this post was submitted on 15 Sep 2023
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Do-It-Yourself, Repairs and Fixes

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Share tips and tricks to keep people from throwing out that broken item. Repair before replace!

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I recently stumbled upon a fantastic swivelling recliner chair on trash day in Amsterdam, but there's one small catch – it's missing its base! The chair itself is in great condition, and I couldn't resist the opportunity to bring it back to life. However, I'm facing a bit of a dilemma when it comes to finding the right chair base to restore this gem to its former glory.

What I want to achieve:

  1. The chair is a swivelling recliner, so I need a base that allows it to swivel.
  2. I don't have any information about the chair's brand or model.
  3. I'm open to both purchasing a replacement base if I can find the right one, or attempting a DIY solution if that's feasible.
  4. I am located in the Netherlands, so I would prefer to get something local but am happy to order online.

I've tried searching online, but without knowing the specific chair's make and model, it's been challenging to identify the exact base I need. So, I'm turning to this wonderful DIY community for your expertise. Here are a few questions I have:

  1. What strategies or resources can I use to identify the chair's make and model based on any existing markings or features?
  2. If I can't find a matching base, how challenging would it be to fabricate a custom base that accommodates both swiveling and reclining functions?
  3. Are there any common standards or measurements for chair bases that I should be aware of when searching for a replacement?
  4. Any other tips, tricks, or advice on how to go about this project would be greatly appreciated!

Please let me know if I should add any pictures to the album HERE.

Thanks, everyone who takes the time to read this and respond ^ _ ^

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[–] [email protected] 2 points 11 months ago (1 children)

That metal shaft sticking out of the bottom might come out of the chair, leaving a hole in that black piece into which a new desk chair base and cylinder could be installed. If so, that shaft might be really wedged into the chair, may take some creativity to dislodge it.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 11 months ago (1 children)

If I were to successfully remove the cylinder, do you have any idea what I would need to look for to fit a new base onto the chair?

[–] [email protected] 1 points 11 months ago* (last edited 11 months ago)

A cylinder such as this https://a.co/d/59kZeu3

Base such as this https://a.co/d/i6epzlH

If the new cylinder doesn't fit the existing chair hole, maybe you could couple the metal rods together with something like this https://www.lowes.com/pd/SteelTek-1-1-4-in-Silver-Galvanized-Steel-Structural-Pipe-Fitting-Coupling/999931022 That piece specifically might not be long enough to securely grasp both pieces, but it gives you an idea what to look for.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 11 months ago (1 children)

I measured the metal pin that is hanging out. It irritatingly 20mm, so looks like I can't use a standard office chair base.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 11 months ago

If the pin is too small for a standard base, you may be able to get a metal reducer/bearing or something to make the hole in the base narrower. Like this https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-1-Count-1-2-in-Bronze-Machine-Bushing/3018257