How To Replace Ball Bearings In A Swivel Chair [Step By Step Guide]

As a homeowner, you may want to replace the ball bearings in your swivel chair but wonder how to go about it. Luckily, we have done some research for you, and here is what we found. 

The following are step-by-step instructions for replacing the ball bearings in a swivel chair:

  • Get the needed tools ready
  • Take out the old bearing
  • Clean the surface
  • Install the new bearing

Replacing ball bearings is an easy task; all you have to do is follow the steps carefully. Keep reading to get detailed information on how to replace the ball bearings in a swivel chair.

How To Replace Ball Bearings In A Swivel Chair [Step By Step Guide]

Comfortable chair near desk in modern office interior, How To Replace Ball Bearings In A Swivel Chair [Step By Step Guide]

To replace the ball bearings in your swivel chair, follow these steps:

Step 1: Get The Needed Tools Ready

You will need some tools and parts, including a socket wrench, plier, and screwdriver for taking out the screws. Needle-nose pliers are useful for removing metal burrs that may have been caused by tightening screws or nuts. 

Click here to view this needle nose plier on Amazon.

Step 2: Take Out The Old Bearing

For easy removal, loosen the screws on either side of the chair's baseplate. Using a socket wrench, take out the bad bearings from the base plate. You can use the pliers to remove any remaining screws from the chair's structure.

Click here to see this socket wrench on Amazon.

Step 3: Clean The Surface

After removing the bad bearings, clean the bearing slot surface before installing a new one. Remove any leftover particles of dirt and debris from the bottom of the hole where the old bearing used to be. This will ensure the new bearing doesn't get clogged with dirt quickly.

Additionally, to prevent the new bearings from corroding too quickly, generous amounts of grease should be applied to one side of each bearing.

Step 4: Install The New Bearing

Fix the new ball bearing, keeping in mind the side the old one was on before removal. Replace any screws, nuts, or bolts removed previously, then reassemble any disassembled part and put it back in its original position.

Ensure that the screws are adequately tightened on both sides. Do not forget to check your work to ensure there are no protruding pieces. 

Click here to view this ball bearing on Amazon.

How Long Do Swivel Chairs Last?

Business man working on his computer in an ergonomic office chair

A swivel chair is one of the essential pieces of furniture you can purchase. However, choosing one that provides comfort and support over longer working hours is important.

There are different kinds of swivel chairs, and each has its own advantages, one of which is longevity. Swivel chairs are subjected to significant wear and tear because people tend to spend a lot of time on them during working hours.

However, a swivel chair's lifespan is typically between seven and eight years. When it comes to the lifespan of your swivel chair, maintenance plays an important role. Maintaining and caring for your swivel chair is important by giving it routine maintenance.

Click here to see this swivel chair on Amazon.

Can You Stabilize A Swivel Chair?

Comfortable and stylishly designed black office chair in front of a wall

Yes, you can stabilize a swivel chair. Several versions of swivel chairs come equipped with a mechanism that enables the user to rotate the chair by pivoting his or her feet. 

If the chair is going to be close enough to other pieces of furniture, such as side tables or bookcases, you might wish to disable the swivel so that it doesn't move. 

This function lets the user change the chair's orientation, which is helpful. When the swivel function is disabled, the chair no longer turns, leaving only the reclining feature and the footrest operational.

During this stage of the procedure, screws will be added to the chair's base. Do these if you want to stabilize your swivel chair:

  • Flip the chair over so that the base faces upward. If you need assistance, you can ask a friend.
  • Turn the chair around on its base until the holes in the swivel base are aligned with the holes in the chair's base. Spacer bushings should be placed if necessary. 
  • Insert the screws into the recliner base after passing them through the spacer bushings and the holes in the swivel base. Next, tighten them. 
  • The chair should then be positioned upright. By doing so, the swivel function is disabled, and the chair becomes stable.

How Do You Fix A Swivel Recliner?

Office chair isolated in gray background

Here is how to fix a swivel recliner:

Step 1: Inspect The Swivel Recliner

Inspecting the body and the various components of the swivel recliner should be the first step taken before fixing it. Check to see that everything is operating as it should and that there is no immediate need to replace anything.

Step 2: Try Some Simple Repairs

In the event that it is necessary, use a screwdriver to separate the seat pad from its base. After that, remove the screws that secure each side frame. 

Pull the armrests in toward the middle of the seat, and then detach them from their connections. Unscrew any bolts securing the backrest to the seat edge and the ones securing the seat edge to the base. 

Step 3: Replace Any Damaged Clip

Check the clips on the swivel to check if they are damaged or worn in any way. If the chair cannot be moved or swiveled, the clips have most likely become damaged. 

You will need to use your screwdriver to remove the clips from the swivel. Put your new clips on the swivel and tighten them down. Turn the clips in order to get them to fit into the slots on the sides of the swivel.

Step 4: Fasten The Clip

It is recommended that you use a hammer to firmly fasten the clips onto the slots of the swivel. Put in new screws or bolts, and make sure the base is properly secured to the chair. Simply invert the chair and sit on it. Test the clips by rotating the chair.

If you do not have any previous experience working on a task of this nature, it is in your best interest to seek assistance from a professional who can do the job for you.

Why Do Swivel Chairs Lean To One Side?

If you want to be comfortable in your office chair, it should tilt back somewhat; however, there is a significant issue if it leans to either the left or the right. 

Most of the time, this is due to a damaged caster that runs down the floor. Otherwise, a seat plate that is loose or deformed directly underneath the seat. 

It is important that you find a solution to the problem as soon as possible. If you don't, the chair's misalignment can place unneeded strain on your lower back, which could lead to discomfort.

Turn the chair over, and get some tools to see if you can solve the problem on your own. Alternatively, you can consider purchasing a new chair.

Why Does My Swivel Chair Keeps Sinking?

Interior of room with comfortable designer workplace

After some years of constant use, your chair could go bad. The valve that regulates the height is operated by a piston that also controls the flow of air.

If you see that your chair continues to sink, this indicates that the valve, also referred to as a chair cylinder, is no longer functioning properly.

You will need to purchase a new chair or replace the piston in the old one to get it working again. However, replacing the piston in a swivel chair can be difficult, and in some cases, it is even impossible.

You can get started if you are confident enough to do the fixing. If, after giving it your best effort and still can't get the job done, your only option is to get a replacement.

To Wrap Up

Ball bearing replacement is an easy procedure. To replace the ball bearings in a swivel chair, all you have to do is get the needed tools ready, take out the old bearing, clean the surface, and install the new one. If you can't do the replacement alone, don't hesitate to consult a professional for assistance.

If you enjoyed reading this post, here are similar articles you may like:

How Many Chairs Fit Around A 72-Inch Rectangular Table?

What Are The Most Comfortable Chairs For A Living Room?

11 Oversized Round Swivel Chairs That Will Look Great in Your Living Room

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *