on your chair unless you throw a lot of money at us!"

[@dianemartin514]

Awesome video. Explanation clear, step by step how to do myself. Just need the parts, drill, screwdriver and spacers.

[@GraceLikeRainHouse]

What a nightmare dealing with the company! I had a wild idea to look for parts on Amazon and found them for a fraction of the cost. The two bolts that fasten the power rod were so tight I couldn't get them out but after an hour I did. Thank you so much for your videos, I saved $1500 doing it myself. Ex/aircraft mechanic.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Richard Schmohl - You're welcome - good job!

[@martinmaloney7294]

You are a true gentleman, ordered my new pawl and will complete the repair due to your great video . You offer a great service to us DIY ers .

[@pt6108]

Made 5 years ago but still relevant today. Thank you so much. Now I can replace it myself.🤩

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@pt6108 - You're welcome!

[@alansutterlin3016]

This video was really informative and helpful! We were able to diagnose the problem and fix it very quickly thanks to this video! Thank you, Recliner Repair Guy!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Alan Sutterlin - You're welcome!

[@cookie761]

I am a 78 year old woman who uses her Lazy Boy every night to sleep in. Your video is wonderful! I know I'm not up to fixing my recliner, but that's one of the things that needs to be done to it. The other thing is that, as I rock, the chair sort of twists a little bit and starts bumping. It sounds like wood on wood. So I have to stop rocking and put my feet down on the floor while I twist/jerk the chair counterclockwise. It stays for a while, and soon I have to do it again. Repeat as needed!. Do you have a video on fixing that? I'll say what everybody else probably would like to say...I WISH YOU LIVED NEXT DOOR!!! Thank you so much for your video. At least I know what needs to be done to it. God bless you!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Cookie - It's not unusual for rocker/recliners to have some side-to-side movement. But when parts start rubbing or bumping (& you're not over-rocking), you likely have some loose or damaged parts causing the problem. Have an experienced La-z-boy repair tech check it out. They can also check out your ratcheting recline parts while they're at it.

[@johnfritz9885]

Great Video! Simple process once you know it. I ordered the 2 pieces from La-Z-Boy directly. No Charge! Under their warranty, just paid shipping. The only issue was the 3 holes in the new Pawl Rack were NOT tapped as required. It's a 1/4-20 screw. Tapped these and everything went smoothly.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@John Fritz - Those fasteners, as well as some others, are designed to self-tap. That's why I use a ratchet to install them, to apply more pressure.

[@cwavt8849]

You got us through it. Couldn't have done it without you. thank you so very much

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

c w avt - You're welcome!

[@Igotnyowngametoplay]

Please accept my thanks for you having created & posted this video.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Gigi Kinney - You're welcome!

[@patriotgrammy8632]

Wow, I think this is the problem with my chair. Thank you for the video and now all I need to do is order the parts and find a nice man to fix it for me.

[@loveistheanswer7702]

Thank you RRG...we thought our new chairs were defective with the loud pop sound releasing the recline mechanism. Good information.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Soozie Sunshine - You're welcome!

[@Hooodaddy]

I just replaced my rack and pawl. Thanks. Great information.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@rich g - You're welcome!

[@byronshore3503]

You are a great teacher!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@byron shore - Thanks!

[@tastytherrien5106]

Great video, I am only a third of the way into it but I’ve already fixed mine. The ratcheting mechanism wasn’t engaging with the piece that is held by my failing wooden frame. Also, the background music is fire.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Tasty Therrien - Good job!

[@billmar426]

Thanks for this great step by step video. I’m going to,order replacement parts now.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@billmar426 - You're welcome!

[@davidparker3200]

Just fixed the ratchet mechanism thanks to this video. Thank you!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@David Parker - You're welcome!

[@erniehayden]

THANK YOU! for posting this video. My recliner was built in 2006 and has the ratcheting feature -- that is currently not holding its place. The ratchet appears to be worn, the pawl appears to be ok - not worn like the one you showed. Anyway, thanks for helping me troubleshoot!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Ernie Hayden - You're welcome!

[@jimmcfadden1438]

Thanks for the video. It was very helpful. I was able to make my old lazyboy work like new. Thanks for your efforts.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@jimmcfadden1438 - You're welcome -- good job!

[@rvenneman]

Excellent video. Thanks for taking the time to make this great video. I learned a lot! I thought my chair was just a lemon.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Richard Venneman - You're welcome!

[@mstucker52]

Thanks again for the video. The boys at Lazyboy comped me both parts and I just changed them. Didn’t need to take off the rocker bottom. 70 yr ol lady😃

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@mstucker52 - You're welcome - good job!

[@robertchadwick2925]

Thank you so much for sharing your expertise. Your videos guided me through the whole process successfully.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Robert Chadwick -- You're welcome -- and congrats!

[@LVanderMolen]

Thank you for the utube lesson. It made the task easy

[@jansinna9221]

Great information and video. I think I can even do it myself once I get the new parts.

[@MrTheBigNoze]

Thank you so much! Fixed my issue of it slipping, the ratchet was all worn down. I really wish LaZBoy would secure that flap with Velcro rather than 50 staples…

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@MrTheBigNoze - You're welcome -- good job!

[@babblingbrook-365]

Can you tell me where you got the parts? Thanks!

[@MrTheBigNoze]

I called LaZBoy and they sent me the pawl and rack assembly for free, plus $14 shipping. There is a lifetime warranty for the mechanism @@babblingbrook-365

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@@babblingbrook-365 - See this video -----> kzbin.info/www/bejne/a36ZlWdmp917Y9U

[@imperial56]

You do a great job with these videos. Thanks!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

imperial56 - You're welcome!

[@klesmiley]

I really enjoyed watching your video and was ready to order the parts and do the job myself. I even turned the base of the chair over and looked at the parts. But the more I thought about it the problem with my chair isn't ratcheting. The problem with my chair is when the lever is engaged to raise the footrest sometimes it gets "hung up". By dropping my leg on the footrest a few times it will "release" and the footrest can be raised. It sometimes does the same thing when lowering the footrest. I have noticed, however, that since having turned the base over it seems to be operating very smoothly. (Tempting the Fates!) What I discovered when looking at the pawl and ratchet is the pawl was not in the middle of the rachet but was over to one side of the rachet. Apparently, the pawl was actually falling off one side of the pawl and that was what was causing it to get "hung up." I moved the pawl more to the center of the rachet and at the other end of the pawl where it is attached to the drive rod I moved it over a bit too. From that description can you tell me if you think my actions may have remedied the problem I described? And do you think the adjustment is permanent or if it is going to reoccur? And...am I pushing my luck? LOL! Is there another repair that needs to be done to correct this situation? And an observation. Commenter Matt Ferguson said he couldn't find this part new anywhere online other than from au. I also found it at the au store. eBay had 4 or 5 used assemblies. By enlarging the pictures it was easy to see that the teeth on some of the rachets were worn but one, in particular, seemed very new looking. I started out with the dealer here in town but they were very discouraging because my chair is so old. The tag said the expected shipping date was in 1987! They told me that parts prior to 1992 were no longer stocked. But since then I've found on a website that the pawl and rachet will fit any LaZBoy chair regardless of age. But the dealer told me I'd have to contact the manufacturer. I almost gave up. That's when I started searching online. Thank you for reading this long comment and for any answers you may provide! PS: I have pictures of the underside of my chair.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@klesmiley - It's not uncommon for the Pawl to not be aligned perfectly with the Pawl Rack. However, if the Pawl is not making contact with both rows of the metal teeth on the rack, that suggests another problem. Have an experienced tech diagnose it for you. By the way, the 3-Position Footrest mechanism could be contributing to this opening / closing problem as well. And yes, the Pawl & Pawl Rack parts are still available for your chair. It's important to understand that some dealers will focus primarily on sales, and will not want to help people with parts or repairs. There's not enough profit in it for them. That's why they discouraged you... and misled you. This is not uncommon. To learn more about the ups & downs with trying to get replacement parts & repair service, see this video ---> kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWnIZ3-Qgt2CrLM Also, if you don't purchase mechanism parts directly through La-z-boy or one of their dealers, the parts are not likely to be new, and you may be grossly overpaying for those parts as well.

[@pdv9184]

My ratchet &pawl are still in good shape on this 25 yr old lazy boy ive got, My problem is the major "CLUNK" I get when releasing the pawl as mentioned in your video. Im on a 2nd floor hardfloor & ive had complaints from 1st flr and so what i did was 1: place a rug to help absorb sound. 2: lift up leg pressure as you push the release handle forward ( which is very counterintuitive). Saying this is normal operation to have a clunk sound is not kosher. I would think that the R/D dept @ LB would have an answer for this by now? They must have better designs? thanks for the vids Recliner repair Guy!!!

[@JW-th2dw]

So glad I found your channel! My old La z Boy rocks back fine and stays engaged but it suddenly won’t go back down when you close the foot rest. It stays engaged. How can I fix that?

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@J W - Issues with the 3-Position Footrest can also cause that problem. Remove the back & turn the bottom of the chair over onto the floor. Now you can operate the mechanism & see what's going on.

[@kattoneycliffe6715]

Awesome! Just what I needed to know! Had the chair upside down earlier today! Didn’t notice the condition of the bracket bit to the pawl bit (ratcheted?) that it can slip from. Forgotten the right words already! 😽

[@maestrobamusic]

Excellent video. I was able to fix my chair. The two screws holding the pall (not sure of spelling) to the bass were lying on the floor. I think it will need a third screw since the holes may be partially stripped. But the chair is now working and I understand how to fix it. Thank you!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Michael Paul Gibson - You're welcome!

[@peterbender8907]

Have a question about lazy boy chair mine when I recline it my feet are so high in air I can not get out of it. My weight is around 300 bought chair new from lazy boy dealer in Toledo . I cant figure out whats wrong with it. Do you have any Ideas.? Thank you.

[@gwmattos]

My first two recliners I kept for 50 plus years before replacing the Pawl sub assembly and the Paul indentured metal mechanism they came in a set and I got them from the local lazy boy dealer where I purchased the two new chairs after fixing the 50-year-old chairs which I gave to habitat for humanity as the two chairs were inspected by them and had many years to go as I kept them in well maintained order including shampooing the cloth every 6 months and I did have the original papers as the original owner to get the free parts with the lifetime warranty on the metal parts. Couple of weeks ago I went back to the lazy boy showroom and the original closed its doors two and a half years ago because the owner retired. Here it is 2021 2 1/2 years for the new chairs and I had to replace the PAWL sub assembly and the indentured metal unit. My experience with the lazy boy's for 53 years has caused me to look at how that assembly is made and the hardened steel portion needs to be electrically welded and not clipped on. When that p a w l assembly is made and it appears that it's been used for at least 50 years a slight re-engineering would cause it to last the life of the chair. However, lazy boy in my opinion based on what I know having fixed several parts on that specific chair the part lasts longer than most people keep the chair. My first two lazy boys are in a new home and those folks tell me the quality of The originals 50 years ago were better and I would agree. Thank you for producing these videos on how to repair a lazy boy and the chair is very easy to repair and replace a part it only took me 20 to 30 minutes as I wanted to be very careful I did not cause any damage to my brand new chairs. Thank you for having a professional video showing customers how to do it yourself and not having to pay someone to do something that anyone with a 8th grade education can do with the proper tools. Your safety comment about hand starting the screws before using the power tool is spot on and anyone doing this kind of work and send themselves to the hospital and have lots of stitches not to exclude the pain and suffering.

[@bigfootmn]

Bruce Thompson One thing I didn't see mentioned is that the holes in the rack are not threaded. The bolts that go into the rack thread into the rack itself. That means that the bolts actually have to cut the threads I wound up having to put the rack in my vise to hold it steady, then used my drill on the bolt to cut the threads. Much easier than leaving the assembly on the chair. Also, I found it easier to remove a couple more staples to get the fabric loose rather than cutting the fabric. But the overall instructions were very helpful and some of the little tricks (the wood blocks on the springs) made the job much easier.

[@vallaindigital]

Thanks a lot for this video!! 😊 Although my recliner's mechanism was not used like the one from your video, I did experience the lock not locking to the furthest point. It would reach it and lock at first, but then, even without moving at all, it would skip down one level suddenly. And it started to do this a couple of days ago, and hasn't stop since. I removed the back, flipped the seat, and examined the mechanism as you have shown, only to find the little hardened metal plate on the floor. the little sort of hooks on the sides that keeps it on are broken, so the plate fell. I wonder if that means that I need to buy a whole new pawl, or if the little plate can be purchased by itself. But anyway, it seems the plate is also important to keep the locks up to the max. On lower levels it seems to stay locked. Thanks again!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Vincent Allain - The small metal plate is the Pawl Cap. It's made of harder steel & protects the Pawl (black lever) tip -- that rides on the stairs -- from wear. When those come off you should replace the Pawl, as the Pawl Caps are not available separately. You should also replace the Pawl Rack (metal stairs). It's likely that a couple of the stairs have become worn, causing the lever to slip when it comes to rest on the worn spot.

[@momster1453]

OMG! Thank you SO much for this video! I was able to take the pawl from my broken la-z-boy (which was in perfect condition) & replace the grooved pawl on the la-z-boy that I use everyday. It works perfectly now & I couldn't have done it without this video! ☺

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@MOMSTER 14 - You're welcome!

[@jackiegrimsey7888]

I replaced the rack and pawl on both our recliners thanks to you4 KZbin videos. You are a great teacher. Thank you so much. I hop3 you can now help me with another problem. I am having them recovered by an upholsterer, one has been returned but the back no longer tilts back. It is locked in the upright position. What did the upholsterer do wrong? She doesn’t think she did anything to cause this problem. I hope you can help with an answer to this one.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Jackie Grimsey - The Seat Swings control the back tilt. She likely reinstalled them incorrectly, or tightened the tension adjustment thumbsrew all the way, which you do not want to do. For Seat Swings install, see -----> kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKuxYqtrn79gnaM For back-tilt tension adjustment, see ----> kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3i8hGRtnduCsLs

[@roseannawilliams9000]

Thank you for these videos. I just fixed my recliner!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Roseanna Williams - Terrific! You're welcome!

[@johnduffy6546]

Excellent tutorial. I think I can fix mine now. Thank you!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@John Duffy - You're welcome!

[@dmsaito6946]

My friend's recliner fails to stay reclined. I looked at it and the pawl has no tension to keep it engaged with the ratchet. The spring that you remove at 6:46 of your video is not there. Is this spring necessary to keep the pawl engaged with the ratchet? Is the spring available from La-z-boy or can I substitute another spring if one is necessary to the operation of the ratchet mechanism? Thank you for the great video for helping me understand the workings of the chair.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@David Saito - That spring is not present on most Pawls, and I'm not sure what the intended purpose was for it. But I have not seen it used on newer designs. There is another spring built into the base of the Pawl that pitches it forward and engages it with the Pawl Rack (metal stairs). Obviously that spring is bent or broken and no longer doing its job. Order a new Pawl. You can request the additional spring if you like. They will only send the spring if it was originally used on your chair. If it was not, they will not send it. Either way, a new Pawl will work, regardless as to whether it has this additional spring or not. Tip: Order a new Pawl Rack as well. That way, when the ratcheting recline starts slipping, you'll have the part needed to correct that problem as well.

[@dmsaito6946]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 I saw the spring built into the base of the pawl but it seemed like it was too weak to force the pawl to engage with the pawl rack. The spring is not broken but just seems to thin to do the job. That's why I thought replacing the missing spring might fix his problem.

[@pfleeger2010]

I was relaxing in my recliner the other day when my 85 pound German Short Hair decided it was time for cuddles. She jumped up on the foot rest and the chair made a loud pop and the ratchet let loose and the chair dove down. Now I know how to fix it.

[@ryanramsey9030]

Thank you for being so helpful ☺️

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@ryan ramsey - You're welcome!

[@0828-d4p]

Thanks for the excellent instructions! Can it be done without removing the base?

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@0828 0828 - Yes, but it's more difficult to do the repair that way.

[@0828-d4p]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you for the quick response!

[@Blackbull1975]

Do you have a video of how to fix a lob-sided foot rest on a recliner that ratchets out. The right side is lower than the left side and looks goofy. Otherwise everything else works great. if you have a video could I please get the link to it? Thanks for making these videos

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@garysmith9767 - Sounds like one of your Leg Extension scissors is bent, loose or broken. If one is damaged, I recommend installing a new set & replacing both.

[@budgillett9627]

Welded hard service rod on the pawl. Works great. Had no idea they had a warranty.

[@Believe_the_Bible]

Thanks for your video very informative. Our problem is that the foot rest only stays all the way up or all the way down and not in between. From your video I see that there was a spring that connects the ratcheting mechanism. Ours does not have a spring would that be the cause of it not staying up?

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Believe_the_Bible - The footrest positions that you're referring to have to do with the 3- Position Footrest feature, not the Ratcheting Recline (the video where you placed your comment). To learn more about the 3-Position Footrest, see this video ------> kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6awipynd9Vjr5Y Keep in mind that although many La-z-boy recliners have this footrest feature, not all of them do.

[@Believe_the_Bible]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you so much for getting back to me it was helpful. If I may just impose a bit more. I did find the part that you showed in your three position foot rest video. There was only one on one side. Should there be one on the other side? There is a hole for it. And the last question do I need that spring? I ordered one from Home Depot which I probably will have to improvise to make it work. Thanks again very much.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@@Believe_the_Bible - Yes, you need both clips, one on each side. And they need to be in good condition, as described in the video. No, you don't need the spring.

[@Believe_the_Bible]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you, again.

[@martinmaloney7294]

Great video , you are my hero!

[@juanitawaite4330]

Dear Recliner Repair Guy, we have a La-Z-Boy rocker- recliner and it's fairly new. The feet lift ratcheting is really LOUD & when you let it your feet down from the most elevated position, it wants to catapult you out of the chair!! Any ideas on what is causing that? Thank you! Great videos.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Juanita Waite - If your chair is less than 1-year old it is still has full warranty coverage. Contact the dealer (seller) where you purchased the chair to report the problem. If it's more than 1-year old you'll have to pay for a service call to have it checked out, or take the chair to them. Contact them for more information regarding service.

[@juanitawaite4330]

Thank you & thanks for your great channel!

[@flyingryan3]

I spend about an hour a week dealing with this exact service call. Sounds like the sales rep should have explained our pawl system better to you. From what youre describing everything you're experiencing is normal. People normally don't notice just how Loud the mechanism is until they get it into their homes and (usually) onto hard wood floors. Being an a carpeted, concrete floor in a large open showroom tends to really mute the noise. Putting a door mat or rubber/foam pad under the base of the chair can help, but the noise will always be present unfortunately. As for the drop back down there's a couple factors. The farther you ratchet back the father the chairs got to travel and the travel is immediate once you push the handle forward and the pawl disengages. This is a complaint we typically see whith elderly clients or those who carry some extra weight on their lower half. We usually encourage these types of clients to gravitate towards our powered recliners as this too is a normal function of the chair and cannot be adjusted. If you happen to have a swivel base on the chair and even when trying to sit normally the chair wants to slump forward; contact the dealer you purchased the chair from. That's something we can fix

[@juanitawaite4330]

@@flyingryan3 Thank you very much!!!

[@fairydogmom]

You have taught me a lot. My Chair still has the potential of remaining my favorite chair. I’m a stubborn 71-yr-old grandma and Determined DIY’er. I’ve had my chair upside down many times to replace screws, connecting rod, etc. The foot rest wouldnt stay up, and replacing the connecting rod fixed it. (It’s a swivel rocker recliner.) The problem ever since is that after I have it in a comfortable reclining position, it still rocks while I’m reclining in it. And when I stand up from it, the ratchet thing clicks a few times tilting it back some. Please tell me what I did wrong or left out or did backwards if you know exactly what’s wrong from my description. The chair cost a small fortune mostly because of the very nice leather covering it, and I’m not going to give up on it.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@fairydogmom - It sounds like you may have the parts that attach the Pawl (ratcheting recline lever) to the Drive Rod installed incorrectly. The Trip Lever & Swivel Lever are 2 parts that have to be in proper position for the ratcheting recline to work properly. Ok, there's a thin metal bar that attaches to the back of the Pawl. At the other end of that bar is where it attaches with a pin & clip to a small part on the Drive Rod. This small part also has a "collar" around it. It's this small part & "collar" that may be installed wrong. The best thing to do is to find another manual La-z-boy recliner with ratcheting recline & take a photo of how these parts are installed. The chair can belong to a family member, friend, neighbor or even the store where you bought your chair. Any La-z-boy will do. Be sure to note whether the position of the parts in your photo are with the footrest open or closed! Then replicate that on your chair. Hopefully this will get things working properly again.

[@fairydogmom]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you. I will do that and let you know how it turns out. I truly appreciate your responding.

[@BobsGT235]

I received the pawl assy and pawl rack yesterday from La-Z-Boy. Cost $14.00 for handling. The pawl rack isn't threaded. I didn't feel like going out to buy a tap (didn't know the size anyway) so I carefully made the threads by using the original 3 screws that hold the rack to the board. PITA. La Z Boy is lazy for not supplying the part threaded like it supposed to be. But following this video, the chair is like new again. Thank you so much for taking the time and making such a helpful excellent video.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@BobsGT235 - You're welcome! Actually the Pawl Rack part has never been threaded. The fasteners that secure it in place are self-tapping.

[@chmann7476]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155You have to use a ratchet and the correct size bit. You need the leverage of the ratchet to tighten them. They are tough to tighten, but they will work. I just replaced the pawl and pawl rack today.

[@chrisw5948]

This knowledge would have helped me so much in repairing a broken lazy boy i once had. And also in the slow destruction of said recliner to fit it in the garbage over time. Now I'm shopping for a new one. Looks like it will cost at least $1000 to get my butt a new rocker swivel. I could have fixed the old one :(

[@chrisw5948]

Side note, the first break was the handle. Went to local dealer and they pulled one out of a box and sent me on my way. One of the extra long ones too. Never asked questions. My chair was like 30 years old. That is service.

[@kennethhurne591]

Great informative video. I bought ours new about 4 months ago and in the last week the rocker stopped locking when the foot rest was raised. Found that the bolt holding the pawl to the base had slipped out. The lock washer just isn't holding it. Is there a better method for this like using a threaded bolt with washers and a lock nut? Wondering what an appropriate size would be. Also noticed mine does not have the retention spring. Could that be the issue?

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Kenneth Hurne - Keep in mind that your chair should still be covered by warranty -- unless you bought it "as-is" -- and that the seller (dealer) is obligated to honor that warranty. There shouldn't be any lock washer, unless they've changed the design on some of their new chairs. Someone may have attempted a repair and failed to do it properly. Not all Pawls come with the extra spring. If your Pawl is engaging and releasing properly everything's fine.

[@Duchess-of-Camelot]

Thank you for this. I love my leather lazy boy and was afraid I was going to have to get rid of it. I found the pawl tip on the floor and didn't know what it was. I'm going to try to reattach it. Is that possible?

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Tracylynn - You can try reattaching the Pawl Cap, but it's not likely to stay on. It's easier to just the replace the Pawl. Also, if your chair is more than a few years old, the Pawl Rack (the metal stairs the Pawl rides on) is likely to have some wear. You can replace that now as well, or wait for it to start slipping when the wear becomes excessive.

[@michaelleeman2663]

Can easily be done without removing base. Torx T20 and T25. My paw rack came without the holes being threaded. Had to tap holes to 1/4-20 threads to use original 3 bolts.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Michael Leeman - Correction: The proper torx sizes are T25 & T30.

[@billuhman]

I did same. Removed without removing base. Took about 15 minutes total time. I pulled the carpet off one side. Cut it with a razor knife and glued it back down. Also yes T25/T30 as corrected.

[@sandspar]

@@billuhman Can you help me locate the new ratchet? Have searched the La-z Boy site, is it necessary to request this on the contact us form? Thank You.

[@darrelwilson7334]

Thank you for your informative videos. My chair started malfunctioning a couple days ago. I found the pawl cap laying on the floor with one of its tabs broken off. My question is, do they sell replacement caps, or do you have to buy the whole assembly? The rest of the parts are undamaged at this time. if I can't buys a new wear cap, I may just silver solder it on to the pawl.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Darrel Wilson - I don't believe the caps are available separately. Those caps are under pressure when the Pawl is engaged in the Pawl Rack and someone is seated in the chair. It's easier to just replace the Pawl. You might also need a new Rack. La-z-boy parts can be obtained from the manufacturer or one of their dealers.

[@Buzzaard1949]

Thank you. You and your video are very helpful!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Rob G - You're welcome!

[@jogosson8114]

Have you put on a pawl cap replacement? I got one but it's such tough metal that it is very difficult to make it stay on. Just tried without success a few minutes ago - looked like an easy fix. But there aren't instructions online for just putting the pawl cap on. Any advice (except to do what you did in the video?)... which might be next. I'd probably be done by now! :)

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Jo Gosson - Trying to replace the Pawl Cap if/when it comes off, is not recommended. Just replace the Pawl (Subassembly) & be done with it.

[@jogosson8114]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thanks ~ good advice. Short cuts don't usually work out. Much appreciated.

[@BeeMiller375]

Great Video, thanks, I am getting my pawl rack tomorrow, my son was sitting in the chair and the metal clip piece broke off the first part you replaced, so that is in good condition but when I looked I noticed the pawl rack part the groves were all worn and looked bad. So I am replacing that and I have 2 new clips for the part that catches. Is there a correct way the clips go onto that piece? Should I see the 2 U hooks that hold it in place or should they face away from me? Thanks

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Cco375Ranger - If the piece you're referring to -- "the metal clip piece" -- is the Pawl cap, I don't recommend reattaching or replacing those. Those are more likely to come loose & fall off again. Replacing the Pawl (lever) with a new one with a factory installed cap is usually a more permanent fix.

[@nemea23]

Hello! So I was able to replace the pawl and ratchet, but in putting the base back on, the screw holes that attach the spring assembly to the base have become stripped. I am now attempting this repair *without* the aid of my husband who insisted that the screws did not need to be straight nor the plate fit tight in its former position. But when done his way the chair creaked very loudly and would continue to rock long after I got up like it was inhabited with a poltergeist. 😒 Do you have a recommendation as to how I can repair the wood, re-drill the holes, and attach the base again? Epoxy and toothpicks? The other side is okay. I did not have the right size wood to put in the spring to keep it in the right position and I have to cut wood with a hack saw while I hold it with my other hand. Going to the tool library today.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@nemea23 - The easiest way to reattach the Rocker Springs is to use the adjacent mounting holes (next to the stripped out ones) on the spring. However, you first want to make sure the spring is in the correct position. If you only have 1 reamed-out hole, attach the other 2 screws first to establish the correct mounting position. Then use a screw gun (if you have one) on low to slowly start & drive the remaining screw. If you have more than 1 reamed-out hole, you can often use the impression the spring leaves on the surface it mounts to for establishing the correct position.

[@nemea23]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you! I'll let you know how I do...

[@nemea23]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 I'm afraid all the holes are stripped. Any tips on getting the spring back in the correct position?

[@nemea23]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 So mission accomplished! Thank you so much! You are a treasure! Now I can live my chair again! 💜

[@brandonpassey3963]

Thanks so much! I've been looking for help on this particular problem for a long time. Now if my pawl rack is worn out but my pawl is ok except that I don't have that extra spring that connects to the pawl would I want to find the spring first or just try to replace the pawl rack?

[@brandonpassey3963]

Also, where can I find the parts? I've looked on their website and googled it all but I can't seem to find it.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Brandon Passey - Some La-z-boys come with the Pawl spring and some don't. If the spring did not come with your chair, you don't need it. Replace the rack and you'll be back in business.

[@brandonpassey3963]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 thanks! Now where can I find the parts? I've tried their website. Do I have to go into a store for it?

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

Brandon Passey - You can get La-z-boy parts from the manufacturer, or one of their dealers... basically any retailer that's authorized to sell & service their products.

[@Undivided76]

14:03 Thank you. I came here for the "pop." I thought I was breaking my new chair.

[@brandisolsonnicolaisen1861]

This video was perfect. It showed us just what to look for. What we found was the pawl and the rack both seemed fine (and maybe we're wrong, we'll use your tutorial to fix them if we are) but what for sure is amiss is there's no spring. And, for the life of me I cannot figure out what spring we need for it. And everywhere I look for parts I'm only seeing the pawl and rack with not spring. I'm sure I'm missing something, but it's making me feel like a real dummy.

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@Brandi S Olson - As mentioned in the video, some chairs have that spring, others do not. Most of the chairs I work on do not. Remove the chair back & turn the bottom of the chair upside down. Next, open the footrest all the way. Then push down on the rear of the base to engage the Ratcheting Recline feature. You can see the Pawl engaging with the Pawl Rack. If it's slipping -- sliding over a section of the steps -- the Pawl Rack is worn and needs to be replaced.

[@brandisolsonnicolaisen1861]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 🤔😟 I'm at a loss. The grooves of the rack don't look worn down at all. And the pawl still has the plastic cover and no wear. 🤷🏻‍♀️ Thank you!

[@hamholfarm]

Need Assistance - Unidentified Part There is a piece near the bar from the Pawl where it attaches to the dive rod, I think it is termed. This is where the small spring clip is removed with pliers and then the bar is removed, and the spring clip is re-inserted so as not to lose. I do not see this part in any of your videos on the Reclining Feature, or the Reclining Mechanism Repair. It sort of looks like a short spring, or a spacer of some sort. I have photos if I could somehow share with you. Thank you!

[@reclinerrepairguy4155]

@hamholfarm - Sorry, I no longer have a public email address. If you need to replace the part, send a photo to the La-z-boy rep so they can identify it for you.

[@hamholfarm]

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 OK, thank you. Also, I forgot to say how awesome your videos are. Was able to replace pawl rack system, and ready to order parts for seat springs. Thanks!