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If you are moving, rearranging your living space, or performing basic maintenance, you may be wondering how to safely disassemble a La-Z-Boy recliner. The good news is that most La-Z-Boy recliners are designed with a removable, locking back, making disassembly straightforward and non-destructive.
With the proper technique and minimal tools, you can quickly and safely remove and reinstall the back of your recliner. This step-by-step guide walks you through the process and highlights important safety tips from La-Z-Boy delivery supervisor, Jason Nurnberg, to protect both you and your furniture.
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Yes, most La-Z-Boy recliners are designed to be disassembled, making them easier to move, transport, or service as needed.
This is especially helpful when navigating tight doorways, staircases, or smaller spaces, where a fully assembled recliner may not fit. By separating the chair into smaller sections, you reduce both its weight and overall size, making it much more manageable.
Many La-Z-Boy recliners are built with removable backrests and accessible locking mechanisms, allowing key components to detach without specialized tools.
“Once you understand how the back is secured, the rest of the process becomes much more straightforward,” says Jason. “La-Z-Boy recliners are designed in a way that makes disassembly easier than most people expect.”
Before getting started, it helps to understand how a recliner is constructed. Knowing what to expect can prevent you from forcing parts apart or missing key connection points.
Most recliners, including La-Z-Boy models, are built in sections. The backrest is usually the first and easiest piece to remove, followed by the main seat structure. Depending on the model, some chairs may also allow further separation at the frame or arm level.
The reclining mechanism typically remains attached to the base, but it’s important to understand how it connects and moves. Taking a moment to identify these components beforehand can make the disassembly process feel much more controlled.
If you’re moving, breaking the recliner into smaller pieces makes it significantly easier to carry through tight spaces without damaging walls or the furniture itself. It’s also useful when rearranging a room, as separating the chair reduces the effort required to reposition it.
Disassembly can also help when accessing internal areas for cleaning or minor maintenance. In some cases, it’s simply the safest way to transport the recliner without putting stress on the frame or mechanism.
Most recliners can be taken apart with basic tools, and in many cases, only a few tools are needed, depending on the model.
You’ll typically want:
It’s also helpful to have:
In many La-Z-Boy recliners, the backrest can often be removed without tools, but having these on hand ensures you’re prepared for any additional components.
If you are working with a power recliner, additional tools may be required for electrical diagnostics. In those cases, Jason recommends contacting your local La-Z-Boy service department for guidance before attempting repairs.
To learn more about What to Expect from La-Z-Boy’s Service Department, take a look at this article.
Now that you understand how a recliner is constructed and what components to expect, the next step is carefully taking it apart. The following steps will guide you through the process safely and efficiently.
Before removing the back, proper positioning is essential. Start by gently tipping the recliner forward so that the arms rest on the floor and the back is angled upward. This position provides clear access to the locking levers while keeping the chair balanced.
Make sure the surrounding area is clear so you can move safely without obstruction. If you are working with a power recliner, unplug the chair and locate any electrical connections that may need to be disconnected once the back is loosened.
Jason notes that angling the recliner forward prevents unexpected movement and makes the locking levers easier to access, reducing the risk of damage during removal.
Insert your flathead screwdriver between the outside back and the arm, aligning it with the lever. Gently pry the lever upward until it releases. You should feel or hear a slight click when it disengages. Repeat this step on the opposite side.
Stand behind the recliner and lift the backrest upward and away from the frame. A gentle rocking motion can help if the back feels tight. For power recliners, carefully disconnect any wires before fully removing the back.
While the back is removed, Jason recommends tightening any visible screws on the brackets. This helps prevent future wobbling and maintains long-term stability.
Once aligned, press the backrest down until it fully seats. Use the flathead screwdriver to push the locking levers back down until they click securely.
After reinstallation, gently rock and twist the backrest to confirm it is locked. Jason advises that if the back feels loose, the brackets may not be fully engaged and should be checked again.
For power recliners, reconnect all cables and test the recliner’s functions before use.
Disassembling a recliner is usually straightforward, but a few common mistakes can make the process more difficult than it needs to be.
“Most problems come from trying to rush it,” says Jason. “If you take a moment to understand how the pieces connect, it usually comes apart without much effort.”
A little preparation can make the entire process smoother and more manageable.
With the right setup, disassembling a recliner becomes much more efficient and far less stressful.
Now that you know how to take apart and reassemble your recliner, you can move it wherever you want safely and with ease. With over 90 years of experience in furniture, there’s a reason La-Z-Boy has the number one-selling recliner in North America.
We are here to help answer your questions about recliners. You can visit one of our Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston locations or schedule an online or in-person appointment today. If you’re interested in seeing more about our recliners today, take a look at our Comprehensive Recliner Buyer’s Guide.
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